Benefits of Silencers and Type of Handguns to Host Them

Article, General Information

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Benefits of Silencers and Their Rise in Popularity

For most of the time they have existed, silencers have not been particularly popular with the average gun owner. Many people were not, or are not, even aware that silencers are legal. That, and their expense when first introduced, has made their ownership by regular gun owners a historical rarity. That is changing. Silencer sales are booming, with more sold every year. And whether it is a Kel-Tec CP33 in 22 LR, an HK P30L in 9mm, or even a Colt 1911 in 45 ACP, there are some fantastic handgun hosts out there to complement them.

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Why Silencers Make Sense

One of the most obvious benefits of silencers is, of course, their suppression of the sound of gunshots. While pop culture has associated that benefit with mobsters, tuxedo-wearing super-spies, and commandos in night-vision goggles, it is no less beneficial for the average gun owner. Advances in sound-suppression technology render some silenced firearms quiet enough to reduce potential hearing damage, although it is usually best to err on the side of safety. Quieter shots can also prove an incredible asset while hunting. Additionally, silencers can reduce recoil for more comfortable shooting and suppress muzzle flash.

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What to Know About Getting a Silencer

While purchasing a silencer is perfectly legal, it is worth noting that it can get a little expensive and requires a little legwork. The price of silencers varies considerably, but they can be as expensive as the gun itself. Every silencer purchase is also accompanied by a $200 tax stamp. An adapter may be necessary for the barrel, and if it is not threaded to accept an adapter or silencer, you will need to buy an additional barrel or have the barrel machine threaded. The wait for a silencer can be several months. With an investment of patience and time, however, the payoff can be well worth it.

Which Pistols Make Good Silencer Hosts

The best handgun host for a silencer is one chambered for a subsonic cartridge; silencers can not remove the supersonic crack when a round is fired. Cartridges like the 32 ACP, 380 ACP, and 45 ACP are subsonic, making pistols chambered in those calibers an excellent choice for a silencer. You can find subsonic 22 LR and 9mm cartridges, but there are also supersonic loads. So your Kahr PM9 is a great silencer host if you are sure to feed it subsonic loads.