Do Suppressors Actually Make Guns Silent?
Is the term “silencer” actually factual?
Suppressors, commonly referred to as “silencers,” have become a hot topic of debate, especially when it comes to their effectiveness in reducing firearm noise. The portrayal of silencers in movies and TV shows has led many to believe that attaching one to a firearm can make it virtually noiseless. But is that the truth? Can suppressors make guns silent?
In this article, our team at SilentAF will explore what suppressors do, how effective they are, and if they can truly deliver "silence."
What is a Suppressor and How Does It Work?
A suppressor is a cylindrical device that fits onto the barrel of a firearm. Its primary function is to reduce the sound of a gunshot by capturing and slowing down the escaping gasses created when a round is fired. As the bullet exits the barrel, hot gasses expand at high speeds, creating a loud sound. The suppressor works by trapping and gradually releasing these gasses, which reduces the overall noise output.
While this process can significantly reduce the sound of gunfire, it does not completely eliminate it, and in some cases you still may want to wear hearing protection. Depending on the suppressor, firearm, and ammunition used, suppressors can lower gunshot noise by 20 to 40 decibels (dB). However, considering the fact that an unsuppressed gunshot can reach up to 160 dB, the noise reduction brought by a suppressor is noticeable but far from silent.
Understanding Decibel Output When Shooting Suppressed vs. Unsuppressed
To better understand the impact of a suppressor, it’s essential to compare the decibel (dB) levels of firearms with and without suppressors. A decibel is a unit that measures sound intensity, and noise levels above 85 dB are considered harmful to human hearing over prolonged exposure. Gunshots, without any form of suppression, are among the loudest sounds we regularly encounter, and they can cause immediate hearing damage.
Unsuppressed Firearms:
Handguns: On average, a typical 9mm handgun produces around 160 dB. To put this in perspective, this is louder than standing 100 feet away from a jet engine during takeoff.
Rifles: High-powered rifles, like the .308 Winchester, can produce sound levels as high as 165 dB.
Shotguns: Depending on the gauge, shotguns produce noise levels between 150 and 160 dB.
Exposure to sound levels above 120 dB can cause immediate ear damage without hearing protection. Given that most firearms exceed this threshold, suppressors provide a valuable solution for reducing noise-related injuries.
Suppressed Firearms:
With a suppressor attached, the sound of a firearm is still loud but reduced to safer levels:
Handguns: When a suppressor is attached to a typical 9mm handgun, the sound drops to around 120-130 dB. While this is still loud, it’s much less likely to cause permanent hearing damage when used with additional hearing protection.
Rifles: A suppressed .308 Winchester can see its sound levels drop to around 130-140 dB, a significant reduction from its unsuppressed level.
Shotguns: Shotguns with suppressors can see reductions to around 130-135 dB.
Why Sound Reduction Matters
While the idea of shooting with less noise is appealing to many, the primary benefit of suppressors lies in protecting the hearing of the shooter and those nearby. Even with hearing protection, repeated exposure to high-decibel gunfire can lead to permanent hearing damage.
Suppressors help reduce the risk of hearing loss by lowering the sound to safer levels, especially for those who spend long hours shooting at ranges, during hunts, or in tactical situations. Although the noise remains audible, the reduction can possibly make a significant difference in preserving your hearing over time.
Additionally, suppressors can contribute to a more comfortable shooting environment by minimizing the shock of a loud gunshot. In some scenarios, they can reduce the startle reflex of the shooter, allowing for better focus, accuracy, and less flinch from the recoil.
Breaking Down the effectiveness of a Suppressor
The amount of noise reduction a suppressor provides can vary based on several factors, including:
Type of Ammunition:
Supersonic Ammunition: These bullets break the sound barrier, producing a sonic boom (or crack) as they travel. Even with a suppressor, the sound of the bullet breaking the sound barrier cannot be eliminated, making supersonic ammo louder than its subsonic counterpart.
Subsonic Ammunition: These bullets travel slower than the speed of sound and do not create a sonic boom. When paired with a suppressor, subsonic ammo can make a gunshot much quieter—closer to the quieter "pfft" sound often associated with suppressed gunfire.
Caliber and Firearm Type:
Larger calibers and high-velocity firearms produce more noise due to the greater volume of gases and energy they generate. A suppressor on a .22 caliber rifle will yield much quieter results than on a .50 caliber sniper rifle.
Suppressor Design:
Suppressors come in various shapes and sizes, and their effectiveness depends on how well they manage the gas released from the barrel. Longer, more complex suppressors generally reduce noise more than compact versions.
Environment:
Shooting in an indoor range or enclosed area will amplify gunshot noise, even with a suppressor. Outdoor environments with natural sound dampeners, like trees or foliage, can make the noise reduction more noticeable.
Debunking Hollywood Fiction
One of the most common misconceptions is that a suppressor will make a gunshot as quiet as a whisper, or like letting air out of a tire. Hollywood often portrays suppressed gunfire as making only a slight “pew” sound, almost like an airsoft gun, and in some movies and games it sounds like a quiet laser. In reality, even with subsonic ammunition and a high-quality suppressor, a gunshot can still be loud enough to require hearing protection.
Suppressors don’t make guns completely silent—they just make them quieter and safer for your ears. While they can reduce noise levels by 20 to 40 dB, the sound will still range from 110 to 140 dB depending on the firearm and conditions, which is comparable to a jackhammer or a rock concert.
The Legal Side of Suppressors
Suppressor ownership is legal in many countries, but regulations can be strict. In the U.S., suppressors are regulated under the National Firearms Act (NFA). To purchase one, you must undergo a background check, pay a $200 tax stamp per suppressor, and wait for approval from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). Some states and countries, however, have outright bans on suppressors, so always check your local laws before considering a purchase.
Where to Buy Suppressors
For gun enthusiasts, if you’re looking to improve your shooting experience with top-tier suppressors, Silent Armament Forge (SilentAF) should be your go-to source. SilentAF provides high-performance suppressors designed for real-world results, not Hollywood myths.
When it comes to investing in a suppressor, you want the best. Silent Armament Forge (SilentAF) is renowned for delivering high-performance suppressors that exceed expectations. Here’s why SilentAF is the go-to choice:
Unmatched Noise Reduction: SilentAF suppressors are engineered to provide the highest level of noise reduction, helping you maintain discretion and protect your hearing.
Precision Engineering: Each suppressor is crafted from top-tier materials to ensure durability, reliability, and longevity, even in extreme conditions.t
Customer Support: SilentAF not only offers a great product but also provides expert advice and guidance to help you find the perfect suppressor for your specific needs.
Final Thoughts
Suppressors may not deliver the whisper-quiet shots you see in movies, but they significantly reduce the sound of gunfire, making shooting safer and more enjoyable, no matter the shooting adventure that you are embarking on. Whether you’re looking to protect your hearing or enhance your shooting experience, a suppressor is a worthwhile investment. And when it comes to choosing the best suppressor, Silent Armament Forge (SilentAF) should be your first stop.
For superior suppressors and expert service, choose Silent Armament Forge. Make every shot quieter, safer, and more controlled.
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