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AR15.COM
6/7/2006 6:24:00 AM EDT
I've decided it's time for me to get my first suppressor, but I need some help.  I've saved my money, cleared it with the wife, I've talked to my county sheriff, and I'm ready to go, my problems are....

1.  I live in Centre County and I would like to find the closest reputable dealer.  The closest ones I've come up with so far that aren't a 3 hour drive away are Freedom Armory in Shrewsbury and Smith Specialty Arms in Slatington (both about 2.5 hours away).  Has anybody worked with them before, or can you recommend someone else?  Please advise.  

2.  Which suppressor...I've read as much as I can on this site, and another site, and it seems that I would prefere something like the Gemtech G5.  However, I've read some negative posts about Gemtech's construction.  I've only read good things about their customer service.  I'm not in the military (anymore), I'm not LE.  I just like AR-15s and I want something that will be effective, easy to use, perform well, etc.  I won't be putting thousands of rounds through it on full auto.  I will likely use it for my M4ish for now, and an SPRish in the future.  If anybody can offer some comparisons based on actual experience with various models, please do.  

3.  For recreational use, seriously, are these things worth the money and time?  I've never fired a suppressed AR-15, and I'm not quite sure what to expect.  For the money, I could start my SPRish build.

I'm anquishing over this decision because it is a lot of money, and once I have it, I'm kinda stuck with it.

I'm not interested in starting a huge debate between brand x and brand y.  I just really want somebody that has practical knowledge to help me get my first suppressor.  Thanks.
6/7/2006 7:57:37 AM EDT
[#1]
Is Nothumberland??/Sunbury?? closer to you?
If so there is a Class III dealer there. I'm not sure if he is still in business, but if this is not as far I will try to find his address.
6/7/2006 8:24:10 AM EDT
[#2]
FYI, here's a friend's AWC fiasco.
6/7/2006 9:11:15 AM EDT
[#3]
Here is mine.....




You are smart to look at it as a lifetime investment.  The sound attenuation on the 5.56 is good, not Hollywood good but it is very noticeable.  I would suggest you do the following:

Purchase an AAC 762SD.  This is a quick detach 30 caliber suppressor.  It is suitable for use on a 5.56mm weapon.  It will be a triffle louder than a suppressor designed for only a 5.56.  The AAC 762SD uses the same mount for both 30 caliber rifles and 5.56mm rifles.  This way you can suppress your favorite .308 bolt gun and only need to buy an inexpensive mount.  The 762SD is longer than the M42000 (5.56mm suppressor) but as you are just a recreational shooter, it should be no big deal.  This way it's like getting two suppressors for the price of one.

Just a thought?

Regards,
Gary

editted to add.....this is a picture of the M42000 suppressor, the 762SD is a bit longer.
6/7/2006 10:00:22 AM EDT
[#4]
Thanks for the response, and yes, Sunbury is closer.  
6/7/2006 10:03:44 AM EDT
[#5]
Two suppressors for the price of one....hmmm.  It just so happens, I have a favorite 308 bolt gun that I was considering getting a suppressor for, provided my 5.56 suppressor purchase went well.  

Thanks for the info, I'll check it out.  
6/7/2006 12:06:06 PM EDT
[#6]
I bought an AAC Ranger from Henry at Smith Specialty Arms, and he's also handled a couple transfers for me.

He's a great guy to deal with. Very cool and down to earth. He works right out of his home, and does all the paperwork right on his kitchen table. He'll also pop a few videos in the VCR if you want to see different suppressors in action.

I think he works a regular daytime job, so his schedule is limited to the evenings. It's a good idea to call and arrange an appointment ahead of time.

Here's his number:

Henry Smith
610-767-4670
6/7/2006 12:08:20 PM EDT
[#7]

Quoted:

Purchase an AAC 762SD.  This is a quick detach 30 caliber suppressor.  It is suitable for use on a 5.56mm weapon.  It will be a triffle louder than a suppressor designed for only a 5.56.  The AAC 762SD uses the same mount for both 30 caliber rifles and 5.56mm rifles.  This way you can suppress your favorite .308 bolt gun and only need to buy an inexpensive mount.  The 762SD is longer than the M42000 (5.56mm suppressor) but as you are just a recreational shooter, it should be no big deal.  This way it's like getting two suppressors for the price of one.




Now THAT'S a good idea...
I was actually thinking about getting one for a 30-06 bolt gun.
I'll give Henry a call...
6/7/2006 6:47:45 PM EDT
[#8]
just got my 308 can (swr omega) from henry 3 weeks ago and over the past few years he has completed  3 or 4 transfers for me. good guy, as in anything you buy, research who you buy from. there are some dealers that can turn a transfer into a long nasty ordeal..by the way henry is one of the best when it comes to cans. just tell him kirk sent ya and he will take care of you.
6/8/2006 6:21:46 AM EDT
[#9]
Thanks for the info guys.  I really appreciate it.  It sounds like I'll be giving Smith Specialty Arms a call.  

As far as the suppressor, I think I might just finally make a decision and get the G5 for my 16" M4ish.  I think I can pick up a 14.5" barrel, get the bi-lock mounted and welded on by Gemtech, and have a legal 16" barrel (or so their website says).  I'll pick up an extra mount for my future SPRish.  The A2 will just have to stay loud.  

If all goes well, I'll pick up a suppressor for my 700P.  Since I've heard that once you get one, you'll eventually get another.

If anybody else has any more advice, tips, recommendations, let me know, the more info I have, the better.    
6/8/2006 12:36:11 PM EDT
[#10]
You will want to get the blast guard from BattleCloth!  

Blast Guard Link on the EE Board

Regards,
Gary
6/8/2006 8:38:57 PM EDT
[#11]
henry has a gunsmith that can do any work you may need. he is awsome. he threaded my savage m-10 and storm for a 3 lug adapter. he did a great job. just talk to henry and he will help you with your suppressor project
6/9/2006 5:32:38 AM EDT
[#12]
Try: www.davidspiwak.com

He's in Bloomsburg, probably about 70-miles from you off of I-80.

Very good dealer - I've purchased 2xUZI and 1xM14 from him and traded a supressed M16 to him.

He gets a very good review over on subguns.com.
6/9/2006 12:35:00 PM EDT
[#13]
Not to hijack your thread or anything, but i was wondering if there are any Class 3 dealers close to Carlisle?
I will be getting a gemtech blackside for my .45.