Suppressor mirage and POI changes

[Tim K]

Can the mirage from an uncovered suppressor change POI even if you can't see it in the scope?

[Brian]

Hmm, could you say that again - not sure I understood? Are you wondering if an unseen/undetected mirage can affect your aim? Usually the heat is "wavy" or uneven, so you'll notice it, but I suppose it's possible not to notice it and have it affect your POA. POI could be affected by a hot barrel/suppressor or any rotation of course, but I'm sure you knew that already.

[Tim K]

Right, mirage really affects POA, not POI, but the net effect is the same. I'm wondering if the light passing through the mirage created by the can is distorted enough to change POI even if I can see the mirage in the scope.

[Alpha2]

My recollection from a long range class (from someone that would really know) is that mirage from barrel/suppressor would make the target appear to be higher, so POA should be just a bit lower. Makes sense if you think about it.

[Spdu4ia]

I've often wondered how much poi errors are actually poa errors in the first place. Due to many variables but mirage from an uncovered suppressor would definitely do it. I remember reading an article in covered vs uncovered suppressors and it was pretty significant for poi changes just do to the poa perception like you stated already. More importantly what are you trying to do? Thinking of running the gun without the cover for any specific reason that would be more beneficial than the possibility of a poa error?

[Tim K]

No, I just keep forgetting to buy one for the 5" can.

[Brian]

No, I just keep forgetting to buy one for the 5" can.

LOL you and me both. I melted a TAB cover a while back and I always seem to remember I need to get a replacement right when I'm unpacking the rifle at the range.