The Yankee Hill Machine (YHM) Fat Cat suppressor is a really cool can that debuted at SHOT Show 2023. It was designed to give the end user a full-size 5.56 suppressor in a short, compact package. It offers performance, durability, affordability, and honestly, I just want to share my thoughts on it after using it for over a year. Here’s why it might be your next 5.56 can.
Size, Design, and Build Quality
The YHM Fat Cat stands out because it’s both short and fat. It measures just 4.5 inches in length and includes YHM’s sRx QD adapter, though you also have the option to swap that out for any other HUB-compatible adapter if that’s your preference. The design was intentional—they didn’t want a long suppressor like YHM’s own Turbo K, but they still wanted ample internal volume. According to YHM, this contributes to a lower, more pleasant tone while still providing effective sound suppression.
Sound Performance and Suppression
Now, to be clear, this isn’t a “hearing-safe” 5.56 can. That’s just the nature of 5.56—it wants to fly fast and loud. The easiest way to make a 5.56 hearing-safe is by running subsonic ammo… but at that point, why bother?
Real-World Use and Testing
We’ve done extensive testing on this can. We’ve run it full-auto on our M16 lower, and after a year of use, it’s become one of my favorite suppressors to bring out. Not just because it’s iconic and distinctive, but also because it has one of the most humorous end caps available—the “Cat’s Ass.” If that’s not your thing, YHM offers a standard end cap as well, but honestly, why wouldn’t you go for the fun one?
Materials and Durability
The can itself is built with a 17-4 stainless steel body and a Cobalt 6 blast baffle. These materials ensure extreme durability under high-pressure, high-heat conditions, making the suppressor full-auto rated with a minimum barrel length of 10 inches for 5.56. The exterior is finished with black Cerakote to resist heat and abrasion. Just a heads-up: if you cook bacon on it (yes, we did), you might get some discoloration—but we’ll touch on that in a bit.
4th of July Testing: The Bacon Story
Speaking of bacon, we did some festive testing during the 4th of July. We ran two 30-round magazines through it to get it hot enough to cook bacon on the suppressor. It actually worked, though we didn’t eat the bacon since we hadn’t cleaned the can beforehand—no need to risk ingesting lead. My buddy did take a bite of a hamburger bun seared with the Cat’s Ass imprint, though. All in good fun.
Everyday Use and Shooting Preferences
Personally, I try not to run 5.56 without a suppressor. Not because it’s hearing-safe—I still wear hearing protection—but because it reduces the blast and sound signature to a more manageable level. If you have a suppressor, why not run it?
Gas Blowback and Back Pressure
Now, this isn’t a low-pressure or low-blowback can. If you’re running at a high rate of fire, you’ll notice a decent amount of gas blowback into the rifle. It’s not the cleanest suppressor I’ve used, but it’s still high-quality, great-looking, and different in design. One of its biggest selling points is that it delivers full-size suppressor performance in a compact body. YHM claims it averages about 139–141 decibels at the muzzle, which is impressive for a 4.5-inch can. While 5.56 NATO is inherently loud and not hearing-safe without protection, the Fat Cat’s performance is notable. In our testing, it even sounded better than some full-length 5.56 cans on the market—though that’s a subjective, non-scientific opinion.
Thoughts on “K” Cans vs. the Fat Cat
Personally, I’m not a big fan of “K” cans. I think they should be deregulated since they offer minimal suppression and function more like muzzle devices. But the Fat Cat isn’t a “K” can—it’s a full-size can that’s been smooshed. You still get the internal volume to manage expanding gases, but in a smaller package.
Weight and Mounting Options
With the QD adapter, the Fat Cat weighs in at 13.2 oz, and with a direct thread, it’s 11.2 oz—right in line with other full-size suppressors on the market.
Best Setup and Use Case
I prefer running this with an adjustable gas block or a piston system since it does have pretty significant back pressure, which can make rapid firing less enjoyable. But if you’re looking for low-back-pressure options, there are other cans on the market that fit that need.
Maintenance and Serviceability
The Fat Cat is a non-serviceable can, so you won’t be running rimfire through it—it’s made solely for your 5.56 rifles. That said, it comes with a limited lifetime warranty, so you’ve got peace of mind for long-term use. Maintenance is simple: no need to soak it—just keep using it. A quick wipe-down with a cleaner now and then will help maintain that finish.
Pros:
- Compact size: At 4.5 inches, it’s one of the shortest full-size 5.56 suppressors—great for any rifle with a 10”+ barrel.
- Sound suppression: Delivers 139–141 dB at the muzzle, competitive with much longer cans.
- Durability: Full-auto rated stainless steel and Cobalt 6 construction means it’s built to handle abuse.
- Versatile mounting: HUB-compatible—switch to whatever QD system or direct-thread mount you prefer.
- Affordable: At around $600 (pre-tax stamp), it’s one of the best values for a suppressor of this quality.
Cons:
- Subjective sound: Some shooters think it sounds better than full-length cans, others disagree.
- Niche aesthetic: The chunky look and Cat’s Ass end cap aren’t for everyone.
- Safety concerns: If someone’s showing off the end cap, remind them not to point the suppressor at anything they don’t intend to destroy.
Value:
At ~$600, the Fat Cat is priced well below competitors like SureFire or SilencerCo’s Saker. With the HUB thread system, it’s compatible with most QD setups. The Cat’s Ass end cap adds uniqueness and attention-grabbing flair—just be sure to advise customers to remove it from the rifle before showing it off.
Final Thoughts:
The Yankee Hill Machine Fat Cat is a standout in a crowded 5.56 suppressor market. It offers a unique blend of compactness, durability, and performance—plus a cool factor you won’t find elsewhere. It’s short, robust, and versatile, making it ideal for shooters who want something different. While it may not outperform premium full-size suppressors in raw decibel reduction, its size-to-performance ratio and price point make it a very compelling option for recreation, hunting, or general range use. And if you like a touch of humor, that Cat’s Ass end cap adds just the right twist to an already impressive package.