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The JK Armament 195 VERSAX 12GA suppressor is adjustable and lightweight, with various chokes for versatility. It is designed to bring sound suppression and improved shot pattern management to the world of 12-gauge shotguns. Engineered with innovative features like modular baffles and a patented choke cap system, it caters to hunters, and sport shooters alike. Whether you’re skeet shooting, hunting, or just reducing recoil and noise, this suppressor delivers practical benefits without overcomplicating the weapon system.
Table of contents
Specifications
- Caliber: 12 gauge
- Length: Configurable from 3.75 inches to 8.25 inches
- Weight: 4.3 ounces to 9.3 ounces
- Material: 7075 billet aluminum
- Coating: Type 3 hard anodize
- Finish Options: Black or Flat Dark Earth (FDE)
- Ammo Compatibility: Birdshot (steel and lead), buckshot, and slugs
- Minimum Barrel Length: 14.5 inches
- Included Components:
- JK 195 LT Taper Mount
- JK 195 LT Tube
- Four baffle assemblies
- Cylinder bore choke cap
195 VERSAX Design and Features
At just 9.3 ounces in its full configuration, the suppressor’s lightweight design complements the maneuverability of any shotgun. Its modular construction allows users to adjust the length by adding or removing baffles, which is intuitive and tool-free. While I never removed baffles to run it shorter than it came, the 195 VERSAX remains modular. Also, the FDE finish matched my shotgun perfectly, creating a cohesive look that is also more discrete for hunting.
Another innovative feature is the optional choke cap system, which provides the flexibility to shape shot patterns to suit specific needs. This feature sets the 195 VERSAX apart, making it a strong contender for activities like skeet shooting or bird hunting, where shot pattern consistency is critical. Switching choke caps is straightforward and requires no specialized tools. It only comes with a cylinder choke installed as the end cap, but JK Armament offers 5 total options to best suit your needs.
Aiming to see how these choke end caps work, I shot patterns from 10 yards with three options. The full choke had 80% of the BBs in a 18.5″ group (179 MOA), the modified choke had 80% in a 18.74″ group (179 MOA), and the cylinder choke that came with the suppressor had 80% of the BB’s land in a 25″ group (239 MOA). All of these patterns were shot using 7&1/2 shot using a Beretta 1301 Tactical Mod 2 with a 18.5″ barrel.
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Installation
Installing the suppressor was straightforward. Although JK Armament recommends using blue Loctite and torquing the Choke Replacement Muzzle Device (CRMD) to 155 inch-pounds, I simply hand-tightened it, and it stayed securely in place throughout testing.
The flexibility to swap CRMDs between different shotguns for $179 adds to the suppressor’s versatility, though the need to purchase one separately will increase the overall cost.
195 VERSAX Testing
Pairing the JK Armament 195 VERSAX 12GA suppressor with a Beretta 1301 Tactical Mod. 2 proved to be a rewarding experience across a variety of shooting applications. Over hundreds of rounds—whether skeet shooting or hunting wild pigs with slugs—this suppressor showcased impressive reliability and versatility.
Performance and Reliability
One of the standout attributes of the 195 VERSAX was its consistent cycling performance. Despite the increased back pressure inherent to suppressors, my Beretta 1301 cycled flawlessly. I experienced zero malfunctions, a testament to the suppressor’s and shotguns well-thought-out engineering. The patented baffle design is especially noteworthy for resolving a common issue with other shotgun suppressors: improper shot cup management. It allows wads to pass through smoothly, maintaining consistent patterns without leaving behind plastic debris or causing blowback.
The suppressor’s compatibility with various types of ammunition, including birdshot, buckshot, and slugs, enhanced its versatility. During a pig hunt with slugs, it performed exceptionally well. It allowed my group to communicate easily without ear protection while stalking the pigs and spared our ears from the report of gunfire once the action began.
Sound Suppression of the 195 VERSAX
While JK Armament markets the 195 VERSAX as delivering exceptional sound suppression with its Tone Technology, my experience fell slightly short of those claims. The suppressor doesn’t 100% eliminate the loud pop of a 12-gauge, but it mostly prevented my ears from ringing after shooting. However, the noise level remains uncomfortable for prolonged sessions without hearing protection. For practical uses like hunting, the suppression is adequate, though not ideal for extended shooting.
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For those seeking a more substantial sound reduction, JK Armament offers two longer versions of the 195 VERSAX that might better suit such needs. That said, this model’s lightweight and compact design makes it an excellent choice for hunters, prioritizing maneuverability over maximum suppression.
Summary
The JK Armament 195 VERSAX 12GA suppressor is a solid addition for any shotgun owner looking to reduce recoil and manage sound without compromising reliability or shot pattern consistency. While it doesn’t achieve whisper-quiet suppression, it delivers practical benefits for hunting and sport shooting. Its lightweight design, modular configuration, and compatibility with choke caps make it a unicorn in the growing market of shotgun suppressors.
At $599 for the black model or $659 for the FDE version, the JK Armament 195 VERSAX offers solid value for a 12-gauge suppressor. Adding a CRMD brings the total to about $798, which I believe is competitive for its performance and features.
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is passionate about hunting and competition shooting. During college he was the shooting instructor for Oklahoma State’s Practical Shooting Team, and these days he spends as much time as he can chasing after pigs and coyotes with night vision and thermals. You can follow Mitchell’s adventures over at his Instagram @That_Gun_Guy_
I think I saw one of these in a movie, “No Country for Old Men?” Stay safe. j