Traditional vs Flow Through Type Suppressors
Hey all, we here at True Shot Academy wanted to compare traditional and flow through type suppressors. Suppressors are incredibly popular accessories among shooters these days. Odds are, you will encounter someone with a suppressor of some kind if you go to the range. These once obscure items are becoming more and more commonly used by shooters of all types. Everyone from hunters to casual shooters engage in suppressed shooting these days.
First, A Caveat
For the purposes of this blog post, we are going to use the term “flow through” as a general term. The term is most often associated with HUXWRX (formerly OSS Suppressors) due to their patented Flow-Through™ technology utilized in their suppressors. When the shooting public describes suppressors featuring similar gas venting designs, they use “flow through” as a general term. This term sounds better than “alternative flow suppressors” or similar phrasing. Each suppressor company with a flow-through design implements it differently.
What are Traditional Suppressors?
Traditional suppressors can trace their lineage back to designs by Hiram Maxim. These suppressors use baffles that trap gasses, allowing them to cool and expand gradually during firing. Excess gas is often pushed back toward the shooter, increasing backpressure. In some firearms, this additional backpressure aids reliability when using subsonic ammunition. In others, it can cause reliability issues or accelerate wear—especially in systems sensitive to overgassing, such as the Steyr AUG and FN SCAR 17S.
What are Flow Through Type Suppressors?
Flow-through suppressors depart from traditional baffle-stack designs. Instead of trapping gas for cooling, they vent it forward and away from the shooter, greatly reducing backpressure. This makes them ideal for use on firearms that are typically difficult to suppress effectively.
Who Makes Traditional Suppressors?
Several companies manufacture traditional suppressors. Notable examples include Surefire, SilencerCo, Dead Air, and Otter Creek Labs. Surefire’s SOCOM line is highly respected and known for its robust design and mounting system. SilencerCo and Dead Air have also earned loyal followings thanks to their innovation and quality craftsmanship.
Who Makes Flow Through Type Suppressors?
While fewer in number, several reputable companies manufacture flow-through suppressors. HUXWRX remains the most prominent, thanks to its patented Flow-Through™ technology and models like the HX-QD 556K, RAD 9, and FLOW 762 Ti. Other manufacturers include Sig Sauer, Griffin Armament, and Surefire, with its new RC3 suppressor.
What are the Pros of Traditional Suppressors?
- Established Technology: Traditional suppressors have been around for over a century, proving their reliability. Designs like Surefire’s SOCOM line use a consistent mounting pattern, ensuring compatibility across generations.
- Price: Traditional suppressors are typically less expensive than flow-through models, though material, brand, and construction can influence price.
- More Options: There are far more traditional suppressors available on the market, giving buyers a wider range of choices.
What are the Pros of Flow Through Type Suppressors?
- Innovative Technology: Flow-through suppressors represent forward-thinking design. Companies like HUXWRX even use advanced 3D-printing techniques to produce some models.
- Healthier Operation: By venting gases away from the shooter, flow-through suppressors reduce exposure to toxic gases and airborne lead.
- Compatibility: Flow-through suppressors minimize backpressure, allowing them to function well on firearms that are otherwise difficult to suppress effectively.
What are the Cons of Traditional Suppressors?
- Backpressure Issues: Increased backpressure can impact firearm reliability.
- System Sensitivity: Some firearms, such as the Steyr AUG and FN SCAR 17S, do not perform well with traditional suppressors due to overgassing.
What are the Cons of Flow Through Type Suppressors?
- Price: These suppressors tend to cost more due to advanced engineering and manufacturing methods.
- Performance Trade-offs: Some flow-through suppressors may offer slightly less sound or flash reduction compared to traditional suppressors. However, flash reduction also depends on the ammunition used—most shooters do not use low-flash powder loads.
Commonalities
Both traditional and flow-through suppressors are available for pistol and rifle calibers, meaning they can be used on handguns, subguns, and rifles. Modular suppressors—those that can be configured in long or short modes—exist in both categories. Despite differences in gas management, both suppressor types reduce the overall sound and muzzle flash signature of firearms.
Conclusion
Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with either suppressor type. Traditional designs have stood the test of time, while flow-through models bring modern innovation and improved shooter comfort. Your choice should depend on your firearm platform and intended use. We at True Shot offer a wide selection of subsonic ammunition that pairs well with either suppressor type. As always, we’re here to help you stock up and stay informed. Happy shooting!
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