SilencerCo’s Omega has been a stalwart in their line up for some time, over a decade actually. The Omega offers a variety of modularity and adaptability, and its continuous manufacture would suggest that the shooting public likes what it has to offer. So today we are taking a look at one of SilencerCo’s most successful models; the SilencerCo Omega 300. It has seen some changes over its lifetime likely, but today we’ll see what makes it tick, and why shooters keep buying it.
fresh out of the box with its service tools
The SilencerCo Omega 300
One could argue the Omega has been the backbone of SilencerCo’s 30 caliber suppressor line. The Omega features a fully welded lightweight core, with a modular hub and muzzle cap. With its iconic anchor brake users can reduce recoil, or swap it out for a traditional muzzle cap. Various Bravo style mounting options allow you mount the suppressor however you see fit. Direct thread options or any of the ratcheting lock style muzzle devices can also be incorporated to the Omega’s breech.
removing the hub cap and anchor brake
Whether you use the Omega for a 5.56 full-auto carbine, or for your precision 300 Winchester rifle, there is great compatibility. Generous barrel limitations make the Omega a good choice if you are an SBR enthusiast. When you buy the Omega 300, it comes with a Bravo 5/8-24 threaded hub for direct threading to your muzzle. As well as the tools needed to change out the hub.
Specifications
Caliber Compatibility
.223 REM/5.56 NATO to .300 WM
Accessories
Bravo & ASR
MSRP
$699
Weight
12.6 oz
Length
6.98″
Diameter
1.57″
Materials
Cobalt-6, Inconel, 17 – 4 SS, & Titanium
Muzzle Average
5.56 NATO: 130.1 dB 300 BLK: 119.5 dB 308 WIN: 133.2 dB 300 WM: 140 dB
Ships With
.30 Cal Bravo Anchor Brake, 5/8×24 Bravo Direct Thread Mount, Bravo Basic tool, & (1) Bravo Multi Tool
the Omega pictured has done duty on varmint and deer rifles both for years
I am no stranger to the Omega 300, not only have I used them on various occasions but a good friend of mine has been using one for nearly a decade. It has been along with us on countless trips into the mountains hunting both deer and varmints. And it also been along on hunts in the sage covered plains of Wyoming. My experience shooting this suppressor has been pretty uniform over the years.
Shooting The SilencerCo Omega 300
A good portion of my shooting with the Omega 300 has been done using the Desert Tech SRS as a host. Various different rifles and calibers that all functioned well with the Omega at the muzzle. Additionally, we’ve used it on various other bolt action rifles chambered in 308 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, and .223 Remington.
The Omega 300 can be used with or without the Anchor Brake installed up front. I found the brake to be effective in reducing recoil felt by the shooter. Even better than some other cans with brakes built into the muzzle.
For a semi-automatic hosts we’ve shot the Omega using a Desert Tech WLVRN. This multi-caliber rifle would make another great host with its 5.56 and 6ARC barrels. The Omega was easily fitted to either barrel by swapping out the hub from 5/8-24 to 1/2-28. And to add some sport to the outing, I also mounted up the Armasight Contractor 320 thermal scope. Chasing some local coyotes in the dark would be a perfect use for the Omega.
The Omega does a great job of suppressing the report of .30-caliber and smaller rifles. With 308 sized rifles the sound and recoil was modest and very pleasant. Even smaller cartridges like the 6.5 Creedmoor, 6 ARC and .223 Remington were even more mild. I expect with the smaller cartridges I would have preferred to remove the brake from the can. As the recoil was minimal, and the slight disturbance of dirt on the ground was just enough to make it annoying.
The large anchor brake that comes with the Omega 300 does a great job of reducing recoil. Suppressors in general reduce recoil already, but the added brake seems to help even more. When shooting the Omega 300 alongside an identical rifle outfitted with the SilencerCo Scythe Ti we could all feel the reduced recoil from the Omega.
But because of the modularity of the Omega, you needn’t use the brake if you don’t want to. Replacing it with one of the Bravo muzzle caps removed the brake, and I think makes it a touch quieter too. If you are shooting one of those calibers that doesn’t have heavy recoil in the first place, perhaps the Bravo cap is the way to go.
Modularity
SilencerCo’s Omega was at the beginning of the hub craze. With so many mounting options you can connect it to your host rifle however you wish. Whether it be a direct thread hub, or one of the locking QD brake options. I used it with both SilencerCo’s ASR locking mount, as well as with YHM’s Phantom QD muzzle devices.
the Omega with a few different mounting solutions
All this can be done using the included tool set that comes with the Omega. It comes with the basic 5/8-24 direct thread mount, so any other options you wish to use would have to be purchased separately.
Value Proposition
With an MSRP around $700, the Omega 300 is an easy choice. These days there are so many options out there with prices jumping all the time. It’s very refreshing to see the good ol’ Omega 300 still available for prices that remind me of the good old days.
CMMG has been upping their game since I first heard about them years ago, the brand is famous for AR-styled rifles, and has developed various improvements on the design with their Dissent and Banshee models. But having just finished up SHOT Show 2026, one of the biggest themes of the show is that EVERYBODY seems to be jumping in on the suppressor game. And I find no fault in CMMG for joining in on the trend, which brings us to today’s subject. We will be taking a look at the new CMMG Zeroed 36 Suppressor. A full-auto rated 35 caliber suppressor for use with cartridges like 9mm 308 Winchester and 8.6Blk.
The CMMG Zeroed 36 Suppressor
With so many interesting and diverse caliber offerings, it came as no surprise that CMMG started out with a broad selection of suppressor options. From rimfire suppressors made for 22’s, and 5.56 suppressors for your carbine. Up to big 30 caliber cans made to run on their 308 rifles, and even into the 36 and 46 caliber cans for those big bores. Our Zeroed 36 suppressor today is perfectly fitted for a host chambered in nearly any of today’s popular carbine calibers.
the Zeroed 36 with some of the cartridges and accessories used
The Zeroed 36 uses the very popular hub-mounting system that most manufacturers are moving to. I can’t explain how much I appreciate this trend. As one who is used to having firearms rethreaded in order to use with my suppressors, its beautiful to not have that concern moving forward. The Zeroed 36 came with both a 1/2-28 and 5/8-24 thread cap for mounting to various firearms.
(1) 1/2″-28 & (1) 5/8″-24 Direct Thread HUB Mounts
Full Auto Rated
Yes
Bore Diameter
.36 Caliber/9mm
All Zeroed suppressors feature laser welded 17-4 stainless steel. You can feel when you pick these up that they are built robust, which is why it weighs over 17 ounces. Recommended full-auto use suggests breaks every 240 rounds or so. Its hub mounted design is accented by a 3/8 square drive hole in the muzzle-end of the suppressor, which allows you a solid disassembly option. Keeping with its modular design, no special tools are required for assembly or disassembly.
Shooting with the CMMG Zeroed 36
My first test with the Zeroed 36 was an indoor range, testing how it performed with 11.5-inch 300Blk and 5.56 semi-auto carbine. For that I used a Desert Tech WLVRN bullpup, switching quickly between to two calibers in the same rifle.
the CMMG Zeroed 36 Mounted on my Desert Tech SRS A1 chambered in 8.6Blk
I also wanted to see how the Zeroed 36 would perform on bolt-action rifles. So, I would end up using it on several, my Desert Tech SRS in 6GT, and 8.6Blk. And I also brought along my Howa Mini and Taurus Expedition, chambered in 6ARC and 308 Winchester.
for testing 308 application I fired the can on my Taurus Expedition
Shooting across all these host rifles, I used a variety of hubs to get the right thread pitch to fit each one. I even used my Breek Arms Tri-Lug mount, which makes a quick job of attaching and removal of the suppressor.
QD mounting was quickly done using the Breek-LOC system
Modular Mounting
Making the Zeroed 36 a hub-compatible suppressor means there are countless ways to mount it. The can came with two direct-thread hub mounts, threaded 5/8-24 and 1/2-28 which will fit most firearms. I already had several other hub mounts already that I would also use. For shooting my Desert Tech SRS in 8.6Blk I would need a 3/4-24 threaded hub, I used a SilencerCo hub and it fit perfectly. Additionally I used my Breek-LOC QD tri-lug mount, which makes adding or removing the suppressor quick, sturdy and secure. The Zeroed 36 has a 3/8 square drive in the muzzle to give you a robust torque point for changing the hub system.
this bolt-action host for the Z36, is a custom Remington, on top you’ll find the DiscoverOpt 5-25 scope
In total I ended up mounting the CMMG Zeroed to quite a variety of host firearms. A Desert Tech WLVRN SBR with 11.5-inch barrels in both 5.56 and 300Blk, and another WLVRN with 20-inch barrels chambered in 6 ARC and 5.56. To see how it did with 8.6Blk I fit the Zeroed 36 to my Desert Tech SRS A1 where it sounded great. For 308 I ran the suppressor on my Taurus Expedition 308 Winchester, a bolt-action featuring an 18-inch barrel. For 6.5 Creedmoor I installed the Zeroed can on a Bergara 22-inch HMR carbon.
Sound
Shooting a variety of firearms with the Zeroed 36 gave plenty of opportunity to evaluate its sound suppression. As you might imagine, it worked very well with low gas volume cartridges with big bores. When shooting the 9mm and 8.6Blk the Zeroed 36 can had more than enough volume to suppress the expulsion of gas to a reasonable level. Higher pressure cartridges like the 308 Winchester and .223 Remington gave the can a little more of a workout. Even so, the noise at the shooters ear was what I would consider hearing safe. Obviously according to authorities on the subject, you should always wear ear-protection, but the whole reason I own suppressors is to avoid that inconvenience.
Bolt-action rifles were perfectly suppressed by the Zeroed 36 can, whereas some of the semi-auto rifles were a touch louder. For example, using a Zeroed 556 can would have likely given better results when shooting 5.56 rounds. The larger muzzle of the 36 is less restrictive for the tighter column of pressure. And as usual, having a semi-auto ejection port near your face also brings the noise closer to your ears.
My overall impression with the report of the Zeroed 36 suppressor was good. It’s hard to make a modular suppressor that is perfect at everything, there always seems to be one compromise or another. I think this suppressor does a great job of offering the user options for various hosts and calibers. In the open country where I shoot it sounds fantastic.
the hub mount made this can easy to mount on so many different firearms
Gas Blowback?
In our modern suppressor market, we are spoiled for choice. There are so many manufacturers, designs, and features you can get nearly anything you want. A very popular topic when it comes to suppressing semi-autos is the topic of gas blow-back. Semi-autos tend to push exhaust from the chamber back towards the shooter when suppressed. Many suppressor manufacturers have worked to reduce this back pressure to enhance your shooting experience with their suppressor. I shoot outside mainly, and my typical shot string isn’t particularly long. So this is not as big a deal for me, and I found the back-pressure caused by the Zeroed 36 to be acceptable. Some folks seem to be much more susceptible to blowback, and they might want to spend more money on something different.
This is obviously greatly dependent on the host firearm, for example shooting the Zeroed 36 on my bullpup rifles brings the ejection port even closer to your face than conventional rifles. It doesn’t bother me as I prefer the advantages of the design, but I can see how it might bother others.
For shooting the Zeroed 36 suppressor on a pistol, I chose my Ruger RXM 9mm. After installing a booster and piston into the back of the Zeroed can, it threaded nicely onto the pistol. It was a bit heavy for a pistol suppressor, but it worked great at keeping down the noise. There was of course a little added backpressure, but that is not uncommon.
This year appears to be the year of the sound suppressor. With the tax on transfers removed, and support for the NFA reduced to only the boot-licking tyrants in government. It would seem the market has responded in turn with an unbelievable bloom in production. It seems everyone is making suppressors (or silencers if you prefer), with countless new models coming out every day. Companies who were never known for such products are now releasing entire families of suppressors. With such a massive increase in options it the market, it can be very intimidating when you wish to choose one. Today we are going to discuss the process of selecting a suppressor. What is the Best Suppressor? How to choose the right silencer for you is about what you need to know, and what to avoid; almost like a friend walking you through the process.
the right suppressor makes shooting better in nearly every way, this Banish Meateater is one of my favorites
The Law
Many of us have been infringed upon by the National Firearms Act (NFA) for decades. If you are new to it, we should make a few clarifications. The NFA was passed in 1934 to establish an excise tax and registration on various firearms configurations. Perhaps at the time people were more naive about such things, but today they are simply arrogant tyrants for continuing its enforcement.
The NFA required a government sanctioned approval and a two-hundred dollar tax to be paid before a person or entity could legally own the following; Suppressors/silencers, Machine Guns, Short-Barreled Rifles (SBR’s) and Shotguns (SBS’s), Destructive Devices, and Any Other Weapons (AOW). The last one there to allow them the ability of classifying anything they deem scary or too dangerous to be regulated.
The How
All this is overseen and enforced by exactly who you wouldn’t want to; the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The very same group of people responsible for such travesties as Waco and Ruby Ridge. If you are unfamiliar with the ATF and their policies and actions, you should look into it.
Transfers of NFA regulated items are done using a variety of different forms from the ATF, much like tax forms from the IRS. Depending on a few particulars, you might use one of these different forms to transfer an item.
Basically you go to a dealer of NFA items, whether it be a local class 3 firearms dealer or one of the various online vendors like Silencer Central. After picking out a particular item you like, you pay the vendor for it and they have you fill out the appropriate paperwork or online forms. These are then submitted with photographs and fingerprints to the ATF for approval. And like any government agency it has traditionally been a painful wait. Particularly for a suppressor which by itself isn’t even dangerous.
Selecting a Suppressor
“Let’s talk about suppressors already” you are probably saying, you didn’t come here for a bunch of legal talk. But if you did come for additional recommendations on how to do it, I’ll add some more recommendations at the bottom.
Budget
Like any purchase, you’ll want to have a budget when you start. Now that the two-hundred dollar infringement fee has been removed, you no longer need to account for that in your budget. There are cans from anywhere as little as 150$ up to many thousands of dollars. So decide what you are willing to invest in your suppressor, and then count on another 10-20 percent. Why?
rimfire suppressors like this Anechoic Pipsqueek are nice for my 22’s and 17HMR, this combo with my Taurus TX 22 is a ton of fun for the whole family
For the most part, a suppressor is a lifetime purchase. The bureaucracy required to transfer them means most folks keep a can for its lifetime. So if you are potentially going be stuck with something for life, you may as well splurge a little and get the better one. If the six-hundred dollar model will suit your needs, maybe get the eight-hundred dollar model.
Host Firearms
Considering which firearm hosts you intend to use the suppressor with has a great impact on what model you choose. And keep in mind that over a lifetime things can change. You might only want a 30-caliber suppressor today, but ten years from now you might have a .35 caliber.
Chode cans like this YHM Fat Cat 5.56 add minimal length and still do a great job keeping down the noise
So evaluate the hosts you have and might potentially have in the future when looking at suppressors. This is particularly important if this is your first and only suppressor. Whereas if you plan on becoming an NFA stamp collector like the rest of us, you might just buy a variety of suppressors.
Different suppressors work better for different types of host firearms. Semi-auto firearms for example tend to suffer from back-pressure when suppressed. While single shot firearms are essentially unaffected by the issue. There are different suppressor designs to optimize use with all the different host types. You also need to keep in mind bore-size as well as pressure. A 30-30 and a 30 Nosler will both go through a 30-caliber suppressor, but larger magnum pressure and volume cartridges might be too much for some suppressors.
Suppressor Types
Suppressors have been affected by technology just like everything else today. Traditional suppressors were made using a stack of baffles within a tube. Resulting in a stack of chambers with a central hole through each. The bullet could pass from the muzzle of the rifle through each chamber and out the muzzle of the can. But the expansive gases rushing from the barrel would get progressively trapped and slowed as they go through each chamber.
the YHM Phantom 22 is disassembled here, and you can see the sections and baffles that slow escaping gas
More modern designs use all different kinds of ways to capture and slow the gas flow from the host. But the idea is the same, reducing the exit speed of the gas greatly reduces the sound signature from the host.
Modern manufacturing methods like direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) or 3D-printing as many people call it have changed the game. These technologies have made unprecedented designs possible to make, and it’s pretty cool.
Function
Suppressors work by reducing high pressure expelled from their muzzle which removed the supersonic report. Energy cannot be destroyed, only converted, so you can turn high pressure into either heat or noise. Some suppressors are very quiet and they tend to get pretty warm because they capture so much energy. Flow-thru style cans tend to be a little louder in my experience, but the trade off is less back pressure and heat. Different designs reduce report in different ways. Flow-thru style cans typically redirect gases slowing their escape to a reasonable volume.
these Huxwrx Flow DMLS suppressors have some wild internals only possible through 3D printing
Materials
Carbon steel has traditionally been used for suppressors. But modern metal alloys have made them even more robust and resistant to erosion. Erosion takes place when very high temperature gasses with included burning powder residues are blasted through the suppressor. The heat, pressure and debris cause wear on the internal surfaces of the suppressor. Better materials like inconel, stainless steel and cobalt are being used to improve durability of suppressors.
Mounting Solutions
Each suppressor manufacturer has typically come up with their own suppressor mount. These muzzle devices typically incorporate a muzzle brake design or flash hider for use when the suppressor is absent. These are often used as a quick and secure way to install the can to its host firearm.
But again, American ingenuity has upped this game as well. In recent years US suppressor manufacturers have began making their cans using a uniform industry standard hub system. The hub system uses a 1.375×24 thread, and it allows the user to quickly change out the mounting solution. You can use any number of thread patterns or muzzle devices to mount your suppressor.
Overbore
While there are plenty of different options, one thing you should keep in mind is that bore size isn’t everything. For example, there are plenty of 6.5 caliber suppressor options. But most 30 caliber suppressors will work just fine for 6.5’s. So if you are buying your first can, don’t limit yourself to that 6.5 suppressor if you have other firearms that could also benefit from a 30-caliber can.
This Banish Meateater uses interchangeable muzzle sizes for various caliber
A couple examples from my collection; the YHM R9 is a 9mm bore suppressor, and can be used on my 9mm pistols and carbines. But it is also rated for up to 308 Winchester, so I can also use it on my 5.56, 6.5CM and 308 Win rifles. That is a huge leg up for that suppressor, allowing some folks to suppress their entire gun collection with a single can.
the YHM R9 is at home on 9mm Pistols like this Canik TP9, or on centerfire rifles
Another option is my Silencer Co Omega 36M, this suppressor can be reduced in both bore diameter and length. You can change the muzzle-cap for different calibers, and remove a section of the baffles to reduce overall length. So long as you have enough bore clearance, you can use oversized suppressors. Undersized suppressors on the other hand have a very short life when used on larger calibers (usually no more than a single round before turning into range debris). Do not try it.
here you can see the dexterity of the Omega 36M, short and small on the right, and long and open on the left for my 8.6Blk
Choosing Your Next Suppressor
So with all that information at your attention, let’s look at individual selection. Let’s say you have a typical AR style rifle chambered in 5.56, something you want to be quiet but for high volume shooting.
Semi-Autos
If you shoot outdoors and aren’t as worried about getting gas blown back from the action, you could use a traditional can like the YHM Turbo. I have several of these cans and I love the sound suppression and the gas blowback isn’t bad. They are also very affordable and rated for heavy strings of fire.
Or perhaps you want something a little tougher, and with lower back pressure? I also have a Banish Speed K, a 3D printed inconel suppressor. It couples some flow through technology to reduce back pressure and increase durability.
You could also spend the money buying one of the flow-thru type suppressors that greatly reduce the blow back. Something like the Huxwrx Flow 5.56 or the Wolf Pack Armory Romulus 5.56 suppressor. While they may cost more than traditional cans, the payoff is significant.
Pistols
Semi-auto pistols often require a booster assembly to function. The booster is a necessary part that allows the barrel and slide of your pistol to function properly with the added mass of the suppressor.
These boosters are’t always included with the suppressor itself, and you’ll probably have to also purchase the appropriate piston that will integrate the booster with your barrel.
the booster assembly allows the barrel and slide to move and unlock without having to move the suppressor assembly with it. This allows guns like this Canik METE to function flawlessly suppressed.
Bolt-Action/Single Shot
But what if you are just a deer hunter looking for a can to make your hunting experience more pleasant? There are countless cans at your reach that do a great job on bolt-action rifles. Bolt guns are barely affected by blow back, and so going with a traditionally-manufactured less-expensive suppressor is an easy choice.
My Kids; the youngest used this Browning X-Bolt 2 in 308 Winchester to take his first deer. For suppression we used the Banish Backcountry titanium suppressor, it was an excellent choice.
There are just a few things that I consider when looking at cans for this purpose. Weight is a big one if you are roaming the Rockies like me, and the caliber or cartridges you plan to use with it as well. If you are hunting with a 6.5CM most of the time you don’t need a great big or tough suppressor. Whereas if you hunt with a 300 RUM you probably best look at some magnum rated suppressors.
Something like a Dead Air Nomad will cover most hunting cartridges under 30-caliber. They are reasonably priced, but there is also a titanium model for additional cost and weight savings. If you are looking for something nicer, you might look at the titanium ThunderBeast options.
Flow-thru and semi-flow-thru cans can also work just fine on your single-shot firearms. I use a couple different Anechoic Anechox suppressors with a 35-caliber bore, but they have worked great on everything from semi-auto .223 and 6mm ARC up to the mighty 338 Lapua Magnum.
It’s a Modular World
I mentioned the modular hub mounting system, but there is more modularity to modern cans than just that. Different end caps allow you to optimize your can for the caliber choice of the day.
Here are five suppressors from different manufacturers, all share the same hub design and any number of mounts can be installed in the breech of any of them
As one who dabbles quite a bit in multi-caliber modular rifles, having modular cans that can adapt with its host is convenient. My Desert Tech WLVRN can be a 5.56 one day and a .308 the next, so keeping one can that can do double or even triple duty is handy.
these two cans both feature interchangeable muzzle caps, changing both caliber compatibility as well as functional flow patterns
There is no free lunch however. A suppressor good at many things isn’t likely to be exceptional at more than one. A heavy duty full-auto can will take some serious abuse, but it is likely going to be heavier. And a lightweight titanium can would be great for your hunting rifle, but won’t likely stand up to heavy strings of fire as well.
Prepare Yourself
If you are starting down this road, get ready to accelerate. I know very few people who got one suppressor and said: that’ll do. Everybody I know typically gets one after another because they are too much fun.
the first one is just the beginning, more will come
To that end I would strongly recommend a gun trust. A personal transfer make any NFA item your legal property, whereas a trust can be accessed by multiple people. This allows several people to put their property together (like a family or friends) and more than one person can use the assortment. A trust has both pros and costs, but I’ve found it to be a much better situation. Silencer Central even offers assistance creating your trust. There is also a great list of frequently asked questions here.
Last Words
Read much, and study up. there are many important things you should know as a suppressor owner. It is an addictive habit, just like shooting. Make sure you do it right the first time, and like I said don’t be afraid to splurge a little bit for a lifetime purchase. Hopefully this has been helpful, if you have any questions feel free to reach out. And don’t forget to abolish the NFA and those who enforce it!
-CBM
If you’d like to read more about individual suppressors, click here
I’ve been lucky enough to be in the business of shooting for quite a while. Many years ago now I visited the production facility of Huxwrx Safety Company, at the time know as OSS. I remember looking at their cunning designs centered around the technology of suppression. Theirs was the first of many “flow through” designed suppressors I would see. Flow though means that instead of layers of baffles stacked on eachother, these suppressors would capture and channel high pressure gas through a series of what appear to be stationary fan blades. The result would be a greatly slowed escape of gas, which reduces the signature of a shot. Today I am presenting to you my impression of some of Huxwrx newer designs, the Huxwrx Flow suppressors.
These suppressors broke the mold, in more ways than one. They neither function like traditional suppressors nor are they built the same way. I mentioned the high-pressure gas deconstruction that takes place in the fan-like interior of these cans, but they are also built using a more modern technology. 3D metal printing has taken over many manufacturing needs, but to be more accurate these suppressors are made using Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS). Very precise lasers connect within a bed of fine metal powder, fusing the particles into a solid structure. This technology has many impressive attributes, but perhaps the most important when it comes to suppressors is the ability to fuse metal into solid one-piece shapes that would be near impossible to machine.
from the breech end, you can see the curious design of the Flow suppressors
Flow suppressors are mounted using one of Huxwrx muzzle devices that can also double as either a flash-hider or muzzle brake when the suppressor is absent. Another interesting part of the Flow design is to use the gas pressure passing through, to turn the suppressor against its threads. Basically tightening the suppressor onto its mount with every shot.
But the real juice here is about back pressure. From the beginning of the company, the idea behind these suppressors was to reduce back pressure in semi-automatic firearms. For both health reasons and cleanliness of the firearm, keeping spent propellant fumes out of your face and firearm is important to many shooters. The Flow Suppressor design is meant to reduce back pressure to make the shooting experience more pleasant for the shooter. It does all this while reducing the volume of muzzle-blasts and keeping muzzle flash to a minimum.
All that sounds great, and surely comes across as a good marketing ploy. But this is something I wanted to see for myself. And over the course of a few years I would get familiar with them. Huxwrx makes both a stainless and titanium flow 5.56 model, I tested the 17-4 stainless model. The 30-caliber model (7.62mm I guess) is made from titanium. Both suppressors seem to have a similar construction, and both are threaded left-handed onto their muzzle devices.
The one-piece design and slightly rough texture gives these suppressors a different feel for sure. I have shot them on various different rifles, but mainly on my Desert Tech WLVRN semi-auto rifles. One of the other positive traits of these suppressors is said to be that you needn’t adjust the gas-block on your rifle when using a Flow suppressor. I have found this to be true, my rifles seemed to work fine with the Flow suppressors using the same gas setting as unsuppressed operation.
Sound
Reducing the signature of a muzzle blast is the top priority of most suppressors. And the Flow series seems to do that well, changing not just the booming blast from the muzzle, but it seems they also lower the frequency of the noise you do hear. Turning the sound into a “thud” instead of the hiss I am used to hearing.
And while do find them to suppress the noise sufficiently, it does seem like they are a touch louder than some of my other cans. I have only my ear to judge, as I am not extremely concerned with actual numbers. Basically if I can comfortably shoot with a suppressor with no hearing protection, that’s good enough for me. I also noticed there was a bit of a ping-sound coming from the can with each shot. As I understand it I am not the only one to experience this phenomenon.
Cleanliness
I did notice also over the course of various shooting outings that my guns do seem to run cleaner with the flow suppressors. This came as no surprise as the overall amount of gas coming back into the receiver is reduced. The carbon mixed with lubricants that is one of the largest detractors to suppressed shooting can be greatly reduced by using these style of suppressors.
Much like other suppressors that mount to a muzzle device, I like to frequently remove them to ensure carbon buildup is not causing a locking of the suppressor to its brake.
Value and Convenience
There many great reasons to use these suppressors aside from what I have mentioned so far. Let’s talk about a couple things that may be considered a detractor; New technology is almost always going to cost you more. The flow series of suppressors does cost more than many traditionally designed and produced suppressors. As more manufacturers in the suppressor industry follow the DMLS path, I expect the cost will come down both because of the technological development. And also in no small part due to market demands and competition. Bottom line is you pay extra to be on the edge of tech, whether it become the next best thing, or a complete failure. For at least this shooter, the jury is still out on whether I wish to pay this particular premium. As the majority of my suppressor collection remains the traditional baffled design.
the Flow 5.56 can worked great on both DI and piston operated rifles
My Opinion
If you are in the market for a suppressor, you are currently living through a golden age. Spoiled for choices in suppression means you can be pretty picky. Huxwrx suppressors certainly offer some advantages, and only you can decide if the juice I’ve outlined here is worth the squeeze on your wallet. Some just like to push the envelope and be different, and if you like to support companies who do that this might be your can.
An incredible amount of activity has happened in the suppressor market over the last ten or so years. And it would be difficult to talk about much of this activity without mentioning one of the big players in the game. SilencerCo has been one of the most recognizable names in the suppressor market since I started playing stamp collector. Today I bring you something fresh from SilencerCo, fresh at least to me. I’ve got a few can’s from the company, but this is the first one in the last few years. The suppressor we are looking at today is the SilencerCo Omega 36M.
The last few years in particular have shown a huge development in modularity in suppressor design. One of the main changes and one I fully endorse is the adoption of common hub mounting systems among suppressor manufacturers.
the short configured Omega mounted to my Desert Tech WLVRN
Another big change has been the stackable module designs, allowing you to use a suppressor in stages. Giving you the option for short suppressor when needed, or full noise control if you choose.
The SilencerCo Omega 36M fits into this group of suppressors. The M in the 36M stands for modular I assume, as it incorporates a removable chamber on the muzzle end. As well as interchangeable end caps to adapt to additional caliber options.
And on the breach end, the Omega uses the popular ASR mounting system that has a locking ring to prevent coming off it’s mount. There is a great variety of ASR mounts options that are bound to fit whatever firearm you wish to host the 36M.
Direct Thread, ASR Mount, Piston Mount, 3-Lug Mount
Front Cap Options
.223/5.56, .30/7.62, .355/9mm
Included Accessories
Charlie ASR Mount, SiCo Disassembly Tools
The overwhelming theme with this suppressor is modularity. The modular design allows you to customize the suppressor to fit the host.
the Omega 36M comes with tools to service and configure the suppressor
Shooting with the Omega 36M
With a variety of ASR mounts, I would be able to put the Omega to use on a wide variety of host firearms. Varying from semi-auto carbines to bolt-action rifles, in calibers from 5.56 up to .338. Shortening the Omega 36M for more compact duties as needed.
One of the first projects where the Omega fit into place, was on my 8.6 Blackout project. A 16-inch barrel for my Desert Tech SRS A1 Covert. The Omega did a fine job of holding back the hiss of the this stubby and fun cartridge.
I also used the Omega during a variety of varmint hunts, shooting prairie dogs and marmots across various states. The Omega did an excellent job suppressing the Howa Mini 22ARC, as well as my Desert Tech SRS M2 chambered in both 6.5CM and 223 Remington.
Additionally, the Omega 36M did some time on a couple short carbines. Both 300Blk and 5.56 carbines were suppressed, with short barrels like 7-inch and 11-inch. Both in its short configuration and its long one, of course being more effective with the additional baffles.
After a few months using the Omega 36M, I have put together a few of my thoughts on the 36M.
Sound Suppression
On all the firearms I tested using the Omega 36M, the sound suppression was more than adequate. I’ll quantify that statement saying as long as a suppressor is pleasant to listen to in the outdoors I’m good with it. I don’t have any high-tech measuring devices, just my ears.
With that said, the Omega was comparable to most other suppressors of similar construction and design. It was very pleasant to my ears, and the reduction in recoil varied from one caliber to the next but was always better. I really like the ability to change out the end cap for caliber specific applications.
In the short configuration, the 36M wasn’t hearing safe on some firearms. But it definitely took the edge off. Super short K cans are often that way, simply designed to stop the concussion at the muzzle.
Converting from one caliber to another, and changing lengths is a nice option to have. It makes you feel like you have more than one suppressor without having to pay the crown’s randsome twice. I really like the modularity that Silencer Co put into this design, and the fact that these designs are interchangeable with other SiCo options gives you a reason to stick with the brand.
The whole suppressor industry is moving into the modular design market, this design of SiCo’s predates much of that. I will say this, I love the universal hub system that most manufacturers are moving to. While there are plenty of options for this Omega, I would like the cross-compatibility of the universal hub.
While I have a great many other suppressors that also are modular, I appreciate the design of the Omega 36. With the assortment of ASR Brakes, I can rapidly switch the Omega back and forth between various rifles with ease.
Mounting
Speaking on mounts; the variety of ASR mounts gives you options. I have both brake designs, as well as bird-cage and three-prong flash hider designs. The only complaint I could muster up would be I don’t like timing muzzle devices. But the side-brake devices did come with a shim kit to time the brakes properly.
Here’s a hint for you, if you’re only going to shoot suppressed you needn’t time the brake anyway. This has been a lazy practice of mine for years now.
The locking ring that secures the Omega to its ASR mounts is easily operated. In all my installation and removal, it never gave me any issues. I did notice that if you managed to lock the ring before bottoming out the threads, you got a ratcheting sensation as you make the last turn. The locking teeth grab the mount well, keeping the suppressor from coming loose. Of course securing the various ASR mounts is required if you don’t want things coming loose. I never put thread-locker on my muzzle threads, they are used far too often. But the SiCo instructions give direction on how this should be done.
I only have interest in accurate rifles, so in my opinion a suppressor that deteriorates the accuracy of a rifle is a no-go. I was very happy to see that the Omega had no adverse effects on the accuracy of the host firearms. If anything it was better, and it for sure calmed the rifles down.
Durability
I am not particularly hard on my cans, so this is one spot where I’d lean on other’s results. The Omega 36M is full-auto rated, and I’ve seen plenty of folks who have abused them repeatedly with heavy fire. Because this can is far from new, there has been quite a bit of testing done. I expect this can will serve me for years to come.
I did notice that the finish of the Omega was a bit easy to mar or scratch. This is not a huge deal to me, as I typically Cerkote my suppressors every now and then to keep them looking clean. Also, suppressor covers have become very popular, keeping your cans wrapped avoids scratches if you’re worried about such a thing.
Conclusion
As I had suspected, the SilencerCo Omega 36M turned out to be just what I expected. A reliably robust can, that I can abuse between a wide variety of rifles. The only drawback if there is one is the uniqueness of the mounting systems, though with the different Charlie mounting options like direct threading to your muzzle you can go almost any way you choose.
I look forward to working this can over more, and seeing how it stands the test of time and round count. I have every expectation it will do very well, making it an excellent choice for someone looking for a multi-purpose suppressor they can suppress an entire collection. With that in mind, I may have to look into another Omega, for some other calibers….
More and more often, we are seeing interesting developments when it comes to bullets and ammunition. Today I wanted to discuss an interesting situation regarding velocity of bullets, and how specialty designed slower cartridges are changing the future of shooting. Are subsonic cartridges superior? Well, depending on your purpose they just might be.
The velocity of a bullet when fired from a firearm has a lot to do with its utility and purpose. Most rifle bullets travel at supersonic speeds, that means they travel faster than the speed of sound. Conversely, many handgun bullets travel near or below the speed of sound. For the most part, this has been a result of typical construction limitations for both firearm and ammunition manufacturing. Handguns typically have less room for large powder capacity cartridges, which is why they are typically slower. Which is also why rifles often have much higher velocities, as rifle cartridges often have more room. Additionally, rifles need greater range than most pistol cartridges, which has resulted in their design for more velocity.
typical pistol cartridges (left) with a couple rifle cartridges (right). Even though all these cartridges have similar bullet weights, the velocities are around double from rifle rounds.
What is the Speed of Sound?
The speed of sound is determined by how fast a sound wave travels through air. We have all witnessed curious situations where we see something far off before we hear the sound. That is because the sound takes much longer to get to us than the light reflecting the image to our eyes.
To add another layer of complexity, not all air is the same. The speed of sound is relevant to the current atmosphere the sound is traveling through. Humidity and air pressure can greatly effect air density and therefore the speed of sound will change depending on the atmospheric conditions. For example; warm dry air will result in a higher speed of sound than cold humid air.
Moist air has visible effects as well as invisible effects
Why does this matter? Because bullets also travel through air, and they are also equally effected by atmospheric conditions. As a bullet travels through the air it encounters resistance, and much like a boat traveling through water, once it starts moving fast enough it creates a wave. The pressure wave caused by bullets traveling faster than the speed of sound creates a sonic boom. This is why even when using a suppressor, most rifles are still quite noisy. Because the bullet itself is breaking the sound barrier which is quite loud. The suppressor removes most of the noise caused by the report of the rifle, but the supersonic bullet causes its own noise.
This image shows both the sound waves caused by the bullet, as well as the waves coming from the unsuppressed muzzle
Subsonic bullets, those that travel below the speed of sound do not create the pressure wave or sonic boom. Much like a boat that idles across a lake doesn’t make much of a wave. And if you use a suppressor to remove the report of the firearm, these bullets can be fired pretty quietly. Almost like you see in the movies, just less stupidly.
Why would you want Subsonic vs. Supersonic?
Subsonic shooting with a suppressor can be very fun, and extremely useful if you are a hunter. Shooting a whole pack of coyotes could be doable with marksmanship and such silent shooting. The appeal of this covert shooting ability has enticed many shooters and engineers alike. Which has resulted in various new firearms and ammunition lines that are specifically designed for this purpose. Cartridges like the .300 Blackout and 8.6 Blackout have received a great deal of attention lately as suppressor use has skyrocketed. The use of these cartridges with a suppressor has made super silent shooting a reality, and it has become very addicting to those who practice it.
Culling some pest turkeys in suburbia is better done suppressed and subsonic, this was done with the TX22 and a Silencerco suppressor
It is important to understand the limitations of these specially designed products. There are ammunition lines and even cartridges that are specifically designed for subsonic use. Purpose built subsonic cartridges and bullets tend to have more limitations because of velocity. In order to maintain their speed below the speed of sound there are few ways to add energy other than increasing the size of the bullet. Some folks like those at Discreet Ballistics have designed solid copper expanding bullets, to increase the transfer of energy on impact. Another theory though disputed by some; is that increasing the rotational speed of the bullet can add energy on target. This is achieved by using fast twist barrels like one-in-five, one-in-three or even as fast as one-in-one twist barrels.
The lower velocity of these bullets can greatly alter the effectiveness of them at extended distances. While it can be done, subsonic cartridges are much more susceptible to variations. And those variations are more pronounced as you cover more distance. The anonymity of super quiet shooting can be very valuable, but requires an extra level of understanding to know when and where it can be applied effectively.
Standard cartridges can also be down-loaded to subsonic speeds, particularly those that aren’t that fast to begin with. I used to load my 308 down with subsonic 220 grain bullets, and they were fun, and quite useful.
I’ve also loaded my 450 Bushmaster down to subsonic speeds and increased the bullet weight significantly for added performance. There is an added benefit to this scenario, a 308 can shoot subsonic bullets much like a 300Blk, but it can shoot much better when loaded with supersonic ammunition. A subsonic 220 grain bullet fired from a 308 chamber vs. a 300Blk chamber will fly the same all else being equal. But say you want to increase your energy on target and distance by changing bullets and powders for supersonic use. A 165 grain bullet fired at supersonic speeds from a 300Blk will be nowhere near as fast as one fired from a 308 chamber, all else being equal.
Its easy to see why the 308 Winchester (top) can achieve much higher velocity than the 300Blk (bottom) when both are shooting supersonic 150 grain bullets
What Not to Do
Many manufacturers have jumped into making firearms chambered for some of these dedicated subsonic cartridges. And that has resulted in a great deal of adoption by folks from every walk of life. It should come as no surprise that some are shooting dedicated subsonic cartridges and ammunition through firearms without a suppressor. While they are perfectly happy doing it, they certainly aren’t getting the bang for their buck. Shooting unsuppressed with subsonic cartridges like the .338 ARC or .300BLK is like wearing flip-flops to go hiking. The greatest asset of these cartridges is shooting silently with a suppressor, so if you aren’t going to use a suppressor, why cut your velocity, energy and range for no gain? Perhaps you might have another reason, but anything you can do with a subsonic .300Blk can be done better and for less with something like a 5.56 or 6ARC. The best advantage of the Blackout is its silent shooting, so if you’re going to shoot loud, you may as well shoot something better.
This fox was far too brave, walking between us in camp in the dark. A subsonic 308 quietly put him out. And later that day, the same rifle (different ammo) was used to shoot a cow elk 200 yards away.
The Right Application
As you might have gathered by now, there is a perfect application for subsonic shooting. A scenario where you need exceptionally quiet shooting, whether that be dispatching pests or something else. For example; a subsonic 22lr is great for taking out rats covertly in the dark. And if you use the slightest bit of imagination you’ll come up with other ideas. It is these specific scenarios where a subsonic cartridge is superior to supersonic options.
Suppressed subsonic 22 pistols are very handy for dispatching pests, this one is another Taurus TX22 with a YHM Phantom suppressor
You could say I’m a bit of a fan of the Meateater show, I do my fair share of hunting and eating. I never would have expected the brand would have made it into my daily use. But that’s the subject for today; I bring you a review of the Banish Meateater Suppressor from Silencer Central.
Banish suppressors have been everywhere lately, and I have been pretty impressed with their lineup. The Meateater Suppressor is a more recent development, and based on the name alone I suspect it is targeting the hunting public.
The Banish Meateater Suppressor
As I dug into the Banish Meateater, I could see that its hunting focus was more than just in the name. The titanium construction made the suppressor quite lightweight, which is a paramount feature for hunters.
Part of the reason the can is so light is because of its simple design. A traditional baffle stack held in by two threaded end caps. On the breech side you have the industry standard 1.375 x 24 threaded hub, which allows you to change the mount to whatever best fits your needs. The suppressor comes with a 5/8-24 threaded cap, but you could easily swap it out for a different one should you need to. This is a nice feature vs. having to have your barrel re-threaded.
the Meateater made my multi-caliber Desert Tech SRS M2 even more pleasant to shoot
Innovative Design
At the front end of the Meateater is where this can gets interesting. The threaded end cap houses some very cunning features; the muzzle can be interchanged between thirty-caliber and 6.5mm. These two inserts allow users to optimize the suppressor for most every popular hunting caliber thirty or less. Reducing the muzzle cap to 6.5mm will optimize its performance for 22, 6mm, 25 and 6.5mm cartridges. While the thirty-caliber cap keeps it tight for .270, 7mm, and 30 caliber options.
here you can see the two different muzzle ports, the black one for smaller calibers, and the grey one for 30 caliber
Using the optimal muzzle cap in the Meateater is important because there is another innovative feature in the muzzle of this can. The endcap keeps back pressure to help force more of the pressure out through the radial brake that is incorporated to the front of the suppressor. Its purpose is to help reduce recoil felt by the shooter.
here you can see the on/off feature of the Meateater brake
The suppressed report of my rifles sounded very good, not quite as sharp as other suppressors. Almost as if the bleeding off of pressure through the brake vents made it sound better. It was an impressive suppression performance from a can that is neither heavy nor bulky.
As a long-time suppressor enthusiast I rarely see one I don’t want. In the decades since my first suppressor interaction however, I have noticed a few things about short suppressors. For a long time, there were suppressors designed primarily for law enforcement and military use that were very short. This effected their ability to subdue the report of a rifle to my taste. Times are changing however, and today we are looking at two very short and compact suppressors that do exactly what you’d want them to do. We are comparing the YHM Fat Cat VS. Banish Speed K.
Both of these suppressors are very compact, and they both do a good job of subduing rifle noise. So today I wanted to put them up against each other to see which one I would pick if I couldn’t have both. These compact suppressors are designed for use on 5.56 or .223 caliber semi-auto rifles which most of us commonly use. My analysis will be based on various features but most importantly how these can’s stand up to a heavily used carbine or what many have colloquially called a “fighting rifle” or “battle rifle”.
Fat Cat and Banish Speed K Specifications
YHM Fat Cat
Banish Speed K
Caliber
5.56mm
.223/5.56mm
Weight
13.2oz (with adaptor)
14.1 oz
Length
4.5” (with adaptor)
4”
Diameter
1.94”
2”
Construction Material
17-4 Stainless/ Cobalt 6
Inconel
Decibel Reduction
20dB
20.9dB
Minimum Barrel Length
10” min.
None
Full-Auto Rated
Yes
Yes
Mount Style
Ind. Standard Hub Mount
Ind. Standard Hub Mount
Finish
Black Cerakote
Black Cerakote
Warranty
Limited Lifetime
Limited Lifetime
Baffle Design
Traditional Stacked baffles
Controlled Flow
User Serviceable
No
No
Included Mount
½-28 sRx Mini QD brake
½-28 Direct Thread
These two suppressors are very similar in size and specifications though there are some differences. The biggest differences that I feel are important I’ll point out here; The Banish Speed K is either 3D printed or DMLS fabricated from Inconel. Inconel is a very robust material (nickel chromium alloy) that is very resistant to both heat and abrasion. This makes the Speed K one solid piece of material, which can be very robust. But for those of us who have broken suppressors before, it makes them nearly impossible to repair if needed. The Speed K uses a finned blast chamber and clipped wall baffles to help reduce sound.
The YHM Fat Cat is built in the more traditional fashion, welding together 17-4 Stainless steel. It uses a cobalt 6 blast baffle to help tame the extreme pressure, heat and abrasion coming from the muzzle. Cobalt 6 (cobalt-chromium-tungsten alloy) is also very resistant to heat and erosion. The fat cat uses an interesting funnel shape to increase the volume of the blast chamber, and it appears the design also helps create a turbulent flow to help reduce sound.
Both suppressors use the industry standard hub mounting system. I can’t tell you how much I like and appreciate the industry moving this direction. It has made mounting your suppressors infinitely easier. You can use whichever mounting system you prefer, whether it be the YHM sRx QD system as provided with the Fat Cat, or something else like the Dead Air KeyMo system, or Plan B from Q. Both suppressors also use a tri-clipped muzzle port, this has become a common feature among many cans.
this combination is an excellent medium range carbine
Host Firearms
To properly test these two suppressors, I put together a small collection of rifles that would give them both a good workout. For pure sound testing, I would run them on my Savage Model 12 chambered in .223. The bolt-action rifle would give the best opportunity to hear the report of both suppressors. I would also use My Desert Tech WLVRN with the 20-inch .223 barrel, the adjustable gas system of the WLVRN would allow me to tune for performance and see how the two cans affected its function.
this little rifle’s upper half is from CMMG, while the lower is from Desert Tech
Additionally I would run them both on a couple other AR15 based rifles like most folks would likely use. One of them a 16-inch Aero Precision build and the other a short barreled 5.56 that we’d also run some full auto through the cans.
Shooting these two suppressors across the host firearms gave a pretty good idea of how they compare. I kept switching them out back and forth to compare.
Both suppressors sounded very hearing safe on the longer rifles. The 16″ Quattro 15 and the 20″ WLVRN were very pleasant to shoot without hearing protection. Of course I have to add the caveat that you should always wear ear protection, even when suppressed.
Backpressure
Almost every suppressor out there adds at least some back-pressure in my experience. And these two were not exempt.
