Though guns have existed in some fashion since at least the 14th century, silencers were not invented until the early 20th century, considering recreational shooting was negligible indoors until that time. Using a silencer minimizes impact on the ears and eyes with both light and sound suppression, taking advantage of multiple techniques, such as slowing the bullet and releasing expanding gas over a longer period of time. Generally, a silencer is about as big around as the barrel to which it attaches, but larger gun silencers are often appreciable in size.
Silencer adapter (optional)
Silencer permit
It is illegal in the United States to use a silencer on a gun without a permit.
Revolvers can use silencers, but the space between the cylinder and the barrel will cause some noise pollution.
Identify your gun's readiness for a silencer. The interior end of the barrel will be threaded with grooves if a silencer can be mounted.
Take your gun to a machine shop to thread the barrel or to replace the barrel you have with a compatible one. This can sometimes cost more than the gun itself; if the price is too high, buy an adapter, which mounts a silencer without requiring any work on the gun.
Make sure your silencer is compatible with your barrel. Know the brand, model, and caliber of your weapon before selecting a silencer.
Screw the silencer into the barrel's grooves counterclockwise if the barrel is compatible, or follow the instructions given with the adapter if you're using one.
Items you will need
Warnings
References
- The Hayduke Silencer Book; George Hayduke; 1989.
Photo Credits
- Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images