Dan Wesson announced a new 1911-style pistol called the Discretion. Specifically designed to work with sound suppressors, the Discretion pistols are chambered for the 9mm and .45 ACP calibers.

These guns come with a 5.75″ threaded barrel (and thread protector.) Tall tritium sights are standard and offer enough height to clear virtually any pistol sound suppressor.

The slides are cut, but the barrels are not ported. Dan Wesson included an accessory rail for the addition of a white light, laser or combination unit.

In 9mm, the magazines will hold 10 rounds. Only 8 rounds are held in a .45 ACP magazine. The suggested retail price on these guns (in either caliber) is $2,142.

In recent years, there have been more and more handguns and rifles shipping from the factory with threaded barrels, sights and other features designed to work with sound suppression. While the federal laws in the United States still lump sound suppressors in with other NFA items, several states have loosened restrictions on their possession and use – especially as it relates to hunting.

Few battles are won overnight, but it does seem that their is a rising tide of public acceptance for the common sense hearing protection devices called sound suppressors. Perhaps in the coming years, suppressors will be on the shelf in Walmart next to the muffs and earplugs.