I’ve been planning a Mk12 clone, but, after considering the cost vs. performance of a true clone, I’ve decided to go with a Mk12 “inspired” rifle instead. I want to stick with the 18" SS barrel, rifle gas, over-the-barrel suppressor concept, but, since this isn’t going to be a true clone anymore, I don’t feel beholden to the Ops Inc 12th/Allen Engineering AEM5 system.
So are there any better options out there for an over-the-barrel suppressor? One model I’ve been looking at lately is the Griffin Armament SPR suppressor.
You may be able to score an old surefire, or KAC reflex…while reflex cans are really popular in Europe. There is a reason why they went out of vogue in the US.
ETA: Allen Engineering is another reflex company. I’m sure there are more out there, but depending how close you want your clone to be, you may be out of luck. I would recommend checking at some MK12 come threads (ARFCOM etc.) And see what guys are doing.
For starters. Having to have barrels profiled is a big PITA, most wouldn’t work too well with with the 13, 15" AR rails that are soo popular nowadays. I think the biggest killers is that QD mounting systems have become more reliable and repeatable and there is no longer a real need for the taper reflex mount.
Allen Engineering does indeed produce the replacement for the Ops Inc. 12th model that was on the Original MK12 Mod 1. Friend of mine built a clone with the Allen can and it looks and functions identical to the Ops can. As other members have said, there are better mounts on the market now if you don’t have the desire to be an “exact” clone. Probably get out cheaper anyway. Good luck!
No barrel profiling or other special prep needed for the Surefire reflex cans; the Griffin reflex cans are most likely the same way. I built an SPR-type rifle using my Surefire can and it worked very well. Reflex cans might be out of vogue, but they are still very capable.
ETA: here are a couple of more recent builds using Surefire reflex mounts…
So my current plan is to go with a Ballistic Advantage barrel and the Allen Engineering AEM5 can/collar setup. ADCO can supply the entire lot for a little more than $800.
This intrigues me, though. What goes into building a suppressor? I imagine it takes more than just sticking an unopened can of Pringles on the muzzle.
The two common routes are freeze plugs and valve spring retainers. The VSRs simply slide in and you have spacer tube cut to the length you need. The FPs need to be shaped into a cone and have holes drilled. I’ve built six so far this year. Less money into all six, including the drill press and 6-ton hydraulic press than some people spend on one commercial can.
Of course, those with a lathe, mill, and/or CNC equipment can make much fancier versions.
All mine use YHM muzzle devices, so I have YHM cans, F1 cans, and even two SiCo Sakers with Y-mounts that can all use the same muzzle devices. I can’t really go reflex unless I had a tube with a massive ID. I know of a source that can make an adapter so you could make a reflex can on a Griffin mount. I’ll go grab a pic and add it here.
ETA: for example…as long as you had a big enough blast chamber, you could make a can that would fit on the short muzzle device and the longer reflex mount:
Thanks for all the awesome information! It looks like I have some research to do about manufacturing my own can(s). Quick question: When do you file the form 1? Before you start construction?
Quick answer file and in hand before starting build. The tube length and everything needs to be planned out so you get correct total length.
My caveat is I’ve been reading up on building one or more for quite some time. And a friend that was a mfg of them for a few years… Until he surrendered his FFL and SOT to the ATF. Have you been to. Silencer talk site? Good loads of info too. Not bashing anyone here in fact quite a few members from here are there too I think.
You definitely have to file early. You’re not supposed to have any “silencer parts” without an approved Form 1. However, there’s nothing illegal about having freeze plugs in your garage, or a piece of tube, etc. You just don’t want to have a complete setup with a bore hole drilled all the way through.
The Form 1 only requires length and caliber. They don’t care about OD, baffle design, number of baffles, etc.
