Suppressor vs Silencer: What Is the Difference?

You’ve likely heard both “silencer” and “suppressor” thrown around in movies and by shooting enthusiasts in reference to a device that muffles gunshots. But, what’s the story behind the suppressor vs silencer debate? Is there even a difference?

The short answer is that “suppressor” and “silencer” are interchangeable terms that refer to a muzzle device designed to reduce the sound of a gunshot. Both terms are technically correct. However, the ATF legally defines them as “silencers,” while many in the gun community argue that “suppressor” is a more accurate description of how these devices perform. 

In this article, we’ll explain the logic behind each of these terms to help you understand how we got here and why there’s such a debate in the gun community.

What is the Difference Between a Silencer and a Suppressor? 

We’ll let you in on a little secret… There is no physical difference between a silencer and a suppressor. The difference is all semantics. 

The terms suppressor and silencer both refer to a muzzle mounted device that reduced the sound of a gunshot. These cylindrical devices screw onto the end of a threaded barrel to muffle the sound when you take a shot. They work by redirecting and cooling the pressurized gases released through the barrel when a round is fired, which are responsible for the loud bang you hear when shooting. 

Unlike what you may have seen in the movies, these devices do not completely silence a firearm. Rather, they reduce (or dare we say… suppress), the noise so that it’s significantly quieter. 

So, if there’s no difference between a silencer and a suppressor, why all the drama? Let’s get into it. 

Suppressor vs Silencer… How Did We Get Here? 

Like most highly debated topics in the firearm community, there’s a rich history behind the silencer vs suppressor controversy. 

The confusion all comes down to semantics and how the device actually works. According to Silencer Co., when the device was first introduced back in 1902, the inventor, Hiram Maxim, referred to it as the Maxim Gun Silencer for marketing purposes. He patented it as such in 1909, and the name “silencer” stuck — both legally and culturally. In fact, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) still legally classifies these devices as “silencers.” 

However, if you’ve ever seen (or heard, rather) a silencer in action, you surely still noticed the sound of the gunshot, albeit much quieter. That’s because these devices don’t actually silence a shot; they just suppress it. 

So, in recent years, many purists in the gun industry started referring to the device as a suppressor instead, feeling it was a more accurate description of how it really functions. This was not only done in hopes of clearing up some confusion in Hollywood and the political landscape, but it just felt like a more accurate term anyway. 

So, Which Is Correct? Silencer or Suppressor? 

Although there will probably be plenty of shooting enthusiasts who disagree with me, there is no one right answer to the suppressor vs silencer debate. Both terms are technically correct, but have slightly different connotations. If you’re looking for an easy way to differentiate these terms, here’s a breakdown: 

Silencer: The original and legal definition of a firearm suppression device as classified by the ATF. 

Suppressor: The technical and more accurate definition of a firearm suppression device and how it actually operates. 

So at the end of the day, whether you use the term suppressor or silencer is up to you. Although it’s legally considered a silencer, suppressor is typically considered the more accurate and widely accepted name in the modern world and is probably a safer bet when talking to seasoned shooters. 

What About Other Muzzle Devices? 

No matter which side of the suppressor/silencer debate you fall on, getting your terminology correct when it comes to the difference between these and other muzzle devices is critical. Although a silencer may offer some of the same benefits as these other devices, they are not the same. 

Here’s a breakdown of some common muzzle devices: 

• Silencer/Suppressor: Usually tubular in shape, this device is designed with internal baffles or wipes to noticeably lower the sound of a gunshot. It’s designed to help protect your hearing and reduce the noise of live fire in the area. 
• Flash Hider/Suppressor: Attached to the end of a barrel, this device cools or disperses the burning gases that exit the muzzle when a shot is fired, reducing the amount of visible light. It's primarily used to protect a shooter’s eyes from the bright flash and keep their location covert, especially in low-light conditions.
• Compensator: Installed on the muzzle end of a barrel, a compensator channels the gases released when firing a round upward or to the sides to significantly reduce muzzle rise. This makes target acquisition easier for faster follow-up shots.
• Muzzle Brake: A barrel-mounted device that redirects escaping gases to help reduce felt recoil and limit muzzle rise. This gives the shooter more control and helps improve accuracy. Some models can be tuned to match specific firearms and ammunition.

Understanding the difference between these devices is critical when looking for a new accessory or when having educated conversations with others in the gun community. 

Summary

When it comes to the suppressor vs silencer debate, there is a lot of controversy in the gun community about which is correct. 

The bottom line is that “silencer” and “suppressor” are interchangeable terms that refer to a device designed to reduce the sound of a gunshot. However, if you want to get technical, “silencer” is the legal term used by the ATF, while “suppressor” is a more accurate description of what these devices do. 

So, use whichever term you prefer. And now that you have a better understanding of what these terms mean and how we got here, you’ll be prepared to justify your stance if you wind up in a semantics debate. 

Looking for a reliable, custom-fit holster? Visit our Holsters by Gun Model page to find Kydex holsters tailored to your firearm. Plus, explore our Resources Page for gear recommendations, concealed carry guides, and exclusive content to elevate your carry system.