Silencers can now be used for hunting in forty States.  Eighteen States have legalized suppressors since the American Silencer Association was formed in 2011.  As of September 1, 2012 it became legal to hunt game animals with a suppressor in my home State of Texas – and you can bet I was ready with a new Templar Tactical (Crux) Ark30!  That first year only a handful of my friends were deer hunting with a suppressor.  Today, I estimate that at least a third of the sportsmen on our hunting lease run a can.Silencers Hunting

What is the best suppressor for hunting?  The short answer is, “whatever you got” as long as it fits the lawful definition in your State.  However, there are a handful of suppressors specifically made for hunting and we have field experience with many of them.  These hunting-specific suppressors share common traits:

  • Full-size silencer around 8″ length.
  • Aluminum / Stainless construction.
  • Moderate price point around $500 – $700 street.
  • Not Short Barrel Rifle rated.
  • Not Full Auto rated.
  • Direct thread or taper mount.
  • 7.62 caliber.

Let’s take a look at three of the most highly recommended suppressors purpose-built for hunting.  These models will all provide years of enjoyment and make a great entry-point into the NFA world.   It is important to understand that these are not heavy-duty beaters to burn through mag-dumps.  These are quality products but they are designed to run moderate rate of fire on hunting rifles.  Contrary to what the liberal left would tell you, suppressors are ideally suited for hunting.

Gemtech Tracker

Gemtech built the Tracker specifically for hunting.  At only 11.3 ounces and 7.9 inches it is lightweight – which is great when stalking through the woods or mountains.  Gemtech is a well-respected industry leader.  You can’t go wrong with the Tracker.  Silencer Shop current price $470.

Full Review of the Gemtech Tracker!

Gemtech Tracker on a TC Contender

Gemtech Tracker

Gemtech Tracker

Silencerco Harvester

As the name Harvester might suggest, Silencerco designed this suppressor specifically for hunting.  List price of $724 but the Silencer Shop occasionally has it on sale for less.   The Harvester also weighs in at 11.3 ounces but is 9 inches in length.  Construction is stainless steel and aluminum.  As with the others, it is direct thread as any quick-attach mounting system adds cost and weight.

Silencerco Harvester video

See how the Harvester compares to the Thunderbeast!

Griffin Sportsman Ultra Light

Griffin Armament follows up the very popular Sportsman with the new Ultra Light model.  Constructed of stainless and aluminum, the Sportsman Ultra Light also comes in at 11.3 ounces and 7.9 inches.  Griffin claims a 32 decibel sound reduction.  Full specs at the Silencer Shop.   $716.

Review of the Griffin Sportsman.

Griffin Sportsman

Griffin Sportsman

Video of the Griffin Sportsman Ultra Light

Silencer Shop is the easiest way to shop for and purchase suppressors.

 

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Publisher of Tactical Gun Review and Texas Outdoors Network. I love hunting for Texas whitetail deer, wild hogs, and high-volume Argentina dove. When not hunting you can find me fishing along the Texas Coast or on a wild Colorado river.

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