Why a Glock 17 and a Suppressor? The Match Made in Shooting Heaven
The Glock 17 has earned its reputation as a dependable and versatile firearm. Its simple design, robust construction, and widespread availability of parts and accessories make it a favorite among law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian shooters alike. Pairing the Glock 17 with a suppressor amplifies its appeal. Beyond simply reducing the noise, a suppressor can enhance the shooting experience in several ways, transforming your range time.
Beyond Noise Reduction: The Benefits of Suppressing Your Glock 17
The primary draw of a suppressor is, undoubtedly, the reduction in noise. This is not just about comfort; it offers real advantages. Hearing protection is paramount. Repeated exposure to loud gunshots can cause permanent hearing damage. A suppressor dramatically lowers the decibel level of each shot, protecting your hearing, even after prolonged use at the range. This is particularly important for frequent shooters or those who train in close quarters.
Reduced recoil is another noticeable benefit. While the Glock 17 is known for its manageable recoil, a suppressor adds weight to the end of the barrel, which can effectively dampen the muzzle rise. This allows for faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy. The weight also helps maintain the gun’s balance.
Accuracy is often enhanced. The added weight and reduced muzzle blast can help to stabilize the barrel. While results vary depending on the suppressor and ammunition, many shooters experience an improvement in their groups, especially when shooting at a distance.
Enhanced shooting experience is a less tangible but very real benefit. Shooting with a suppressor is simply more enjoyable. The reduced noise, recoil, and muzzle flash create a more comfortable and controllable shooting experience. This makes training more pleasant and contributes to longer, more productive range sessions.
Navigating the Legal Landscape: Understanding the Rules
Before diving into the specific suppressor models, it’s essential to address the legal aspects. Regulations vary significantly depending on your location. In many countries, suppressors are regulated under specific laws that govern the sale, ownership, and use of firearms and firearm accessories. It’s critical that you understand the laws in your area. This may involve registration with your local, regional, or federal authorities. You may be required to undergo a background check, pay a tax, and wait for approval before you can legally acquire a suppressor. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in serious legal consequences, including fines and imprisonment. Always research, understand, and adhere to all applicable laws. This means consulting official government websites, contacting local law enforcement agencies, and possibly consulting with a qualified legal professional specializing in firearms law. Ensure compliance with all regulations before making any purchase and use the product.
The Suppressor Dictionary: Key Terms You Need to Know
To make an informed decision, you need to be familiar with the key terms associated with suppressors.
Decibel Reduction (dB)
This is the most common metric for measuring a suppressor’s effectiveness. It indicates how much the suppressor reduces the sound pressure level of the gunshot, measured in decibels. Generally, a lower dB rating indicates a quieter suppressor. Be mindful of the fact that decibel measurements are logarithmic; a small change in dB can mean a significant change in perceived loudness.
Bore Diameter
The diameter of the hole in the suppressor through which the bullet passes. It must be correctly sized for the caliber of the firearm you are using. Using a suppressor with too large a bore diameter can result in decreased effectiveness; using a suppressor with too small a bore diameter is dangerous.
Direct Thread
A mounting method where the suppressor screws directly onto the threaded barrel of your Glock 17. It’s simple and reliable, but requires you to remove the suppressor to thread it on/off.
Piston/Adapter
Used for suppressors designed for use on multiple firearms. This mounting system involves a piston that threads into the suppressor and attaches to the barrel via a spring-loaded device. This method allows for quick changes from pistol to pistol.
Tri-Lug Mounts
A quick-attach system using three lugs on the barrel and a matching mechanism on the suppressor. It allows for quick attachment and detachment, mainly used on subguns.
Suppressor Types
While we are focusing on pistol suppressors in this guide, it’s good to note that suppressors are made for various types of firearms. There are rimfire suppressors for .22 caliber firearms, rifle suppressors designed to handle higher pressures, and pistol suppressors that work specifically with handgun calibers.
Thread Pitch
The specification that governs which size of barrel you can thread a silencer on. For the Glock 17, this is normally ½-28 TPI.
The Foundation: Key Factors for Choosing the Best Suppressor for Your Glock 17
Choosing the right suppressor is not just about finding the quietest one. A variety of factors must be considered to make an appropriate choice.
Caliber Compatibility
The Glock 17 fires 9x19mm ammunition. Ensure the suppressor you select is specifically rated for 9mm. While some suppressors are rated for multiple calibers (such as .22 LR, 9mm, and .45 ACP), it is crucial that the suppressor is tested and rated for the 9mm cartridge to provide safe and efficient use.
Mounting System
The mounting system determines how the suppressor attaches to your Glock 17’s barrel. The choices are plentiful, each with its own set of pros and cons. Direct thread is the most straightforward, but it requires you to manually thread the suppressor onto the barrel. Piston/Adapter offer versatility, allowing you to use the same suppressor on different firearms. Tri-lug systems offer quick attach/detach but are not commonly used on pistols. Consider how often you plan to remove and reattach the suppressor, and whether you want to use it on other firearms when making your decision.
Material and Construction
Suppressors are constructed from various materials. Steel is incredibly durable but also very heavy. Titanium offers an excellent balance of strength and weight but is often more expensive. Aluminum is lightweight, but less durable, and might not hold up to the heat and pressure as well as steel or titanium. The construction of the suppressor is important; consider a model built to withstand the high pressures and temperatures generated by firearms.
Size and Weight
These factors significantly impact the handling characteristics of your Glock 17. A larger, heavier suppressor will affect the balance of the gun, making it feel different in your hand. Consider how you intend to use your Glock 17. If you plan to carry it, a more compact and lightweight suppressor is probably preferable. If you are primarily using it at the range, weight might be less of a concern.
Sound Reduction (dB Rating)
The dB rating is a crucial performance indicator. A lower number means a quieter suppressor. A difference of even a few dB can be significant. Aim for a suppressor that provides a substantial reduction in noise, ideally keeping the sound pressure level below the threshold for hearing damage. Keep in mind the fact that there are other noise factors.
Durability and Reliability
A suppressor is subjected to extreme conditions: high pressures, high temperatures, and the constant impact of projectiles. Choose a suppressor that is built to withstand this abuse. Look for suppressors made from high-quality materials and that have a reputation for being reliable.
Price and Budget
Suppressors vary significantly in price. Set a realistic budget before you begin your search. Consider how you plan to use the suppressor, how often you will use it, and how important sound reduction is to you. Weigh the features, benefits, and expected lifespan against the cost to find the best value for your needs.
Top Recommendations: Finding the Perfect Match
Choosing the “best” suppressor is always subjective. The ideal choice depends on your individual needs and priorities. Here are some excellent options, categorized to help you make the best choice.
Best Overall: The SilencerCo Omega 9K
This suppressor is often considered an outstanding all-around choice. Its compact size (making it ideal for use on a Glock 17), exceptional sound reduction, and robust construction make it a versatile choice. The Omega 9K’s modular design allows for quick and easy disassembly for cleaning. It is typically constructed from a combination of stainless steel and titanium. The decibel reduction is impressive, offering excellent hearing protection. The Omega 9K is a bit on the pricier side, but its performance and quality justify the investment for many shooters. This suppressor is often paired with a direct thread mount, further simplifying its use.
Key Features and Specifications:
- Materials: Stainless Steel, Titanium
- Mounting System: Direct Thread, Piston, Tri-Lug
- dB Rating: Around 120 dB
- Length: Compact
- Weight: Moderate
Pros: Excellent sound reduction, compact size, robust construction, versatile mounting options.
Cons: Higher price point.
Best Value for Money: Rugged Obsidian 9
If you are seeking top-tier performance at a more accessible price, the Rugged Obsidian 9 is a strong contender. It offers excellent sound reduction, a durable design, and a user-friendly design. The Obsidian 9 features a fully welded construction for reliability and ease of cleaning. It offers remarkable value, making it an excellent option for shooters looking for a balance of performance and affordability. It uses a quick detach system with a piston, greatly easing its use on many different pistols.
Key Features and Specifications:
- Materials: Stainless Steel, Stellite baffles
- Mounting System: Piston
- dB Rating: Around 120 dB
- Length: Customizable
- Weight: Moderate
Pros: Excellent sound reduction, durable design, great value.
Cons: Larger than some compact models
Best for Compact Size/Concealed Carry: SureFire Ryder 9-Ti
If portability is your top priority, the SureFire Ryder 9-Ti is an excellent choice. This suppressor is constructed of titanium, making it incredibly light and strong. Its compact size is perfect for concealed carry. The Ryder 9-Ti still offers impressive sound reduction. This suppressor excels in weight management and offers excellent performance in a small package. It is especially well suited for shooters who prioritize minimal added weight and bulk. This is the best option for concealed carry.
Key Features and Specifications:
- Materials: Titanium
- Mounting System: Direct Thread
- dB Rating: Around 125 dB
- Length: Very Compact
- Weight: Very Light
Pros: Extremely lightweight and compact, ideal for concealed carry.
Cons: Lower dB rating than some full-sized suppressors.
Installation and Usage: Making Sure You Get It Right
Attaching a suppressor to your Glock 17 is usually straightforward. If you have a direct thread adapter, simply thread the suppressor onto the barrel until it’s snug. If using a piston system, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to attach the piston to your barrel and the suppressor.
Ammunition Considerations: Subsonic ammunition is ideal for maximizing the noise reduction. These rounds travel at a velocity below the speed of sound, preventing the sonic crack that would otherwise make a louder noise. Subsonic rounds will also give better results for hearing protection.
Maintenance and Cleaning: Suppressors require periodic cleaning. The frequency of cleaning depends on the suppressor’s design and how often you shoot. The method for cleaning also varies. Check the manufacturer’s instructions. Many suppressors can be disassembled and cleaned with solvents and brushes.
Safety Precautions: Always handle firearms safely. Wear appropriate eye and ear protection, even when using a suppressor. Make sure your barrel is properly threaded before each use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are suppressors legal?
As mentioned earlier, it depends. They are generally legal, but subject to federal, state, and local regulations. Research the laws in your location.
How loud will my Glock 17 be with a suppressor?
The sound level will depend on the suppressor model, ammunition, and environmental conditions. Most suppressors reduce the sound to levels below 140 dB, which is often considered hearing-safe for short-term exposure.
Do I need a special barrel for my Glock 17?
Yes, the Glock 17 uses a threaded barrel. They are widely available from various manufacturers.
