Here’s my suggestion when it comes to installing a suppressor under a defensive AR-15 or equivalent for a short barrel setup, if it serves a function or purpose – like added rail space – go for it. SILENCER SATURDAY #143: Suppressor Under Handguard – Should You? While I fully enjoy the compact PDW nature of the SIG Sauer MCX Rattler, my current preference is for the 6.75 inch barrel MCX Virtus which was built to be suppressed all the time. The shortest accepted barrel length for 300 blackout is right around 5.5 inches. So if you are looking to reduce barrel length to keep the overall length of your carbine to a minimum, you may want to look for another cartridge.Įnter 300BLK – a round purpose-built for short barrels and suppressors.

The end result is an 18 inch barrel and suppressor combination in the most widely excepted short profile. A typical 5.56mm suppressor has an overall length of six inches, with another two inches added on for a mount and mounting system.

My personal preference for a short barrel rifle is in 11.5 to 12.5 inches to take advantage of that extra powder burn to push the bullet rather than just creating noise and flash. SILENCER SATURDAY #143: Suppressor Under Handguard – Should You? SILENCER SATURDAY #143: Suppressor Under Handguard – Should You?įor a short barreled 5.56mm AR-15, the shortest functional/proven/reliable barrel length is 10.3 inches.

12.5 inch long ar quad rail handguards