Best 22LR Suppressors

Firearms have been an essential part of human civilization for centuries and are a crucial tool for defense and hunting.

The .22 Long Rifle cartridge, first introduced in the late 19th century, remains one of the most popular and versatile rounds used by gun enthusiasts today, especially when suppressed with a .22LR suppressor.

We are excited to explore the rising trend of integrating the best 22LR suppressors into firearms for noise reduction, ensuring safe hearing.

Bestowed with the moniker of being the “gateway drug into the world of suppressors,” these relatively small contraptions can significantly diminish the noise generated from shooting your firearm, leading to a more pleasing and focus-intensive shooting experience.

Top 22LR Suppressors

Here is our list of the top five best 22LR suppressors on the market today.

Banish 22

The Banish 22 suppressor is a highly effective and versatile firearm accessory.

It is known for its exceptional noise reduction, reducing gunshot sounds to a minimum.

The suppressor is compatible with a wide range of .22 caliber firearms.

It is constructed using durable and lightweight materials. The design allows for easy disassembly and cleaning.

Dead Air Mask

The Dead Air Mask is a top-tier 22LR suppressor that stands out for its exceptional performance and durability.

With its advanced engineering and design, it effectively minimizes gunshot sounds, providing a quieter shooting experience.

The Dead Air Mask is highly compatible with various .22 caliber firearms and offers easy disassembly and cleaning for added convenience.

It would be a disservice to the world of 22lr suppressors to not include the Dead Air Mask HD in this list.

Rated as one of the finest suppressors in the market by customers and experts alike, the Dead Air Mask is undoubtedly an unbeatable competitor.

Crafted out of a sturdy 17-4 stainless steel, the Dead Air Mask prides itself on its robust construction. A stand-out feature of the Mask is its innovative baffle design.

The Mask is known for its user-friendly disassembly and ease of cleaning, attributes crucial for preserving the long-term performance of the suppressor.

The baffles are constructed in a way that allows each to click together and seal tightly against each other. This keeps the inside of the tube clean. Unique standoffs on the exterior of the baffles facilitate their smooth slide in and out of the tube regardless of suppressor dirt levels.

The Mask assures its durability and versatility with its 17-4 stainless steel baffles and titanium tube, managing to withstand use on firearms up to 5.7x28mm caliber.

It’s even rated for fully automatic fire on a .22 LR and is safe to clean with brushes and ultrasonic tanks.

To summarize, the standout attributes of the Dead Air Mask HD encompass its durability, ease of cleaning, considerable noise reduction, absence of the first-round pop, and versatility to be compatible with a wide range of firearms.

Rugged Oculus

Rugged Suppressors are relatively close to us; thus, they are extra cool. Jokes aside, Rugged makes an outstanding, durable product.

I picked up my Rugged Oculus specifically to shoot 5.7x28mm on my FN PS90 and haven’t used it much for 22LR.

This suppressor is extremely user-friendly and user serviceable which adds to its appeal.

This design efficiently eradicates the ‘first-round pop,’ succeeding at muting the loud sound that usually comes with the first shot.

The Oculus is frequently praised for this absence of first-round pop as ‘Hollywood quiet,’ truly gratifying.

Q Erector 22

The somewhat new company Q has its line of suppressors and unique guns like the Honey Badger.

The Erector 22 is a unique-looking baffle suppressor that allows you to customize it to the size and noise reduction you want.

It comes with a small tool that you can use to tighten and loosen the baffle stacks and is really a cool suppressor.

SilencerCo Switchback 22

Distinguished as one of the most versatile rimfire suppressors on the market, the Switchback 22 is a top-notch product. It manages to merge comprehensive usability with high-end manufacturing.

The key advantage of the Switchback lies in its modularity. This suppressor can be assembled in three different lengths, allowing users to customize its size based on the specific gun and application.

Regarding compatibility, the Switchback is nothing short of versatile: it can accommodate .22 LR, .22 WMR, .22 Hornet, .17 HMR, .17 WSM, and 5.7x28mm.

Constructed from titanium and stainless steel, the Switchback offers unparalleled durability. Its design, clearly inspired by rocket and jet propulsion technology, ensures optimal performance on rifles and pistols.

The orientation in which you assemble the suppressor will impact its performance. One orientation is ideal for pistols, offering superior sound reduction.

When oriented the other way around, the same section is perfect for rifles, providing the same high-level noise suppression.

With its Click Together Assembly (CTA) design, the Switchback ensures that you’ll never put the baffles back incorrectly, delivering consistently high performance every time.

As for maintenance, the Switchback makes it an easy task. The suppressor comes apart for thorough cleaning and reassembles with relative ease.

Understanding the Best Suppressors

Doing excessive research for a regulated item is never a bad idea before you buy.

Critical Features to Consider

When you set out to buy a suppressor, especially a 22LR suppressor, it’s crucial to understand the critical features to consider.

Undeniably, 22LR suppressors are becoming a popular add-on to firearms due to their capability to reduce noise, making them an apt solution for recreational shooting and hunting.

First, the sound reduction offered should be the primary concern, as it is essentially why you’re considering a suppressor.

However, the level of sound reduction required depends entirely on personal preference and the specifics of your firearm. Many suppressors can reduce noise to safe limits, but look for ones that can take it even lower for an enhanced shooting experience.

Supplementally, scrutinize the build quality and durability of the suppressor. It would be a misery to watch your suppressor fail after just a few hundred rounds.

Therefore, ensure that your suppressor is made of high-grade materials such as titanium or stainless steel that can withstand the extreme heat and pressure generated during firing.

Furthermore, the size and weight of the suppressor are also important. A large, heavy suppressor might affect firearm handling and balance negatively.

Compact suppressors are preferable, especially for handgun applications or when weight and balance are of concern.

Another critical feature to consider is the ease of maintenance. Rimfires are dirty, and the suppressor will get soiled after extensive use.

Look for suppressors designed for easy cleaning and maintenance. Many renowned models, like the Silencer Central Banish 22 and Dead Air Mask HD, are user-serviceable, meaning you can disassemble them for thorough cleaning.

Finally, always review the cost and your budget before the purchase. As the old saying goes, “you get what you pay for.”

High-quality suppressors might be a bit pricier, but they offer better performance, durability, and ease of maintenance.

But remember, even if you decide to splurge on a top-of-the-line suppressor, make sure it doesn’t surpass your allocated budget.

As a buyer, remember that understanding the critical features of a suppressor can lead you to make an informed decision and obtain the best product that suits your needs without any regrets.

How to Assess the Quality of a Suppressor

When assessing the quality of a suppressor, consider the following factors:

Material Composition: A suppressor created from high-quality, durable materials, such as titanium or stainless steel, indicates a superior level of build quality. These materials can endure extreme heat and pressure, ensuring your suppressor withstands the test of time.

Design and Engineering: Enjoy the silence with an efficient baffle design engineered to provide supreme sound reduction. For example, the Rugged Oculus uses an innovative baffle design that eliminates the ‘first-round pop,’ significantly reducing noise levels.

Your Hearing Experience: Calibrated sound testing equipment like Larson Davis can be used to assess the suppressor’s sound reduction, but your ears will offer you the clearest insights. Test the suppressor, if possible, or, read real-life reviews to understand noise reduction capabilities.

User-Serviceable: Another crucial aspect to review quality is to check if a suppressor is user-serviceable or not. A user-serviceable suppressor, like the Silencer Central Banish 22, can be disassembled for thorough cleaning, ensuring the performance and longevity of the suppressor.

Brand Reputation: Look for brands with a reputation in the shooting industry. Brands like Dead Air, Rugged, Q, Silencer Central, and SilencerCo have consistently delivered high-quality suppressors with robust performance.

Customer Reviews: Last but certainly not least, browse through customer reviews. Users’ real-life experience with a product can provide invaluable insights into the product’s quality, pros and cons, and overall performance.

In conclusion, a holistic understanding and assessment of the factors above can potentially guide you to own an exceptional suppressor that accommodates your needs and crowns you with a marked shooting experience.

The Impact of Suppressor on Shooting Safety

Suppressors, also known as silencers, play a crucial role in maintaining safety during shooting situations. As well as significantly reducing noise, suppressors provide other safety benefits, which many shooters might overlook in their quest to achieve a quieter shooting experience.

Recoil Reduction: One of the main safety benefits of using a suppressor is the reduction in recoil. The use of a suppressor can help reduce the recoil associated with firing a weapon – a benefit particularly useful for novice shooters still developing their control over their firearms.

Muzzle Flash Reduction: Suppressors are also effective at decreasing muzzle flash. This can be critical for maintaining focus on the target while shooting, especially under low-light conditions.

Hearing Preservation: By reducing the sound of gunfire, suppressors protect shooters from the potentially harmful effects of loud noise exposure, such as hearing loss or tinnitus.

Prolonged exposure to noises above 85 decibels can cause permanent hearing damage, and unsuppressed firearms can produce noise levels that significantly exceed this limit. Suppressors can bring these noise levels down to safer limits, offering a layer of auditory protection for shooters.

Enhanced Control: A suppressed firearm offers increased control, therefore reducing the risk of accidental off-target shots. This can be particularly beneficial for new shooters who need extra assistance controlling their firearm.

In conclusion, using a suppressor can significantly enhance the safety of your shooting experience.

From its ability to reduce recoil and muzzle flash to its role in hearing preservation and control enhancement, a suppressor can be seen as a crucial safety device for anyone passionate about shooting.

Whether you are a seasoned shooter or new to the realm of firearms, investing in a quality suppressor is worth considering for a safer and quieter shooting experience.

Legalities Surrounding the 22LR Suppressors

Suppressors, including 22LR suppressors, are legal in the United States; however, they are regulated by both state and federal laws.

On the federal level, they are regulated by the National Firearms Act (NFA) and the Gun Control Act of 1968.

These laws mandate that suppressor ownership requires payment of a $200 transfer tax, filling out extensive paperwork, including a background check, fingerprints, and the registering of the suppressor to the new owner in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record (NFRTR).

However, not all states permit the possession of suppressors.

As of the time of writing, eight states prohibit civilian ownership of suppressors, including California, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, and Rhode Island.

Some states restrict the use of suppressors for hunting. Therefore, you must check with your state and local laws regarding the legality of owning or using a suppressor.

Also, it’s worth noting the Hearing Protection Act, which has been introduced several times in recent years.

This legislation seeks to remove suppressors from NFA regulation, making it easier for citizens to purchase and use them. As of now, the act is still pending.

In conclusion, while suppressors are generally legal in the U.S., specific regulations may vary across states. Always do your due diligence and understand local and state laws before purchasing a suppressor.

Maintenance and Care for Longer Life

The Crucial Tips for Maintaining Your Suppressor

Proper maintenance and cleaning can significantly extend the life of your suppressor and maintain optimal performance.

Here are a few crucial tips for taking care of your suppressor:

Regular Cleaning: Similar to firearms, suppressors must also be cleaned regularly. This is especially true for rimfire suppressors like the 22LR.

A suppressor clogged with fouling can become less effective at reducing noise over time. Aim to clean your suppressor after every range day to maintain its performance and longevity.

Inspect Your Suppressor: Regularly inspect your suppressor for signs of wear and tear, particularly around the baffles and threads. If you find any signs of damage, consider having your suppressor serviced or replaced.

Store Your Suppressor Properly: When not in use, store your suppressor in a cool, dry place, away from excessive humidity or moisture.

It should be securely stored in its case to avoid dust buildup and accidental damage.

Follow Manufacturer’s Cleaning Instructions: Always refer to the manufacturer’s guide on maintaining your suppressor.

Depending on its design and construction materials, each suppressor may require a unique cleaning protocol.

Avoid Using Abrasive Materials: Avoid using tumblers or other abrasive cleaning methods, as these can damage the suppressor’s finish and degrade the threads over time.

By following these crucial steps for maintaining your suppressor, you can ensure it continues working as intended, providing consistent and reliable noise reduction for your shooting needs.

Always remember, proper care and maintenance are key to extending the life of your suppressor and achieving the best shooting experience possible.

How Often Should You Clean Your Suppressor?

The frequency of cleaning your suppressor largely depends on the type of ammunition you’re shooting and the specific suppressor you have.

Some suppressors may require maintenance after only a few hundred rounds, while others can go several thousand rounds before needing a thorough cleaning.

For .22LR suppressors, since rimfire ammunition tends to be quite dirty, cleaning your suppressor after each range day is generally recommended.

This could mean cleaning after 100 to 300 rounds, depending on how dirty your ammo is. However, there’s no set rule, and your suppressor won’t suddenly fail if you don’t clean it after a specific number of rounds.

When performing suppressor maintenance, always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Most .22LR suppressors, like the Silencer Central Banish 22 and the Dead Air Mask HD, are user-serviceable, meaning they can be disassembled and cleaned manually at home.

A thorough cleaning every 500-1000 rounds for these suppressors will likely provide the best performance.

It’s important to use a nylon brush and cleaning solution for cleaning the baffles and interior tube of your suppressor.

Aggressive cleaning methods like vibrating tumblers can damage the suppressor’s finish and degrade its threads over time.

In conclusion, regular cleaning – after each use or every several hundred rounds – should keep your rimfire suppressor performing optimally.

However, remember that each suppressor is different and should always follow the manufacturer’s specific cleaning guidelines.

Conclusion

Choosing a suppressor ultimately boils down to understanding your specific needs, preferences, and budget constraints.

Each shooter’s requirements might vary based on factors like the type of shooting, the firearm being used, the available spending budget, and preferences like the suppressor’s design, size, or weight.

If you’re a beginner and stepping into the world of suppressors, you might want to start with a cost-effective and therefore more accessible option.

For those seeking high functionality and don’t mind a slightly higher price, the Silencer Central Banish 22 and the Dead Air Mask HD would make excellent choices, offering exceptional sound reduction, durability, and ease of cleaning.

If you are looking for unrivaled versatility and quality and are ready to make a substantial investment, the SilencerCo Switchback 22 is a formidable option.

Its modular design, superior noise reduction, and long-lasting durability make it worth every penny.

In conclusion, understanding your specific needs, thoroughly researching various options, and weighing in factors such as cost, performance, durability, and maintenance will allow you to make the right decision when selecting a suppressor.

Remember, the right suppressor can significantly enhance your shooting experience, providing the benefits of safety, comfort, and even improved accuracy, making your investment well worth it.

22LR Suppressor FAQ’s

Can I Use my .22LR on My .223 Silencer?

It depends. It is usually possible to use a .22LR firearm with a suppressor designed for a .223 rifle, and doing so should not cause any severe issues.

Most .223-rated suppressors are designed to handle the high pressures and temperatures generated by a .223 round.

Consequently, they can safely and effectively suppress quieter and less powerful .22LR ammo.

However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind.

For one, a .223 suppressor will commonly be larger and heavier than a suppressor designed explicitly for a .22LR.

As a result, it may affect the balance and handling of the firearm, especially if it is a lightweight .22LR pistol or rifle.

Second, most .223 suppressors are not user-serviceable. Since .22LR ammo tends to be quite dirty, continuous usage could result in excessive build-up of lead and carbon inside the suppressor.

This is not an issue with higher-powered rounds like .223 because the increased heat and pressure help to self-clean the suppressor to some extent.

In conclusion, you can usually use your .223 suppressor on a .22LR firearm.

But in the long run, you might desire to invest in a dedicated .22LR suppressor for better weight balance, appropriate noise reduction, and easier cleanup.

What is the Quietest 22 Suppressor?

It depends. However, it’s worth noting that achieving the most effective noise reduction possible from a suppressor also requires appropriate use – including proper fitting onto the firearm, using subsonic ammunition, and considering environmental factors like background noise levels.

How Loud is a Gunshot with these 22LR Suppressors?

The amount of noise reduction you can achieve with a 22LR suppressor largely depends on the specific suppressor and the ammunition you’re using.

However, a quality suppressor, like those we have discussed, can significantly reduce the loudness of a gunshot.

To put this in perspective, let’s consider some numbers.

A gunshot from a .22 LR firearm without a suppressor generally results in an average noise level of about 134.6 decibels (dB).

However, when equipped with a suppressor, the same firearm can reduce the noise level to about 120-130 dB. Based on our tests with the suppressors, the noise levels were lower, nearing the 110-120 dB mark.

For instance, the Silencer Central Banish 22 was able to reduce the noise to about 121.7 dB, while the Dead Air Mask HD averaged around 122.6 dB.

It’s essential to note that these readings can vary slightly with different ammo types, changing environmental conditions, and shooting techniques.

Also, remember that continuous exposure to noise levels above 85 decibels can potentially damage your ears in the long run.

Therefore, even when using a suppressor, it is still recommended to use hearing protection when shooting for an extended period.

In conclusion, while a .22 LR gunshot can be quite loud without a suppressor, equipping a quality suppressor can bring the noise levels down to safer, more comfortable levels, enhancing your overall shooting experience.