Patent Publication Number: US-11022395-B1

Title: Firearm adapter

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This nonprovisional application is a continuation of and claims priority to nonprovisional application Ser. No. 16/290,193, entitled “FIREARM ADAPTER,” filed Mar. 1, 2019 by the same inventor, which is a continuation-in-part of and claims priority to nonprovisional application Ser. No. 15/912,965, entitled “FIREARM SUPPRESSOR ADAPTER FOR BARRELS HAVING OBSTRUCTIONS,” filed Mar. 6, 2018 by the same inventor, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,352,642 issued on Jul. 16, 2019, which is a continuation of and claims priority to nonprovisional application Ser. No. 15/901,219, entitled “FIREARM SUPPRESSOR ADAPTER FOR BARRELS HAVING OBSTRUCTIONS,” filed Feb. 21, 2018 by the same inventor, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,082,354 issued on Sep. 25, 2018. 
     This nonprovisional application is a continuation-in-part of and claims priority to nonprovisional application Ser. No. 16/184,582, entitled “FIREARM SUPPRESSOR ADAPTER FOR FIREARM RAILS,” filed Nov. 8, 2018 by the same inventor, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,274,279 issued on Apr. 30, 2019, which (1) claims priority to provisional application No. 62/583,227, entitled “Firearm Accessories,” filed Nov. 8, 2017 by the same inventor; (2) is a continuation of and claims priority to nonprovisional application Ser. No. 15/625,542, entitled “Firearm Barrel Fitment Sleeve And Method Of Use,” filed Jun. 16, 2017 by the same inventor, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,302,384 issued on May 28, 2019, which is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 15/499,430 filed on Apr. 27, 2017, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,066,890 issued on Sep. 4, 2018 entitled “Firearm Suppressor Adapter,” by the same inventor, and is also a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 15/601,528, filed on May 22, 2017 now U.S. Pat. No. 9,891,017 issued on Feb. 13, 2018 entitled “Firearm Suppressor Adapter,” by the same inventor; (3) is a continuation of and claims priority to nonprovisional application Ser. No. 15/642,467, entitled “Firearm Barrel Alignment Guide,” filed Jul. 6, 2017 by the same inventor, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,190,839 issued on Jan. 29, 2019, which is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 15/499,430 filed on Apr. 27, 2017, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,066,890 issued on Sep. 4, 2018 entitled “Firearm Suppressor Adapter,” by the same inventor; (4) is a continuation of and claims priority to nonprovisional application Ser. No. 15/790,319, entitled “Firearm Suppressor Adapter,” filed Oct. 23, 2017 by the same inventor, which is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 15/601,528, filed on May 22, 2017 now U.S. Pat. No. 9,891,017 issued on Feb. 13, 2018 entitled “Firearm Suppressor Adapter,” by the same inventor; (5) is a continuation of and claims priority to nonprovisional application Ser. No. 15/674,622, entitled “Firearm Adapter Configured to Mount to a Firearm Frame,” filed Aug. 11, 2017 by the same inventor, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,161,704, issued on Dec. 25, 2018; (6) is a continuation of and claims priority to nonprovisional application Ser. No. 16/031,483, entitled “Device for Dampening Residual Effects from a Firearm Suppressor,” filed Jul. 10, 2018 by the same inventor, which is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 15/819,893 filed on Nov. 21, 2017, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,048,033 issued on Aug. 14, 2018, entitled “Device for Dampening Residual Effects from a Firearm Suppressor,” by the same inventor; and (7) is a continuation of and claims priority to nonprovisional application Ser. No. 15/912,965, entitled “Firearm Suppressor Adapter for Barrels Having Obstructions,” filed Mar. 6, 2018 by the same inventor, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,352,642 issued on Jul. 16, 2019, which is a continuation U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 15/901,219 filed on Feb. 21, 2018 now U.S. Pat. No. 10,082,354 issued on Sep. 25, 2018, entitled “Firearm Suppressor Adapter for Barrels Having Obstructions,” by the same inventor. 
     This nonprovisional application is a continuation-in-part of and claims priority to nonprovisional application Ser. No. 16/253,998, entitled “FIREARM ADAPTER,” filed Jan. 22, 2019 by the same inventor, which (1) is a continuation in part of and claims priority to nonprovisional application Ser. No. 15/642,467, entitled “FIREARM BARREL ALIGNMENT GUIDE,” filed Jul. 6, 2017 by the same inventor, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,190,839 issued on Jan. 29, 2019, which is a continuation of and claims priority to nonprovisional application Ser. No. 15/499,430, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,066,890, issued on Sep. 4, 2018, entitled “FIREARM SUPPRESSOR ADAPTER,” filed Apr. 27, 2017 by the same inventor; and (2) is a continuation in part of and claims priority to nonprovisional application Ser. No. 15/625,542, entitled “FIREARM BARREL FITMENT SLEEVE AND METHOD OF USE,” filed Jun. 16, 2017 by the same inventor, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,302,384 issued on May 28, 2019, which is a continuation of and claims priority to nonprovisional application Ser. No. 15/499,430, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,066,890, issued on Sep. 4, 2018, entitled “FIREARM SUPPRESSOR ADAPTER,” filed Apr. 27, 2017 by the same inventor, and is also a continuation of and claims priority to nonprovisional application Ser. No. 15/601,528, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,891,017, issued on Feb. 13, 2018, entitled “FIREARM SUPPRESSOR ADAPTER,” filed May 22, 2017 by the same inventor. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     This invention relates, generally, to firearms adapters. More specifically, it relates to a universal adapter for muzzle devices, such as firearm suppressors. 
     2. Brief Description of the Prior Art 
     Most gunfire produce sound that exceeds 140 dB, which can cause immediate and irreparable hearing loss to the gun operator and also significantly contributes to sound pollution. The effects of gun-fire noise are evidenced by the prevalence of hearing damage among veterans, law enforcement, and older individuals that have been around unsuppressed gunfire. Fortunately, suppressors generally reduce the sound of gunfire by 20 to 25 dB on average, reducing the sound to safe levels for the shooter. 
     For this reason, suppressors are gaining popularity. In some instances, having recognized the damaging effects of unsuppressed gunfire, the military and various law enforcement agencies are making suppressors available to those personnel that are exposed to gunfire. The anticipated resulting reduction in hearing damage from increased suppressor use is not only beneficial to the individual shooter and those around them, but it also provides a societal beneficial by reducing healthcare cost associated with hearing loss. 
     Up to now, most firearms were manufactured without the thought of or ability to accept a suppressor. Many barrels were made with obstructions, protrusions and profiles that are not conducive to attaching a suppressor to the barrel. In addition, most barrels were made without the necessary cut and thread profile needed to install modern suppressors. Attaching a suppressor to a firearm with a profile that was other than round involved primitive set screw attachment, non-aligned compression or attaching the adapter to the obstruction itself via a single, non-centerline attachment point. 
     All the current methods have drawbacks and problems that prevent the respective adapters from being widely adopted. In addition, most adapters do not account for obstructions on the firearm barrel. There are millions of firearms that have some sort of obstruction or abnormal profile at the distal end of the barrel. Some are minor as in the case of an iron sight. Some are much more complex like a large bore revolver or the popular surplus guns like the AK-47 and SKS. It is currently close to impossible to fit a suppressor to a large bore revolver with a common profile without the original manufacturer putting threads on the end of the barrel during manufacture. 
     Accordingly, what is needed is a firearm adapter that can overcome all of the problems listed above, providing an easy-to-use, adapter that can quickly, accurately, securely, and concentrically attach a muzzle device, such as a suppressor or suppressor extension to the barrel of a firearm. However, in view of the art considered as a whole at the time the present invention was made, it was not obvious to those of ordinary skill in the field of this invention how the shortcomings of the prior art could be overcome. 
     While certain aspects of conventional technologies have been discussed to facilitate disclosure of the invention, Applicant in no way disclaims these technical aspects, and it is contemplated that the claimed invention may encompass one or more of the conventional technical aspects discussed herein. 
     The present invention may address one or more of the problems and deficiencies of the prior art discussed above. However, it is contemplated that the invention may prove useful in addressing other problems and deficiencies in a number of technical areas. Therefore, the claimed invention should not necessarily be construed as limited to addressing any of the particular problems or deficiencies discussed herein. 
     In this specification, where a document, act or item of knowledge is referred to or discussed, this reference or discussion is not an admission that the document, act or item of knowledge or any combination thereof was at the priority date, publicly available, known to the public, part of common general knowledge, or otherwise constitutes prior art under the applicable statutory provisions; or is known to be relevant to an attempt to solve any problem with which this specification is concerned. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The long-standing but heretofore unfulfilled need for an easy-to-use, adapter that can quickly, accurately, securely, and concentrically attach a muzzle device, such as suppressor or suppressor extension to the barrel of a variety of firearms is now met by a new, useful, and nonobvious invention. 
     In an embodiment, the novel structure includes an anchor that can be secured to a firearm barrel and an outer sheath that can reach around barrel obstructions and connect to the anchor. The anchor includes a length extending between a proximal end and a distal end with a longitudinal axis extending parallel to the length. The anchor further includes an outer lateral surface and an inner lateral surface, wherein the outer lateral surface includes threads. A gap extends at least partially along the length of the anchor and passes through both the inner and outer lateral surfaces, such that a portion of the anchor has a semicircular cross-section with respect to the longitudinal axis. At least a section of the inner lateral surface has a radius greater than a radius of the barrel of the firearm when the anchor is attached to the barrel of the firearm and is adapted to attach to a barrel of a firearm in a manner that prevents rotation of the anchor with respect to the barrel of the firearm. 
     At least a section of the outer lateral surface of the anchor has a radius greater than the sum of the radius of the barrel of the firearm and a lateral extending distance of any barrel obstruction residing at least partially between a proximal end of the anchor and a distal end of the firearm barrel when the anchor is attached to the barrel of the firearm. In other words, the anchor extends laterally beyond any barrel obstructions. 
     The outer sheath also has a length extending parallel to a longitudinal axis and an outer lateral surface and an inner lateral surface. The inner lateral surface has a circular cross-section with respect to the longitudinal axis of the outer sheath and threads configured to engage the threads on the outer lateral surface of the anchor. The distal end of the outer sheath includes a centrally located bore axially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the outer sheath, thereby providing passage for a fired projectile. 
     An embodiment includes an alignment guide secured within the outer housing. The alignment guide is a generally frustoconical-shaped, being tapered in a distal direction thereby causing the barrel of the firearm to axially align with the longitudinal axis of the outer housing as the barrel of the firearm is forced into the outer housing. Alternatively, an embodiment includes the alignment guide secured within the anchor. Again, the alignment guide has a generally frustoconical shape being tapered in a distal direction, thereby causing the barrel of the firearm to axially align with the longitudinal axis of the anchor as the barrel of the firearm is forced into contact with the anchor. 
     An embodiment includes a tubular cylindrical suppressor mount secured to the distal end of the outer housing in axial alignment with the longitudinal axis of the outer housing. The suppressor mount includes threads on an outer lateral surface adapted to threadedly engage a firearm suppressor. Alternatively, the suppressor can be directly integrated into the outer housing. 
     In an embodiment, the anchor is adapted to adjust the radius of the inner lateral surface by adjusting a width of the gap. Moreover, the anchor can attach to the barrel of the firearm via a threaded fastener extending through a fastener aperture on one side of the gap and extending into a threaded fastener receipt on a second side of the gap. 
     In an embodiment, a pair of proximally extending lever arms are secured to the anchor. The lever arms increase in lateral thickness in a proximal direction. The anchor gap resides between the lever arms. The outer housing has a tapered proximal end configured to apply an inward radial force on the lever arms as the outer housing threadedly engages the anchor and moves in a proximal direction with respect to the anchor. Each of the lever arms preferably has a curved inner surface intended to mate with the curvature of the firearm barrel when the anchor is attached to the firearm barrel. 
     An embodiment of the invention includes a temporary attachable anchor having a proximal end and a distal end with a length extending therebetween and a longitudinal axis extending parallel to the length. The anchor further includes an outer lateral surface and an inner lateral surface, wherein at least a portion of the inner lateral surface has a semi-circular cross-section to mate with a curvature of the firearm barrel. 
     Two or more arm members are integrated with the anchor or attachable to the anchor. The arm members are laterally separated creating a first receiving area between the arm members for receiving barrel obstructions on the firearm barrel. 
     The adapter further includes an alignment guide housing integrated with or attachable to distal ends of the arm members. The alignment guide housing has a central longitudinal axis and a threaded suppressor mount aligned with the central longitudinal axis. The threaded suppressor may have threads on the inner lateral surface or the outer lateral surface and are configured to engage a suppressor. 
     The alignment guide is secured within the alignment guide housing and has a generally frustoconical shape tapered in a distal direction. The tapered shape thereby causes the firearm barrel to axially align with the longitudinal axis of the alignment guide housing as a muzzle end of the firearm barrel is forced into the alignment guide housing. An embodiment may include the alignment guide disposed within the alignment guide housing and a biasing member in mechanical communication with the alignment guide and a distal stop. The biasing member imposes a biasing force on the alignment guide in a proximal direction. 
     An embodiment includes a gap extending at least partially along the length of the anchor that passes through both the inner and outer lateral surfaces, such that a portion of the anchor has a semicircular cross-section with respect to the longitudinal axis. The inner lateral surface of the anchor thus has an adjustable diameter by adjusting a width of the gap. The anchor attaches to the firearm barrel via a threaded fastener extending through a fastener aperture on one side of the gap and extending into a threaded fastener receipt on a second side of the gap. 
     An embodiment of the firearm adapter include an anchor attachable to the firearm barrel by contracting around a smooth section of the firearm barrel and a housing being integrated with or attachable to a muzzle device and adapted to attach to or engage the anchor to prevent relative axial movement between the anchor and the housing with respect to the longitudinal axis. 
     An embodiment includes a protrusion proximate a proximal end of the housing. The protrusion extends in a radial direction towards the anchor and is adapted to engage the anchor, thereby prevent movement of the housing with respect to the firearm in a longitudinal direction. In an embodiment, a projection extends in a radial direction from the anchor towards the housing and a projection passage is disposed on the housing. The projection passage is adapted to receive the projection and prevent movement of the housing with respect to the anchor in a longitudinal direction. 
     An embodiment includes threads disposed on the anchor and threads disposed on the housing proximate the proximal end of the housing, wherein the threads on the housing are adapted to threadedly engage the threads on the anchor. An embodiment includes a fastener aperture proximate the proximal end of the housing and a fastener receipt disposed in the anchor, such that a fastener can pass through the fastener aperture and engage the fastener receipt to secure the housing to the anchor. 
     An embodiment further includes a gap extending at least partially along the length of the anchor and passing through both the inner and outer surfaces, such that at least a section of the anchor has an adjustable cross-sectional area. 
     An embodiment includes an alignment guide residing at least partially within the housing or muzzle device. The alignment guide has a central bore hole sized to permit passage of a projectile, but prevent passage of a firearm muzzle or a pre-existing muzzle device secured to the firearm. In an embodiment, the alignment guide has a frustoconical shape and tapers towards the central longitudinal axis. The frustoconical shape thereby funnels the muzzle or pre-existing muzzle device into axial alignment with the central longitudinal axis. 
     An embodiment includes a gas containment sleeve secured to or integrated with the alignment guide. The gas containment sleeve is sized to reside within a pre-existing muzzle device or ensleeve the pre-existing muzzle device. The gas containment sleeve is gas impermeable to prevent discharged gasses from laterally escaping through the pre-existing muzzle device. 
     An object of the invention is to provide a firearm adapter configured to fit most firearms on the market including those with barrel obstructions and those that were previously incapable of having a muzzle device attached thereto. 
     An object of the invention is to provide an easy-to-use, adapter that can quickly, accurately, securely, and concentrically attach a muzzle device, such as a suppressor, suppressor extension, or rail attachment to the barrel of a firearm. 
     It is another object of the invention to provide a firearm adapter that is far less costly to manufacture due to a one size fits all system, and to eliminate the need to manufacture hundreds of sizes and configurations. 
     In addition, it is an object of this invention to provide an adapter, which can be secured to or integrated with a muzzle device, such as a suppressor and/or a suppressor extension; and provide an adapter that can attach to one or multiple firearm accessories, including, but not limited to a bipod, an iron sight, a sling mount, a rail for mounting accessories, a hand guard for installation from barrel heat, a forward grip, a flashlight, and a laser. 
     These and other important objects, advantages, and features of the invention will become clear as this disclosure proceeds. 
     The invention accordingly comprises the features of construction, combination of elements, and arrangement of parts that will be exemplified in the disclosure set forth hereinafter and the scope of the invention will be indicated in the claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       For a fuller understanding of the invention, reference should be made to the following detailed description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention secured to a firearm barrel. 
         FIG. 2  is a disassembled wireframe view of an embodiment of the present invention highlighting the internal mechanisms of the adapter. 
         FIG. 3  is a sectional view of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention secured to a firearm barrel. 
         FIG. 5  is a disassembled wireframe view of an embodiment of the present invention highlighting the internal mechanisms of the adapter. 
         FIG. 6  is a wireframe elevation view of the embodiment in  FIGS. 4-5 . 
         FIG. 7  is a sectional view of  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention secured to a firearm barrel. 
         FIG. 9  is a disassembled wireframe view of an embodiment of the present invention highlighting the internal mechanisms of the adapter. 
         FIG. 10  is a sectional view of the embodiment in  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention secured to a firearm barrel. 
         FIG. 12  is a disassembled wireframe view of an embodiment of the present invention highlighting the internal mechanisms of the adapter. 
         FIG. 13  is a sectional view of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 14  is an end view of the embodiment depicted in  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention secured to a firearm barrel. 
         FIG. 16  is a wireframe view of an embodiment of the present invention highlighting the internal mechanisms of the adapter. 
         FIG. 17  is a sectional view of  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 18  is a bottom perspective view of  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention secured to a firearm barrel. 
         FIG. 20  is a disassembled view of an embodiment of the present invention highlighting the internal mechanisms of the adapter. 
         FIG. 21  is top view of  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 22  is a close-up view of detail E in  FIG. 21 . 
         FIG. 23  is a sectional view of  FIG. 21 . 
         FIG. 24  is a close-up view of detail G in  FIG. 23 . 
         FIG. 25A  is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention secured to a firearm barrel. 
         FIG. 25B  is a disassembled view of an embodiment of the present invention highlighting the internal mechanisms of the adapter. 
         FIG. 25C  is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 25D  is an assembled sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 26A  is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention secured to a firearm barrel. 
         FIG. 26B  is a disassembled view of an embodiment of the present invention highlighting the internal mechanisms of the adapter. 
         FIG. 26C  is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 26D  is an assembled sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 27A  is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention secured to a firearm barrel. 
         FIG. 27B  is a disassembled view of an embodiment of the present invention highlighting the internal mechanisms of the adapter. 
         FIG. 27C  is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 27D  is an assembled sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 28A  is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention secured to a firearm barrel. 
         FIG. 28B  is a disassembled view of an embodiment of the present invention highlighting the internal mechanisms of the adapter. 
         FIG. 28C  is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 28D  is a close-up view of the internal components of the anchor. 
         FIG. 28E  is an assembled sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 29A  is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention secured to a firearm barrel. 
         FIG. 29B  is a disassembled view of an embodiment of the present invention highlighting the internal mechanisms of the adapter. 
         FIG. 29C  is a disassembled view of an embodiment of the anchor. 
         FIG. 29D  is an assembled sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 30A  is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention secured to a firearm barrel. 
         FIG. 30B  is a disassembled view of an embodiment of the present invention highlighting the internal mechanisms of the adapter. 
         FIG. 30C  is a disassembled view of an embodiment of the anchor, gas containment sleeve and alignment guide. 
         FIG. 30D  is an assembled sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     In the following detailed description of the present invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part thereof, and within which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments by which the invention may be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. 
     The present invention is a firearm adapter configured to fit most firearm barrels. The adapter preferably attaches to the smooth section of a barrel and doesn&#39;t require any tooling or permanent modification to the barrel for securement of the adapter to a firearm. The ability of the present invention to attach to a variety of gun barrels reduces the costs associated with manufacturing, packaging, labeling, and stocking because a single adapter of the present invention can replace thousands of different muzzle device/suppressor and muzzle device/suppressor adapter designs. The following description references suppressors and integrated suppressors as well as muzzle devices as a whole. The broader term “muzzle device,” includes any firearm accessories generally designed to attach to or extend from a muzzle end of a firearm. 
     The present invention is an improvement over previous devices in which the adapter had to be anchored to the barrel irregularity or obstruction. These barrel parts can include an iron sight, a flash hider, a barrel band and other protrusions, were never meant to accept the pulling force of a suppressor, or other muzzle device, while in use. In the case of attachment to the iron sight, pulling from a single point on an otherwise circular profile can cause a dangerous out of alignment condition at the distal end of the muzzle device. A slight misalignment at the anchor point will be magnified over the distance between the anchor point and the muzzle end of the muzzle device. In contrast, the present invention reaches past the barrel obstruction or protrusion to attach to an unobstructed section of the barrel or firearm. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 1-3 , an embodiment of firearm adapter  100  is designed to attach to barrel  102  having iron sight  114  near muzzle end  112 . Adapter  100  includes anchor  142  having an adjustable gap/slot  134  to slide on and around a barrel obstruction and also give anchor  142  an adjustable inner diameter to fit barrels of various sizes. Each side of slot  134  includes apertures  128  for receiving fasteners  116  which provide the necessary clamping force to tighten anchor  142  to barrel  102 . In an embodiment, aperture  128  on one side of slot  134  are threaded to engage a threaded male end of fasteners  116 . It is contemplated that any number and any type of fastener known to a person of ordinary skill in the art may be employed to reduce the inner diameter of anchor  142  and secure said anchor to barrel  102 . Preferably, the fasteners only engage the anchor to avoid permanently damaging the barrel of the firearm. 
     Anchor  142  also includes threads  122  on an outer lateral surface. Threads  122  are intended to engage threading  124  on an internal surface of outer housing  104 . The thread height/depth is a factor of the intended adjustment of the inner diameter of anchor  142 . With proper thread height/depth, anchor  142  can be adjusted to mate to a variety of barrel diameters and still threadedly engage outer housing  104 . 
     Outer housing  104  further includes alignment guide  126  designed to funnel muzzle end  112 , and in turn barrel bore  118  into concentric/axial alignment with bore  108  in outer housing  104 . The funneling alignment organically occurs as outer housing  104  is rotationally tightened onto anchor  142 . Anchor  142  is fixed along the longitudinal axis of the barrel and the threaded engagement cause outer housing  104  to move in a linear direction (along the longitudinal axis of barrel  102 ) as outer housing  104  is rotated with respect to anchor  142 . As outer housing  104  moves proximally (towards the handle of the firearm, i.e. a direction away from the muzzle end) the muzzle end  112  comes into contact with alignment guide  126  and the tapered slope forces outer housing  104  to axially align with barrel  102 . 
     Alignment guide  126  also creates a seal with muzzle  112 . In an embodiment, alignment guide  126  may include a compressible material to further enhance the seal between the alignment guide  126  and muzzle  112 . Ultimately, the seal prevents the hot gasses leaving barrel bore  118  from traveling back towards the firearm operator and forces all of the gasses into the muzzle device secured to the distal end of outer housing  104 . 
     The distal end of outer housing  104  includes a threaded mount  106  configured to threadedly engage a muzzle device. Mount  106  is axially aligned with the longitudinal axis of outer housing  104  to ensure that bore  108  axially aligns with barrel bore  118  when adapter  100  is secured to firearm barrel  102 . In an embodiment, mount  106  may attach to a muzzle device via any fastening methods known to a person having ordinary skill in the art. In addition, an embodiment may include the muzzle device directly integrated into outer housing  104 . 
     As depicted in  FIG. 3 , the inner radius of outer housing  104  must be greater than the outer radius of firearm barrel  102  plus the height of iron sights  114 . The length of outer housing  104  must also be at least as long as the distance from a smooth section of barrel  102 , that is proximally located with respect to the obstruction, to muzzle end  112 . Essentially, housing  104  reaches around and behind obstruction  114  to threadedly engage anchor  142 . It should be noted that while the exemplary figures depict a barrel obstruction in the form of iron sights  114 , the present invention is designed to account for any type of obstruction. The adapter, however, can also be used on barrels without obstructions. 
     In an embodiment, outer housing  104  may engage anchor  142  using a fastening method other than threads, so long as the outer housing  104  can engage anchor  142  at any point along their respective longitudinal axes. For example, outer housing  104  may use a cam locking fastener to clamp around anchor  142 . In addition, anchor  142  and outer housing  104  may remain secured to barrel  102  even when the muzzle device is not in use. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 4-7 , an embodiment of the adapter, generally denoted by reference numeral  200 , includes anchor  242  configured to compress around barrel  102  as outer housing  204  translates proximally along the longitudinal axis of anchor  242  and engages lever arms  212 . As depicted, outer housing  204  is actually a suppressor with the internal baffles (not shown). In an embodiment, the suppressor/muzzle device can mount to outer housing  204  rather than be directly integrated as depicted by the exemplary illustrations in  FIGS. 4-7 . 
     Outer housing  204  further includes a distal end with a centrally located aperture  208  through which a projectile travels when fired. Near the proximal end, outer housing  204  includes threads  224  designed to engage threading  222  on anchor  242 . The proximal end of outer housing  204  further includes tapered compression surface  234  intended to contact and compress lever arms  212  as outer housing  204  moves in the proximal direction with respect to anchor  242 . 
     As previously noted, adapter  200  includes anchor  242  designed to compressively engage barrel  102 . This compression engagement is accomplished via two or more lever arms  212 , each having a tapered design such that the width in the radial direction is increases in a direction moving from the distal end to the proximal end of each lever arm  212 . Thus, outer housing  204  causes lever arms  212  to compress inwardly in a radial direction as outer housing  204  moves in a proximal direction and moves along the outer surfaces of lever arms  212 . 
     As depicted in  FIGS. 4-7 , anchor  242  includes two lever arms  212 , designed to flex in a radial direction, in a diametrically opposed relationship. It is considered, however, that more than two lever arms may be used, so long as the lever arms are generally equidistantly spaced about the circumference of anchor  242 , thereby ensuring that anchor  242  maintains a concentric axial alignment with barrel  102  when anchor  242  is compressively secured to barrel  102 . In addition, the number and size of lever arms  212  is dependent on the size and locations of barrel obstructions  114 . The exemplary barrel obstruction as depicted is an iron sight, but any type of obstruction is considered. 
       FIGS. 4-7  also depict the use of fitment inserts  215  designed to reside between barrel  102  and lever arms  212 . Fitment inserts  215  are made of a compressible material, such as rubber or another synthetic compressible material, to provide an improved compression fit between anchor  242  and barrel  102 . Fitment inserts  215  are also heat resistant to avoid melting as a result of barrel heating while firing. The number and size of fitment inserts  215  are dependent on the number and size of lever arms  212 . Fitment inserts  215  can also have certain thicknesses to help fit adapter  200  to barrels of various sizes. Furthermore, fitment inserts  215  may further provide a secure gripping surface using e.g., grooves, ridges, or slits, on an outer surface and/or inner surface of inserts  215 , for a more secure attachment of the anchor to a smooth metallic gun barrel. An embodiment of fitment insert  215  may have a flexible tubular structure with a slot extending the entire length of the insert, such that the tubular structure has an incomplete circumference and can be adjusted to fit around barrels of various diameters. 
     Anchor  242  further includes alignment guide  226  to funnel barrel  102  into axial alignment with bore  230  and ultimately aperture  208  in outer housing  204 . As anchor  242  moves proximally (towards the handle of the firearm) the muzzle end  112  comes into contact with alignment guide  226  and the tapered slope forces anchor  242  to axially align with barrel  102 . Alignment guide  226  also creates a seal with muzzle  112 . In an embodiment, alignment guide  226  may include a compressible material thereon to further enhance the seal between the alignment guide  226  and muzzle  112 . Ultimately, the seal prevents the hot gasses leaving barrel bore  118  from traveling back towards the firearm operator and forces all the gasses into the muzzle device. 
     As depicted in  FIGS. 6-7 , the attachment of adapter  200  on barrel  102  includes anchor  242  axially forced onto the distal end of barrel  102  such that muzzle end  112  contacts alignment guide  226  to force axial alignment between anchor  242  and barrel  102 . Fitment inserts  215  are placed between lever arms  212  and barrel  102 ; and anchor  242  is oriented such that lever arms  212  contact a portion of the distal end of barrel  102  lacking obstructions  114  to help ensure a secure compression of anchor  242  to barrel  102 . Outer housing  204  is then rotated into threaded engagement with anchor  242 . Compression surface  234  on outer housing  204  forces lever arms  212  inwardly in a radial direction to tighten the compression of lever arms  212  around barrel  102 . At a certain point, adapter  200  will be securely attached to barrel  102  and will automatically have axially aligned with firearm bore  118 . 
     In an embodiment, outer housing  204  may engage anchor  242  using a fastening method other than threads, so long as the outer housing  204  can engage anchor  242  at any point along their respective longitudinal axes. For example, outer housing  204  may use a cam locking fastener to clamp around anchor  242 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 8-10 , an embodiment of the adapter, generally denoted by reference numeral  300 , includes anchor  342  having two or more wedges  338  for compressively securing adapter  300  to barrel  302 . Exemplary barrel  302  is a common profile of a large bore revolver. This profile includes the rounded barrel merged with square upper profile  303 , round lower profile  305 , and iron sight  314 . Historically, suppressors/muzzle devices were unable to mount to the oddly shaped large bore revolver. Adapter  300 , however, is designed to overcome the distinct obstructions—square upper profile  303 , round lower profile  305 , and iron sight  314 —and ultimately attach a muzzle device to a large bore revolver. While, the exemplary barrel is a large bore revolver, adapter  300  may be used with various other barrel shapes. 
     Anchor  342  is comprised of translation mechanism  360  and stationary component  311 . Stationary component  311  includes a tapered inner surface  340  that reduces the inner diameter of stationary component  311  moving in a distal direction. Stationary component  311  further includes wedge alignment channels  320  generally extending the length of stationary component  311  and passing through distal end cap  349 . Distal end cap  349  has central axial bore  322  for passage of a projectile and an embodiment includes a grommet channel  328  on interior surface  352  for receiving sealing grommet  319 , which is intended to create a seal between muzzle  319  and stationary component  311  to prevent high pressure gases from escaping. 
     Translation mechanism  360  is distally located from stationary component  311  and includes a pair of arm member  334  extending in a proximal direction. Each arm member  334  passes through and resides within wedge alignment channels  320 . Each arm member  334  is attached to a wedge  338 . Wedges  338  are diametrically opposed from each other and include a concave inner surface to aid in the axial alignment of anchor  342  with a smooth curved section of barrel  302 . 
     The distal end of translation mechanism  39  includes a hollow cylindrical section with threads  324  on its outer surface. Threads  324  are designed to engage threads  346  on outer housing  304 . Rotation of outer housing  306  thus causes translation of translation mechanism  360  about the longitudinal axis of outer housing  304 . As translation mechanism  360  is pulled distally into outer housing  304 , wedges  338  are also pulled distally along the tapered inner surface  340  causing wedges  338  to compress around barrel  302 . 
     The attachment of adapter  300  to barrel  102  is achieved by forcing muzzle  312  into contact with internal surface  352  and/or sealing grommet  319 . Outer housing  304  is then rotated onto threaded section of translation mechanism  360 . Outer housing  360  is continually rotated until translation mechanism  360  has pulled wedges  338  sufficiently in a distal direction to create a compression attachment of anchor  342  to barrel  102 . The compression fit automatically axially aligns aperture  308  with firearm bore  318 . 
     In exemplary  FIGS. 8-10 , outer housing  304  is again integrated into a muzzle device, such as a suppressor that would typically have baffles in section  364 , which are not depicted. Alternatively, outer housing  304  can be detachably coupled to a muzzle device via any fastening method known to a person of ordinary skill in the art, such as through a threaded mount similar to the one shown in  FIGS. 1-3 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 11-14 , an embodiment of the adapter, generally denoted by reference numeral  400 , is designed to reach past and around barrel obstructions and has a single piece construction. It is possible, however, for the various components to be removably attached to each other. As depicted the rearward proximal end of adapter  400  includes anchor portion  442 , which includes two halves that can be fastened together. The two-half construction creates gap  430  to allow anchor portion  442  to separate and pass around barrel obstructions, such as banded iron sight  414 , when barrel  102  slides into adapter  400 . While the proximal end is divided into two halves, it is considered that anchor portion  442  may be divided into any number of parts to create a plurality of gaps  430  through which obstructions may pass. 
     Anchor  442  further includes one or more fasteners apertures  408  for receiving fasteners  434 . Fasteners  434  secure the two halves of anchor portion  442  together and act to clamp the two halves around barrel  102 . One of the halves may include threads on the internal surface of fastener apertures  434  that are designed to engage threads on the end of fastener  434 . Fasteners  434  are depicted as screws, but any type of fastener may be used to force the two halves of anchor portion  442  together to clamp anchor  442  around barrel  102 . 
     The internal surfaces of each half are also curved to mate with the curved surface of the barrel. The curvature ensures proper concentric alignment when clamping around barrel  102 . An embodiment may include fitment insert  415 . Fitment insert  415  has a flexible tubular structure with slot  438  extending the entire length of the insert, such that the tubular structure has an incomplete circumference and can be adjusted to fit around barrels of various diameters and their respective obstructions  414 . Fitment insert  415  is designed to reside between barrel  402  and anchor portion  442  to allow for greater compression forces on the barrel, account for barrels of varying sizes, and improve the gription of the anchor on the barrel. Fitment insert  415  is preferably made of a compressible material, such as rubber or another compressible material, to provide an improved compression fit between anchor  442  and barrel  402 . Fitment insert  415  is also heat resistant to avoid melting as a result of the barrel heating during operation of the firearm. Fitment insert  415  can be specifically made at different thicknesses to help fit adapter  400  to barrels of various sizes. Furthermore, fitment insert  415  may include a secure gripping surface using e.g., grooves, ridges, or slits, on an outer surface and/or inner surface of insert  415 , for a more secure attachment of the anchor to a smooth metallic gun barrel. An embodiment of fitment insert  415  may include a plurality of semicircular pieces rather than a tubular shape with a slot extending the length of the insert. 
     Anchor portion  442  is attached to alignment guide housing  416  via two arms members  410 . Arm members  410  are generally semicircular, but can be any general shape, and have some degree of flexibility to allow gap  430  in anchor portion  442  to expand as need for various barrel obstructions. The number, size, and location of arm members  410  can vary depending on the profile of the firearm barrel on which adapter  400  is intended to be mounted. 
     Alignment guide housing  416  includes alignment guide  440  with a tapered inner surface for receiving muzzle end  412  of barrel  402 . As adapter  400  moves proximally (towards the handle of the firearm) the muzzle end  412  comes into contact with alignment guide  440  and the tapered slope forces adapter  400  to axially align with barrel  402 . Alignment guide  440  also creates a seal with muzzle  412 . In an embodiment, alignment guide  440  may include a compressible material thereon to further enhance the seal between the alignment guide  440  and muzzle  412 . Ultimately, the seal prevents the hot gasses leaving barrel bore  418  from traveling back towards the firearm operator and forces all of the gasses into the muzzle device. 
     The distal end of alignment guide housing  416  includes mount  422 , which includes projectile bore  420  and threads on its outer surface. A muzzle device, not shown, can be mounted on threaded mount  422  using the threads, or mount  422  can employ another fastening method as known to a person of ordinary skill in the art. Moreover, adapter  400  can remain secured to barrel  402  when a muzzle device is not in use. Alternatively, an embodiment may include the muzzle device directly integrated into the distal end of adapter  400 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 15-18 , adapter embodiment  500 , having a similar construction as embodiment  400 , includes anchor portion  542  having fastener apertures  516  located on only an upper end of anchor portion  542 . Fasteners  518  are intended to clamp anchor portion  542  to barrel  502  by threadedly engaging fastener apertures  516  having internal threads. Furthermore, as depicted in  FIG. 18 , the underside of anchor portion  542  is cut out to account for various barrel obstructions such as cleaning rod  508  typically found on an AK-47. This configuration also allows adapter  500  to drop onto the barrel rather than having to slide onto the barrel, which makes the avoidance of barrel obstructions easier to achieve. It should be noted that an inner surface (the surface that mates with the barrel) of anchor portion  542  has a circumference of at least 180 degrees, to ensure that the anchor portion can securely clamp onto the barrel. 
     Anchor portion  542  connects to alignment guide housing  522  via two arms members  514 . Arm members  514  are generally semicircular, but can be any general shape, and have some degree of flexibility to allow gap  532  in anchor portion  542  to expand as need for various barrel obstructions. The number, size, and location of arm members  514  can vary depending on the profile of the firearm barrel on which adapter  500  is intended to be mounted. As depicted, arms  514  travel along the lateral sides of barrel  502  to avoid AK-style iron sight  504 , which extends both above and below barrel  502 . 
     Alignment guide housing  522  includes internal threaded surface  526  adapted to threadedly engage threads  528  on muzzle device  523 . As depicted best in  FIG. 17 , muzzle device  523  includes alignment guide  534  with a tapered inner surface for receiving muzzle end  512  of barrel  502 . As muzzle device  523  is threaded into alignment guide housing  522 , which has been previously secured along the longitudinal axis of barrel  502  via anchor  542 , muzzle device  523  translates linearly in a proximal direction (towards the handle of the firearm) causing muzzle end  512  to contact alignment guide  534 . The tapered slope of alignment guide  534  forces adapter  500  and muzzle device  523  to axially align with barrel  502 . 
     Alignment guide  534  also creates a seal with muzzle  512 . In an embodiment, alignment guide  534  may include a compressible material thereon to further enhance the seal between the alignment guide  534  and muzzle  512 . Ultimately, the seal prevents the hot gasses leaving the barrel bore from traveling back towards the firearm operator and forces all of the gasses into muzzle device  523 . 
     As depicted, muzzle device  523  is integrated with alignment guide  534 , however, it is considered that muzzle device  523  may be a separate part configured to mount to a muzzle device mount secured to the distal end of alignment guide  534 , similar to mount  106  in  FIG. 1 . 
     Adapter  500  may also use a fitment insert (not shown) similar to the fitment insert  415  to achieve the same desired effects. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 19-24 , an embodiment of the adapter, generally denoted by reference numeral  600 , includes a generally C-shaped anchor  640  adapted to clamp down on at least half of the circumference of barrel  602 . Barrel  602  is a common SKS barrel profile, but adapter  600  can be used with any barrel type. Anchor  640  is particularly useful for an SKS barrel  602  because it includes barrel obstructions on the underside of barrel  602 . C-shaped anchor  640  has the necessary shape to clamp onto barrel  602  while avoiding these obstructions and still creating an axial alignment between anchor  640  and barrel  602 . 
     As depicted, adapter  600  includes an anchor  640  that is independent from alignment guide  612  and arm members  608 . Interior surfaces  620  of anchor  640  are curved to mate with the curved outer surface of barrel  602  and an embodiment also include cutout  613  across the top of interior surface  620  to allow for clearance over irregular upper barrel profiles, like in the case of the square upper profile on the revolver in  FIGS. 8-10 . Anchor  640  is compressively secured to barrel  602 , using for example, upper lever structures  622 ,  624 , which alter the distance between the two halves of C-shaped anchor via pivot pin  646  and fasteners  636 . It is consider, however, that anchor  640  may be secured to barrel  602  using any fastening techniques know to a person of ordinary skill in the art. 
     Outer housing  642  includes a pair of arm members  608  extending from alignment housing guide  610 . Arm members  608  create upper and lower cavities intended to accept barrel obstructions. Outer housing  642  reaches around and past the barrel obstructions and receives anchor  640  when slid onto barrel  602 . The proximal end of outer housing  618 /arm members  608  include inwardly projecting protrusions  618  adapted to engage receipts  628  on the proximal ends of anchor  640  as best depicted in  FIG. 22 . Protrusions  618  and receipts  628  may have any size and shape so long as protrusions  618  can be received by receipts  628 . This interaction helps to align the proximal end of outer housing  642 . The distal end of outer housing  642  axially aligns with barrel  602  via the alignment guide  612 , which attaches to outer housing  640  at alignment guide housing  610 . 
     Alignment guide  612  includes a central bore and tapered inner surfaces  632  to funnel muzzle end  606  into axial alignment with alignment guide  612 . As depicted in  FIGS. 20, 23, and 24 , alignment guide  612  is in mechanical communication with spring  617 , which is in mechanical communication with end cap  616 . End cap  616  is secured to alignment guide housing  610 , while spring  617  is free to impart a linear force on alignment guide  612  in an axial direction. The spring-based alignment guide improves upon the alignment and sealing ability between the alignment guide and the muzzle. 
     In an embodiment, alignment guide  612  may include a compressible material thereon to further enhance the seal between the alignment guide  612  and muzzle  632 . Ultimately, the seal prevents the hot gasses leaving the barrel bore from traveling back towards the firearm operator and forces all of the gasses into the muzzle device. 
     End cap  616  further includes a central bore for passage of the projectile and preferably includes threads (not shown) on which a muzzle device may be mounted. Alternatively, the muzzle device may be directly integrated with end cap  616  or any other part of outer housing  608 . In addition, a muzzle device may be mounted to end cap  616  according to any methods know to a person of ordinary skill in the art. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 25 , an embodiment of the firearm adapter includes housing  704  having an inwardly extending protrusion  719  adapted to engage anchor  742 . The depicted embodiment is similar to embodiment  100  in that anchor  742  includes a slot  734  to allow anchor  742  to pass around iron sights  714  and provide inner surface  720  with an adjustable inner diameter. Fasteners  716  similarly pass through fasteners apertures  728  to engage a threaded aperture aligned with fastener apertures  728 . Fasteners  716  use the threaded connection to reduce or increase the diameter of inner surface  720  based on the diameter of barrel  702 . It is contemplated that any number and any type of fastener known to a person of ordinary skill in the art may be employed to reduce the inner diameter of anchor  742  and secure said anchor to barrel  702 . Preferably, the fasteners only engage the anchor to avoid permanently damaging the barrel of the firearm. 
     Protrusion  719  is sized and shaped to pass through slot  734 . Once protrusion  719  is proximally located with respect to the proximal end of anchor  742 , housing  704  is rotated to move protrusion  719  out of alignment with slot  734  as shown in  FIG. 25C . As a result, housing  742  is incapable of translating distally with respect to anchor  742  as depicted in  FIG. 25D . While only one protrusion is depicted, an embodiment may include any number of protrusions, so long as the anchor includes the necessary channels through which the protrusions can pass when the housing ensleeves the anchor. 
     As depicted in  FIG. 25D , the inner radius of outer housing  104  is greater than the outer radius of firearm barrel  702  plus the height of iron sights  714 . Moreover, the length of outer housing  704  is at least as long as the distance from a smooth section of barrel  702 , that is proximally located with respect to the obstruction, to the muzzle end. Essentially, housing  704  reaches around and behind obstruction  714  to engage anchor  742 . It should be noted that while the exemplary figures depict a barrel obstruction in the form of iron sights  714 , the present invention is designed to account for any type of obstruction. The adapter, however, can also be used on barrels without obstructions. 
     The depicted embodiment of the adapter in  FIG. 25  includes a non-suppressor type muzzle device  723  integrated into housing  704  and alignment guide  726  residing within the combination of housing  704  and muzzle device  723 . In an embodiment, muzzle housing  723  can be removably attachable to housing  704 . Moreover, alignment guide  726  may reside, permanently or temporarily, within housing  704  or muzzle device  723 . 
     As is similar with the previous alignment guides, alignment guide  726  funnels barrel  702  into axial alignment with muzzle device  723  and its projectile aperture  708 . Alignment guide  726  has a tapered inner surface for receiving the muzzle end of barrel  702 . As housing  704  and in turn alignment guide  726  moves proximally (towards the handle of the firearm) the muzzle end of barrel  702  comes into contact with alignment guide  726  and the tapered slope forces housing  704  to axially align with barrel  702 . Alignment guide  726  also creates a seal with the muzzle. In an embodiment, the alignment guide may include a compressible material thereon to further enhance the seal between the alignment guide and the muzzle. Ultimately, the seal prevents the hot gasses leaving the barrel bore from traveling back towards the firearm operator and forces all of the gasses into the suppressor or muzzle device. 
       FIG. 26  depict a variation of the embodiment depicted in  FIG. 25 . As depicted in  FIG. 26 , anchor  742  includes the same components as those found in  FIG. 25  (a slot for barrel obstructions, fastener apertures  728 , and fasteners  716 ), with a few additional features. One such features is the inclusion of several adaptability slots  762 , which create a discontinuous inner circumference. The adaptability slots further the ability of anchor  742  to adjust in diameter. 
     Another additional feature is the plurality of protrusion channels  768  disposed in the outer surface of anchor  742 . Protrusion channels  768  are sized and shaped to receive a protrusion  719 . In addition, protrusion slots  768  are circumferentially spaced about anchor  742  to mirror the circumferential spacing of protrusions  719  about housing  704 . 
     The last depicted additional feature is the plurality of protrusion receipts  770  disposed on the proximal end of anchor  742 . Each receipt  770  is circumferentially spaced about anchor  742  to mirror the circumferential spacing of protrusions  719  about housing  704 . In the depicted embodiment, receipts  770  and protrusions  719  are angled in a similar fashion to the barrel alignment guide  726 . As long as the angled protrusions  770  are smaller than the outer diameter of anchor  742 , housing  704  will achieve concentric alignment with respect to anchor  742 . 
     The depicted embodiment of the firearm adapter also includes gas containment sleeve  705 , which is designed to prevent expelled gases from exiting the slots in flash hider  718 . Gas containment sleeve  705  has an inner diameter greater than the outer diameter of flash hider  718  to ensleeve flash hider  718  as depicted in  FIG. 26D . In an embodiment, as shown in  FIG. 27D , gas containment sleeve  705  may have an outer diameter sized to reside within flash hider  718  to ensure that all of the expelled gases are redirected out of the gas containment sleeve and into the receiving space  764  of attached muzzled device  723 . An embodiment of gas containment sleeve  705  may include threads for threadedly engaging an annular extending support structure (see  FIG. 27D ) or may include a spring for forcing gas containment sleeve  705  towards the proximal end of the firearm (see  FIGS. 28E and 32D ). 
     Referring back to  FIG. 26 , the depicted embodiment includes threads  722  disposed proximate the distal end of housing  704 . Threads  722  are designed to threadedly engage threads  724  disposed on a proximal end of muzzle device  723 . In the depicted embodiment, muzzle device  723  includes barrel alignment guide  726  disposed therein. As previously explained, a barrel alignment guide is shaped and sized to funnel the muzzle end of the firearm into axial alignment with housing  704  and muzzled device  723 . Barrel alignment guide  726  is disposed within muzzle device  723 , such that the threaded connection between housing  704  and muzzled device  723  produces the linear force that brings the firearm muzzle into funneling contact with barrel alignment guide  726 . An embodiment, however, may include the barrel alignment guide in mechanical communication with the housing or an extension rather than the muzzle device. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 27 , anchor  742  is comprised of two split halves rather than a single body with a slot creating a discontinuous circumference. In other words, the two halves create a slot  734  extending all the way through anchor  742 . The two halves are secured to each other through fasteners  716  extending through fastener openings  728 . Similar to the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 25-26 , anchor  742  in  FIG. 27  has an adjustable inner diameter by modifying the degree to which fasteners  716  are tightened, which in turn reduces the width of slot  734 . 
     The embodiment of anchor  742  depicted in  FIG. 27  also includes a different means for preventing distal, translational movement of housing  704  with respect to anchor  742 . As shown best in  FIGS. 27C-27D , fasteners  774  pass through their respective apertures  776  and engage threaded receipts  772  in anchor  742 . Fasteners  774  are depicted as set screws, but it is considered that other objects can be inserted through passages  776  and receipts  772  to keep housing  704  from translating with respect to anchor  742 . For example, an embodiment may include detents on anchor  742  at the location of receipts  772 , which can depress into receipts  772  and are spring loaded to extend out of apertures  776  when properly aligned with apertures  776 . 
       FIG. 27  also depict a variation of the housing-to-muzzle device connection, however, any of the other variations of the housing and muzzle device may be used with the depicted anchor. As best depicted in  FIGS. 27B and 27D , housing  704  includes threads  722  disposed proximate its distal end and a plurality of gas channels  780 . Housing extension  750  includes a proximally located set of threads adapted to engage threads  722  and a plurality of gas channels  782  configured to longitudinally align with gas channels  780 . Extension  750  also includes distally located threads  721  adapted to engage a proximal set of threads on muzzle device  723 . Muzzle device  723  also includes gas channels  784  configured to longitudinally align with gas channels  782 . As shown in  FIG. 27D , each of housing  704 , extension  750 , and muzzle device  723  include inner walls  781 ,  783 , and  785 , respectively, to contain discharged gases within gas channels  780 ,  782 , and  784 , respectively. Gas channel  784  is fluidically open to receiving space  764 , such that the discharged gases can be redirected into the gas channels, which ultimately, reduces the volume of noise when the firearm is discharged. 
     As depicted in  FIG. 27D , an embodiment of gas containment sleeve  750  is designed to threadedly engage an annular extending support section of the housing, extension, or muzzle device. In the depicted embodiment, said support section is also barrel alignment guide  726  having an outer surface tapered in a proximal direction. The inner bore of barrel alignment guide  726  includes threads to engage threads  709  on gas containment sleeve  750 . In an embodiment, the distal end of gas containment sleeve  750  includes a tool notch adapted to receive a flat head screwdriver or similar tool to adjust the threaded engagement. The threads allow the depth of gas containment sleeve to be adjusted for different flash hiders. To engage the slot the tool is either inserted through projectile aperture  708  or muzzle device  723  includes a detachable end cap. The end cap is attachable to the muzzle device via threads or any other fastening device known to a person of ordinary skill in the art. 
     While barrel alignment guide  726  is shown as having a tapered outer surface sized to be received by the distal end of either barrel  704  or flash hider  718 , other embodiments of barrel alignment guide  726  have a tapered inner surface where the taper is directed in the opposite direction of that shown in  FIG. 27D . Moreover, barrel alignment guide  726  may be spring loaded as depicted in  FIGS. 28 and 30 , which is discussed in greater detail below. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 28 , an embodiment of anchor  742  includes generally the same design as shown in  FIG. 27 , but also includes tabs  773  designed to extend distally from anchor  742  and engage housing  704 . The depicted embodiment of tabs  773  are generally L-shaped and sized to pass through slots  775  disposed on a proximal face of housing  704 . Once tabs  773  have passed through slots  775  and are distally located with respect to the proximal face of housing  704 , housing  704  can be rotated with respect to anchor  742  to bring tabs  773  out of alignment with slots  775  as depicted in  FIG. 28C . In this orientation, the L-shape of tabs  773  prevent housing  704  from translating in a distal direction with respect to anchor  742 . 
       FIG. 28  also depict the additional fitment sleeve  715  adapted to reside between anchor  742  and barrel  702 . The depicted embodiment further includes a variation of housing  704  having an integrated muzzle device, rails  779 , gas channels  780 , and integrated alignment guide  726 . The muzzle device and rails  779  may be any muzzle device and rail design known to a person of ordinary skill in the art. Gas channel  780  extends preferably the length of housing  704  and includes apertures  787  to permit passage of gases between the muzzle device end and the proximal end of housing  704 . 
     As best depicted in  FIG. 28E , alignment guide  726  has an inner surface tapered in a distal direction with a section acting as a spring stop for spring  717 . Spring  717  resides between a proximal annular flange on gas containment sleeve  705  and alignment guide  726 . Spring  726  forces gas containment sleeve  705  in a proximal direction into flash hider  718  to help secure gas containment sleeve in its desired location. Gas containment sleeve  705  also includes annular stop  707  at its distal end to prevent gas containment sleeve  705  from falling out of housing  704  when barrel  702  is removed. 
       FIG. 29  depict another alternative embodiment of anchor  742  and housing  704 . Anchor  742  may be comprised of constricting body  731  and compression ring  733 . Constricting body  731  has a discontinuous distal end established by a plurality of distally extending arm members  735  and a tapered outer surface to allow the inner diameter to adjust as arm members  735  are compressed. Compression ring  733  has a consistent inner diameter or an internal surface  737  inversely tapered with respect to constricting body  731 . Compression ring  733 , when forced onto arm members  735  of constricting body  731  and towards the proximal end of constricting body  731 , comes into contact with the tapered outer surface of arm members  735  causing them to constrict in diameter and constricting body  731  becomes fixedly secured to firearm barrel  702 . Fasteners  739  pass through apertures  741  in compression ring  733  and engage threaded apertures  743  in constricting body  731 . When tightened, fasteners  739  force compression ring  733  towards the proximal end of constricting sleeve  731  to further reduce the internal diameter of constricting body  731  and fixedly secure the anchor to firearm barrel  702 . In an embodiment, the fasteners pass through apertures in the constricting body and engage threaded apertures in the compression ring. 
       FIG. 29  also depict a variation of housing  704  having a muzzle device integrated therewith and rail slots  711 . In this embodiment, compression ring  733  includes external threads adapted to engage threads on the internal surface of housing  704 . However, the interconnection of housing  704  and compression ring  733  may be achieved by any means described herein. 
       FIG. 30  depict a variation of anchor  742 , housing  704  and alignment guide  726 . Anchor  742  is comprised of constricting body  731  and compression ring  733 A,  733 B. Constricting body  731  has an ovoid shape with tapered outer surfaces  729  and adjustment slot  734 . The compression ring is separated into two halves  733 A and  733 B. Each half has a tapered inner surface  737 A,  737 B, such that enclosing constricting body  731  within the two halves of compression ring  733 A,  733 B cause constricting body  731  to constrict inwardly in a radial direction and tighten around barrel  702 . Fasteners  739  pass through apertures  741  in compression ring  733 A and engage threaded apertures  743  in compression ring  733 B. When tightened, fasteners  739  force compression rings  733 A,  733 B towards each other to further reduce the internal diameter of constricting body  731  and fixedly secure the anchor to firearm barrel  702 . 
     At least one of the two halves of compression ring  733 A,  733 B further includes projection  719  extending radially from its outer surface. Housing  704  include a projection passage  768  which is generally L-shaped. Working in conjunction, housing  704  ensleeves the anchor such that projection  719  passes through projection passage  768  and then housing  704  is rotated to bring projection  719  around the corner of the L-shaped projection passage  768 . In this orientation, housing  704  is incapable of translating in a distal direction with respect to the anchor. It is contemplated that the projection can extend from the housing and the passage can be disposed in the anchor to achieve the same result. 
     The embodiment of gas containment sleeve  705  is generally the same between  FIGS. 28 and 30 , but barrel alignment guide  726  in  FIG. 30  is spring load. Alignment guide  726  includes spring stop  765  at its proximal end and spring  761  disposed between spring stop  765  and annular projection  763  extending inwardly from housing  704 . Alignment guide  726  is adapted to slidably translate within housing  704  to engage the muzzle end of flash hider  718  or barrel  702 . The tapered inner surface  725  of alignment guide  726  brings the muzzle end of flash hider  718  or barrel  702  into axial alignment with housing  704 . 
     Regardless of the embodiment, each of the adapters is configured to automatically align the barrel of a firearm with a muzzle device. Furthermore, the anchoring portions of each adapter may be secured to the barrel of a firearm according to any methods known to a person of ordinary skill in the art and preferably remain detachable from said firearm. 
     As depicted in each exemplary image, the adapters are generally cylindrical in shape, but may have any shape that allows the anchor to be secured to the barrel of a firearm while also axially aligning with the barrel of the firearm. 
     While the different exemplary images show several distinct anchors, housings, and gas containment sleeves, each adapter may be used with any of the variations of the anchors, housings, and gas containment sleeves through minor adjustments in design. In addition, each adapter may be used with various different barrels, including those with and without barrel obstructions. Moreover, barrel obstructions generally include any features on or near the barrel of a firearm that results in a non-circular cross-section of the barrel. 
     Each of the embodiments of the adapter may be used with a fitment insert or sleeve. The fitment inserts provide an inexpensive and highly variable means for fitting a single size adapter to most firearms without having to modify the firearm barrel. A tapered fitment sleeve may also be used on tapered barrels to effectively create a non-tapered barrel. 
     The advantages set forth above, and those made apparent from the foregoing description, are efficiently attained. Since certain changes may be made in the above construction without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all matters contained in the foregoing description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. 
     It is also to be understood that the following claims are intended to cover all of the generic and specific features of the invention herein described, and all statements of the scope of the invention that, as a matter of language, might be said to fall therebetween.