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Dead Air Sandman S vs Dead Air Sandman X

Dead Air
Sandman
S
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Dead Air Sandman S suppressor Dead Air Sandman X suppressor
Dead Air
Sandman
X
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Dead Air Sandman S
vs
Dead Air Sandman X:

Which Sandman Suppressor Should You Run?

Old reliable pulled from the armory, or the new hotness fresh off the 3D printer? Since 2015, the Dead Air Sandman S has been one of the most trusted multi-role and dedicated .308 rifle suppressors in the shooting community. Recognized for its “bombproof” durability, KeyMo quick-attach system, and balanced performance, the Sandman S has become a go-to option for shooters who want a do-everything 7.62 can.


Now, Dead Air has updated their time-honored design into the Dead Air Sandman X, a next-generation refinement of their proven formula. This advanced design keeps the same toughness and no-barrel-limit while introducing a lighter alloy core, HUB compatibility for multiple mount options, and a slightly wider bore to mitigate back pressure.


For shooters choosing which incarnation of the Sandman deserves a spot on your rifle, this guide walks you through specs, materials, handling, performance, and use cases to give you the clearest picture possible. An informed shooter is a confident shooter, and SilencerShop is dedicated to delivering that confidence.

Jump Ahead

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Dead Air

Sandman
S

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Dead Air

Sandman
X

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Look
Dead Air Sandman S product photo
Dead Air Sandman X product photo
Length
6.8 in
6.9 in (KeyMo) / 6.4 in (Xeno)
Weight
17.7 oz
16.8 oz (KeyMo) / 14.5 oz (Xeno)
Diameter
1.5 in
1.65 in
Core Material
Cobalt-6 / 17-4 SS
Haynes 282 super-alloy
Mount
KeyMo
KeyMo or Xeno (HUB 1.375 × 24)
Energy Rating
4,200 ft-lb (.300 RUM)
4,200 ft-lb (.300 RUM)
Barrel Limits
none
none
Included Device
KeyMo brake
KeyMo brake (Xeno optional)

What’s New in the Sandman X?

Haynes 282 Core for Higher Heat Margin

The Sandman X swaps out the cobalt and stainless steel core used in the Sandman S for Haynes 282, a high-temperature super-alloy also found in aerospace and turbine applications. This material can endure repeated mag dumps and extended full-auto use with less risk of erosion or thermal fatigue. For military and law enforcement (LE) shooters, or civilians who run high-volume training, this is a meaningful upgrade when choosing your specific Sandman suppressor.

Dual-Mount Flex: KeyMo & Xeno (HUB)

The Sandman S is built around KeyMo, Dead Air’s proprietary quick-detach (QD) mounting system, which is excellent for repeatability and rock-solid lockup. The Sandman X, however, adds HUB 1.375 × 24 threading, opening it up to both KeyMo and Xeno (Dead Air’s newest lightweight mounting option), plus third-party HUB systems. That flexibility makes the X a future-proof option for shooters with mixed setups.

Larger 1.65 in Bore for Reduced Back-Pressure

Dead Air widened the bore from 1.5 in on the S to 1.65 in on the X, resulting in less gas trapped in the suppressor and therefore less blowback into the shooter’s face. On AR-pattern platforms, this makes the X noticeably more comfortable for extended sessions, especially unsuppressed-to-suppressed transitions where gas tuning is a concern.

Size, Weight, and Handling

How the S Balances on 16-inch Carbines

At 17.7 ounces and 6.8 inches long, the Sandman S offers a stable shooting experience on a standard 16-inch carbine. It extends overall length, yet keeps balance close to neutral, making it a safe all-around choice for shooters who use both prone and standing positions.

How the X Shrinks Overall Length (OAL) on SBRs with Xeno

The Sandman X trims that length to 6.4 inches with the Xeno mount, while also cutting weight down to just 14.5 ounces. On a short-barreled rifle (SBR) in the 10.3 to 14.5-inch range, this reduction is noticeable. Less front-heavy swing weight makes transitions faster and close-quarters handling more ergonomic.

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Sound & Recoil Performance

The Sandman suppressor series is renowned for its durability, but Dead Air cans are not just about toughness. The Sandman S has long been appreciated for its low tone and significant suppression across calibers from 5.56 NATO to .300 Win Mag.

The Sandman X, with its slightly larger bore, trades a tiny bit of raw suppression for improved gas flow and reduced blowback. However, for many shooters the trade in decibels for shooting comfort and longevity is a more than fair compromise. Additionally, the advanced design of the Sandman X results in an overall quieter shot.

Recoil reduction is also similar between the two, with the included KeyMo brake playing an important role in keeping the rifle flat under fire.

Mounting Experience

The KeyMo system has a reputation for being one of the strongest and most secure QD mounts available. It is simple to attach with one hand, locks up tight, and rarely carbon locks. However, it does require a specialized torque wrench to install.

The Sandman X augments these capabilities with the Xeno mount option, which is tool-less and lighter. The Xeno system uses fewer moving parts and is quickly gaining favor amongst shooters who prioritize weight savings and simplicity for fast detach. Since the X is HUB-threaded, it can also run other 1.375 × 24 systems, which broadens compatibility with rifles you may already have set up for other suppressors.

Durability & Barrel Restrictions

Both the Sandman S and X share the same durability rating: they are approved up to 4,200 foot-pounds of energy. This means they can handle even extreme-pressure cartridges like .300 RUM without restriction.

Both suppressors also have no barrel length restrictions, massively expanding versatility compared to competitors that limit short-barrel use.

Improving on the already excellent performance of the Stellite/Cobalt 6 of the Sandman S, the Haynes 282 alloy in the Sandman X adds extra margin for heat and erosion. This means it should withstand extended rapid fire longer before needing service. Shooters who train hard or run full-auto should consider this a major selling point for the X, further enhancing Dead Air’s reputation for extreme durability.

Price & In-Box Gear

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Dead Air

Sandman
S

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Dead Air

Sandman
X

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MSRP
$849.00
$999.00
Included
KeyMo brake, suppressor, lifetime warranty
KeyMo brake, suppressor, lifetime warranty
Xeno available separately

Which Sandman Should You Buy?

Pick the Sandman S if…

  • You need the slimmer 1.5-inch diameter to clear narrow handguards.
  • All your rifles already use KeyMo brakes and you want full compatibility.
  • You prefer a proven platform with years of field use and positive documentation.

Pick the Sandman X if…

  • You want the latest high-performance materials and mounting tech.
  • You want HUB flexibility to run multiple attachment systems.
  • You want lighter weight and shorter overall length when paired with Xeno.
  • You value reduced gas blowback for more comfortable shooting.

With Both You Get…

  • No barrel length restrictions.
  • The same energy rating up to .300 RUM.
  • The Dead Air lifetime warranty.
  • Free Silencer Shop eForms and transfer perks when purchased through Silencer Shop.

Easy
Peasy

3 simple steps

  1. Find the Silencer

    Add to cart, select your local gun store for pickup, and checkout.

  2. Set Up Profile

    Create your Silencer Shop profile, answer demographic questions, and complete fingerprints at a local dealer.

  3. Sign & Certify

    You'll receive two documents via email. Simply sign and certify — we'll notify you once your application is approved.

Installation & Tuning Tips

  • Torque range for mounts: 25-35 ft/lbs for both with left-hand threads for installation.
  • Consider an adjustable gas block if you want to fine-tune cycling, though both models run reliably without it.
  • End caps can be swapped for caliber-specific versions to further improve sound and tone.

Alternatives to Consider

  • Nomad L and Nomad LTI XC Xeno: For shooters who prioritize tone and maximum suppression over compact size.
  • Sandman L: A longer version in the Sandman line that delivers more dB reduction at the cost of weight and length.
  • Wolverine: An AK-optimized suppressor ideal for use on classic firearms and modern platforms.
  • Check out our full list of 30 Cal Suppressors

Dead Air Sandman S vs Sandman X Suppressor FAQs

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