FIREARM SUPPRESSOR DEVICE

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide improvements in firearm suppressor devices and methods of use therefor with small and large caliber rifles.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of Provisional Application No. 61/751,715 filed Jan. 11, 2013, the disclosure of which is hereby expressly incorporated in its entirety by reference herein.

FIELD OF USE

Embodiments of the present disclosure find applicability in the field of firearms. One useful field includes small and large caliber rifles benefitting from the use of suppressor devices.

BACKGROUND

Firearm suppressors are well known in the art for reducing the noise from expanding gases expelled by the firearm barrel upon firing. Functionally, suppressors in the art comprise a cylinder attached to the end of a barrel and having an interior space constructed in some way to impede, disperse or convolute the longitudinal flow of gases as they travel through the barrel so as to reduce the decibel level of the noise produced during firing.

U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,307,946 and 8,505,431 are illustrative of suppressors in the art and their method of use. Because firearm suppressors add length to a firearm, there remains an on-going desire to minimize the overall length of the firearm suppressor, while still effectively reducing decibel levels to “safe hearing” levels, at least in the range of 120-130 decibels, and also attenuating the sound wave produced to a less sharp sound. Decreased suppressor device length allows for enhanced mobility and maneuverability with a firearm using an attached suppressor device.

The present disclosure describes improvements in a firearm suppressor and method of use that overcomes deficiencies in the suppressors of the prior art.

SUMMARY

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used on its own as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a firearm suppressor having a reduced overall length, with sufficient internal volume to achieve a decibel reduction in the range of at least about 25-40 decibels, more preferably 28-35 decibels, is provided. More particularly, the suppressors disclosed herein achieve at least a 1-inch reduction, and more preferably at least a 1.5 inch reduction in length over suppressors in the art while still achieving at least about a 28-35 decibel reduction. As one example, where suppressor devices in the art suitable for short barrel rifles range from about 6-9 inches, the suppressor device disclosed herein achieve the same or better results with an overall length in the range of about 4.5-5.25 inches. As another example, where suppressor devices in the art suitable for large caliber rifles range from about 12-18 inches, the suppressor devices disclosed herein achieve the same or better results with an overall length in the range of about 8 inches.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, the firearm suppressor device disclosed herein attenuates the sound wave produced by the escaping gases expelled from the firearm to produce a less sharp sound.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, the suppressor device provided herein has utility for a .223 or 5.56 caliber firearm.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, the suppressor device has an overall shape and weight that does not interfere with a firearm's function. In one preferred embodiment, the suppressor device of the present disclosure has an overall diameter that does not interfere with use of a firearm's optics or hand guard. In another embodiment, the suppressor device disclosed herein has an overall diameter in the range of about 1.875-2.125 inches. In another embodiment, the suppressor device has an overall diameter in the range of about 2 inches.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, a suppressor device is provided having an internal volume in the range of about 7-11 inches of gas volume. In another embodiment the suppressor device has an internal volume in the range of about 8.25 inches of gas volume.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, a suppressor device is provided that enhances a firearm's firing efficiency and functional speed by increasing the cyclic rate of the firearm, allowing more bullets to move through the firearm faster. In another embodiment, the suppressor devices disclosed herein improve reliability of the firearm by more efficiently dispersing the expelled gases, thereby reducing the dwell time for internal pressures in the firearm to drop to zero.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, novel baffle designs are provided that effectively disperse, trap and swirl gases that come in contact with the baffle surfaces thereby temporarily trapping the gases and suppressing their forward movement through a barrel. In one embodiment the baffle design comprises a modification to the rimmed K baffles of the art which comprise a cone-shaped portion having a rim at the narrow end of the cone and a central, longitudinal axial opening through which gases and a fired bullet can pass. In the modified baffle provided herein, the conical shape of the K baffle is replaced with a concave bell-shape, which enhances the swirling and retardation or impingement of forward gas movement through the device. In another embodiment, the cup or bell shaped surface creates a baffle of greater structural integrity than a standard k baffle of similar diameter. In another embodiment, the bell-shaped baffle provided herein comprises at least one opening perpendicular to the central axial opening, preferably located at the rim and cone juncture, and through which gases can pass, so as to laterally disperse gases and they move through the length of the suppressor device. In another embodiment, the bell-shaped baffle comprises a plurality of these lateral openings, more preferably 1-10 openings. In another embodiment the juncture comprises 2-5 openings. In one preferred embodiment, these openings have a diameter in the range of about 0.062-0.198 inches. In another embodiment, these openings have a diameter in the range of about 0.125 inches. In still another embodiment, the bell-shaped baffle disclosed herein includes a boss posterior to baffle's rim and which serves to seat the baffle against another baffle or the primary blast chamber of blast baffle at the posterior end of the device. In still another embodiment, the lateral edge of the rim may comprise one or more openings parallel to the longitudinal direction of the suppressor device and of a diameter sufficient to allow gas penetration. In one preferred embodiment, these openings have a diameter in the range of about 0.062-0.198 inches. In another embodiment, these openings have a diameter in the range of about 0.125 inches. In another embodiment, a disc-shaped baffle is provided with a central axial opening for gases and a fired bullet to pass through, and comprising a concave surface on either side of the baffle and perpendicular to the axial opening. In a preferred embodiment the radius of anterior concave surface differs from the radius of the posterior concave surface. In another preferred embodiment, the radius of anterior concave surface is larger than the radius of the posterior concave surface. In still another embodiment, the radius of the posterior concave surface creates a boss surrounding the axial opening on the posterior surface and which can seat the baffle against another baffle or into or against the blast baffle.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, a suppressor device is provided comprising a hollow cylindrical tube that serves as the main body of the device, a bottom cap that attaches to the posterior end of the main body, a first baffle or blast baffle that sits anterior to the bottom cap, a plurality of secondary baffles that sit anterior to the blast baffle, and a front cap. Each of the bottom cap, blast baffle, secondary baffles and front cap comprise a central axial opening that together create a central axial opening through the main body and through which gases and a fired bullet can pass from the firearm barrel through the suppressor device and out the anterior end of the front cap. In another embodiment, the first and secondary baffles can comprise a range of baffle shapes. In one embodiment, the bottom cap, the main body, the first baffle and one or more secondary baffles can be fabricated as one integral unit. In another embodiment, the entire suppressor device can be fabricated as a single integral unit. In still another embodiment, a single integral unit suppressor device can be fabricated by means of selective laser sintering. In still another embodiment, the front cap is threaded on to the anterior end of the integral, single unit device, allowing replacement with other front cap designs and allowing for caliber conversion options.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, a front cap is provided with an integral multi-function end. In one embodiment, the multi-function end comprises a glass-breaching attachment, a muzzle compliance device and multi-faceted surface that reduces the capacity for glare reflection off the surface of the device and undesired observation of the device from an opposing force. In another embodiment, the multi-faceted surface enhances concealment of the device compared with suppressor devices of the art. In another embodiment, the front cap can be fabricated as a separate component threaded to anterior end of the suppressor device hollow cylinder.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of this disclosure will become more readily appreciated as the same become better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a suppressor device in accordance with embodiments of this disclosure;

FIG. 2A is a side view of, and FIG. 2B is a cross-section of, the suppressor device of FIG. 1;

FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D illustrate, respectively, a bottom cap, first baffle, a second or secondary baffle, and a tube spacer in accordance with the present disclosure, and wherein 3B and 3C illustrate two embodiments of disc baffles disclosed herein;

FIG. 4 illustrates a front cap in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 A & B illustrate a bell baffle in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a cross-section of another embodiment of a suppressor device disclosed herein and comprising a bell baffle;

FIG. 7 is a cross-section of another embodiment of a suppressor device disclosed herein and comprising a K baffle, and

FIG. 8 illustrates an assembled suppressor device in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide firearm suppressor devices, as well as baffles and front caps useful in these devices, and methods of use of the baffles and suppressor devices, particularly in small and large caliber rifles. In one embodiment, the baffles, front caps and suppressor devices have particular utility in a .223 or a 5.56 caliber firearm. In fabricating the devices and components disclosed herein, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that known materials of demonstrated utility in firearm suppressor devices and their components, including baffles and front caps, may be used. Examples of useful materials include, without limitation, stainless steel and titanium. As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, material considerations include minimizing weight and ease of fabrication, while providing sufficient weight for functional operation without substantive, lasting deformation of components during firing. Different components of the device may be fabricated of different materials as the fabricator and firearm user prefer. In the embodiments disclosed herein, components and devices have been fabricated out of titanium-based material.

Example 1

Referring to FIG. 1, illustrated is an exploded view of one suppressor device of the present disclosure. In FIG. 2, the same device is illustrated assembled and in cross-section. This embodiment of the suppressor comprises, from posterior to anterior end, a bottom cap 1, main body 5, tube spacer 2, first or blast baffle 3, one or more second or secondary baffles 4, and a front cap 6. Each of the components of the device comprise a centrally located, axial opening such that when the components are assembled the axial openings align to create a hollow axial central throughpore parallel to the length of the suppressor device and through which both a bullet and gases can pass when the suppressor device is attached to a firearm barrel and the firearm is fired.

FIG. 3A illustrates an enlarged view of the bottom cap 1. In the example, the bottom cap 1 has an external rim 10 at its posterior end with an external diameter in the range of about 1.875 to 2.125-inches. In a preferred embodiment, this external diameter is in the range of about 2.0-inches. The edges of the axial opening 14 of the bottom cap 1 further is internally threaded and anterior end of the opening comprises a boss 16, the function of which is to provide a means for attaching the end cap to the anterior end of a firearm barrel. In one embodiment this threaded inner diameter of the bottom cap, competent to mate with a firearm barrel end, has a range of about ½-28 or ⅝-24. The bottom cap further comprises a second, intermediate diameter 12 less than the external diameter 12 and which serves to create a lip between diameters 10 and 12 of the component. The tube spacer 2 has an internal diameter larger than the intermediate diameter 12 of the bottom cap, and smaller than the bottom cap's external diameter 10. The bottom cap lip serves to seat the tube spacer 2 against the lip of the bottom cap when the device is assembled.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3D, the tube spacer 2 has an outer diameter in the range of about 1.75 to 2.0 inches and a wall thickness in the range of about 0.02 to 0.25 inches. In another embodiment, the tube space outer diameter is in the range of about 1.875 inches, and a wall thickness in the range of about 0.030 inches. Useful tube spacer lengths are in the range of about 0.70-1.00 inches. In one preferred embodiment, the tube spacer length is in the range of about 0.860 inches. The tube spacer 2 serves to offset the bottom cap and create space between the seated first baffle 3 and the main body 5 thereby allowing gas flow to move laterally and back, thereby reducing gas pressure build-up.

Anterior to the tube spacer is the first baffle 3. Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 3B, the first baffle has the overall shape of a disc, with a straight edge wall or rim. Preferred disc baffles of the present disclosure have an outer diameter in the range of about 1.75 to 2.0 inches. In one embodiment, the outer diameter is in the range of about 1.875 inches. The first baffle 3 is sometimes also referred to as the blast baffle, to distinguish it from baffles placed anterior to it. Blast or first baffles can include features for seating the baffle in connection with the bottom cap and/or managing impact from initial blast gases. The anterior and posterior faces of blast baffle 3 each have a concave surface with a radius 18 from the outer edge of the baffle to the outer edge of the central axial opening 14. The radial faces of the baffle allow the expelling gases to swirl internally in the suppressor. Baffle face radii can be in the range of 0.125 to 4.000 inches. In one embodiment, the radius on both the anterior and posterior face of the baffle 3 is 0.50 inches. As will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, the diameter of the central opening 14 can vary depending on the caliber of bullet chosen. In one embodiment, the central axial opening 14 has a diameter in the range of about 0.232 to 0.264 inches. In another embodiment, the opening 14 has a diameter in the range of about 0.244 inches. By varying the depth of the radius cut into the face of the disc baffle, one can alter the gas flow around the baffle surface. In one embodiment, the posterior face of the first baffle 3 has a reduced radius depth compared to the baffle's anterior face. In another embodiment, the radius depth of baffle's posterior face is in the range of 0.150 to 0.230 inches. In another embodiment, the radius depth of the baffle's posterior face is in the range of 0.200 inches. In still another embodiment the front or anterior face of the first baffle has a radius depth in the range of about 0.150 to 0.250 inches. In another embodiment, the anterior face has a radius depth in the range of about 0.230 inches. As will be appreciated by those having ordinary skill in the art, varying the depth of the disc face radius can create a boss 16 of a given desired height, which can further beneficially impact gas flow.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 3C, anterior to the first or blast baffle, are one or more secondary baffles 4. As will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, the number of desired secondary baffles selected will depend on the length of the suppressor device and the dimensions chosen for the first baffle, tube space and bottom cap. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, five secondary baffles 4 are shown. The preferred secondary baffles also are disc baffles with a straight edge wall or rim. The anterior and posterior faces of secondary baffles 4 each have a concave surface with a radius 18 from the outer edge of the baffle to the outer edge of the central axial opening 14. The radial faces of the baffle allow the expelling gases to swirl internally in the suppressor. The secondary baffles have an outside diameter in the range of 1.75 to 2.0 inches. In one embodiment the outer diameter is in the range of about 1.875 inches. Baffle face radii can be in the range of 0.125 to 4.000 inches. In one embodiment, the radius on both the anterior and posterior face of the baffle 3 is 0.50 inches. As will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, the diameter of the central opening 14 can vary depending on the caliber of bullet chosen. In one embodiment, the central axial opening 14 has a diameter in the range of about 0.232 to 0.264 inches. In another embodiment, the opening 14 has a diameter in the range of about 0.244 inches. By varying the depth of the radius cut into the face of the disc baffle, one can alter the gas flow around the baffle surface. In one embodiment, the posterior face of the secondary baffle 4 has a reduced radius depth compared to the baffle's anterior face. In another embodiment, the radius depth of baffle's posterior face is in the range of 0.150 to 0.250 inches. In another embodiment, the radius dept of the baffle's posterior face is in the range of 0.230 inches. In still another embodiment the front or anterior face of the first baffle has a radius depth in the range of about 0.150 to 0.270 inches. In another embodiment, the anterior face has a radius depth in the range of about 0.250 inches.

Referring now to FIG. 2, when the first and secondary baffles are assembled in the suppressor device, the arrangement of concave faces produced by the baffles creates an ideal surface for dispersing, swirling, and reversing the direction of gas flow as it moves down the suppressor device. The resulting gas flow pattern effectively impedes the speed and pressure of gas build up thereby effectively reducing decibel levels in the range of about 28-35 decibels and attenuating the sound wave produced.

Referring now to FIG. 1 and FIG. 4, last component in the assembly is the front cap. The front cap comprises an integrated Breach/Compliance device 26. The front cap can be externally threaded to create a removable component that is threaded onto the front end of the suppressor device main body 5. Alternatively, the front cap can be welded to the main body 5 to create a single, integral unit. In one embodiment, the bottom cap has an external diameter in the range of about 1.875 to 2.125 inches. In another embodiment, the outer diameter is in the range of about 2.00 inches. Useful front cap lengths are in the range of about 0.25 to 0.75 inches. In one embodiment, the length is in the range of about 0.57 inches. the inside diameter or axial opening 14 is sufficient to provide clearance for a desired caliber of bullet. In one embodiment, the axial opening diameter is in the range of about 0.232 to 0.264 inches. In another embodiment, the inside diameter is in the range of about 0.244 inches. In a preferred embodiment the interior or posterior face of this cap defines a radius sufficient to allow gas flow that comes in contact with the radial surface to swirl internally in the suppressor. In one embodiment the radius on the internal face is in the range of about 0.125 to 4.000 inches. In another embodiment, the radius is in the range of about 0.500 inches. The external face of the front cap has optional V grooves 28 milled in the face, having a depth in the range of about 0.05 to 0.375 inches deep. In one embodiment the depth is in the range of about 0.270 inches. The optional V grooves serve to minimize the reflective surface of the front cap, thereby reducing the possibility of undesired detection by an opposer. Additionally, the V groove effectively create a series of radially distributed chevrons that can function as a glass breaching attachment and/or muzzle compliance device.

FIG. 8 illustrates an assembled suppressor device in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. In the embodiment illustrated, the main body 5 comprises a plurality of longitudinally distributed grooves which can be optionally included in the fabrication of a suppressor device. The grooves can serve to reduce mass, reduce glare surface and provide a means for grip ease.

Example 2

Referring now to FIGS. 6 and 7, two additional embodiments of suppressor devices are illustrated. In both figures a series of bobbin spool baffles are assembled, and at least one and preferably two additional baffles are added anterior to the bobbin spool baffles. In one embodiment, the three spool bobbin baffles together define a “blast buffer” 28, and the space between the internal face of the bottom cap 1 and the first spool baffle defines a “blast chamber” 29. As with a standard spool bobbin, the bobbin spool baffles comprise a central hollow stem flanked by a flat disc on either end, each disc having a central axial opening that coincides with the inner diameter of the hollow stem, so as to allow passage of a bullet of a desired caliber. In a preferred embodiment, the stem and/or the discs comprise a plurality of openings 22 distributed along their surfaces so as to create opportunity for gas to move and disperse in all directions. In FIG. 7 these additional baffle comprise K baffles. In FIG. 6 the conical shape of the K baffle is replaced with a bowl or cup shape (see FIG. 5. In both the K and bell baffles, a rim or “saucer” 21 lies posterior to the cup or cone, and one or more openings 22 are distributed radially about the juncture of the cup (cone) and saucer. In another embodiment, the saucer comprises one more openings distributed on its face and/or on the its edge 24. In the devices illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the K and bell shaped baffles are arranged with the bell or cone ends facing towards the front of the device. The back or posterior side of the baffle The blast baffle comprises a boss 16. As will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, the K or bell baffle and the spool baffles each comprise a centrally located axial opening 14 of a diameter sufficient to allow passage of bullet of a desired caliber.

The suppressor devices of FIGS. 6 and 7 comprise a main blast chamber 26 with relief hold ranging in size from 0.0625-0.250 inches in diameter perpendicular to the bore line ranging from 90 degrees to 49 degree, and having a recessed counter bore in the rear-most portion to serve as a mechanical lock to assure proper alignment of the blast chamber in combination with the blast chamber walls which are machined as one solid unit instead of four individual components adding to the device's structural strength and integrity. The

The baffle designs disclosed herein increase the efficiency of the expanding gasses and are belled to incorporate the inherent strengths of the bell as well as correspond with the baffle plates which are machined with a radius increasing the swirling or “venturi” gas flow effects with in the system. The number and distribution of gas ports or openings 22 and 24 increase gas expansion while still slowing the expanding gases and cooling them to have a compounding affect with the micro swirling or “venturi” effects created by the disruption of gas flow. The increased multi-directional effects produced in the baffle design along with the effects of gas disruption in the blast baffle cause expanding gasses to collide further enhancing the effectiveness of the suppressor design. The baffles are designed in a way that will not let them be misaligned in the body of the suppressor and are mechanically locked in position inside the recess in the front of the blast baffle 26 increasing the rigidity and safety of this suppressor design over and above existing suppressor designs.

The plurality of openings or pores 22 and 24 in the suppressor devices disclosed herein, particularly in the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, can range in number from about 25 to 100, more preferably 35-65. In one embodiment, the pores range in diameter from about 0.062 to 0.198 inches. In another embodiment the pores have a diameter in the range of about 0.10 inches.

The new design of the front cap 6 has an integral multi-function end that serves as a glass breaching attachment, muzzle compliance device as well as the third feature serving to break-up the solid uninterrupted disc front of most suppressors reducing the chance of glare and increasing the concealability of the weapon system from observation by the opposing force. The pain compliance device is designed in such a manner as to prevent the possibility of penetrating injuries to the intended aggressor offering and instant non-lethal alternative while the operator is able to maintain both hands on his primary weapon and his eyes on the aggressor, potentially preserving life of both involved parties. The integral multi-function front cap can be removable with a threaded section that would allow the replacement with other design styles and variations as well as offering a caliber conversion option not presently available in the market. This feature allows this suppressor to be reconfigured by the end user by the aid of a special tool to accommodate various bullet diameters of the primary weapon.

The rear attachment point of the bottom cap is designed to interface with the weapon system via direct thread mount and/or by a quick attachment method. In one embodiment the quick attachment method is designed to interface with the NATO standard 22 mm flash hider. In another embodiment, the quick attachment method uses an interrupted thread design.

The main body 5 or external tube of the suppressor can comprises a series of longitudinal grooves or a fluting pattern. These grooves or fluting increase the surface area of the external tube potentiating the cooling effects while also allowing a textured surface to assist with mounting and dismounting the suppressor. The external tube or main body 5 also can have a ring for material placed at the end for the baffle assembly and permanently attached thereto, allowing for removal for the multi-function front cap while keeping the internal suppressor components confined and aligned.

The efficiency of the internal blast chamber and baffle design allow for a dramatically smaller external dimension while still performing as well as current suppressor designs which are much longer in length.

In one embodiment, the internal components are designed and fabricated to reduce the number of parts to a minimum by combining parts through a precision machining process and/or a selective laser sintering process, increasing the reliability and robustness of the suppressor design.

Embodiments of this disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. The present embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the disclosure being indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description, and all changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be embraced therein. While illustrative embodiments have been illustrated and described, it will be appreciated that various changes can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. In particular, with respect to the above description, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the disclosed embodiments and implementations, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art in light of the foregoing disclosure, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure. Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the disclosure. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the disclosed subject matter to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to that fall within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A firearm suppressor device having an overall length of less than 8 inches and comprising:

(a) a main body, a bottom cap, and a front cap, the improvement wherein a series of baffles are assembled within said main body and comprising a plurality of holes that disperse and impede the forward movement of gas flow through said suppressor device sufficient to reduce the firing decibel level by at least 28 decibels.