.22LR is the most fun caliber to suppress. Here's our guide to the best rimfire suppressors and how to get one.
In This Guide
Why .22LR Suppressors Are Great
Truly Hearing Safe
- Many .22LR setups are "Hollywood quiet"
- Subsonic .22 + suppressor = minimal noise
- Safe to shoot without ear protection
- Great for introducing new shooters
Perfect First Suppressor
- Lower cost suppressors
- Same $200 tax as larger calibers
- Learn the NFA process
- Most dramatic noise reduction
Versatile Use
- Works on rifles AND pistols
- Backyard plinking
- Small game hunting
- Youth shooting
Top .22LR Suppressors (2026)
Dead Air Mask
- Why it's the best: Quietest rimfire suppressor
- Length: 5.1"
- Weight: 4.1 oz
- User serviceable: Yes
- Best for: Maximum suppression
- Price range: $$
SilencerCo Sparrow
- Why it's great: Lightweight, proven design
- Length: 5.08"
- Weight: 3.8 oz
- User serviceable: Yes
- Best for: Pistol use
- Price range: $$
Rugged Oculus
- Why it's great: Modular long/short config
- Length: 3.0" (short) / 5.0" (long)
- Weight: 2.7 oz (short)
- User serviceable: Yes
- Best for: Versatility
- Price range: $$
YHM Stinger
- Why it's great: Budget-friendly
- Length: 5.3"
- Weight: 3.5 oz
- User serviceable: Yes
- Best for: Value buyers
- Price range: $
Gemtech GM-22
- Why it's great: Classic design, reliable
- Length: 5.0"
- Weight: 3.0 oz
- User serviceable: Yes
- Best for: Proven reliability
- Price range: $$
Key Features to Consider
User Serviceable (Critical!)
This is the #1 feature for .22 suppressors:
- ✓ Take apart for cleaning
- ✓ Remove lead/carbon buildup
- ✓ Maintain performance
- ✗ Sealed suppressors = problems
Warning: Never buy a sealed .22LR suppressor. They cannot be cleaned and will eventually fail from buildup.
Thread Pitch Compatibility
Common .22 thread pitches:
- 1/2x28: Most common, many hosts
- .920 muzzle: Bull barrels
- Check your host firearm's threads
- Adapters available for different pitches
Modular Design
Some .22 suppressors offer configurations:
- Short mode for compact hosts
- Long mode for max suppression
- Add/remove baffle sections
Weight Considerations
.22 suppressors are light, but consider:
- Lighter is better for pistols
- Weight affects balance on rifles
- Most are under 5 oz
Cleaning Your .22 Suppressor
Why Cleaning is Essential
Rimfire ammunition is dirty:
- Lead buildup from bullets
- Unburnt powder residue
- Wax lubricant accumulation
- Can cause accuracy issues
Cleaning Frequency
- Light use: Every 500-1000 rounds
- Heavy use: Every 300-500 rounds
- When you notice sound increase
- Before long-term storage
Cleaning Methods
- Ultrasonic cleaner: Most effective
- Dip method: Solvent soak
- Manual: Brushes and picks
- Follow manufacturer guidance
Cleaning Supplies
- CLR or similar solvent
- Ultrasonic cleaner (optional)
- Nylon brushes
- Dental picks
- Lubricant for reassembly
How to Buy Your .22 Suppressor
The Process
- Choose your suppressor
- Purchase from Class III dealer
- Get fingerprinted on FD-258 card
- Convert to EFT format
- Submit Form 4 on eForms
- Wait for approval
- Enjoy quiet shooting!
Cost Breakdown
- Suppressor: $200-$500
- Tax stamp: $200 (same as any NFA item)
- Adapter (if needed): $20-$50
- Total: $420-$750
Fingerprint Requirements
- FD-258 fingerprint card
- Converted to .eft digital format
- For eForms Form 4 submission
EFT Conversion
- Get fingerprinted on paper FD-258
- Photograph your completed card
- Upload to SlapEFT
- Get your .eft file instantly
.22LR Suppressor FAQs
Can I use a .22 suppressor on other calibers?
Only on .22LR, .22 Magnum, and .17 HMR. Never use on centerfire calibers - it will destroy the suppressor.
What ammo is quietest?
Subsonic .22LR (under 1,050 fps) is quietest. CCI Standard Velocity is a popular choice.
Can I use it on my 10/22?
Yes! The Ruger 10/22 is one of the most popular .22LR suppressor hosts. Ensure your barrel is threaded 1/2x28.
