The Design
The Sandman X isn’t just a re-released product. It represents the merger of a popular design with new manufacturing processes. As suppressor manufacturing shifts toward 3D printing and stronger metal mixes, the new Sandman X is as modern as it gets.
With 3D printing, companies can introduce more complex designs and more intricate baffle layouts. Dead Air’s new Triskelion baffle design, which also was included in its Mojave 9 and Lazarus 6 cans, helps spin the gas forward and push it out the muzzle.
Since they are all one piece and lack the weak points in the welds, 3D-printed suppressors are stronger than welded cans. The Sandman X is constructed of Haynes 282, a metal mix used in rocket nozzles. This is a heavy use, full-auto rated suppressor with no barrel length restrictions. Rated up to .300 RUM, this suppressor is designed to handle 4,200 ft. lbs. of pressure at the muzzle.
The end cap of the Sandman X has a formed cone to help eliminate flash along with vent holes, all of which works to push the gas forward to prevent gas from building up in the shooter’s face.
Additionally, the Sandman X is fitted with either the Keymo or Xeno QD attachment system. While Keymo is tried and true, the advantage of the new Xeno connect system is that the suppressor and muzzle device are reverse-threaded to the muzzle device and barrel. So, if there is carbon lock on the suppressor and muzzle device, the reverse thread will ensure the muzzle device does not loosen while trying to remove the suppressor from the muzzle device.
Performance
I have a good bit of shooting experience with the Sandman X, both practical and on the range, with a PTR-91 and an H&K MR762A1. These two .308 Winchester platforms offer different gas systems and two different shooting experiences, but the consistency of performance between the platforms with the Sandman X is impressive.
On the range, the Sandman X drastically reduces the sound signature and the recoil. While the supersonic crack of the .308 round is still present, it is amazing to hear the difference that a can makes on a full-power rifle cartridge.
Along with that, the Triskelion design does an excellent job of reducing backpressure and the pathogens that the shooter inhales. Even during rapid fire, the suppressor stays consistent in reducing that back gas.
Hunting with the Sandman X
From a practical standpoint, I took this suppressor hog hunting in Texas with the folks from the National Association for Gun Rights. I harvested several feral hogs with this suppressor on the MR762A1. That experience highlights the benefits of a suppressor, especially when hunting near other people.
All things considered, you need to be able to hear your surroundings during a hunt, which often means people don’t wear hearing protection. But the moment hogs appear, shooters are ripping off five to six rounds each – enough to easily cause hearing damage. That is, if you are not using a can.
