Obsidian 9 vs Obsidian 45:
Which Modular Suppressor Fits Your Needs

Suppression Performance & Sound Signature

PEW Science testing shows the Obsidian 9 achieving a Suppression Rating of ~58.3 in full-length configuration and ~30.6 in short configuration. This places it at the top of the 9mm modular category for overall sound reduction and tone smoothness.

In their testing for the Obsidian 45, PEW Science recorded a rating of ~53.7 in long configuration and ~42.3 in short mode when using the .45 end cap. However, this testing was done on the same platform and with the same ammunition, meaning it used 9mm instead of 45 ACP. Tests carried out by The Truth About Guns using 45 ACP reported the Obsidian 45 as one of the quietest 45 silencers on the market, metering in at 129.3 dB.

First Round Pop (FRP)

Both suppressors manage FRP (the louder initial shot) well, thanks to internal gas management and Rugged’s sealed baffle system. While some reports note that the Obsidian 45 may produce more noticeable FRP in short configuration (especially on closed-bolt pistol hosts) this is to be expected given the higher powder loads of supersonic 45 ACP. Conversely, the Obsidian 9 tends to have a smoother tone and less FRP in both configurations.

Sound at Ear vs Muzzle

At-ear comfort is excellent for both, though the Obsidian 9 provides slightly less port noise when mounted on blowback-style PCCs. On subsonic pistol hosts, both deliver comfortable, low-tone sound signatures suitable for extended shooting without hearing protection in outdoor settings.

Handling & Real-World Use

The Obsidian 9 is the lighter, more compact option, particularly noticeable when used on handguns. Its shorter module and reduced weight make it ideal for pistol use, where balance and sight picture are critical. The 4.85-inch short configuration maintains excellent maneuverability and holster-ready suppression, while still offering moderate suppression.

The Obsidian 45, by comparison, balances extremely well on PCCs, .45 ACP handguns, and .300 BLK carbines. The longer length in full configuration gives it better tone depth, and because it can be set up as a quick-detach (QD) its impact on holster carry is minimized.

Mount & Piston Compatibility

One major advantage of Rugged’s ecosystem is cross-compatibility. The Obsidian 9 and 45 share front caps, pistons, and ADAPT modules, making accessory swapping easy between models. For shooters running both calibers, this shared ecosystem reduces cost and simplifies setup.

Maintenance & Serviceability

Both cans feature keyed baffles for easy alignment and disassembly, allowing shooters to clean them without hassle. As the Rugged brand implies, the aluminum tube and stainless baffles hold up well under heavy use (users should avoid ultrasonic cleaning of aluminum components). Finish wear under high round counts is minimal, and both suppressors can be field-stripped for carbon removal.

Material & Construction Differences

Both the Obsidian 9 and Obsidian 45 are built around a stainless steel baffle stack for durability and a hard-coat anodized aluminum tube for reduced weight. Rugged’s keyed baffle system ensures consistent alignment and prevents rotation during firing.

Differences are primarily dimensional rather than structural. The Obsidian 45’s larger internal bore accommodates .45 ACP and .40 S&W, while the Obsidian 9’s tighter geometry optimizes gas expansion for 9mm, resulting in greater suppression efficiency.

Both models feature Rugged’s ADAPT™ modular technology, which allows the shooter to transition between full-length and K configuration in seconds. The modular junction uses a precision-threaded interface that maintains alignment even after repeated assembly and disassembly.

Front Cap Options

Rugged offers optional 9mm and .45 caliber front caps that can slightly fine-tune sound performance. Using a 9mm front cap on an Obsidian 45 improves 9mm suppression by limiting gas escape, though not to the same level as the native Obsidian 9.

Value & Cost of Ownership

At a difference of roughly $80–$100 between models, cost is not the main deciding factor. Instead, value comes from caliber flexibility and performance optimization. The Obsidian 9 gives better noise reduction for shooters focused on 9mm and smaller calibers, while the Obsidian 45 provides flexibility for anyone wanting to suppress both 9mm and .45 hosts.

Accessories & Compatibility

Because both models share an identical mounting system, owners can use the same pistons, boosters, and front caps. Rugged’s lifetime warranty and modular design also contribute to long-term savings and reliability.

If you plan to use your suppressor on multiple guns with different thread pitches or calibers, investing in the Obsidian 45 may provide better overall value due to its larger caliber rating. If you want a resilient modular option optimized for 9mm, choose the Obsidian 9.