The DIY Experiment: What is an Oil Can Suppressor?
At its core, an oil can suppressor AR15 is a makeshift sound suppressor typically constructed using an ordinary oil filter, along with various adapters and possibly a housing, often a section of pipe. The idea, at least in theory, is to capture the rapidly expanding gases and burning propellant that are released when a bullet is fired. The oil filter, which has a cylindrical shape and is designed to filter oil, is repurposed in an attempt to act as a baffle system, slowing down and redirecting the hot gases to reduce the muzzle blast.
The appeal of these devices often lies in their perceived simplicity and low cost. The materials needed can seem relatively inexpensive, providing an allure of instant gratification to some. Unfortunately, this superficial simplicity masks the inherent dangers and the severe legal ramifications of this practice. The concept is generally understood to involve attaching the modified filter to the barrel of a firearm, usually an AR-15.
The DIY nature of this undertaking is a significant part of the problem. There is no standardized design, no quality control, and no guarantee of safety or effectiveness. Those building an oil can suppressor AR15 are essentially experimenting with potentially dangerous materials and unpredictable results.
How These Homemade Suppressors Work (or Don’t)
The fundamental principle behind any sound suppressor is to mitigate the intensity of the sound produced by a gunshot. The primary source of this loud noise is the rapid expansion of gases as the bullet exits the barrel. Commercial suppressors achieve this sound reduction through a carefully engineered combination of baffles, chambers, and other internal components designed to slow down and cool the escaping gases.
An oil can suppressor AR15, however, lacks this sophisticated design. The premise behind an oil filter used as a suppressor component is that the filter will trap and dissipate the hot gases for a fraction of a second. While some minimal sound reduction might be achieved, the effectiveness is dramatically lower than that of a professionally manufactured suppressor. There is often no consideration to pressure, flow, or internal components meant for the specific role.
The primary limitation lies in the structural integrity of the oil filter itself. Oil filters are designed for low-pressure applications and are not intended to withstand the violent forces unleashed by a firearm’s discharge. The intense heat, pressure, and corrosive nature of the combustion gases will quickly degrade the filter, leading to a loss of effectiveness and, more critically, a potential safety hazard. The filter may rupture, come loose, or disintegrate, resulting in a dangerous explosion. Furthermore, the use of oil, as the name suggests, introduces additional hazards. Oil residue can become a source of fire risk and potentially cause blockages inside the firearm barrel.
The result is usually a short-lived device that offers minimal sound reduction, making its use almost pointless. The idea that the filter can function as a true suppressor, comparable to a commercially made model, is simply not realistic.
The Murky Waters: Legality of Oil Can Suppressors
Perhaps the most significant consideration when contemplating the use of an oil can suppressor AR15 is the legal aspect. The regulatory landscape surrounding suppressors in the United States is complex and highly restrictive.
The National Firearms Act (NFA), enacted in 1934, governs the manufacture, transfer, and possession of certain firearms and firearm accessories, including suppressors. The NFA mandates that all suppressors must be registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). This registration process involves submitting extensive paperwork, undergoing a background check, and paying a federal tax.
Important Disclaimer: This is not legal advice, and I am not a legal professional. Consult with a legal expert for legal guidance.
The creation of a suppressor, including an oil can suppressor AR15, without proper registration with the ATF is a violation of federal law. It is considered illegal manufacturing and is a felony offense. Penalties for such violations can include significant fines, lengthy prison sentences, and the permanent loss of your right to own firearms.
Furthermore, the transfer of a suppressor to another individual without complying with the NFA’s registration and transfer requirements is also a felony offense. Simply giving or selling an oil can suppressor AR15 to another person, or even allowing someone to use it, without adhering to the legal procedures, can expose both parties to serious legal consequences.
State laws on suppressors also vary widely. Some states may have stricter regulations than federal law, and others might even prohibit suppressor ownership entirely. Before considering possessing or using any suppressor, it is imperative to thoroughly research and understand the specific laws in your state and locality. Failure to do so can lead to unintended and serious legal issues. The penalties for violating the law surrounding an oil can suppressor AR15 are substantial and can dramatically alter your future.
The Price of Risk: Safety Concerns and Hazards
Beyond the legal consequences, using an oil can suppressor AR15 introduces a multitude of safety risks. The most immediate and potentially catastrophic risk involves the structural integrity of the homemade device.
The materials used in constructing these improvised suppressors are not designed to withstand the extreme pressures and temperatures generated by a firearm’s discharge. An oil filter, even if reinforced, can fail catastrophically, resulting in a violent explosion. This explosion can cause serious injury to the shooter and anyone nearby. Shrapnel from a failed filter can be propelled at high velocity, causing severe lacerations, eye injuries, and even more significant trauma.
Beyond the risk of explosion, an improperly designed or constructed oil can suppressor AR15 can also cause malfunctions. The filter can become dislodged, blocking the barrel and leading to a dangerous buildup of pressure. This pressure buildup could lead to a barrel rupture, which would send high-velocity projectiles in every direction.
The combustion of gunpowder and the materials used in an oil filter can also produce hazardous byproducts, exposing the shooter to toxic fumes and potentially harmful residue. The inhalation of these fumes can lead to respiratory problems and other health issues.
In addition to the above mentioned points, there are performance issues to consider. Accuracy may be impacted. If the filter or any debris from the device gets lodged in the barrel it can change the way the bullet leaves the barrel, thus impacting accuracy.
Safer Alternatives: The Right Way to Suppress
While the allure of a cheap, DIY suppressor might be strong for some, the reality is that it is both dangerous and illegal. If you want to reduce the sound signature of your AR-15 and adhere to the laws, there are far safer and more effective alternatives.
The most direct and responsible approach is to purchase a commercially manufactured suppressor. These suppressors are engineered to meet the stringent requirements of the ATF and are manufactured with safety and performance in mind. They are built from durable materials and are designed to effectively reduce sound levels while minimizing the risk of malfunction.
There is a diverse range of suppressors available for the AR-15 platform, offering varying levels of sound reduction and incorporating different technologies. Investing in a reputable brand and model ensures that you are acquiring a device that is both safe and legal.
It is also important to note that the purchase of a commercial suppressor is subject to the NFA rules. This involves a background check, registration, and the payment of a tax stamp. While the process may seem complex, it is the only way to legally and safely obtain a suppressor.
Another possibility is sound mitigation methods that do not require an NFA tax stamp. Flash hiders and muzzle brakes are common, which can help to reduce the perceived recoil and change the character of the muzzle blast.
Final Thoughts
The concept of the oil can suppressor AR15 is a dangerous fantasy. While the idea of creating a cheap and effective suppressor might be tempting, the reality is that these devices are inherently unsafe, legally precarious, and ultimately ineffective. The risks far outweigh any perceived benefits.
This article should leave you well informed on the dangers of the homemade device. Constructing or using an oil can suppressor AR15 could have devastating consequences, including imprisonment or death. It is better to leave the building and modification of firearms to the experts and consider safer, legal alternatives to sound mitigation.
If you’re interested in sound suppression for your firearm, pursue the legal and safe avenues available. Research and comply with all local, state, and federal regulations. Consult with a firearms expert and choose high-quality products designed for safety and performance. Above all, prioritize safety, and take advantage of the expertise and resources that are available to you.
