Weight on the muzzle
Joseph von Benedikt took his custom .280 Ackley Improved to the range to answer a simple question about suppressor weight. Does additional weight on the muzzle change how a rifle shoots? He went into the test with a rifle built for mountain hunting. The action, barrel and stock were all light and stiff so any shift in balance or vibration would stand out. Using 162 grain ELD X ammo through the same barrel with each suppressor he discovered that the mid weight titanium model kept his shots tight, while the lightest and heaviest suppressors opened up to about an inch.
Which Suppressors Did JvB Test?
For the suppressor test he used four Gunworks suppressors with near identical internal designs, only varying materials and sizes. A simple cover added two ounces to each, changing the core weight. The table below shows the various suppressor models that were used.
| Model | Construction | Length | Weight (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Six Titanium | Titanium | 6 in | 8 oz |
| Six Plus Titanium | Titanium | 6 in larger diameter | 10 oz |
| Six Steel | Steel | 6 in | 12 oz |
| Six Plus Steel | Steel | 6 in larger diameter | 14 oz |
With each suppressor he fired three shot groups letting the barrel cool for a couple of minutes between groups. The mid weight titanium suppressor produced the smallest average groups, around six to seven tenths of an inch, while others hovered around an inch with an occasional small group or flyer. Point of impact moved up or down depending on the weight and he noted that the heaviest suppressor shot low while the lightest shot high.
What Does This Mean for Shooters?
If you hunt with a suppressor try out different weights or tune your loads until your rifle behaves the way you want. Always check your zero after you attach a suppressor because even a small change at the muzzle will change the trajectory of your bullets. A solid rest can help too; a carbon fibre bipod like the Javelin Pro Hunt Tac keeps your rifle balanced and steady without adding bulk. It weighs just a few ounces and attaches quickly using our MagnaSwitch™ technology. The spring-assisted legs on the Pro Hunt Tac adjust for height, letting you pan and cant so you can track game without lifting the rifle. With lightweight gear and the right suppressor you can keep your mountain rifle nimble and still shoot with confidence.
Note that on January 1st 2026, the $200 tax on suppressors will be removed, making it easier to try different suppressors for yourself.
