Dead Air Wolverine on the Arsenal SAM7R, Zastava ZPAPM70, and Arsenal SAM7C 7.62x39mm AK-Pattern Rifles with 16.3-in and 12.6-in Barrels

The Wolverine is a 30 caliber centerfire rifle silencer designed by Dead Air Silencers. The Wolverine is intended to suppress weapons originating in the former Soviet Union, including AK-pattern reciprocating rifles, with both semiautomatic and automatic fire; it is a tribute to the Soviet Pribor Besshumnoy Stryelbiy (PBS) silencer system. It has a 1.44-inch forward diameter and is 7.44 inches long. A plethora of thread adapter inserts are available from Dead Air. The adapter inserts are retained by a lock ring and wave spring collar assembly that threads to the silencer body. In this test program, two adapter inserts were used: WV200 (14x1mm LH) for the two 16.3-in barrel host weapon systems, and WV201 (24x1.5mm RH) for the 12.6-in barrel host weapon system. Among the other available inserts, a “HUB” compatible adapter with part number WV211 is also available. Users should note that Wolverine mount collars possess teeth that may help prevent inadvertent thread unscrewing on some AK-pattern systems by interfacing with the front sight block pin. The silencer core and tube are stainless steel, with the baffles constructed of Cobalt-6 (Stellite) alloy. The stainless steel threaded end cap is user-removable and the silencer weighs 24 ounces, as tested. The Dead Air Wolverine can be obtained from Silencer Shop and the Wolverine silencer unit tested in this research program was loaned to the PEW Science Laboratory by Capitol Armory.

The testing and analysis presented in this Sound Signature Review are of the Dead Air Wolverine on three different AK-pattern host rifles:

Arsenal SAM7R 16.3-in barrel milled receiver Bulgarian-pattern import.
Zastava ZPAPM70 16.3-in barrel stamped bulged trunnion receiver Serbian (Yugoslavian-pattern) import.
Arsenal SAM7C 12.6-in barrel milled receiver Bulgarian-pattern import.

All three rifles are chambered in 7.62x39mm. Hornady American Gunner 123gr ammunition was used in the tests. The three different AK-pattern host weapon systems are described in Public Research Supplement 6.200.

Report Table of Contents:

Section 6.201.1 contains an abbreviated overall summary of Dead Air Wolverine rifle silencer performance on all three AK-pattern rifle systems.
Section 6.201.2 contains Wolverine full-size 16.3-in barrel Bulgarian-pattern AK test results and analysis.
Section 6.201.3 contains Wolverine full-size 16.3-in barrel Yugoslavian-pattern AK test results and analysis.
Section 6.201.4 contains Wolverine compact 12.6-in barrel Bulgarian-pattern AK test results and analysis.
Section 6.201.5 repeats overall Suppression Rating comparisons of the Dead Air Wolverine on the three rifles.
Section 6.201.6 contains a report summary and PEW Science laboratory staff opinions.

Summary: When paired with the 16.3-in barrel Arsenal SAM7R and fired with Hornady American Gunner 123gr 7.62x39mm ammunition, the Dead Air Wolverine achieved a Suppression Rating™ of 23.5 in PEW Science testing. With the 16.3-in barrel Zastava ZPAPM70, the Dead Air Wolverine achieved a Suppression Rating of 22.9. With the 12.6-in barrel Arsenal SAM7C, the Dead Air Wolverine achieved a Suppression Rating™ of 18.7.
As with all weapon systems, the user is encouraged to examine both muzzle and ear Suppression Ratings.
Relative Suppression Rating Performance is Summarized in SSS.7 - PEW Science Rankings

6.201.1 Dead Air Wolverine 7.62x39mm AK-Pattern Rifle Performance Summary

With this report, the PEW Science Silencer Sound Standard introduces 7.62x39mm AK-pattern rifle silencer performance evaluation. The test data and analysis herein covers the Dead Air Wolverine. Though this publication of Wolverine performance on three host rifles is the only AK-pattern silencer evaluation currently in the research dataset, the Suppression Ratings can still be compared with other platforms, as it is a universal risk metric. Comprehensive performance Rankings are tabulated in Section 7 of the Standard.

The three chosen AK-pattern rifle host weapons are different. Each of the rifles possesses characteristics inherent to both its design origin and mechanical configuration:

The Bulgarian-pattern rifles possess milled receivers, whereas the Yugoslavian-pattern rifle has a stamped receiver. Construction, thickness, and overall dimensions vary.
The two 16.3-in systems have similar gas system lengths, though the piston design and port specifications may vary.
The 12.6-in barrel system generates higher muzzle blast pressure input into the silencer, but has significantly shorter dwell time than the two 16.3-in barrel systems.

All three of the above host weapon factors influence bystander and operator risk metrics, and therefore influence the Suppression Rating computed at the Silencer Sound Standard measurement locations (MIL-STD), accordingly.

As typical, the risk metrics expressed by Suppression Rating for the unsuppressed cases and the suppressed cases with the Dead Air Wolverine are shown below in Figure 1.

Figure 1. Suppression Rating Comparisons of Dead Air Wolverine Using PEW-SOFT 7.62×39mm Supersonic AK Test Data and PEW Science Analysis

From the above 7.62x39mm AK-pattern rifle performance metrics, it can be concluded that these systems can be significantly hazardous to both the operator and bystanders, even when suppressed. Note the performance metrics presented are only of one silencer, the Dead Air Wolverine. Further AK-pattern rifle testing and analysis with other silencer models is forthcoming.

Several key observations can be made from the above:

The suppression performance, 1.0 m left of the silencer end cap, is relatively similar between the two 16.3-in rifle systems, though not identical. This is to be expected, based upon the system differences previously highlighted, along with the differing precursor and primary muzzle blast propagation behavior examined in Public Research Supplement 6.200. It is expected that most, if not all silencers, will exhibit relatively close muzzle suppression performance between these two systems.
The suppression performance, 6-in right of the shooter’s right ear, is also similar for the two full size rifles. With similar length gas systems, similar mechanical reciprocation, and similar muzzle suppression, this is to be expected. However, it should be noted that operator (shooter’s ear) Suppression Ratings close to 10, as shown above, are very hazardous. This is a consequence of silencer muzzle blast suppression (or lack thereof), silencer back pressure exacerbating breech blast load hazards, and AK-pattern rifle action noise, which is pervasive during several stages of weapon cycling, as presented in this report.
The shorter 12.6-in barrel rifle produces higher free field bystander hazard with the Wolverine, as expected for this type of silencer. Traditional baffle technology typically scales with blast input pressure; there is often (but not always) a somewhat proportional relationship between barrel length and muzzle blast suppression performance. The bystander hazard on the 16.3-in barrel systems is already severe (in the low 20s). With the 12.6-in barrel, the Wolverine exhibits muzzle suppression performance on par with an Energetic Armament ARX (6.82) or Rugged Razor762 (6.58) on a 10.3-in barrel MK18. That level of bystander personnel risk is high. The reader is encouraged to reference the filterable and sortable Rankings Table for additional risk comparisons.
Potentially counterintuitive to the reader is the higher operator (shooter’s ear) Suppression Rating with the Wolverine on the shorter 12.6-in barrel system, when compared to that of the two 16.3-in barrel systems. This occurs despite the greater muzzle blast hazard. The primary driver of this hazard decrease (higher shooter’s ear Suppression Rating) is lower breech blast hazard. The shorter dwell time of the 12.6-in barrel rifle pays significant dividends in reducing that phenomenon, especially with the Dead Air Wolverine, which is not a low back pressure silencer. The lower ejection port (breech) blast hazard is also visible in the slightly higher unsuppressed shooter’s ear Suppression Rating for that rifle. Unsuppressed muzzle blast is of significant risk.

The detailed 7.62x39mm AK-pattern rifle evaluations of the Dead Air Wolverine silencer follows.

6.201.2 Dead Air Wolverine 16.3-in Barrel Bulgarian AK-Pattern Rifle Sound Signature Test Results

A summary of the principal Silencer Sound Standard performance metrics of the Dead Air Wolverine on the 16.3-in barrel Arsenal SAM7R Bulgarian AK-pattern rifle is shown in Table 1. The data acquired 1.0 m (39.4 in) left of the muzzle is available for viewing to all. The data acquired 0.15 m (6 in) right of the shooter’s ear is only available to membership supporters of PEW Science and the Silencer Sound Standard. You can support public PEW Science testing, research, and development with a membership, here. State-of-the-art public firearm sound signature testing and research conducted by PEW Science is supported by readers like you.

Table 1. Dead Air Wolverine 16.3-in Bulgarian AK Sound Metric Summary

6.201.2.1 SOUND SIGNATURES AT THE MUZZLE

Real sound pressure histories from a 6-shot test acquired with PEW-SOFT™ are shown below. Six cartridges were loaded into the magazine, the fire control group positioned to single-shot, and the weapon was fired until the magazine was empty. Only five shots are considered in the analysis. The signatures of Shot 6 are displayed in the data presentation but are not included in the analysis to maintain consistency with the overall PEW Science public dataset and bolt-closing signatures. The waveforms are not averaged, decimated, or filtered. The data acquisition rate used in all PEW Science laboratory sound signature testing is 1.0 MS/s (1 MHz). The peaks, shape, and time phasing (when the peaks occur in relation to absolute time and to each other) of these raw waveforms are the most accurate of any firearm silencer testing publicly available. PEW-SOFT data is acquired by PEW Science independent laboratory testing; the recognized industry leader in silencer sound research. For more information, please consult the Silencer Sound Standard.

The primary sound signature pressure histories for all 6 shots with the Dead Air Wolverine are shown in Figure 2a. The sound signatures of Shot 1 and Shot 2 are shown in Figure 1b, in early time. The real sound impulse (momentum transfer potential) histories from the same 6-shot test are shown in Figure 3a. In Figure 3b, a shorter timescale is shown comparing the impulse of Shot 1 to that of Shots 2 and 3.

Fig 2a. Dead Air Wolverine 7.62×39mm 16.3-in barrel Bulgarian AK Muzzle Sound Pressure Signature

Fig 2b. Dead Air Wolverine 7.62×39mm 16.3-in barrel Bulgarian AK Sound Pressure Signature

Figure 3a. Dead Air Wolverine 7.62×39mm 16.3-in barrel Bulgarian AK Muzzle Sound Impulse Signature

Figure 3b. Dead Air Wolverine 7.62×39mm 16.3-in barrel Bulgarian AK Muzzle Sound Impulse Signature

The Dead Air Wolverine is a modern tribute to the Soviet Pribor Besshumnoy Stryelbiy (PBS) silencer system [English: “Device for Noiseless Shooting"]. Unlike the original PBS silencer design(s) the Wolverine uses modern baffle technology, materials, and construction. However, when compared to the current state of the art, the Wolverine’s internal design is relatively conventional. The notched curved and stepped baffle geometry, with overbore to assist with the reduction of baffle strikes from AK-pattern rifle non-concentric bore threading issues, produces measured blast overpressure loads in the free field that are relatively high.

The free field blast pressure and impulse signatures presented above display the following attributes:

Peak blast overpressure amplitude is relatively high, there is defined bolt carrier group (BCG) impact at the end of its first path of travel, and BCG return occurs in relatively late time (Fig. 2a).
Defined first precursor and coupled jet formation is present in all shots, with significant post-couple jetting (Fig. 2b).
First-round-pop (FRP) combustion diverges early, with rapid momentum accumulation, and ancillary jetting continues until primary accumulation decay relative to subsequent shots. Secondary jetting onset happens throughout the string (Fig. 3b).

PEW Science Research Note 1: Relative AK-platform suppression performance comparisons are somewhat spurious in the absence of further test data and analysis, which is forthcoming. Nonetheless, there are clear behavioral traits shown in the above measured data and inferences that can be made when examining the silencer internals. It is likely that the Dead Air Wolverine can be characterized with a moderate Omega Metric but with restrictive early-time flow rate (high alpha parameter). The rate of rise to measured maximum positive phase impulse is moderate and the system does not possess significant early porting or other apparent advanced flow control.

There is a distinct secondary onset of jet momentum shown in the impulse histories (Fig. 2). Further research is needed for characterization.

PEW Science Research Note 2: Relative cross-platform comparisons of bystander and shooter risk are possible with the PEW Science Suppression Rating. The following systems exhibit similar risk to bystanders to the Wolverine on the Arsenal SAM7R 7.62x39mm AK-pattern rifle, 1.0 meter left of the silencers’ end caps:

PEW Science Research Note 3: It is extremely important for the reader to understand the Suppression Ratings are computed with free field test data, and are therefore universal when translating the weapon and operator to different environments without reflections. However, when the environment becomes complex with many reflecting surfaces, performance translation of different systems is not yet possible; sound field shapes and particle velocities result in varied blast wave time-of-arrivals, as well as changes of blast load angles of incidence; these variations change amplitude and phase waveform components. As a result of these inevitable environmental complexities, user impressions will vary, as both the shooter and bystander. Nonetheless, hazard reduction efficacy in the free field, as characterized by the Suppression Rating, holds. The Suppression Rating comparisons are the current state-of-the-art, and the most “apples to apples” sound suppression performance comparisons that currently exist. Further research is ongoing.

PEW Science Research Note 4: As in all semiautomatic weapon testing, a second pressure pulse originates from the ejection-port signature of the weapon and it occurs early enough in time such that its waves coalesce with that of the muzzle signature. However, in late time (at approximately 112 ms in Figure 1a) the mechanical noise of the bolt closing is observed. The pressure signature of Shot 6 also displays this event because this AK platform does not posses a “bolt hold open” feature after the sixth and final round is fired from the magazine.

PEW Science Research Note 5: The closing time of reciprocating systems is often directly related to the flow restriction of a silencer for a given weapon system. PEW Science has determined bolt closing time variation from the unsuppressed state to be a reliable indicator of silencer back pressure, with strong correlation with the PEW Science Back Pressure Metric, Omega and the alpha parameter. However, PEW Science has also determined that the indicator is unreliable upon upper receiver fouling. Sound signatures are not influenced by this fouling, as these kinematics occur in late time, after gas venting to atmosphere. Momentum transfer, weapon condition (upper receiver fouling), and other factors, can significantly influence bolt closing time. PEW Science urges the reader to exercise extreme caution if using the published bolt closing time to make determinations regarding silencer flow restriction (back pressure) or weapon system kinematics. This type of calculation may provide erroneous results, as the weapon condition at the time of each test is not published data. The time-scale duration showing bolt closing time is only published by PEW Science such that the signature data pedigree may be verified.

The shape, timing, and magnitudes of the early-time pressure pulses and overall shape of the impulse waveforms measured at the muzzle, from shot-to-shot, are relatively consistent. The consistency of the waveform amplitudes highlight the silencer’s overall sound performance consistency at the muzzle after the FRP, as well as the relative consistency of the tested automatic rifle firearm configuration.

As typically indicated, first-round sound signatures always differ from subsequent shots, as the atmosphere within the silencer changes. The FRP phenomenon cannot always be shown by viewing only the peak sound pressure. This is one of the reasons why The Silencer Sound Standard requires examining multiple sound signature metrics. Ammunition consistency can play a role in the determination of FRP, however, the close examination of measured pressure and impulse waveforms typically excludes ammunition from the possible factors influencing true FRP, due to the relative consistency of most high quality factory ammunition.

PEW Science Research Note 6: Note that the muzzle Suppression Rating of the Dead Air Wolverine on this 16.3-in AK-pattern rifle is 23.1 and the at-ear Suppression Rating is 10.6; the same zone on the Suppression Rating Dose Chart. The significant muzzle blast from the Wolverine, along with its back pressure, contribute to a severe operator hazard on the standard 16.3-in Bulgarian-pattern AK rifle.

The signatures measured at the shooter’s ear are presented and analyzed in the full Member Version of this report.

The evaluation in this section covered the performance of the Wolverine silencer on a Bulgarian-pattern AK rifle with 16.3 inch barrel. For completeness, the Yugoslavian-pattern AK rifle performance is presented in the following section, followed by 12.6-in barrel Bulgarian performance in the next section.

6.201.3 Dead Air Wolverine 16.3-in Barrel Serbian (Yugoslavian) AK-Pattern Rifle Sound Signature Test Results

A summary of the principal Silencer Sound Standard performance metrics of the Dead Air Wolverine on the 16.3-in barrel Zastava ZPAPM70 Serbian (Yugoslavian) AK-pattern rifle is shown in Table 2. The data acquired 1.0 m (39.4 in) left of the muzzle is available for viewing to all. The data acquired 0.15 m (6 in) right of the shooter’s ear is only available to membership supporters of PEW Science and the Silencer Sound Standard. You can support public PEW Science testing, research, and development with a membership, here. State-of-the-art public firearm sound signature testing and research conducted by PEW Science is supported by readers like you.

Table 2. Dead Air Wolverine 7.62×39mm 16.3-in barrel Yugoslavian AK Sound Metric Summary

6.201.3.1 SOUND SIGNATURES AT THE MUZZLE

The primary sound signature pressure histories for all 6 shots with the Dead Air Wolverine are shown in Figure 6a. The sound signatures of Shot 1 and Shot 2 are shown in Figure 6b, in early time. The real sound impulse (momentum transfer potential) histories from the same 6-shot test are shown in Figure 7a. In Figure 7b, a shorter timescale is shown comparing the impulse of Shot 1 to that of Shots 2 and 3.

Fig 6a. Dead Air Wolverine 7.62×39mm 16.3-in barrel Yugoslavian AK Muzzle Sound Pressure Signature

Fig 6b. Dead Air Wolverine 7.62×39mm 16.3-in barrel Yugoslavian AK Sound Pressure Signature

Fig 7a. Dead Air Wolverine 7.62×39mm 16.3-in barrel Yugoslavian AK Muzzle Sound Impulse Signature

Fig 7b. Dead Air Wolverine 7.62×39mm 16.3-in barrel Yugoslavian AK Muzzle Sound Impulse Signature

Much of the same behavior observed from the Wolverine on the 16.3-in Bulgarian AK is again observed on the 16.3-in Serbian (Yugoslavian) system. However, there are some differences:

The Yugoslavian-pattern rifle exhibits somewhat higher muzzle blast amplitude with somewhat lower intensity BCG reciprocation noise.
The Wolverine produces extreme FRP jetting on both weapon systems, but post-FRP combustion propagation differs. With the Yugoslavian system, post-FRP momentum has more expedient onset and secondary accumulation is somewhat more consistent and less severe.

PEW Science Research Note 9: It is likely that most silencers fielded on the Bulgarian and Yugoslavian system will result in similar bystander risk metrics, as long as primary operational parameters are maintained (same barrel length, gas system, furniture configurations, etc). This is a potential subject of future research.

The Dead Air Wolverine bystander suppression performance and risk analysis is similar to that presented in the previous section. Operator location measurements and analysis with the Yugoslavian-pattern system are presented in the full Member Version of this report.

The dwell time reduction example, albeit with a shorter barrel producing more severe muzzle blast, is presented below with a 12.6-in Bulgarian system.

6.201.4 Dead Air Wolverine 12.6-in Barrel Bulgarian AK-Pattern Rifle Sound Signature Test Results

A summary of the principal Silencer Sound Standard performance metrics of the Dead Air Wolverine on the 12.6-in barrel Arsenal SAM7C Bulgarian AK-pattern rifle is shown in Table 3. The data acquired 1.0 m (39.4 in) left of the muzzle is available for viewing to all. The data acquired 0.15 m (6 in) right of the shooter’s ear is only available to membership supporters of PEW Science and the Silencer Sound Standard. You can support public PEW Science testing, research, and development with a membership, here. State-of-the-art public firearm sound signature testing and research conducted by PEW Science is supported by readers like you.

Table 3. Dead Air Wolverine 7.62×39mm 12.6-in barrel Bulgarian AK Sound Metric Summary

6.201.4.1 SOUND SIGNATURES AT THE MUZZLE

The primary sound signature pressure histories for all 6 shots with the Dead Air Wolverine are shown in Figure 10a. The sound signatures of Shot 1 and Shot 2 are shown in Figure 10b, in early time. The real sound impulse (momentum transfer potential) histories from the same 6-shot test are shown in Figure 11a. In Figure 11b, a shorter timescale is shown comparing the impulse of Shot 1 to that of Shots 2 and 3.

Fig 10a. Dead Air Wolverine 7.62×39mm 12.6-in barrel Bulgarian AK Muzzle Sound Pressure Signature

Fig 10b. Dead Air Wolverine 7.62×39mm 12.6-in barrel Bulgarian AK Muzzle Sound Pressure Signature

Fig 11a.Dead Air Wolverine 7.62×39mm 12.6-in barrel Bulgarian AK Muzzle Sound Impulse Signature

Fig 11b. Dead Air Wolverine 7.62×39mm 12.6-in barrel Bulgarian AK Muzzle Sound Impulse Signature

The characteristic performance of the Dead Air Wolverine design is explicitly highlighted in the above test data due to the shorter barrel length and more severe muzzle blast load input. The conventional baffle geometry and overbore, with no stagnation relief, produces significant muzzle blast with rapid free field blast momentum accumulation. The following behaviors are noted:

Defined precursors are persistent with extremely severe FRP positive phase coupled jetting (Fig. 10).
There is a defined ramped-onset (almost centrally-peaked) primary positive phase blast jet formation post-FRP (Fig. 10b). When viewed in context with (1) and the combined positive phase duration and rarefaction of the first shot, simple baffle stack propagation is evident. No advanced flow paths are present for FRP quench and brute-force suppression is handicapped by over-bore.
There exists a greater degree of consistency in the propagation (Fig 11a) that is likely mostly due to the pervasive high pressure jet momentum from the 12.6-in barrel saturating the stack.

Comparing the 16.3-in Arsenal system to this 12.6-in system with the Dead Air Wolverine:

Blowdown is similar, though lack of stagnation relief results in a somewhat steeper curve with higher pressure input.
BCG receiver impact on the rear stroke is somewhat delayed with the short-barrel system. This may be due to the internal blast load piston system impulse available; it is reduced due to the shorter dwell time.

PEW Science Research Note 11: There are potential behavioral improvements when utilizing the shorter barrel Arsenal rifle with shorter dwell time. However, with the Dead Air Wolverine, blast overpressure risk to bystanders is elevated. The bystander (muzzle) Suppression Rating drops from an already hazardous 23.1 to 16.7. Again, this is a consequence of the interaction of more severe blast load input and the silencer’s relatively primitive design (by today’s standards, compared to the state of the art).

PEW Science Research Note 12: Again, note that the muzzle Suppression Rating of the Dead Air Wolverine on this 12.6-in AK-pattern rifle is 16.7 and the at-ear Suppression Rating is 13.0; the same zone on the Suppression Rating Dose Chart. The significant muzzle blast from the Wolverine, along with its back pressure, contribute to a severe operator hazard on the standard 12.6-in Bulgarian-pattern AK rifle. Interestingly, the operator Suppression Rating increased from the 10.6 calculated with the 16.3-in Bulgarian rifle. This is largely due to reduced dwell time reducing the severity of ejection port (breech) blast loads.

The signatures measured at the shooter’s ear are presented and analyzed in the full Member Version of this report.

The initial summary from the beginning of the report is repeated below, with more information.

6.201.5 Suppression Rating Comparison (5.56x45mm from the MK18)

Figure 14 presents a comparison of the PEW Science Suppression Rating of the Dead Air Wolverine silencer on three different AK-pattern rifles. The standard PEW Science AK-pattern test host weapon systems are described in Public Research Supplement 6.200.

Figure 14. Suppression Rating Comparisons of Dead Air Wolverine Using PEW-SOFT 7.62×39mm Supersonic AK Test Data and PEW Science Analysis

From the above 7.62x39mm AK-pattern rifle performance metrics, it can be concluded that these systems can be significantly hazardous to both the operator and bystanders, even when suppressed. Note the performance metrics presented are only of one silencer, the Dead Air Wolverine. Further testing and analysis with other silencer models is forthcoming.

Several key observations can be made from the above:

The suppression performance, 1.0 m left of the silencer end cap, is relatively similar between the two 16.3-in rifle systems, though not identical. This is to be expected, based upon the system differences previously highlighted, along with the differing precursor and primary muzzle blast propagation behavior examined in Public Research Supplement 6.200. It is expected that most, if not all silencers, will exhibit relatively close muzzle suppression performance between these two systems. Relative cross-platform comparisons of bystander and shooter risk are possible with the PEW Science Suppression Rating. The following systems exhibit similar risk to bystanders to the Wolverine on the Arsenal SAM7R 7.62x39mm AK-pattern rifle, 1.0 meter left of the silencers’ end caps:
The suppression performance, 6-in right of the shooter’s right ear, is also similar for the two full size rifles. With similar length gas systems, similar reciprocation, and similar muzzle suppression, this is to be expected. However, it should be noted that operator (shooter’s ear) Suppression Ratings close to 10, as shown above, are very hazardous. This is a consequence of silencer muzzle blast suppression (or lack thereof), silencer back pressure exacerbating ejection port blast load hazards, and AK-pattern rifle action noise, which is pervasive during several stages of weapon cycling, as presented in this report. The Dead Air Wolverine produces the highest operator risk of any published suppressed system in the Standard, on the full size AK rifles. The risk to the operator is higher than the following very hazardous examples:
The shorter 12.6-in barrel rifle produces higher free field bystander hazard with the Wolverine, as expected for this type of silencer. Traditional baffle technology typically scales with blast input pressure; there is often (but not always) a somewhat proportional relationship between barrel length and muzzle blast suppression performance. The bystander hazard on the 16.3-in barrel systems is already severe (in the low 20s). With the 12.6-in barrel, the Wolverine exhibits muzzle suppression performance on par with an Energetic Armament ARX (6.82) or Rugged Razor762 (6.58) on a 10.3-in barrel MK18. That level of bystander personnel risk is high. The reader is encouraged to reference the filterable and sortable Rankings Table for additional risk comparisons.
Potentially counterintuitive to the reader is the higher operator (shooter’s ear) Suppression Rating with the Wolverine on the shorter 12.6-in barrel, when compared to that of the two 16.3-in barrel systems. This occurs despite the greater muzzle blast hazard. The primary driver of this hazard decrease (higher shooter’s ear Suppression Rating) is lower ejection port blast hazard. The shorter dwell time of the 12.6-in barrel rifle pays significant dividends in reducing that phenomenon, especially with the Dead Air Wolverine, which is not a low back pressure silencer. The lower ejection port (breech) blast hazard is also visible in the slightly higher unsuppressed shooter’s ear Suppression Rating for that rifle. Unsuppressed muzzle blast is of significant risk.

PEW Science Research Note 13: The Soviet AK-pattern rifle family may be suppressed by a variety of rifle silencer technologies. While historical precedent exists in aesthetics of design, mount system retention, and other characteristics, it is likely that the demanding (and hazardous) nature of the platform may be best suited with more advanced technologies than possessed by the Dead Air Wolverine, if the goal is maximizing personnel risk reduction.

As detailed in this report, signature suppression at the operator’s head is a function of both muzzle and ejection port signatures from AK-pattern weapon systems, as well as action noise components. Specific weapon system parameters, such as dwell time, can significantly influence operator risk.

Small arm weapon system suppression performance is a spectrum. The PEW Science Suppression Rating and the Silencer Sound Standard help quantify this spectrum for end users and industry, objectively.

6.201.6 Review Summary: Dead Air Wolverine on the Arsenal SAM7R, Zastava ZPAPM70, and Arsenal SAM7C 7.62x39mm AK-Pattern Rifles with 16.3-in and 12.6-in Barrels

When paired with the 16.3-in barrel Arsenal SAM7R and fired with Hornady American Gunner 123gr 7.62x39mm ammunition, the Dead Air Wolverine achieved a Suppression Rating™ of 23.5 in PEW Science testing. With the 16.3-in barrel Zastava ZPAPM70, the Dead Air Wolverine achieved a Suppression Rating of 22.9. With the 12.6-in barrel Arsenal SAM7C, the Dead Air Wolverine achieved a Suppression Rating™ of 18.7.

As with all weapon systems, the user is encouraged to examine both muzzle and ear Suppression Ratings.

PEW Science Laboratory Staff Opinion:

The Dead Air Wolverine is a modern tribute to the Soviet Pribor Besshumnoy Stryelbiy (PBS) silencer system and is intended to suppress weapons of Soviet origin, such as several AK-pattern rifle variants with semiautomatic and automatic fire. Unlike the original PBS silencer design(s) the Wolverine uses modern baffle technology, materials, and construction. However, when compared to the current state of the art, the Wolverine’s internal design is relatively conventional. The signature suppression performance of the Wolverine, and its personnel hazard reduction, is relatively low when compared to many modern rifle silencers.

The Wolverine possesses several AK-platform-specific design features, such as overbore to assist with the reduction of baffle strikes from AK-pattern rifle non-concentric bore threading issues. This design feature also produces measured blast overpressure loads in the free field that are relatively high. The system also possesses mount features that index with the front sight post pins on several systems, preventing inadvertent unscrewing; a welcome feature to many AK weapon enthusiasts.
It is likely that the Dead Air Wolverine can be characterized with moderate back pressure. Test data and analysis indicates it contributes to relatively severe ejection port (breech) blast when compared to more advanced designs. If personnel risk reduction is the primary goal, the user may be better suited with other technologies.
Three host weapons were used in this research program; a major finding is that the shorter dwell time of the shortest barrel AK-platform rifle reduced operator risk, despite more severe muzzle blast propagation from the Wolverine. This conclusion is significant.
Future AK-platform suppression performance publications are forthcoming. For now, relative cross-platform comparisons of bystander and shooter risk are possible with the PEW Science Suppression Rating. Systems exhibiting similar risk to bystanders to the Wolverine on the Arsenal SAM7R 7.62x39mm AK-pattern rifle include the Griffin Armament Explorr EX3 on a 20-in .308 Bolt-Action Rifle, the KAC 556 QDC/CRS-PRT with 3-Prong or MAMS on a 10.3-in 5.56 NATO MK18, the Surefire SOCOM762-RC2 with a WARCOMP mount on a 20-in .308 Bolt-Action Rifle, and the Thunder Beast Dominus-SR on a 10.3-in 5.56 NATO MK18. It should be noted that operator (shooter’s ear) Suppression Ratings close to 10 are very hazardous. This is a consequence of silencer muzzle blast suppression (or lack thereof), silencer back pressure exacerbating ejection port (breech) blast load hazards, and AK-pattern rifle action noise, which is pervasive during several stages of weapon cycling, as presented in this report. The Dead Air Wolverine produces the highest operator risk of any published suppressed system in the Standard, on the full size AK rifles. With the 12.6-in barrel, the Wolverine exhibits muzzle suppression performance on par with an Energetic Armament ARX or Rugged Razor762 on a 10.3-in barrel MK18. That level of bystander personnel risk is high. The reader is encouraged to reference the filterable and sortable Rankings Table for additional risk comparisons.
A plethora of Wolverine thread adapter inserts are available from Dead Air for mounting on a variety of AK-platform weapons. HUB-compatible mounting is also possible with the requisite adapter. The silencer’s construction is conducive to severe firing schedules and fully automatic fire should be performed in accordance with manufacturer directive of both the silencer and the chosen weapon system.
In this review, the Dead Air Wolverine performance metrics depend upon suppressing a supersonic centerfire rifle cartridge on three AK-pattern gas-operated rifles, which is an incredibly difficult task. PEW Science encourages the reader to remain vigilant with regard to all supersonic centerfire rifle suppression claims. The gas volume and combustion products created by the firing of the supersonic 7.62x39mm cartridge are significant; the measured pressure and impulse magnitudes, and their durations, illustrate this fact. Silencer performance on automatic (reciprocating) rifles depends on many factors. Weapon configuration may significantly influence total suppressed small arm system performance.
The hearing damage potential of supersonic centerfire rifle use is significant. PEW Science encourages the reader to consider the Suppression Rating when deciding on an appropriate silencer and host weapon combination for their desired use.

PEW Science

PEW Science

Silencer Sound Standard

PEW Science

Sound Signature Review™ (Free Version)

SSS.6.201 - Dead Air Wolverine and 7.62x39mm Automatic AK-Pattern Rifles (Free Version)

Dead Air Wolverine on the Arsenal SAM7R, Zastava ZPAPM70, and Arsenal SAM7C 7.62x39mm AK-Pattern Rifles with 16.3-in and 12.6-in Barrels

6.201.1 Dead Air Wolverine 7.62x39mm AK-Pattern Rifle Performance Summary

6.201.2 Dead Air Wolverine 16.3-in Barrel Bulgarian AK-Pattern Rifle Sound Signature Test Results

6.201.2.1 SOUND SIGNATURES AT THE MUZZLE

6.201.3 Dead Air Wolverine 16.3-in Barrel Serbian (Yugoslavian) AK-Pattern Rifle Sound Signature Test Results

6.201.3.1 SOUND SIGNATURES AT THE MUZZLE

6.201.4 Dead Air Wolverine 12.6-in Barrel Bulgarian AK-Pattern Rifle Sound Signature Test Results

6.201.4.1 SOUND SIGNATURES AT THE MUZZLE

6.201.5 Suppression Rating Comparison (5.56x45mm from the MK18)

6.201.6 Review Summary: Dead Air Wolverine on the Arsenal SAM7R, Zastava ZPAPM70, and Arsenal SAM7C 7.62x39mm AK-Pattern Rifles with 16.3-in and 12.6-in Barrels

PEW Science Laboratory Staff Opinion:

PEW Science

Silencer Sound Standard™

PEW Science Membership

Manufacturers, Distributors, and Dealers

More Information