Suppressor 101 | Episode 6 - Suppressor Mounting and Tuning | Palmetto State Armory

Published on January 2, 2026
Duration: 9:50

This guide, presented by Justin from Palmetto State Armory, details the essential steps for mounting and tuning suppressors. It covers direct thread and fast-attach systems, emphasizing proper thread cleaning, the use of shims over crush washers, and critical concentricity checks. The guide also addresses firearm tuning to manage increased back pressure and gas blowback, and the necessity of re-zeroing optics after suppressor installation.

Quick Summary

Proper suppressor mounting involves cleaning threads, using shims for timing (avoiding crush washers), and crucially, performing a concentricity check with a rod. Tuning the firearm's gas system is essential to manage increased back pressure and gas blowback, and optics must be re-zeroed after installation due to point of impact shifts.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Suppressor 101
  2. 00:36Direct Thread Mounting
  3. 01:15Checking Concentricity
  4. 02:28Muzzle Device Mounting Systems
  5. 04:13Tuning the Firearm
  6. 05:44Managing Gas Blowback
  7. 06:24Re-zeroing the Firearm
  8. 06:56Cleaning and Maintenance

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most critical step after mounting a suppressor?

The most critical step after mounting a suppressor is performing a concentricity check using a rod to ensure the suppressor bore is perfectly aligned with the firearm's barrel bore. This prevents dangerous baffle strikes.

Should I use a crush washer when mounting a suppressor?

No, crush washers should be avoided when mounting suppressors or their associated muzzle devices. Use shims instead to achieve proper timing and alignment, as recommended by manufacturers like Palmetto State Armory.

How do I tune my firearm after adding a suppressor?

Adding a suppressor increases back pressure. Tuning involves adjusting the gas block or modifying buffer weights and springs to ensure reliable cycling and manage gas blowback, preventing issues like 'gas to the face'.

Why do I need to re-zero my optic after installing a suppressor?

Suppressors add weight and length to the barrel, which shifts the firearm's center of gravity and can alter harmonics. This shift necessitates re-zeroing your optic to maintain accuracy at your intended point of aim.

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