Just saw this on yahoo news - it looks to me like a sound suppresor, is it?

Yes, It's the standard SOPMOD sound suppressor for the M4

Now if I understand correctly, It may make the rifle shoot a little more quite but the bullet is breaking the sound barrier there fore you will still get the sonic crack.

Quoted: Now if I understand correctly, It may make the rifle shoot a little more quite but the bullet is breaking the sound barrier there fore you will still get the sonic crack.

This is true, mine sounds like a 22LR with Federal Eagle 55gr FMJBT.

www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid28/pcca890f60675649ae1a6eccfddb340bc/fe103bb6.jpg

I have a Gemtech M4-96D on my Colt M16-A1 M4 Commando.

You've got some fine weapons, my brother.

drfcolt,  That Gemtech of yours is a beauty, I seen one shot out of a Minimi with 200 rounds combat pak in full auto, the dare thing is indesturctable.  I have a bi lug suppressor on my M4 and I uses when I go shooting with my C3 friends.  It is nice to be in a free state.

I like the Gemtech a bit better since it mounts a lot quicker then the KAC suppressor. and the KAC is a lot heavier. The data suggest the KAC is quieter, but with my ear, I can't tell too much difference.  I do have to admit the KAC look real cool.  

The sound suppressor is starting to get more use by military units, they have finally catched onto it´s potential.

In addition to the special operations units, MEU SOC operators have been seen using sound suppressors in Afganistan.

The terrain there is bare, so every device which can help concealment is a plus, the suppressor hides the muzzle flash and the blast in addition to the suppressing of sound.

The only drawback with selfloading and automatic weapons is the fouling of the weapon, depends on the type of suppressor and the amount of oil in the receiver etc...