Suppressors - Mile High Shooting
Selecting the right suppressor starts with understanding the different designs and caliber configurations available. Each type offers specific advantages depending on your host firearm, shooting discipline, and performance requirements.
Rifle suppressors represent the largest category and are designed to handle the higher pressures and temperatures generated by centerfire rifle cartridges. Within this category, you will find both traditional baffle-stack designs and flow-through configurations. Thunder Beast's Ultra series (Ultra 9, Ultra 7, and Ultra 5) utilizes a baffle-stack approach, using all-titanium tubeless construction that delivers exceptional sound suppression while keeping weight under 12 ounces. For shooters running semi-automatic rifles, HUXWRX's Flow 762 Ti and Flow 556K use patented Flow-Through technology that directs expanding gases forward rather than back into the action, virtually eliminating blowback and reducing felt recoil on AR-platform rifles.
Pistol suppressors must balance compact dimensions with effective sound reduction while accommodating the cycling requirements of semi-auto handguns. These suppressors typically feature a Nielsen device (booster) or fixed-barrel mounting options depending on the host platform. Pistol-specific models work well on both semi-auto handguns and pistol-caliber carbines, making them versatile additions to any suppressor collection.
Rimfire suppressors are purpose-built for .22 LR, .22 Magnum, .17 HMR, and similar low-pressure cartridges. These cans are often user-serviceable, allowing you to disassemble and clean the baffles to remove lead and carbon buildup inherent to rimfire ammunition. The Abel Pi stands out in this category with its numbered, keyed baffles that eliminate guesswork during reassembly, along with ratings for .22 full-auto, .22 Magnum, 17 HMR and even FN 5.7 (a centerfire cartridge). Rimfire suppressors offer an excellent entry point for shooters new to NFA items while providing experienced users with a quiet training option.
The best suppressor for your needs depends on your primary shooting application, host firearm configuration, and your preferred balance of suppression, weight, and durability.
Bolt-action precision rifle shooters usually prioritize maximum sound suppression, minimal point-of-impact shift, and consistent accuracy. Thunder Beast has dominated this space for years, with their Ultra series being among the most popular suppressors of the Precision Rifle Series (PRS). The Ultra 9 Gen 2 in .30 caliber offers the best suppression while the Ultra 5 provides a more compact option when size matters. The Abel Theorem-L delivers comparable suppression performance in a 100% titanium package with interchangeable end caps for added versatility. When selecting a precision rifle suppressor, ensure your barrel meets minimum length requirements for your chosen cartridge, and consider whether you prefer direct-thread mounting or a quick-detach system like TBAC's CB Mount.
Shooters running AR-15s, AR-10s, and other semi-automatic rifles face unique challenges including increased gas blowback, accelerated bolt carrier velocity, and additional fouling. HUXWRX's Flow-Through technology addresses these issues directly by routing gases forward through the suppressor rather than back into the action. The Flow 556K and Flow 762 Ti maintain weapon system performance without requiring adjustable gas blocks or modifications to your rifle. These suppressors pass SOCOM reliability testing and are full-auto rated, making them suitable for high-volume training and duty use. Abel's Biscuit and Biscuit-S also perform well on gas guns while offering the durability of welded 17-4 stainless steel construction.
Many shooters prefer a single suppressor that works across multiple firearms rather than purchasing dedicated cans for each rifle. A .30 caliber suppressor generally offers the greatest flexibility, as it can accommodate smaller calibers while still handling magnum cartridges within the manufacturer's rated specifications. Thunder Beast's Ultra series and Abel's Biscuit line are both popular choices for shooters seeking this versatility. Before mounting any suppressor on a new host, always verify the manufacturer's caliber ratings and minimum barrel length requirements for your specific cartridge. Quick-detach mounting systems using the industry-standard 1.375x24 HUB thread pattern allow rapid suppressor transfers between hosts, making multi-gun use more practical.
Note: Always consult the manufacturer's specifications for caliber compatibility, minimum barrel lengths, and rate-of-fire limitations before using any suppressor on a new host firearm. Operating a suppressor outside of its rated parameters can result in damage to the suppressor, injury, or voided warranty coverage.
Purchasing a suppressor requires compliance with the National Firearms Act (NFA). You must be at least 21 years of age, a U.S. citizen, have no felony or domestic violence convictions, no dishonorable military discharge, and not be deemed mentally unfit by a competent authority. Mile High Shooting Accessories will only ship suppressors to Class III FFL holders. The NFA rules and laws are posted through the ATF website.
Once your suppressor purchase is finalized with Mile High Shooting, a Form 3 will be filed with the ATF requesting approval to transfer your suppressor to your chosen FFL. Initial processing can take 3-7 business days. Customers may help expedite this time frame by requesting the chosen FFL to send a copy of their FFL and SOT to ffl@milehighshooting.com. Once submitted, it takes 7-21 days for Mile High Shooting to receive the Form 3 approval. As soon as the approval is received, your suppressor and any accessories will be shipped to your chosen FFL within 24-48 business hours by 2 Day Air. Your chosen FFL will then contact you once it is received and you may complete your Form 4 processing at their facility.
The following states do not allow private ownership of suppressors: California, Massachusetts, Delaware, Hawaii, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Illinois, and the District of Columbia. California does allow Class 3 dealers and Class 2 manufacturers to possess suppressors. Always verify current state and local laws before purchasing.
Direct-thread suppressors screw directly onto your barrel's threaded muzzle and typically offer the most precise, repeatable mounting. Quick-detach (QD) systems use a muzzle device (brake or flash hider) permanently attached to the barrel, allowing rapid suppressor attachment and removal. QD systems are ideal for shooters who swap suppressors between multiple rifles or need to quickly remove a hot can. The Abel Co. TOMD adapter, Thunder Beast's CB Mount and HUXWRX's Torque Lock system are examples of high-quality QD solutions.
Quality suppressors from reputable manufacturers either maintain or improve accuracy compared to unsuppressed shooting. The added barrel harmonics and reduced muzzle rise often result in tighter groups. Brands like Thunder Beast, HUXWRX, and Abel are engineered to meet stringent accuracy specifications, with many shooters reporting improved consistency when shooting suppressed.
Mile High Shooting Accessories is a premier supplier of precision shooting equipment, high-end optics, and professional firearm accessories, serving competitive shooters, long-range marksmen, law enforcement, and military professionals. In business for over 20 years, Mile High Shooting Accessories built a reputation for offering top-tier rifle scopes, custom rifle components, and elite performance gear that meet the demands of precision shooting.
Mile High Shooting remains dedicated to supporting the military, law enforcement, and civilian shooting communities with industry-leading products and expertise. Whether you need top-tier optics, long-range shooting equipment, or complete precision rifle builds, Mile High Shooting Accessories provides shooters with the best equipment to maximize performance and accuracy in the field or on the range.
