Cord-wrapping

Cord-wrapping is a process in which a person wraps a suppressor (or any other kind of noise suppression device) in cloth, usually using some form of cords. Whilst seemingly a cosmetic addition, the process actually has performance tweaks that may make using the suppressor more appealing to use.

History
Corded-suppressors are believed to have first been seen sometime in the early-to-mid 21st century, likely in cooler-climated areas The first widespread use was in the Norwegian Army, where Special Forces troops were regularly seen wrapping their issued suppressors in camouflage-patterned cloth, before binding it with a webbing cord. This was apparently done to prevent the suppressors' gloss from shining in the sun, as well as conceal what model of suppressor was being used.

In later centuries, corded suppressors were commonly used by military forces stationed in regions with persistent cold climates, units operating in Arctic biomes, or even in the vacuum of space.

Process
The process of cord-wrapping a suppressor is very simple. A piece of cloth, usually Ripstop or a similar hardy material, is cut to the dimensions (length and circumference) of the suppressor to be wrapped. This process is repeated as many times as the individual wishes, though the more fabric, the most pronounced the effects. Once the fabric has been applied (depending on how the user's wishes) it may be glued or stuck onto the suppressor, or simply left bare.

A cable, sourced from where ever can be found, is then wrapped tightly around the fabric. This is done to keep the cloth in place, or pressed flat against the suppressor to prevent loose material from catching, or distracting the user. Cables range from simple cable-ties, webbing straps, weapon slings missing mounting points, belts, or even shoelaces in some instances.

Purpose
Initially cord-wrapping was thought to be a purely cosmetic activity. Investigations into why soldiers did this, disproved this notion. Many tests were run to study the effects of corp-wrapping a suppressor, most of which concluded similar results:


 * 1) Wrapping then soaking the fabric in cold water reduced the amount of gas that a rifle would produce, thereby aiding in concealment and visibility, as sometimes gases would escape from an open suppressor. This was very commonly used in stealth operations in cold climates
 * 2) Fabric of sufficient thickness/heat resistance would allow longer-armed users a more comfortable way to hold a rifle
 * 3) Camouflage patterned cloth would help break up the silhouette of the suppressor
 * 4) The fabric could hide any marks or finishes that could potentially glare in the sun