First Impressions of GPS Tactical Suppressor Cover
The GPS Tactical Suppressor Cover by GPS promises to mitigate the mirage effect caused by hot suppressors. It claims to do this with a heat-resistant lining. I was looking for an affordable solution to a frustrating problem, and this cover seemed like a decent starting point.
My suppressed AR-15 was becoming nearly unusable during summer range sessions. The heat radiating off the suppressor created a distracting mirage in my optic. I hoped the GPS Tactical Suppressor Cover would provide a cost-effective fix compared to more expensive, high-end options.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the utilitarian design of the GPS Tactical Suppressor Cover. The 1000D nylon felt reasonably tough, though not as bombproof as some covers I’ve handled. The inner fiberglass and silicon lining felt a little thin, but I reserved judgment for the range.
I considered the Armageddon Gear suppressor cover, but its price was significantly higher. Another option was a no-name brand from Amazon, but I was wary of the questionable quality. The GPS Tactical Suppressor Cover seemed like a reasonable compromise between cost and potentially effective performance.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The cover looked decent and felt okay in hand, but the thin lining made me question its long-term heat resistance. Only real-world testing would reveal its true worth.
Real-World Testing: Putting GPS Tactical Suppressor Cover to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the GPS Tactical Suppressor Cover during a day at an outdoor shooting range. The ambient temperature was around 85 degrees Fahrenheit, providing a moderate challenge for heat management. I mounted the cover on my 7-inch .223 suppressor, securing the tether line.
The initial 20-round magazine produced minimal mirage, a noticeable improvement. By the third magazine, however, the mirage started creeping back in, though less intensely than without the cover. The cover definitely helped, but it wasn’t a complete solution.
The installation was straightforward, and the tether line seemed effective at preventing the cover from sliding forward. However, I noticed a slight burning smell after the third magazine, which was concerning. There were no immediate signs of damage to the cover.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the GPS Tactical Suppressor Cover is showing some signs of wear. The nylon outer layer is holding up reasonably well, but the inner lining appears slightly scorched in places. I continued to use it and now have had no issues.
The durability seems adequate for its price point, but I doubt it would withstand extreme abuse. Cleaning is relatively easy, involving a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth. The burning smell dissipated after the initial sessions, and the mirage mitigation remains better than running the suppressor bare.
Compared to a more expensive, high-end cover I tested later, the GPS Tactical Suppressor Cover doesn’t perform as well regarding sustained heat resistance. However, it significantly outperforms not using any cover and the more expensive one failed at the stitching. Ultimately the GPS Tactical Suppressor Cover is my winner.
Breaking Down the Features of GPS Tactical Suppressor Cover
Specifications
The GPS Tactical Suppressor Cover features a 1000D nylon outer shell, providing a decent level of abrasion resistance. Inside, a heat-resistant fiberglass and silicon lining aims to reduce visual mirage. The Manufacturer of this item is GPS.
The cover is offered in two lengths: 6” and 7.5”, catering to different suppressor sizes. A tether line is included to secure the cover and prevent it from sliding forward under recoil. These specifications offer a functional but not overly specialized solution for mirage mitigation.
Performance & Functionality
The GPS Tactical Suppressor Cover does a reasonable job of reducing mirage, especially during initial shooting sessions. It significantly outperforms running a suppressor bare. However, its performance diminishes with prolonged use and higher firing rates.
The cover’s primary strength lies in its affordability. Its weakness is limited sustained heat resistance. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly option, but falls short of premium alternatives.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is adequate, with reasonably tough materials used. The GPS Tactical Suppressor Cover is lightweight and doesn’t add significant bulk to the suppressor. The design is functional and practical, with no unnecessary frills.
The cover is user-friendly and requires no specialized knowledge to install or use. There’s virtually no learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
The GPS Tactical Suppressor Cover will likely last for a reasonable amount of time with careful use. The outer nylon shell seems durable enough, but the inner lining is a potential weak point. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning.
Repairing the cover might be challenging due to the specialized heat-resistant materials. However, for its price, replacement may be a more viable option than repair.
Accessories and Customization Options
The GPS Tactical Suppressor Cover comes with a tether line as its only included accessory. There are no officially supported customization options. However, users might potentially add external MOLLE webbing for attaching small pouches or accessories.
The cover is designed to be compatible with a wide range of suppressors, making it a versatile option. It’s not specifically designed to integrate with any particular brand’s ecosystem, so the end-user can use it as needed.
Pros and Cons of GPS Tactical Suppressor CoverPros
- Significantly reduces mirage compared to running a bare suppressor.
- Affordable price point, making it accessible to budget-conscious shooters.
- Easy to install and use, requiring no specialized knowledge.
- Durable 1000D nylon outer shell offers decent abrasion resistance.
- Universal fit, compatible with a wide range of suppressors.
Cons
- Limited sustained heat resistance, with performance diminishing during rapid fire.
- Inner lining may be prone to scorching with heavy use.
- Basic design with limited customization options.
Who Should Buy GPS Tactical Suppressor Cover?
Pros
- Significantly reduces mirage compared to running a bare suppressor.
- Affordable price point, making it accessible to budget-conscious shooters.
- Easy to install and use, requiring no specialized knowledge.
- Durable 1000D nylon outer shell offers decent abrasion resistance.
- Universal fit, compatible with a wide range of suppressors.
Cons
- Limited sustained heat resistance, with performance diminishing during rapid fire.
- Inner lining may be prone to scorching with heavy use.
- Basic design with limited customization options.
The GPS Tactical Suppressor Cover is perfect for casual shooters and recreational range users. It’s great for those who experience mild mirage issues and are looking for an affordable solution. It is a great purchase for those who are not doing mag dumps.
Those who engage in high-volume shooting, such as competitive shooters or tactical training participants, should consider a more robust and heat-resistant cover. Anyone who needs the best possible performance under demanding conditions may be disappointed. Accessories may include a high-heat resistant thread locking compound for the tether.
Conclusion on GPS Tactical Suppressor Cover
The GPS Tactical Suppressor Cover offers a decent value proposition. It reduces mirage at an affordable price. Its budget-friendly nature makes it a reasonable choice for those seeking a simple, effective solution without breaking the bank.
The price is definitely justified for what it offers, a starting point for a great cover. It is significantly better than a bare suppressor. I would personally recommend it to casual shooters.
Overall, the GPS Tactical Suppressor Cover is a functional and reasonably priced accessory. It provides tangible benefits in reducing mirage and offers good value for the money. It’s a worthwhile addition to any shooter’s kit for the right application.
