By Dave Bahde
Dependable performance under the harshest of conditions
The term “workhorse” is overused these days, often outside of context. Its original meaning, a horse you could depend on for your livelihood, or if even your very life depended on it. Maybe not the prettiest or fastest, but the one you knew would get the job done no matter what. Surefire’s SOCOM series, especially the RC2 in 5.56mm is a perfect example of this concept. It’s not the lightest, nor is it heavy. Quiet enough for the real world, but not the most-quiet. But, it works, every time, on everything you put it on. Perfect for the warfighter it was built for.
Surefire’s SOCOM Series suppressors defined the simple, reliable, and dependable rifle suppressor for the police or military user. Compact with minimal weight they mitigated first round flash, dust signatures, and included fail-safe baffles with strong and rigid quick-detach systems. The SCOCOM 2 Series improved on this, offering less weight, less back pressure, and minimal impact shift with removal and re-attachment. Constructed of high-temperature alloys and stainless steel they are full-auto rated and are continuing to see extensive use in the field amongst Special Mission Units and law enforcement. Designed for 5.56mm carbines with a 10.5-inch-barrel or longer, they have proven to be true workhorses on M4/M16-based rifles.
Coupled with their Warcomp flash-hider/muzzle brake the RC2 offers substantial versatility. Flash suppression is excellent with moderate recoil mitigation and little muzzle blast at the shooter or anyone close. Attaching the suppressor results in very little impact shift while maintaining reliability. All suppressors shift some, but the Surefire SOCOM RC-2 does so with repeatability. Given practical distances you can pack your rifle unsuppressed, attach when needed and feel confident in your zero—critical in a self-defense or duty rifle.
