Gear And Accessories
The Banish 12 Shotgun Suppressor, Tested and Reviewed
The Banish 12 Shotgun Suppressor, Tested and Reviewed
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍United States
The Banish 12 is the first truly new shotgun suppressor introduced in recent years, and it has a few things going for it. At just over a pound and 8.5 inches long, its lighter and more compact than the competition. Thats still quite a bit of extra length and weight to add to your shotgun, true. But the tradeoffs might be worth it for certain hunting applications. Engineered with innovative 3-D printing technology, the Banish 12 is crafted from titanium, allowing for a thinner outer wall construction that traps more gas without the bulk of traditional suppressors. This design choice makes it both effective and portable, weighing in at just 17.6 ounces. Costing around $1,199, it includes an attachment system with choke-mounted adaptors, alongside three chokes (IC, M, F) and is available in black or tan finishes. Sound reduction is another critical feature. The Banish 12 has been reported to decrease sound levels by as much as 21 decibels, which may sound like a welcome relief for hunters concerned about hearing safety. An unsuppressed 12 gauge shotgun typically registers around 160 decibels, and while the Banish 12 brings that down to approximately 138 dB, it's still very loud. Field tests indicated that buddies hunting alongside couldnt always detect a difference between suppressed and unsuppressed discharges. The risk of hearing loss from sustained exposure to noise levels above 80 to 90 decibels is well documented, and users are urged to continue using ear protection, especially when using powerful loads. The Banish 12 makes a strong case for reducing overall noise exposure, benefiting not just the shooter, but also their companions and hunting dogs. Beyond sound suppression, the suppressor also helps reduce recoil. While the differences might be subtle during regular dove hunting scenarios, significant relief was noted when patterning heavy loads. Hunters focused on quick, successive shots might welcome the slight dampening the Banish 12 provides, which can mitigate discomfort during long sessions. During field tests, the author used a variety of loads through the suppressor, including Federal Dove and Target as well as steel and bismuth loads. Results from tests at 40 yards highlighted nuances in pattern density. Interestingly, certain loads like the Winchester Xpert No. 2 exhibited a drop in pattern density compared to others like the Boss Warchiefs No. 5s, prompting confirmation from Silencer Central that a point of impact (POI) shift to the left was indeed expected. Importantly, it was noted that using shotshells with Federals Flite Control wads might not yield favorable results due to potential plastic buildup and performance detriments, which are still under scrutiny in the shooting community. As user feedback continues to evolve, potential improvements in the Banish 12s design could address these concerns as demand for effective shotgun suppressors escalates. In conclusion, while the Banish 12 is a relatively niche product, especially aimed at waterfowl hunters, it represents a significant development in firearm suppressor technology. With a dual focus on reducing both sound and recoil, hunters who prioritize stealth and comfort may find this an appealing addition to their gear repertoire. As consumer interest in suppressors grows, the continuous evolution of products like the Banish 12 will likely bring enhanced options to market, addressing the needs of a diverse shooting audience.