Suppressors Deciding on SF FA762SS vs TB 30BA - Different ?

-Nick-

Gunny Sergeant
Full Member
Minuteman
May 3, 2011
826
17
I've decided I want a can while the getting is good here in Washington. My question is not which is quietest, which is best, or most accurate. I've read all of the other threads, there's no need to beat a dead horse, and I like them both for different reasons. The issue is money and fitting the rifle I already have.

The issue: I've got a GAP-10 in .308 with a 22" BBL and the Surefire 7.62SSAL/RE brake already on it. I didn't know as much about current cans before I had the brake put on as I do now since when I purchased it suppressors were not legal to shoot at that time here in Washington, but recent legislation changed that. I can get the FA762SS for $1400. I would rather get the 30BA, but with the current brake attached if I removed it I would end up with almost 2" of threading and the lapped barrel. I'm not sure how far back the threading goes or what kind of stress would be placed on the lapped section as a result of not having the brake there any more. The only solution I could think of was having the barrel shortened to 20-20.5", but I'm not thrilled with that idea, and frankly for the cost of shortening the barrel I would rather just go with my original plan and get the FA762SS.

Also, does anyone have a photo of the barrel end before the SF brake is put on or a barrel that had the brake and converted without altering the barrel prior?
 
Re: Deciding on SF FA762SS vs TB 30BA - Different ?

A barrel is a consumable component of the rifle shooting process, like brass that wears out over time and has to be replaced. You're effectively married to the suppressor forever. I recommend that people fit the barrel to the suppressor they want (and with the correct threading) because you can do it right on your next barrel in a couple years.

The only weird thing about your barrel if you remove the brake will be the small O.D. section, which will just look strange.
 
Re: Deciding on SF FA762SS vs TB 30BA - Different ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Zak Smith</div><div class="ubbcode-body">A barrel is a consumable component of the rifle shooting process, like brass that wears out over time and has to be replaced. You're effectively married to the suppressor forever. I recommend that people fit the barrel to the suppressor they want (and with the correct threading) because you can do it right on your next barrel in a couple years.

The only weird thing about your barrel if you remove the brake will be the small O.D. section, which will just look strange. </div></div>

If I would have known I could have had a suppressor and actually been able to shoot with it in the future I would have researched the options. I went with what was practical and readily available at the time. Plus the SF brake is great even without the can.
 
Re: Deciding on SF FA762SS vs TB 30BA - Different ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Graham</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If you want a precision can get a Thunderbeast, threaded. </div></div>

Unfortunately you can only shoot with the suppressor at a designated range area in WA is my understanding, so I'll need to be able to remove it and shoot with it off at times.
 
Re: Deciding on SF FA762SS vs TB 30BA - Different ?

I know.. my point is that buying a can that is your second choice because of the barrel you currently have is like buying the wrong car because you don't like the OEM tires. I think you can screw the BA brake right onto your barrel if you unscrew the SF brake, but you'd have to unscrew it and take a look to be sure.
 
Re: Deciding on SF FA762SS vs TB 30BA - Different ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Broker</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Graham</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If you want a precision can get a Thunderbeast, threaded. </div></div>

Unfortunately you can only shoot with the suppressor at a designated range area in WA is my understanding, so I'll need to be able to remove it and shoot with it off at times.
</div></div>

What? Who told you that? Never heard such a thing.

I agree with Zak, don't base your decision on something like a barrel thread job. I messed up my first time and bought a HEAVY YHM suppressor, thanks to the $200 stamp and transfer issues I'll own it forever I'm sure, but I'm working on getting a TBAC and will be happy once that's behind me. My point is, get the can you want the first time.

Also, you'll own more rifles, those likely won't come with a Surefire break on them. So then you'll have to have those turned down and threaded. Just cut and thread the barrel you have now, get a RAD Rapid Brake for when you're not suppressed and a 30P-1 for when you are. Then future rifles will a simple 5/8x24 thread job away from being suppressed.
 
Re: Deciding on SF FA762SS vs TB 30BA - Different ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Zak Smith</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I know.. my point is that buying a can that is your second choice because of the barrel you currently have is like buying the wrong car because you don't like the OEM tires. I think you can screw the BA brake right onto your barrel if you unscrew the SF brake, but you'd have to unscrew it and take a look to be sure.
</div></div>

Or you could develop a reflex platform just for me
grin.gif
and all those like me that didn't think ahead. I called GAP and its only the last 1/2" that's threaded and the rest is just turned down. So from your professional stand point, is it easy to swap out breaks if I wanted to keep my SF brake for when I'm not using it and simply swap it over to the BA brake when I'm going to use the can? And is it something I can do easily myself?
 
Re: Deciding on SF FA762SS vs TB 30BA - Different ?

If the SF brake has in-spec 5/8-24 threads underneath it with the right thread length, you can just mount the 30BA brake and shoot <span style="text-decoration: underline">it</span> when you can't use the suppressor. You might ask the gunsmith who mounted it if he used any sort of thread locking compound and how to deactivate it before you hit it with the cheater bar...
 
Re: Deciding on SF FA762SS vs TB 30BA - Different ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jasonk</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Broker</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Graham</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If you want a precision can get a Thunderbeast, threaded. </div></div>

Unfortunately you can only shoot with the suppressor at a designated range area in WA is my understanding, so I'll need to be able to remove it and shoot with it off at times.
</div></div>

What? Who told you that? Never heard such a thing.

I agree with Zak, don't base your decision on something like a barrel thread job. I messed up my first time and bought a HEAVY YHM suppressor, thanks to the $200 stamp and transfer issues I'll own it forever I'm sure, but I'm working on getting a TBAC and will be happy once that's behind me. My point is, get the can you want the first time.

Also, you'll own more rifles, those likely won't come with a Surefire break on them. So then you'll have to have those turned down and threaded. Just cut and thread the barrel you have now, get a RAD Rapid Brake for when you're not suppressed and a 30P-1 for when you are. Then future rifles will a simple 5/8x24 thread job away from being suppressed. </div></div>

That's what I was told by one of the people that help get the bill passed through awhile back. Also someone at the range said the same thing. Has anyone really read through the bill to make sure? Knowing my luck they were probably talking out their ass.

I like the RAD idea, but I really don't want to lose 2+" off my barrel. I'll call GAP and see what it would cost. The idea of sending my rifle off again isn't thrilling, but it makes sense.

Zak... How long is the current wait on a 30P-1 in FDE?
 
Re: Deciding on SF FA762SS vs TB 30BA - Different ?

The SF break is a 5/8 x 24 thread, so most any .308 replacement break or suppressor will fit. The thread length is about 1/2 inch. The tapered end does not actually touch the inside of the adapter, so there is no issue with removing it and using something else.

They are normally locked in place with Rocksett, which you can break loose with a soak in some warm water. I would not advise swapping breaks back and forth, just pick one style and stay with it.
 
Re: Deciding on SF FA762SS vs TB 30BA - Different ?

Another option is sell your upper (for a loss) and have a new one made by Gap to your specs. Problem solved.....

If it were me (I own an 18.5" GAP 10) I would send your rifle back to Gap and have
the current barrel cut back and the TBAC break mounted on it.

You will probably need a switch block installed as well for guaranteed cycling.
 
Re: Deciding on SF FA762SS vs TB 30BA - Different ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: m14er</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Another option is sell your upper (for a loss) and have a new one made by Gap to your specs. Problem solved.....

If it were me (I own an 18.5" GAP 10) I would send your rifle back to Gap and have
the current barrel cut back and the TBAC break mounted on it.

You will probably need a switch block installed as well for guaranteed cycling. </div></div>

The switch block could be difficult. I've got a rifle length hand guard but a mid-length system.
 
Re: Deciding on SF FA762SS vs TB 30BA - Different ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Zak Smith</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Email me for ETA on a 30P-1 or 30BA. I am checking now. </div></div>

Email sent...
 
Re: Deciding on SF FA762SS vs TB 30BA - Different ?

What is the OD of your barrel at the muzzle. If it is .775 or less you can just soak your adaptor in hot water and in about an hour you should just be able to unscrew it and put whatever suppressor you want on.

The MB762SSAL/RE is standard 5/8X24 so you shouldn't have to get your barrel chopped or re-threaded if you wanted to use some suppressor other than the SureFire.

Chcuk
 
Re: Deciding on SF FA762SS vs TB 30BA - Different ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jasonk</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Broker</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
Unfortunately you can only shoot with the suppressor at a designated range area in WA is my understanding, so I'll need to be able to remove it and shoot with it off at times.
</div></div>

What? Who told you that? Never heard such a thing.
</div></div>

I just read through the bill and you're right Jason. As long as you're licensed to have it you can shoot with it attached anywhere that you can legally shoot without it off. They simply did an add-line to the original RCW. I thought for some reason they had enacted an entirely new bill and new RCW.

Here's another question. Once I have it am I the only one allowed to shoot with it on, or are others allowed to shoot my rifle with it attached when with me? I'm not as familiar with the rules regarding it yet.
 
Re: Deciding on SF FA762SS vs TB 30BA - Different ?

I have let people shoot my 300 at the range with my can on it, as long as you have your tax stamp (I keep a copy in my gun case, truck, hunting pack) with you and you're there in close proximity I think you should be alright, I've never had any problems.
 
Re: Deciding on SF FA762SS vs TB 30BA - Different ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Broker</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jasonk</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Broker</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
Unfortunately you can only shoot with the suppressor at a designated range area in WA is my understanding, so I'll need to be able to remove it and shoot with it off at times.
</div></div>

What? Who told you that? Never heard such a thing.
</div></div>

I just read through the bill and you're right Jason. As long as you're licensed to have it you can shoot with it attached anywhere that you can legally shoot without it off. They simply did an add-line to the original RCW. I thought for some reason they had enacted an entirely new bill and new RCW.

Here's another question. Once I have it am I the only one allowed to shoot with it on, or are others allowed to shoot my rifle with it attached when with me? I'm not as familiar with the rules regarding it yet.
</div></div>

Hey Broker

I'm amused to see how well versed you are on NFA rules after you felt the need to lecture me via PM regarding SBRs a few weeks ago...
 
Re: Deciding on SF FA762SS vs TB 30BA - Different ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: The Quiet One</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
Hey Broker

I'm amused to see how well versed you are on NFA rules after you felt the need to lecture me via PM regarding SBRs a few weeks ago... </div></div>

Seriously? I didn't lecture you. You had a statement up that it sounded like you had fired an illegal SBR and rather than trashing your thread like you're doing on mine I sent you a pm saying you might want to edit that part out because who knows what ATF guys are fishing sites like this. I was trying to be courteous... but now I'll tell you to go shit on someone elses thread prick...
 
Re: Deciding on SF FA762SS vs TB 30BA - Different ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Zak Smith</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Take it outside </div></div>

Couldn't agree more...
 
Re: Deciding on SF FA762SS vs TB 30BA - Different ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jasonk</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Broker, to answer your question simply, you just have to be present.

The Quiet One, please keep the thread on track. </div></div>

Thanks Jason. I knew it couldn't be outside of my possession and that I had to have my stamp on me, but as I've never owned one I was unsure about allowing others to fire the weapon with it attached.
 
Re: Deciding on SF FA762SS vs TB 30BA - Different ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Broker</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jasonk</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Broker, to answer your question simply, you just have to be present.

The Quiet One, please keep the thread on track. </div></div>

Thanks Jason. I knew it couldn't be outside of my possession and that I had to have my stamp on me, but as I've never owned one I was unsure about allowing others to fire the weapon with it attached.</div></div>

And as others have stated, leave the original stamp at home in a safe place, as soon as you get it go and get 2 or 3 color copies of the paperwork/stamp. Stick one in your shooting bag, one in your gun case, heck stick one under the back seat of your car. Just in case you ever get in a hurry and leave the range bag at home or something else, nice to have a backup copy. Unlikely you'll need it, but makes you feel better knowing you are GTG.
 
Re: Deciding on SF FA762SS vs TB 30BA - Different ?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jasonk</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Broker</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jasonk</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Broker, to answer your question simply, you just have to be present.

The Quiet One, please keep the thread on track. </div></div>

Thanks Jason. I knew it couldn't be outside of my possession and that I had to have my stamp on me, but as I've never owned one I was unsure about allowing others to fire the weapon with it attached.</div></div>

And as others have stated, leave the original stamp at home in a safe place, as soon as you get it go and get 2 or 3 color copies of the paperwork/stamp. Stick one in your shooting bag, one in your gun case, heck stick one under the back seat of your car. Just in case you ever get in a hurry and leave the range bag at home or something else, nice to have a backup copy. Unlikely you'll need it, but makes you feel better knowing you are GTG. </div></div>

Man the misinformation you get up here... I was told I had to always have the original. If I can make color copies I'll put one in my cars, pack, wallet, my wifes purse, my office, the local Starbuck's bulletin board... Lol