Velos LBP 556K: Next-Level Suppressed Shooting
Travis Pike
Our experiences guide our choices. I chose the Velos LBP 556K as my first 5.56 suppressor based on my own experience with a particularly gassy gun and suppressor combo. I’m not in the business of thrashing guns and suppressors from other companies, but SHOT Show 2024 opened my eyes to how gassy some setups can be.
At the Industry Day at the Range, I was eager to try out a new rifle. However, I had to tap out after firing just a few rounds because the gas was so intense that my eyes watered — to the point where I couldn’t see through the optic. This experience was a major influence in my decision to choose the Velos LBP 556K as my first 5.56 suppressor.
What Is Back Pressure in a Suppressor?
The LBP in Velos LBP stands for Low Back Pressure, a crucial feature that reduces or eliminates the gas you get to the face when shooting a suppressed rifle. Suppressors inherently create back pressure by capturing, slowing, and rapidly cooling the gas that propels a projectile. As the gas interacts with the suppressor’s baffles, it needs to go somewhere, seeking the path of least resistance.
In an AR-15, this gas is fed rearward to cycle the bolt and enable semi-automatic function. With a suppressor, the gas tends to escape through gaps in the upper receiver, often right into the shooter’s face.
While the amount of gas can vary based on numerous factors, the key takeaway is that the SilencerCo LBP is designed to minimize this effect. It achieves this by allowing more gas to pass through the front of the suppressor, reducing the amount that goes rearward.
Compact Design in K Model Suppressors
This particular suppressor has a “K”in its name, following “Velos LBP.” In the gun world, K indicates a smaller size. This trend started with the Germans, who used “Kurz” (short) for compact versions, like the 9mm Kurz (.380 ACP) and guns like the PPK, (where K stood for kriminal meaning criminal investigator), and the MP5K. Since then, K universally stands for compact.
The original 5.56 LBP was 5.98 inches long. The newer K model trims it down to 4.67 inches, shedding 2.8 ounces in the proocess. I chose the K model for potential home defense use, as its shorter length is better suited for close-quarters environments.
Beyond home defense, the K model is also ideal for hunting in my area. In Northwest Florida, where the terrain is a mix of rainforest and swamp, maneuvering through tight quarters and dense brush is easier with a shorter weapon.
The trade-off for a shorter suppressor is noise suppression. The original LBP reduces a 5.56 shot to 137.1 dB, while the LBP 556K reduces it to 149.8 dB. This isn’t a major concern for me since the supersonic velocity of the rounds means I’ll need ear protection regardless.
Shooting With the Velos LBP 556K
The Velos LBP 556K has no barrel restrictions and is designed for durability. During testing, I used 62-grain AAC Sabre and Winchester M855 62-grain ammo. From the first shot, I was hooked. The suppressor effectively eliminates gas blowback—I didn’t feel any gas hitting my face or detect any port pop. My ejection patterns stayed consistent, a sign of minimal back pressure.
The harsh crack of the 5.56 round was reduced to an almost cute pop. The sound suppression was fantastic. A range neighbor even remarked, “That’s it?” about the noise. He took a turn and was equally impressed. It was his first time shooting suppressed, and he was hooked, as was I. His AR stayed benched as we took turns with mine.
Another Day, Another Suppressed Range Trip
Benefits of the Velos LBP 556K
- No Gas Blowback
- Excellent Sound Suppression
- No Muzzle Flash
- Reduced Recoil
- Reduced Muzzle Rise
- Full auto-rated with no minimum barrel length requirement
- Easy to install
Advancing Performance With the Velos LBP 556K
The Velos LBP 556K sells itself. SilencerCo has successfully expanded Velos LBP Series with a lighter, shorter suppressor perfect for hunting, home defense, and shooting. While most suppressors improve comfort, the Velos excels with its low back-pressure design and gas-free operation.
Its shorter length minimizes ergonomic impact and adapts easily to specific roles. Built for durability, it can be mounted on super short barrels for a compact, capable setup. Whether it’s your next or first 5.56 suppressor, the Velos LBP 556K has you covered.
