Do Suppressors Increase Accuracy?

Published on August 31, 2025
Duration: 10:49

This expert guide details a methodical approach to testing how a suppressor affects rifle accuracy. It demonstrates that while suppressors can maintain group size, they often induce a point of impact shift, necessitating re-zeroing. The testing protocol covers multiple distances and emphasizes observing both group consistency and POI changes.

Quick Summary

Suppressors do not inherently increase accuracy but can maintain or improve it by reducing recoil. However, they often cause a point of impact shift that requires re-zeroing the rifle. In testing, a 1.5 to 2-inch downward shift was observed at 100 yards, but group size remained consistent.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Suppressor Accuracy Question
  2. 00:08Rifle & Ammo Setup
  3. 00:27Compact Rifle Design & Test Goal
  4. 01:02Test Methodology at 100 Yards
  5. 01:15100-Yard Unsuppressed Shooting
  6. 01:37Unsuppressed Accuracy Assessment
  7. 02:00Suppressor Test Questions
  8. 02:25100-Yard Suppressed Shooting (Cold Bore)
  9. 02:44100-Yard Suppressed Grouping
  10. 03:26Suppressor Benefits & Ammo Speed
  11. 04:17100-Yard Target Review & POI Shift
  12. 05:18200-Yard Test Setup
  13. 05:35200-Yard Unsuppressed Shooting
  14. 06:14200-Yard Suppressed Shooting & Mirage
  15. 08:17200-Yard Target Review & POI Stability
  16. 09:24300-Yard Steel Gong with Suppressor

Frequently Asked Questions

Do suppressors inherently increase a rifle's accuracy?

Suppressors do not inherently increase accuracy but can maintain or even slightly improve it by reducing recoil and muzzle rise, allowing for better shot control. However, they often cause a point of impact shift that requires re-zeroing the rifle.

What is the typical point of impact shift when adding a suppressor?

The point of impact shift with a suppressor can vary significantly based on the rifle, ammunition, and suppressor design. In this test, a 1.5 to 2-inch downward shift was observed at 100 yards, but no significant shift occurred at 200 yards.

How does a suppressor affect group size?

A suppressor can maintain or slightly alter group size. In this test, the group size remained consistent at 100 yards with the suppressor attached, indicating it did not negatively impact the rifle's inherent accuracy potential.

Should I re-zero my rifle when using a suppressor?

Yes, it is highly recommended to re-zero your rifle's sights whenever you attach or remove a suppressor. This is because suppressors can alter barrel harmonics and point of impact, requiring adjustments for accurate shooting.

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