Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a suppressor?

• A. Increases recoil
• B. Reduces noise
• C. Decreases muzzle flash
• D. Lessens enemy attention

Answer: (A)

A suppressor is designed primarily to reduce the noise produced by a firearm when it is discharged, which is an essential aspect for maintaining stealth, especially in sniper operations. By trapping and slowing down the gases that escape the barrel, a suppressor significantly mitigates the sound of the gunshot. This characteristic allows for quieter shooting, which can help to maintain the shooter's operational security.

Additionally, a suppressor contributes to decreased muzzle flash. The reduction of the visible flash is crucial for maintaining the shooter's position concealed at night or low-light situations. A smaller muzzle flash makes it harder for the enemy to identify where the shot originated, providing a tactical advantage.

Moreover, while suppressors are not primarily designed to lessen enemy attention, they play a role in that area indirectly. By reducing the noise and the visible signature of the shot, they make it less likely that enemy forces will be able to locate and respond to the shooter quickly.

However, some believe that suppressors should decrease felt recoil due to the design and the gases being redirected. Nonetheless, for this question, the statement about increasing recoil is correct because suppressors do not typically increase recoil; rather, they are perceived to manage it. Therefore, the correct answer is the one stating that a suppress