Reflex vs Standard Silencers

Here are the pros and cons of Reflex vs Standard Silencers.

Reflex Silencers

Pros:

• Overall rifle length is shorter.
• The rifle is less front-heavy and therefore better balanced because the weight of the silencer is distributed more towards the action.
• Most reflex silencers have a rear-cap or barrel bushing that’s machined by a gunsmith to fit snugly (if not snug, 0.2mm clearance fit) on the barrel when the silencer is fully screwed on. This rear-cap does not only improve aesthetics, but also aligns the silencer. And in the event that the silencer loosens from the possibly lose fitting thread (if the barrel was initially threaded for a different muzzle device) whilst shooting, the rear-cap will help prevent the bullet from touching the baffles. 

Cons:

• The reflex silencer heats up quicker because it holds on to the hot gases longer, and slows down barrel cooling because it encases the barrel. If many shots are fired in a short amount of time, heat waves will be seen in the scope. This can be resolved by using a heat absorbing silencer cover when you shoot. 

Standard Silencers

Pros:

• The overall length of the silencer is shorter.
• It stays cool for longer because the hot gases escape quicker.

Cons:

• Makes the rifle feel front heavy.
• Extends the overall length of the rifle.
• Bullet travels through longer area unguided and that may influence the point of impact more than shorter silencers.
• Silencer-to-barrel thread fit needs to be perfect and there must be at least 1mm in radius shoulder for the silencer to lock against. For example if the barrel measures 20mm in diameter the silencer thread must be 18mm (M18x1mm), to ensure tight lockup and alignment.