When you think about suppressors, you probably jump right to rifles (unless you’re a movie buff, in which case it’s handguns). Whatever the case, the last platform you probably consider suppressing is the shotgun. Then, one day, you realize you’d be smart to cut the decibels produced by your favorite 12-gauge. Thanks to the team at SilencerCo, it can be done. Here’s what you need to know and why you should take a closer look at the SilencerCo Salvo 12.
Salvo 12
The SilencerCo Salvo 12 is a suppressor that’s made specifically for 12-gauge shotguns. That means it’s a dedicated gauge model, not one that can be used on a variety of gauges (or calibers). The big plus to a dedicated gauge suppressor is that it offers the greatest possible sound suppression for that gauge, and when we’re talking something big like a 12-gauge, that matters. This is a modular suppressor, meaning you can take it apart and reconfigure it in shorter lengths. There are four possible lengths with the Salvo 12: six-, eight-, ten-, and twelve-inches. The different lengths provide varying levels of sound suppression, as you might expect, but all the options are sound (pun intended).
Aluminum and 17-4 Stainless Steel are used in the construction of this suppressor. The steel is martensitic precipitation hardened and known for being corrosion resistant while offering fantastic tensile strength. The Salvo 12 is built to last. As for its size, it’s a rather sizeable model. It measures 12.5 inches in length in its full configuration and weighs 34.4 ounces. At its shortest configuration of 6.74 inches, it weighs 19.6 ounces. It has a diameter of 2.21 inches by 2.96 inches and a shape that could be described as rectangular, although that wouldn’t be precisely true.
For Hunting
Yes, the Salvo 12 is great for hunting. Even at its longest length, I’ve used it on waterfowl shotguns. The added length does take getting used to, but it isn’t impossible to manage. Before you use it to hunt, be aware that there are some ammo restrictions. This suppressor isn’t compatible with flight-controlled wads or rifled slugs, so be sure to check your hunting ammunition beforehand. Also, steel shot can’t be used with Improved Modified or Full chokes. Even with those restrictions, you have plenty of options for hunting.
For Self-Defense
If you run a shotgun for home defense, you’ve probably stopped and thought about how much noise it makes. The auditory impact of a 12-gauge being fired in a closed space is significant. This makes adding a suppressor an excellent idea. You can configure it at a shorter length so it’s more maneuverable in close quarters, and you’ll still get solid sound suppression.
Mounting the Salvo 12
Just like any suppressor, the Salvo 12 needs the right mounting surface. It uses Echo Choke Mounts, which are offered for a vast array of shotguns separately. I went ahead and got chokes for more than one shotgun so I’d have them on hand if I chose to switch which gun I was using. Certain older, out-of-production models do have chokes that go out of production—like my Remington Versamax V3—but odds are you’ll be covered (and I do have choke mounts for that, they’re just no longer being made).
Adding the suppressor means removing the choke you currently have in your shotgun. Then you simply replace it with the correct Echo Choke Mount and screw the suppressor onto the new mount. It has a collar that locks into place on the choke, and in my experience, it stays secure, although I always check it anyway. No fancy changes or need for a gunsmith. If you know how to swap out chokes, you know how to put the Salvo 12 on your gun.
Running Your Shotgun Suppressed
How long it takes to get used to the additional length and weight on your shotgun depends on a few things. It takes some getting used to when it’s at its full foot-long length, and it’s a little easier when it’s shorter. On my waterfowl shotguns with their 26- and 28-inch barrels, throwing a foot of additional material onto the muzzle end is…a lot. That doesn’t mean it isn’t doable, because I’ve run my shotguns that way with zero issues. There are, however, a few things you should expect.
If your shotgun has a longer barrel, that additional length can make shouldering awkward. It’s a good idea to practice at home before you’re out in the field needing to get on birds quickly and smoothly. You might consider going for a shorter configuration to save yourself some frustration, but if you want every tiny bit of noise reduction, you’re going to want that foot-long suppressor. Just practice. I did, and it worked out just fine.
Modular for Shorter Barrels
For shorter barrels—let’s assume you don’t have an SBS (short-barreled shotgun)—you run into the issue of maneuverability. If you, like me, have a home defense shotgun with a 16-inch barrel, odds are you don’t want to suddenly turn that into a 28-inch length. Go ahead and shorten up the Salvo 12 so it’s only 6 inches long, and you’re good to go. Although this suppressor is usually marketed for hunters, I really feel it’s excellent for home defense. Saving your hearing in what will already be a wildly stressful situation is vital to your survival. Suppress your home defense shotgun. You won’t regret it.
Aside from the fact that it cuts down on decibels, the Salvo 12 also manages to reduce felt recoil (and that’s a big deal with a 12-gauge). That’s awesome for all of us, but it’s especially useful for kids and new shooters. Do you still feel it? Sure, but it does create a softer recoil and reduced muzzle rise. And if you’re a dove or waterfowl hunter, that can save your shoulder on heavy shooting days.
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Get Yourself a Salvo 12
My experience is that suppressors are worth the expense and wait time (and right now the wait time is a lot shorter). After decades of shooting, you realize just how hard the noise is on your ears, even when you’re diligent about wearing hearing protection. Adding suppressors is a good way to save your hearing. The felt recoil reduction is a nice bonus.
As for the Salvo 12 specifically, I enjoy it quite a bit. It’s user serviceable—not all suppressors are—and once you watch the how-to video on SilencerCo’s website, re-configuring it’s easy. This might even be my favorite suppressor due to the sheer noise 12-gauge shotguns produce. I spend a big chunk of time bird hunting, and that means my shotguns see a lot of use. And on the self-defense side, I also spend time running shotguns in classes and practice. Reducing decibels is a must.
Get a look at the SilencerCo Salvo 12 here.
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