Thunder Beast, help me chose

[Nate4641]

A friend is offering me a certificate for half off a TBAC suppressor since he (for some unknown reason) isn't interested in getting into the NFA world. I'm not super knowledgable on their lineup so I could use some recommendations. I'm thinking I want to stick to a rifle can, keep it on my RPR for now, but move it to a better rifle whenever I upgrade, and have decent sound suppression so nothing too short.

Currently I have a SiCo Hybrid46 and Sparrow22, Dead Air Nomad30, YHM Turbo T2 and Nitro, and an Energetic Armament NYX. The Hybrid lives on my RPR in .308, which is my only long range rifle, and the weight helps balance the rifle for barricade shooting. I'm worried that going to a lighter can will throw off that balance, but I can always look into weights to help with that. All of my rifles that I suppress currently have SilencerCo ASR brakes on them, but I'm getting to the point where certain cans will live on certain rifles so I'm ok with changing out the brake for a direct thread or another company's mount.

Some questions I have:
What is the difference between the Ultra and Dominus series?
For precision match shooting would it be better to go with the Ultra 9 or 7? I feel like the 9 will sound better, but be a pain to move around.
What is the difference in TBAC's mount options?
Is going direct thread better for sound suppression and accuracy?
Am I more likely to have issues with the suppressor loosening while shooting with direct thread?

thanks for any feedback

 

[stello1001]

@TBACRAY

 

[FuhQ]

Get a Magnus HUB. It will be the quietest, and best sounding, and allow you to use the SiCo ASR mount, direct thread, or any other HUB (1.375x24) mounting system. Your mounting options are virtually unlimited, and you can change them up later quickly and easily, just by unscrewing the mount, and putting a new one in the back of the suppressor.

 

[NiteQwill]

I have several TBAC cans from 22 to 338. My favorite is the 338 Ultra. But my go to pick would be the Dominus.

 

[Nate4641]

I have several TBAC cans from 22 to 338. My favorite is the 338 Ultra. But my go to pick would be the Dominus.

Why is that? What’s the difference that sets it apart for you?

I’m definitely interested in their 22 can, but if I can get a good deal on a more expensive one I will go that route.

 

[NiteQwill]

The Dominus is an all around can with the perfect balance of weight and suppression. It sits between the Ultra 7 and 9, imo. The 338 is literally the quiet you want, all the time, but it's heavy.

 

[jcam]

Still love my Ultra7. Whatever TBAC can you get will be awesome.

 

[AK74U]

Ultra 9 Gen 1 owner here. I have the DT version and it only weighs around 13oz. Very light and maneuverable for me when used on my Ruger American .308 18inch barrel.

 

[redneckbmxer24]

Dominus SR or SR-K.

 

[Fred @ Bison Tactical]

I really like the SR brakes these days. Specifically I find myself shooting a Magnus SR a lot on most of my calibers.
For me, length nor weight is a problem for most of my rifles - and so the 9.7" length of the Magnus is not a problem due to the great reduction in movement I get even shooting 6mm or 6.5 through this .30 can.

With a 50% off cert, you get a better deal because the Magnus is fairly expensive. I am looking for the most movement reduction out of a suppressor so I can deal with follow-up shots easily.

I really have switched over the using SR brakes as well since I don't want to have to think about checking if my suppresor has come loose while I hike my gear around. I believe the military also requires Secondary Retention on all submissions for contracts as well likely because they also don't want to worry about suppressors loosening.

Magnus Suppressor - Thunder Beast Suppressors

Buy the Magnus Suppressor, one of the thunder beast suppressors made by Thunder Beast Arms Corp - the quietest .30 cal suppressor.

www.bisontactical.com

 

[Fred @ Bison Tactical]

What is the difference between the Ultra and Dominus series?
- Ultra have been around the longest, Dominus is the newer line I believe designed towards a military contract for a hard use lighter weight suppressor. Most of the Ultra's come in CB or Direct Thread (DT), but only the 338 Ultra comes in SR as well far as I know. The Dominus and Magnus come in CB (DT is possible for CB via manufacturer but not orderable this way) and SR. The Magnus is also available in HUB 1.375 X 24 tpi.

For precision match shooting would it be better to go with the Ultra 9 or 7? I feel like the 9 will sound better, but be a pain to move around.
-IMO the 9 will be better of the 2, little impact on length (you can reduce your barrel length if you want to), but better recoil reduction. However I strongly suggest the Magnus - see my post above...

What is the difference in TBAC's mount options?
- sort of covered above - but here is what I wrote on my Magnus page:

• SR — Secondary Retention uses the SR Brakes and has a collar which locks the suppressor in place. This attachment interface is shared with the Thunder Beast suppressors: 338 Ultra-SR, Dominus-SR and Dominus-K-SR. The combination of design and SR brake allow the Magnus to achieve the same hard use rating as the Dominus-SR which is “Lifetime to exceed at least 10 SURGE cycles on a 10.5″ M4 / MK18”. The non-SR Mangus suppressors do not have this same level of hard use rating because of the limitations imposed by their attachment interface.
• CB — Compact Brake is the interface shared across many of the Thunder Beast suppressors like the Ultra 5, Ultra 7, Ultra 9 and Dominus-CB.
• HUB — This is a 1.375 X 24 thread per inch connection which is becoming a more standard interface across manufacturers. This allows the use of standardized mounting parts shared across some manufacturers, building in more flexibility outside the TBAC ecosystem.

Is going direct thread better for sound suppression and accuracy?
-actually TBAC normally suggests not doing DT. Mostly due to the increased angular shoulder you get when going brake attached - however I think that is mostly due to reducing the opportunity to loosen and also helps keep the suppressor more centered on the bore.

Am I more likely to have issues with the suppressor loosening while shooting with direct thread?
-I would say the answer to this is almost always yes in theory, but in practice depends on your habits and your rifle barrel. This however is why I shoot the Secondary Retention brakes - because I never want to have to think about it, and I tend to hike a lot with my rifles. If I am doing something weight sensitive, I will shoot the Dominus-K (which is short and light, but has SR)...

Dominus-K-SR TBAC Suppressor - Bison Tactical

The Dominus-K-SR TBAC Suppressor (Kurz) is the shorter version of the Dominus SR, made to handle full auto fire-cycles while remaining quiet.

www.bisontactical.com

 

[E. Bryant]

If I had to pick just one, it'd be the Dominus. With the SR mounting system, it works well on every centerfire rifle that I own up to and including .30-cal.

Since you already have some rifles with the ASR mount, I'd be tempted to go with the Magnus and its HUB option, but I haven't yet used that can and am hesitant to recommend something without first-hand experience. Then again, if you're trusting my opinion over that of Zac and Ray, you have other problems that will not be addressed with this post.

 

[Zak Smith]

Hi,

Based on what you already have and the presumption of not wanting to duplicate too much, I'd suggest these options:

1. Magnus or 338 Ultra Gen2. For maximum suppression period. The Magnus in CB or HUB mode is only 9" long, same as an Ultra 9, but way quieter. Let's not forget that 1.5"x9" long cans were the "standard full rifle suppressor" size until recently. The Magnus CB/HUB isn't any longer than this.

2. Ultra 5. For very small/light. Ultra 7 is almost as light but suppresses better.

3. Dominus-K-SR or Dominus-SR. For a fighting rifle.

To answer your questions specifically:

The Ultra 5, 7, and 9 are sort of in one "family", the 1.5" diameter. The 5 and 7 are very quiet for their size (volume) and weight, and are probably the best suppressing cans per ounce out there. The 338 Ultra and Magnus are sort of in another family, the 1.8" diameter design class for full size cans. The 338 Ultra just shares the Ultra name due to history. The Dominus-SR and Dominus-K-SR were made specifically for semi and full autos like the MK18, other SBR's, 308 SBR's and battle rifles, and don't share the same internal baffle design pattern of the Magnus/338Ultra. The Magnus internals aren't better or worse or newer or older than the Gen2 Ultra/Magnus baffles, it's just that to get the level of suppression we wanted in the Dominus-SR (ie the length specification) and have it work well on gas guns, we had to go a different baffle design.

Ultra 7 vs. 9, I'd say a better question is Ultra 7 vs Magnus. In that case, Magnus for max suppression in a .30 cal can. The Ultra 7 if you want good suppression but more compact.

The SR mount is the best mount we make. It had the same accuracy/repeatability as CB/BA/DT but mounts quicker and has a secondary lock. This is the lock we submitted on the 338 Ultra SR that AI submitted to ASR with. The way it works it is impossible for it to be "off by one" click, like many mounts that have accuracy problems. The SR mount permits cans that are otherwise good for F/A firing schedules to be rated F/A on mount retention also. The CB mount is sufficient for almost all precision rifle and semi auto shooters. It has better retention than a DT setup. The HUB mount on the Magnus is an experiment for us and is intended for people who already have an investment in another mount system and know that that system meets their needs (ie, it's on you).

Yes, a DT can is more likely to loosen vs. a CB/BA/SR suppressor.

 

[leclairk]

Hi,

Based on what you already have and the presumption of not wanting to duplicate too much, I'd suggest these options:

1. Magnus or 338 Ultra Gen2. For maximum suppression period. The Magnus in CB or HUB mode is only 9" long, same as an Ultra 9, but way quieter. Let's not forget that 1.5"x9" long cans were the "standard full rifle suppressor" size until recently. The Magnus CB/HUB isn't any longer than this.

2. Ultra 5. For very small/light. Ultra 7 is almost as light but suppresses better.

3. Dominus-K-SR or Dominus-SR. For a fighting rifle.

To answer your questions specifically:

The Ultra 5, 7, and 9 are sort of in one "family", the 1.5" diameter. The 5 and 7 are very quiet for their size (volume) and weight, and are probably the best suppressing cans per ounce out there. The 338 Ultra and Magnus are sort of in another family, the 1.8" diameter design class for full size cans. The 338 Ultra just shares the Ultra name due to history. The Dominus-SR and Dominus-K-SR were made specifically for semi and full autos like the MK18, other SBR's, 308 SBR's and battle rifles, and don't share the same internal baffle design pattern of the Magnus/338Ultra. The Magnus internals aren't better or worse or newer or older than the Gen2 Ultra/Magnus baffles, it's just that to get the level of suppression we wanted in the Dominus-SR (ie the length specification) and have it work well on gas guns, we had to go a different baffle design.

Ultra 7 vs. 9, I'd say a better question is Ultra 7 vs Magnus. In that case, Magnus for max suppression in a .30 cal can. The Ultra 7 if you want good suppression but more compact.

The SR mount is the best mount we make. It had the same accuracy/repeatability as CB/BA/DT but mounts quicker and has a secondary lock. This is the lock we submitted on the 338 Ultra SR that AI submitted to ASR with. The way it works it is impossible for it to be "off by one" click, like many mounts that have accuracy problems. The SR mount permits cans that are otherwise good for F/A firing schedules to be rated F/A on mount retention also. The CB mount is sufficient for almost all precision rifle and semi auto shooters. It has better retention than a DT setup. The HUB mount on the Magnus is an experiment for us and is intended for people who already have an investment in another mount system and know that that system meets their needs (ie, it's on you).

Yes, a DT can is more likely to loosen vs. a CB/BA/SR suppressor.

Why not a Dominus CB for a bolt action if you want “good suppression but more compact”?

 

[Zak Smith]

It suppresses the same as the Ultra 7 but is a little heavier. Really very similar.

 

[FuhQ]

Why is that? What’s the difference that sets it apart for you?

I’m definitely interested in their 22 can, but if I can get a good deal on a more expensive one I will go that route.

I love my Dead Air Mask HD. It’s a really hard rimfire can to beat.

 

[Nate4641]

I love my Dead Air Mask HD. It’s a really hard rimfire can to beat.

I keep hearing that. My next 22 can will likely be an OSS, because the helical design would be perfect on my Calico M110. The Thunder Beast has a best reputation for precision from what I have seen. Both my Sparrow and NYX are great cans too, but I'll probably add a mask one day.

 

[FuhQ]

IMO

I keep hearing that. My next 22 can will likely be an OSS, because the helical design would be perfect on my Calico M110. The Thunder Beast has a best reputation for precision from what I have seen. Both my Sparrow and NYX are great cans too, but I'll probably add a mask one day.

IMO, all the OSS cans are overrated. They’re not quiet, but they are extremely low backpressure, but not very quiet. JMO… Same with their centerfire cans.

 

[Fred @ Bison Tactical]

I agree with the OSS cans (how Huxworks). They are on the heavy side, not super quiet, but durable and low backpressure. If your concerned about backpressure (gas gun) the OSS cans are pretty nice. We sell them, I have a 556 K on one of my 556 AR's. They don't have Secondary Retention - but they do use a reverse thread on the outside of the brake. Combined with the helical gas exhaust they basically self tighten while shooting. This is a pretty novel approach, but I still prefer SR since SR won't loosen while moving.

OSS HX-QD 556k Suppressor - Suppressors For Sale - Bison Tactical

The HX-QD 556k Suppressor from OSS is for sale from Bison Tactical. Short and Durable. Black Finish. Buy now from Bison Tactical

www.bisontactical.com

 

[Guns&WhiteWater]

It suppresses the same as the Ultra 7 but is a little heavier. Really very similar.

Between the Dominus CB and Ultra 7 CB, which would you recommend for a 16” 308 bolt gun? Would the the Dominus show any appreciable longevity? I will have both soon and want to ensure their lifespans are maximized. I expect them to suppress about the same but wasn’t sure if one is better suited than the other for shorter barrels.

 

[Fred @ Bison Tactical]

Between the Dominus CB and Ultra 7 CB, which would you recommend for a 16” 308 bolt gun? Would the the Dominus show any appreciable longevity? I will have both soon and want to ensure their lifespans are maximized. I expect them to suppress about the same but wasn’t sure if one is better suited than the other for shorter barrels.

From what I have heard from Zak previously (however he can certainly speak for himself) -particularly on a bolt gun you really shouldn't have any concern with longevity. Both the suppressors will likely outlast you. Unless your running some shooting regime like the SURG Socom sequence you should have no problem with continuing to shoot your suppressors and have them function as suppressors for your lifetime.

 

[Guns&WhiteWater]

From what I have heard from Zak previously (however he can certainly speak for himself) -particularly on a bolt gun you really shouldn't have any concern with longevity. Both the suppressors will likely outlast you. Unless your running some shooting regime like the SURG Socom sequence you should have no problem with continuing to shoot your suppressors and have them function as suppressors for your lifetime.

Ok thanks for the response. I was looking at their minimum barrel specs and wasn’t sure if a shorter barreled 308 would it be significantly harder on the Ultra series, or rather, would the Dominus be a better match. I want to use the best tool for the job. Definitely am not doing anything close to a SURG cycle with my bolt actions.

 

[Fred @ Bison Tactical]

Lets ping @Zak Smith and see what he thinks he is certainly the expert...

 

[Mayhem101]

What's the feel for how a Gen 1 338 Ultra SR would hold up to semi-auto fire on a 16" 308? I'm assuming they're pretty heavy duty?

 

[usmc45]

I like the recoil impulse of the Dominus better then the Ultra 7. A little more of a snap as opposed to the push.

 

[Mayhem101]

I've got a Dominus SR in jail now. Looking at a bigger can to pull double duty on a 300 WM bolt and a 308 semi. Bench/off the cab shooting. Wondering if the 338 G1 would fit that role.

 

[NiteQwill]

I personally like the Dominus a lot. It would be my favorite TBAC for everything.

The 338 Ultra is totally a different animal in suppression. I run it on big bolt guns.

Ultra 5 for lightweight hunting.

22... Not much needs to be said. Legendary.

Next can is a Magnus.

 

[E. Bryant]

What's the feel for how a Gen 1 338 Ultra SR would hold up to semi-auto fire on a 16" 308? I'm assuming they're pretty heavy duty?

It should hold up fine. The SR brake/mount will absorb almost all of the abuse.

That said, I prefer the Dominus SR for gas guns.

 

[MOUNTIC]

Here is a size example. 338 SR, Magnus SR, Dominus SR, Ultra 7, Ultra 5.

 

[Mayhem101]

I think the Magnus SR is awesome (and probably more what I'm looking for), but the Gen1 338s seem to be running at a pretty good discount these days. Doesn't seem like much of a weight/length penalty. I was a little concerned about durability, but sounds like if I keep it primarily on bolts, it'll outlast me.

 

[Jnull]

I think the Magnus SR is awesome (and probably more what I'm looking for), but the Gen1 338s seem to be running at a pretty good discount these days. Doesn't seem like much of a weight/length penalty. I was a little concerned about durability, but sounds like if I keep it primarily on bolts, it'll outlast me.

Id imagine the magnus and 338 G1 are really similar in performance, personally I wouldn’t take the length and weight penalty for similar performance. I get wanting to save a few bucks but nfa items aren’t something you want to bargain shop for, there’s certainly some very high performing cans at a great price but when you get into the higher dollar area like this get whatever you’ll be the most happy with because you’re basically married to it.

 

[Fred @ Bison Tactical]

I just shot the Steel Safari with an ATX in 6BRA with a Magnus SR - every single person who heard it commented on how quiet it was. The movement was incredible low. The rifle weighs around 20 lbs (after market MTU 26" barrel) no weights and of course its a 6mm - but really I didn't feel like I was losing points to a brake - which is a change for me. Running the shorter suppressors there always seemed more movement, but I really didn't notice much at all even on those compromised positions.

 

[Vinnie45ACP]

Get a Magnus HUB. It will be the quietest, and best sounding, and allow you to use the SiCo ASR mount, direct thread, or any other HUB (1.375x24) mounting system. Your mounting options are virtually unlimited, and you can change them up later quickly and easily, just by unscrewing the mount, and putting a new one in the back of the suppressor.

I am seriously thinking of the Magnus HUB or SR, if I go with the HUB version, which mounting system should I go with? Which has the best return to zero and muzzle devise for such a set up! I know they say TBAC SR version is very accurate, returns to zero, the muzzle devise doesn’t need to be clocked, so all I would be gaining is some money in my pocket (at possible a cost), which might be worth it, if another system does all these things and does them well.

 

[FuhQ]

I am seriously thinking of the Magnus HUB or SR, if I go with the HUB version, which mounting system should I go with? Which has the best return to zero and muzzle devise for such a set up! I know they say TBAC SR version is very accurate, returns to zero, the muzzle devise doesn’t need to be clocked, so all I would be gaining is some money in my pocket (at possible a cost), which might be worth it, if another system does all these things and does them well.

Personally, if using it on bolt-actions or precision rifles, I’d use the new Otter Creek Labs ZR0-DTA 5/8-24 direct thread adapter to save weight, and help reduce harmonic affects. The adapter is solid titanium, so it’s SUPER light (1.3 oz), and my return to zero, and POI shift is negligible.

If you are wanting QD, then I’d look into the Dead Air KeyMo, or XENO setups.

 

[NiteQwill]

I am seriously thinking of the Magnus HUB or SR, if I go with the HUB version, which mounting system should I go with? Which has the best return to zero and muzzle devise for such a set up! I know they say TBAC SR version is very accurate, returns to zero, the muzzle devise doesn’t need to be clocked, so all I would be gaining is some money in my pocket (at possible a cost), which might be worth it, if another system does all these things and does them well.

I run area419 mounts for years on all my TBAC cans, RTZ and POI is zero.

 

[E. Bryant]

I am seriously thinking of the Magnus HUB or SR, if I go with the HUB version, which mounting system should I go with? Which has the best return to zero and muzzle devise for such a set up! I know they say TBAC SR version is very accurate, returns to zero, the muzzle devise doesn’t need to be clocked, so all I would be gaining is some money in my pocket (at possible a cost), which might be worth it, if another system does all these things and does them well.

My first preference would be the SR, but if you want the versatility of HUB, then I'd go with Rearden Arms mounts.

 

[Fred @ Bison Tactical]

I really like the SR, but haven't tried any of the others since I really like having secondary retention

 

[TheOE800]

While I like (and own) TBAC SR, the standard brakes are fucking enormous (and heavy) owing to their .338 heritage.

 

[kthomas]

IMO

IMO, all the OSS cans are overrated. They’re not quiet, but they are extremely low backpressure, but not very quiet. JMO… Same with their centerfire cans.

Perhaps overrated when put on a bolt gun, as you don't get any of the benefits of that system. A bit like putting a spoiler on a minivan.

The equation changes a bit when you are dealing with a gas gun.

Like anything, there's always trade-offs and compromises. Choose what trade-offs and compromises you are willing to make to seek your objectives. Suppressors are no different.

 

[TheOE800]

Perhaps overrated when put on a bolt gun, as you don't get any of the benefits of that system. A bit like putting a spoiler on a minivan.

What did you just say about my Odyssey?

 

[kthomas]

If it was me, I would be very tempted to get the Magnus.

It would have more suppression than your current lineup of suppressors, and the HUB option allows you to stay within the muzzle device ecosystem you currently have. You also get to maximize the value of that 50% discount.

If you want more of an all-around suppressor, the Dominus would be a great choice. You would have to change over to TBAC's muzzle devices for whatever rifles you want to put it on.

 

[Zak Smith]

While I like (and own) TBAC SR, the standard brakes are fucking enormous (and heavy) owing to their .338 heritage.

I don't disagree, and this is the main downside for the SR when I pick which mount goes on which rifles. I use SR on a minority of bolt guns (usually big magnums), and any semi that will see sustained elevated firing rates.

 

[TheOE800]

I don't disagree, and this is the main downside for the SR when I pick which mount goes on which rifles. I use SR on a minority of bolt guns (usually big magnums), and any semi that will see sustained elevated firing rates.

Pls make SR brake for SR-25.

 

[Zak Smith]

We've measured several SR-25 muzzles and they are not consistent enough for a face mount. Best solution is to re thread to a proper thread.

 

[TheOE800]

We've measured several SR-25 muzzles and they are not consistent enough for a face mount. Best solution is to re thread to a proper thread.

Oof

 

[DJL2]

If it was me, I would be very tempted to get the Magnus.

It would have more suppression than your current lineup of suppressors, and the HUB option allows you to stay within the muzzle device ecosystem you currently have. You also get to maximize the value of that 50% discount.

If you want more of an all-around suppressor, the Dominus would be a great choice. You would have to change over to TBAC's muzzle devices for whatever rifles you want to put it on.

Can you use the TBAC suppressor end cap with different brand suppressor bodies? I thought I saw it available as a spare/upgrade from them and thought about using it to upgrade my Dead Air Nomad (which is still setup as a direct thread).

 

[Zak Smith]

There are no removable thread or "mount' ends, other than the booster stuff in the Fly9.

 

[DJL2]

There are no removable thread or "mount' ends, other than the booster stuff in the Fly9.

I was thinking of the CB2BA adapter (link). My thought was that if TBAC and Dead Air are using the same thread spec/pitch, I could convert my Nomad to run off TBAC CB muzzle devices. That has more appeal than Plan B - Area 419 all the things, for my previously stated reason: I'm a lazy sob and just want to "set and forget" my muzzle devices and swap the can around at will.

 

[Zak Smith]

The CB2BA fits our BA muzzle brake, which is currently the simpler of our two muzzle devices for the .338 suppressors (the other being the SR). It uses 1 and 5/32 inch x 24 TPI threads and shoulders on a taper. The BA interface was introduced, if I remember correctly, about mid 2011. HUB is 1.375x24 and shoulders on a flat surface and is not intended to be the rifle-to-suppressor interface.

Now, if you have a HUB suppressor and want to use a CB brake, I thought I saw a CB-to-HUB adapter somewhere. If not, we will "probably" have one in the future.

 

[FuhQ]

I was thinking of the CB2BA adapter (link). My thought was that if TBAC and Dead Air are using the same thread spec/pitch, I could convert my Nomad to run off TBAC CB muzzle devices. That has more appeal than Plan B - Area 419 all the things, for my previously stated reason: I'm a lazy sob and just want to "set and forget" my muzzle devices and swap the can around at will.

Then get a Magnus HUB and run Dead Air KeyMo or XENO setups.