When it comes to shooting, the little .22 caliber often gets overlooked in favor of larger, flashier rounds. But those in the know recognize the .22 LR as one of the most versatile, cost-effective, and downright fun calibers you can shoot. And when you pair it with a suppressor, it gets even better.
In this post, we’re diving into the world of .22 caliber suppressors—what they are, why you might want one, and what to look for when adding one to your kit.
Why Suppress a .22?
The .22 LR is already a relatively quiet round compared to centerfire cartridges, and that makes it an ideal candidate for suppression. Here’s what you gain by adding a suppressor:
- Hearing Protection: Even subsonic .22 rounds can cause hearing damage over time. A suppressor helps protect your ears—especially helpful during long range sessions or for new shooters who may be sensitive to noise.
- Improved Communication: Shooting suppressed allows for better communication with friends, family, or students during range time. No more shouting over gunfire.
- Reduced Recoil and Muzzle Blast: While the .22 isn’t known for recoil, the suppressor smooths out the shot even further, making it an ideal setup for training, plinking, or small game hunting.
- Better Shooting Experience: Less noise, less recoil, and smoother cycling (especially with semi-autos) lead to more enjoyable, confidence-building shooting.
What to Look for in a .22 Suppressor
Not all rimfire suppressors are created equal. Here’s what we at Red Hill Tactical think you should prioritize:
1. Ease of Cleaning
Rimfire ammo is notoriously dirty. Lead and carbon fouling can build up fast, especially with bulk ammo. Look for a user-serviceable suppressor—one that can be taken apart easily and cleaned thoroughly.
2. Material Matters
.22 suppressors are often made from aluminum, stainless steel, or titanium. Aluminum keeps things lightweight, but steel or titanium adds durability for high-volume shooters.
3. Weight & Size
You want to balance noise reduction with handling. A long, heavy suppressor can throw off the balance of your rifle or pistol. Compact designs like the short-stack modular suppressors give you flexibility to tune performance and weight.
4. Thread Compatibility
Most .22 suppressors use the standard 1/2×28 thread pitch. Make sure your host firearm is threaded properly—or bring it to Red Hill Tactical and we’ll get it set up for you.
Our Top Picks
While we don’t play favorites, we do work closely with some top manufacturers. A few standout suppressors in the rimfire space include:
- Dead Air Mask
- Energetic Armament NYX
- Huxwrx Flow 22 Ti
- Gemtech GM-22
- B&T Tiger 22
Each of these models offers great sound suppression, reliable performance, and user-friendly maintenance.
Suppressed .22: Ideal for Training & Hunting
Suppressors aren’t just about fun—they can also be practical tools for hunters and trainers.
- Hunters appreciate suppressed .22s for dispatching varmints without alarming every animal in a square mile.
- Trainers love them for teaching fundamentals without flinching or loud bangs interfering.
Pair a suppressed .22 pistol or rifle with a red dot or low-magnification optic, and you’ve got a precision tool that’s low-cost and high-value.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been considering getting into suppressors, a .22 caliber can is the perfect place to start. They’re typically the most affordable, the quietest, and the easiest to maintain. Whether you’re plinking cans, teaching your kids to shoot, or just trying to enjoy a quieter day at the range, a suppressed .22 setup delivers.
At Red Hill Tactical, we can help you choose the right suppressor, handle your NFA paperwork, and even thread your barrel if needed. Come by the shop, and let’s make your rimfire dreams a quiet reality.
Need help picking the right .22 suppressor?
?? Stop by Red Hill Tactical or give us a call.
?? We offer full-service NFA transfers, barrel threading, and hands-on advice.
Stay safe, shoot straight—and quietly.