Dr Phil Dater passed away 1/21/25

[amphibian]

https://www.ar15.com/forums/armory/...-/20-555942/?r=-1&page=1&anc=6159411#i6159411

Really saddens me to post this. For those that don't know, I think the book suppressors in the 1980's said he was longest continuous suppressor maker back then and still was before he passed. I think he formed the original AWC, later Gemtech (along with others). Wealth of information that was always willing to share. Everytime I talked to him and would ask a question, he wouldn't just give you your answer but he would add relevant, thoughtful information that was always helpful.
He will be missed.

 

[trilogymac]

He was alway helpful and willing to spend time on the phone over the years. He even gave me all the specs to set up my form 1 suppressed MK2 back in 2002. Still have it. Thanks for all you did Doc!!
A legend gone.
RIP

 

[deadduck]

I’m sure he went quietly.
See you on the other side, Doc.
?

 

[chili17]

I knew he was in rough shape, but I thought he was going to make it until summer at least. Sorry to hear this.

 

[cajun 22]

Sad to hear. He will be missed. Spoke to him years ago and he was generous with his time.
RIP

 

[Ben Dover]

Rest in Peace, Doc... you will be missed.

 

[brenbuilds]

He was an absolute legend. He essentially invented the modern suppressor.

 

[jaybird]

I stopped and talked with him at the last Orlando Shot Show (2004???). Some manufacturers were just starting to build cans you could open to “clean”. I asked Dr. Dater what he thought about them and he replied, “do you clean the muffler on your car?” I laughed and told him no. Twenty years later, 3 cans and lots of rounds later, I have not cleaned any of the cans or my truck mufflers. RIP Doc.

 

[amphibian]

I stopped and talked with him at the last Orlando Shot Show (2004???). Some manufacturers were just starting to build cans you could open to “clean”. I asked Dr. Dater what he thought about them and he replied, “do you clean the muffler on your car?” I laughed and told him no. Twenty years later, 3 cans and lots of rounds later, I have not cleaned any of the cans or my truck mufflers. RIP Doc.

Yeah, I was friends with Dater and he said the same thing to me. However, I bought a Gemtech Hornet from them many years ago. Designed for full auto fire from an AM180 and I asked Dater to not seal one side for me which he did. Baffles are laser welded together. So being able to take the core out didn't really help. I clogged that thing up with my belt fed LM7. Asked Dater what I could do and he told me sorry and nothing I could do about it. I had to get it jail broken. Pictures below.
If suppressors weren't registered items like car mufflers sure, who cares. Throw it in the trash but unfortunately here in the US, it isn't that simple and I want a serviceable can for rimfire and centerfire pistol calibers. Not just for cleaning but also for baffle strikes.

Like my MK9K that sheared apart. Fortunately, since it isn't a welded sealed can, Dater was able to replace the core for me when this happened.