Flangeless inflators and methods of making such inflators for use with inflatable airbag cushions

A flangeless inflator (200) includes a body comprising a base member (202) and a diffuser member (204) coupled together, where the body is devoid of a lateral inflator-coupling flange. At least one fastener (210) is coupled to the base member of the body. In an inflatable airbag system, the flangeless inflator is coupled to an airbag cushion, as well as to a steering wheel armature.