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Suppressor covers may seem like an accessory for your firearm accessory, but they have an important function. 

These covers protect the suppressor, but more importantly, they enhance safety by absorbing heat. 

Depending on what you’re using your firearm for, they may also indirectly impact the performance. 

That fact alone should make you consider buying a cover for your firearm suppressor. But, as is the case with most firearm accessories, it’s not that straightforward. 

So, this guide will give you a comprehensive overview of what is a suppressor cover, why it’s used, the various types available, and how to choose and care for the right one.

What Are Suppressor Covers?

Suppressor covers are protective sleeves or wraps designed to fit snugly around firearm suppressors (silencers). 

They’re typically made from heat-resistant materials such as Kevlar, Nomex, or silicone. 

These covers are engineered to address several challenges posed by suppressor use. 

When a shot is fired, the suppressor rapidly accumulates heat. And, if you’re firing short after shot, it can even reach temperatures that can cause burns or create visual distortion. 

Suppressor covers help mitigate these effects by acting as a heat barrier. But there’s more to them. 

They are widely used by tactical professionals, competitive shooters, and recreational firearm users alike.

Benefits of Suppressor Covers

Like the silencer, a suppressor cover is not essential for your firearm. However, there are benefits to using it that make it worth the investment. 

Heat Protection

The primary purpose of putting on a cover on the suppressor is to absorb the heat. 

Suppressors can become extremely hot after firing just a few rounds. And, if you touch it with you bare hand, you risk burning your skin. 

Covers prevent direct contact with the hot surface, reducing the risk of burns during handling or accidental contact.

Mirage Reduction

If you’re not new to using a firearm, such as a rifle, especially for hunting, you’d know the mirage effect. 

It’s when the heat from the hot barrel rises to the top and distorts or fades the line of sight. It’s similar to what you experience on the highway during peak summer months. 

This distortion can negatively impact accuracy, especially in precision shooting.

That subtle distortion can make a big difference if you’re hunting a game or competing. You may even notice it with any optics that you’re using. 

Suppressor covers prevent this effect and ensure a clearer aim. They readily absorb the heat from the barrel and suppressor, so it doesn’t have a chance to create that mirage effect. 

Noise Suppression

Suppressor covers don’t significantly alter a suppressor’s sound-dampening capabilities. 

That said, they may reduce noise associated with suppressor heat cracking or vibrations in certain scenarios.

Tactical Advantages

Suppressor covers can be designed with camouflaging patterns, making them valuable for hunters or military personnel operating in specific environments. 

They also reduce the risk of heat signature detection by masking thermal emissions.

Heat sensors and cameras won’t be able to detect the firearm’s location. 

Protect Suppressor

A cover protects the suppressor from scratches, dents, and other wear and tear. 

Keeping your suppressor wrapped in that sleeve will keep it looking new and may even increase its lifespan. 

Types of Suppressor Covers

Suppressor covers come in a variety of designs and materials to suit different needs:

High-Temperature vs. Low-Temperature Covers

High-temperature covers are for sustained firing sessions, such as tactical or competitive shooting. 

Low-temperature covers are sufficient for casual use or short shooting sessions. 

The temperature resistance pretty much depends on the material. 

Material Options

The choice of material significantly affects the cover’s performance. 

Kevlar, Nomex, and fiberglass are favored for their extreme heat resistance, while nylon and silicone provide excellent grip and durability. 

Hybrid designs combine materials to balance heat resistance and usability.

Slip-On vs. Wraparound Designs

Suppressor covers also differ by how they’re installed on the silencer. 

Slip-on covers are tubular sleeves that slide directly over the suppressor. They’re easier to work with, as you can quickly slide them on or off. 

Wraparound covers secure around the suppressor with straps or Velcro. They’re more flexible in terms of the fit. They may also fit more snugly. 

Application-Specific Covers

Some covers are tailored for specific firearms, calibers, or suppressor models. They’re optimized for that specific use case and have a perfect fit. 

How to Choose the Right Suppressor Cover?

Selecting the ideal suppressor cover depends on several factors:

  • Heat Tolerance: If you frequently engage in rapid-fire or extended shooting sessions, prioritize covers designed to withstand extreme heat. Most suppressor covers offer a decent temperature resistance range, but paying attention to that range is recommended. High-quality tactical suppressors are rated for up to 2,000 degrees. 
  • Suppressor Dimensions: Measure your suppressor’s length and diameter to ensure the cover fits snugly. If it’s too loose, it won’t do its job properly or stay on. If it’s too tight, it won’t even get on. Many manufacturers offer covers tailored to specific suppressor models. Also, some are adjustable. So, ensure that the cover you’re getting has dimensions similar to or very slightly bigger than the suppressor. 
  • Intended Use: Consider your shooting activity. High-volume shooters need high-temperature covers, while occasional users might prefer a simpler, low-temperature option. 
  • Durability: This is dependent on the material and build quality and may be a little challenging to assess if you’re buying online. Materials like Kevlar, fiberglass, and Nomex are generally high-quality and long-lasting. 
  • Ease of Use: Look for covers that are easy to install and remove. Slip-on covers are typically more convenient. However, wraparound designs often offer greater convenience for on-the-go adjustments. 
  • Aesthetics and Camouflage: Some shooters prefer covers with tactical or camouflaged designs to suit specific environments. Others may opt for solid colors that complement their firearm’s appearance.

How to Maintain and Care for Suppressor Covers?

Proper care can extend the lifespan of your suppressor cover:

  • After use, inspect the cover for carbon buildup, dirt, or debris. Clean it with a damp cloth and mild soap if necessary. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage the material.
  • Store the cover in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat or sunlight can degrade the material over time.
  • Refrain from exposing the cover to unnecessary stress, such as prolonged rapid-fire sessions, without allowing time for cooling.
  • Monitor the cover for signs of wear, such as fraying, melting, or loss of elasticity. Replace it if it no longer fits securely or functions effectively.

Should You Invest in a Suppressor Cover?

Suppressor covers are a nice-to-have accessory. They’re not essential but useful. 

If you’re buying a suppressor for safety or performance purposes, you might as well buy a cover for it. 

It will help absorb the heat in the suppressor and avoid any uncomfortable accidents caused by touching the too-hot silencer. 

If you’re a tactical shooter, a suppressor cover is recommended. You don’t want to take a chance with heat dissipation distorting your aim. 

Lastly, if you have one of those fancy, custom silencers, having a cover for it will keep it nice and clean. 

FAQs

Can a suppressor cover affect performance? 

Suppressor covers don’t affect the performance as such. However, they can make the shooting experience better and safer. 

They reduce mirage and protect the shooter. However, they may also slightly increase the suppressor’s heat retention. This is usually negligible for most users.

Are suppressor covers necessary for all shooters? 

Suppressor covers aren’t essential for using a suppressor with your firearm. 

That said, suppressor covers are highly recommended for anyone who frequently uses suppressors, especially in tactical, hunting, or competitive settings.

They can help avoid accidents from hot suppressors and will keep the suppressor safe from wear. 

Can suppressors overheat?

Suppressors can overheat if you’re firing rounds repeatedly in a short period. While they’re designed to be heat-resistant, they have their limits. 

An overheated suppressor may get damaged and wear out quickly. More importantly, it risks the safety of the shooter and those around them, as touching it may burn the skin. 

How much does a suppressor cover cost?

Most suppressor covers are under $50. However, tactical suppressors with high-quality materials and high heat resistance can cost well over $50. 

Custom suppressor covers are usually more expensive. 

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