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SHOP NOWAAC details the design of its Ranger 5 RVP suppressor, focusing on gas mitigation, durability, and IR signature reduction. Bushmaster showcases the revived BA50 .50 BMG rifle and introduces new pistols based on the Bravo Zulu line.
The segment opens on day four of SHOT Show 2025, with the crew feeling the fatigue of the final day but pushing through to hit remaining manufacturers. They set up at the Allen Arms Tactical booth, which is hosting AAC for this interview. The tone is informal and candid, emphasizing that this is the last opportunity to visit certain companies before the show ends. From there, the focus shifts quickly to AAC and what the brand is introducing at the show.
AAC’s representative introduces the new Ranger 5 RVP, a reduced back pressure 5.56 suppressor designed to address gas mitigation trends in the industry. The can uses a double helix gas system built around a baffle stack similar to the older M4-2000, retaining that sound performance while reducing gas. Diamond ports at 90 degrees on the outside of the baffles feed a tube bypass valve. Gas is channeled forward between the tube and baffle stack, then, in the last inch to inch and a half, a counterclockwise spiral spins gas backward and pushes it out through speed holes to lower back pressure.
AAC highlights IR signature reduction as a key feature of the Ranger 5 RVP. Instead of Cerakote, the suppressor is coated with Alphatech from a British company, chosen for its very low infrared signature under night vision. The can is 3D printed, which allows the complex internal spiral geometry that would be difficult and expensive to machine traditionally. It is made from Haynes 282, offering high-pressure performance comparable to Inconel 718, as used in the M4-2000, but with roughly 25–30% more corrosion resistance. AAC emphasizes that the design is intended to survive harsh conditions and high round counts without being a thin, lightweight can that sacrifices longevity.
The Ranger 5 RVP is described as approximately 5.8 inches long and about 13.2 ounces, with AAC stressing that, while not ultra-light, it is built to last. Their R&D sample has around 20,000 rounds through it, primarily on hard-use platforms like the Mk18 and 11.5-inch setups, to validate durability under abusive conditions. The suppressor uses a traditional open hub design compatible with popular mounting systems, including existing QD mounts such as 51T. A direct-thread option is sold separately as a muzzle brake that fits standard 5/8 threads without adding extra length. AAC notes that many included direct-thread mounts end up unused in tackle boxes, so omitting it from the base package helps keep MSRP down. The can is priced at $899 MSRP, with a focus on staying under $1,000 to remain accessible once the tax stamp cost is factored in.
AAC confirms that the Ranger 5 RVP is already shipping rather than being a distant pre-release. Allen Arms Tactical, described as the largest and one of the longest-running NFA distributors in the United States, has inventory on hand. AAC notes that Allen Arms was among the first distributors to pick up the brand years ago and continues to support it. The discussion contrasts this approach with common industry practice where products are announced at SHOT Show but do not reach dealers for several months, causing lost momentum. AAC’s stated goal is to have stock ready at launch so dealers and customers can obtain the suppressor immediately.
The focus shifts to the Bushmaster booth, where the BA50 .50 BMG rifle is on display. Bushmaster explains that the BA50 is a revival of an older model, updated and re-engineered while retaining compatibility with original BA50 magazines. A notable feature is the left-hand bolt action, intended to let the shooter maintain a firing grip and stay locked in behind the rifle while cycling the action, which suits the heavy, static nature of a .50 BMG platform. The rifle has a 29-inch barrel with a three-port brake, includes a GG&G tripod up front, ships with a hard case and one magazine, and uses an adjustable Magpul stock. Retail price is listed at $6,878, excluding the optic.
Bushmaster notes that many shooters question the need for .50 BMG, but the caliber’s value becomes clear in extreme long-range shooting, where it carries significant energy at distance. The BA50 has been used on Bureau of Land Management land in Nevada, with hits reported at one to two miles. The action is described as smoother than earlier versions, with a clean, easy bolt throw that avoids the binding sometimes felt in large bolt guns. A dry-fire demonstration shows a very crisp trigger, which is identified as a two-stage unit. Controls such as the pistol grip, safety, and likely the trigger are familiar to AR-15 users, and the layout keeps the shooter’s support hand free to run the left-hand bolt while maintaining control at the fire controls. The rifle is characterized as both accurate and visually impressive on the range.
The segment closes with a brief look at new Bushmaster pistols. Bushmaster, long associated with AR-pattern rifles, is expanding into pistols built off the Bravo Zulu line, which represents the higher end of its builds. The pistols feature BFI handguards and Magpul furniture, carrying over familiar AR ergonomics into a more compact format. Bushmaster notes that this move into pistols also opens the door for future chamberings such as .22 ARC and other configurations, broadening the company’s product range beyond traditional AR rifles.
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