The German Army is acquiring a new suppressor for the currently fielded .338 Lapua G29 precision rifle in use by the infantry’s snipers. The device was produced in a joint collaboration between Brugger and Thomet and the maker of the G29 (civilian RS9) C.G. Haenel GmbH. If the suppressor is ever released to the public or at least to other military/LE entities it will probably only have the capability of mounting to an RS9 because of the proprietary muzzle brake. In order to cut down on weight, the brake is fabricated out of aluminum, an interesting choice given that it will need to withstand high amounts of heat. However, the suppressor did pass the Bundeswehr’s trials of at least surpassing 2,000 rounds shot through it. The Jane’s report highlights the suppressor weight as 628 grams, however the Haenel website highlights it as 580 grams. The difference might be measured with the muzzle brake or perhaps a shroud protecting it that adds additional weight.

From the Jane’s report–

In order to achieve this, the Monoblock suppressor combines new internal geometrics through its six chambers with an improved crown design cap to ensure minimal muzzle flash and sound suppression registered at 31 dB for a .338 LM round. The suppressor is fitted over the G29 muzzle break, extending the length of the rifle by 222 mm, which creates a seventh chamber to further improve sound and flash suppression.

B&T representatives confirmed to Jane’s that the tender also required the Monoblock to be lightweight in comparison to other suppressors, and as such they opted for aluminium over the inconel and termex mix found on other B&T suppressors. This has allowed the suppressor to weigh in at 652 g. Despite the choice of aluminium, B&T say that the suppressor exceeds the 2,000-round service life requested by the Bundeswehr.

For German snipers, this will be the first time their G29 is becoming suppressed as it was earlier adopted without mention of a suppressor. Working with suppressors brings many advantages but also certain challenges that troops have to train for and accommodate.