Strategic Suppression: A Professional Look at Rifle and Suppressor Lengths for Deer Season

Hunting, for many, isn’t just a pastime; it’s a tradition and a way of life. Over the years, equipment and technology advancements have significantly impacted rifle accuracy and capability. Manufacturing processes have improved, barrel quality is better than ever before, and the precision and clarity of modern optics is stunning.

One advancement that is a must-have for many riflemen and hunters is the suppressor. A suppressor (Silencer) is a device attached to or part of the barrel of a firearm which reduces the amount of noise and visible muzzle flash generated by firing. When it comes to hunting, suppressors offer tangible benefits, such as reduced recoil and increased safety.

1. Reduced Recoil

Using a suppressor can help mitigate the recoil of a rifle and make it way more enjoyable to shoot. A suppressor works by slowing down the escaping gases from the fired round. This process significantly reduces the felt recoil and depending on the caliber, can be as or more effective than certain muzzle brakes. Reduced recoil can lead to better accuracy, as the shooter is less likely to flinch or tense up in anticipation of the shot.

2. Enhanced Safety

Suppressors not only protect the hunter’s hearing by diminishing the noise of the gunshot, but they also reduce the noise pollution in the surrounding environment. This is especially important in areas where hunting may be close to residential zones or neighboring properties. Moreover, a quieter shot can cause less disturbance to the game and other wildlife.

Longer Barrel with Shorter Suppressor (and vice versa)

The choice of the rifle setup often boils down to personal preference and the intended use. Some hunters gravitate towards a longer rifle barrel combined with a shorter suppressor.

• Maximized Velocity: A longer barrel ensures that the bullet has more time to accelerate, thereby achieving a higher velocity.
• Overall Length: A shorter suppressor might not be as quiet as a longer variant, but it keeps the overall length of the rifle down.

On the flip side, there are those who prefer a shorter barrel combined with a longer suppressor. This choice usually has the following reasoning:

• Optimized Sound Reduction: A longer suppressor typically provides superior sound reduction compared to its shorter counterparts.
• Overall Length: While a shorter barrel might mean a slight reduction in bullet velocity, the enhanced sound suppression can be worth the trade-off for many.

Application Matters

Whether a hunter should go for a longer barrel or a longer suppressor largely depends on the application. For instance, if the primary goal is to have the shortest possible firearm, then a short 16″-18″ barrel combined with a 5″ or 6″ suppressor might be the best bet. This configuration is particularly advantageous for ranch rifles that need to be frequently moved in and out of vehicles. Moreover, for those hunting from blinds with limited space, having a compact rifle can significantly improve the ease of handling.

In Conclusion

While suppressors bring undeniable advantages to the hunting world, the choice of configuration should reflect the hunter’s priorities and the specific demands of their hunting environment. As with any hunting gear, it’s crucial to be familiar with and practice using the equipment before heading out for the hunt. This ensures not only a successful hunting trip but also a safe one. Always remember to comply with local, state, and federal regulations when using suppressors or any firearm equipment.

GrabAGun Top Picks

Bergara B14 Wilderness Ridge

The B-14 Wilderness Ridge rifle features a hand-painted camouflage synthetic stock with SoftTouch finish. It also supports a fully free-floated barrel finished in Sniper Grey Cerakote. Bergara built the B-14 Wilderness Series to match every stride taken off the beaten trail.

Ruger American Predator

The Ruger American features an ergonomic, lightweight synthetic stock designed for quick, easy handling and blends a classic look with modern forend contouring and grip serrations. The one-piece, three-lug bolt with 70 degree throw provides ample scope clearance and utilizes a full diameter bolt body and dual cocking cams for smooth, easy cycling

Christensen Arms Ridgeline

The Ridgeline is the quintessential hunting rifle. Offered in twenty chamberings, the rifle features a sporter carbon fiber composite gunstock and a stainless steel radial muzzle brake built around a light target contour Christensen Arms carbon fiber wrapped barrel. The Ridgeline weighs in starting at 6.3 pounds and is backed by the Christensen Arms Sub-MOA Guarantee.

Marlin 1895 SBL

This American-made lever-action rifle was manufactured with great pride and attention to detail. You can expect the same time-honored design as the traditional 1895, combined with Ruger’s trusted reputation for producing high-quality, reliable firearms.

SilencerCo Omega

The best of all worlds: the Omega is the lightest, shortest, quietest, full auto rated, titanium .30 caliber (7.62mm) centerfire rifle silencer on the market. It’s also the best selling rifle silencer in history. Comes complete with direct thread and fast attach mounts as well as a removable Anchor Brake to reduce recoil, which can be replaced with a flat front cap.

Dead Air Armament Nomad-30

Lightweight. Versatile. Modular. The Nomad-30 exists for the everyday user. Designed to go everywhere you go, mounted on whichever rifle suits your job for the day. The Nomad-30 is made with 17-4 stainless steel and Grade 5 titanium. Weighing in at just 14 ounces you’ll hardly know it’s there. Featuring an improved high-efficiency baffle design, you’ll appreciate industry-leading sound reduction at the muzzle and minimal first-round-pop.

SilencerCo Hybrid 46

The Hybrid 46 is the silencer for any platform. Compatible with pistol calibers from 9mm to .45ACP, rifle calibers from 5.56mm to .45-70 GOV, and many in between like .458 SOCOM, the Hybrid is both full auto and magnum-rated and can be used on pistols, rifles, and submachine guns. Boasting low-120 dB’s on .300 BLK and remaining hearing safe with .45-70 GOV, the Hybrid offers an unparalleled pairing of versatility and performance

Gemtech Tracker

The GEMTECH Tracker was designed for military snipers and has been adapted to suit the U.S. hunter market. The Tracker is only 11.3 ounces so it doesn’t add too much weight to lightweight barrels. Being 300WM rated means the Tracker is ready to help you take your next big game.

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