Common Suppressor Questions

Common Suppressor Questions

Hey all, we here at True Shot Academy are going to go over and address some common suppressor questions today. We are going to delve into the questions which arise regarding the topic of suppressors. In this discussion, we will cover things like subsonic ammo, noise reduction, who makes suppressors, and more. Without further ado, let’s talk about some common suppressor questions.

What Do Suppressors Do?

Put plainly, suppressors suppress, or dampen, the overall signature of a firearm. This is to say that suppressors aid in reducing flash, noise, concussion, and dust signatures. These signatures are reduced due to the muffler-style baffle geometry present in most suppressors. Speaking of mufflers, it is worth pointing out that original muffler and suppressor designs are the brainchild of Hiram Maxim. Just like a muffler, the baffle stack in a suppressor features chambers which allow for gasses to expand and cool after firing.

Do You Have to Use Subsonic Ammo?

In short, suppressors do not mandate the use of subsonic ammo. This is to say that one can utilize either supersonic or subsonic ammunition with their suppressor. Of course, one will achieve better suppression results when using subsonic ammunition. This is due to the fact that subsonic loadings will not produce the supersonic “crack” inherent to supersonic loadings as they break the sound barrier. Put plainly, one could use either supersonic or subsonic ammo with their suppressor. Purchase Ammo

Are Suppressors Actually Quiet?

Right off the bat, we need to mention that not many suppressors and firearm hosts are capable of achieving the “Hollywood quiet” sound levels seen in movies and other media. That being said, suppressors certainly have the potential to reduce noise to hearing safe levels. This can be achieved by utilizing an appropriate suppressor, host firearm, and ammunition for suppression. For example, one can utilize subsonic .300 Blackout ammunition in addition to a .30 caliber suppressor on a short-barreled firearm for optimal performance. A combination such as this is capable of producing hearing safe sound levels which are nearly “Hollywood quiet.” If supersonic ammunition is used, sound signature reduction will still occur but to a lesser extent. Often times, this still produces a supersonic crack and unsafe noise levels. In short, there are times where suppressors can be quite quiet as well as times where suppressors merely dampen noise to a small extent.

Should You Still Wear Ear Protection with a Suppressor?

You can never be too safe when it comes to protecting your hearing. As mentioned above, suppressors do not always generate hearing safe reports. Though sound is reduced, one can still incur permanent and immediate hearing damage if one does not safeguard their hearing. Additionally, just because you are using a suppressor does not mean that others are. This is to say that one’s suppressor does not account for the noise levels generated by other firearms in the area. Even if you are shooting a suppressor with ideal ammo, one can still incur hearing damage due to unsuppressed gunfire. It is also important to note that while a noise may not make you recoil or cause discomfort, damage may still occur. All in all, hearing protection is still a good thing to have on hand while shooting a suppressor.

Are Longer Suppressors Quieter?

Put plainly, longer suppressors are quieter than their shorter counterparts. This is due to the fact that the longer bodies of these suppressors accommodate more baffles. Simply put, more baffles equate to higher levels of sound reduction. Of course, there is a trade-off to consider in this case. With more baffles and a longer suppressor, one will be working with a longer and larger package. This translates to a heavier and potentially more unwieldy firearm at the end of the day. Though, many shooters are happy to make this tradeoff if it means for a potentially quieter shooting experience.

Can One Suppressor Work for Multiple Calibers?

Put simply, yes, a shooter can utilize a single suppressor for multiple calibers. Generally speaking, a suppressor will generally be rated for a variety of potential calibers which fit its diameter. Many shooters will often acquire a .30 caliber suppressor for rifle use due to the fact that it can accommodate .30 caliber cartridges in addition to common .223/5.56 ammo. Furthermore, if one has a suppressor such as HUXWRX RAD 45, they will be able to shoot smaller diameter calibers in addition to the intended .45 ACP. This is to say that one can shoot 9mm, .22 LR, 5.7x28mm, 10mm, and even subsonic .300 Blackout through this same suppressor. Of course, this does not mean that one should shoot 5.56 ammo through a 9mm suppressor as 5.56 pressures exceed the threshold of what a 9mm suppressor can tolerate. Just because diameters of some rounds may be smaller does not mean they can safely be used in certain suppressor models. Pressure is an important factor to consider if one intends on putting a suppressor into service with multiple calibers. One should consult the manual of their suppressor and the manufacturer to learn which calibers their unit is rated for. Purchase Ammo

Who Makes Suppressors?

At this point in time, suppressors are produced by a wide range of manufacturers available at various price points, making them accessible to shooters of all budgets. These manufacturers include and are not limited to Surefire, Silencerco, AAC, B&T, HUXWRX, and Dead Air. Suppressors are produced for a variety of firearm styles and types. This is to say that shooters can find models designed for use on pistols, rifles, and even shotguns. Additionally, some models of suppressors are designed for use on specific classes of firearms such as blowback operated, manual action, semi-automatic, and even full-auto use. There are even some suppressors which are proprietary in nature and designed for use with specific firearms. For example, B&T makes suppressors for use with specific firearms such as their TP9 and the FN P90/PS90.

Which States Allow Suppressors?

As of now, suppressors are currently legal in 42 of 50 states. This is to say that suppressors are legal for civilian ownership in an overwhelming majority of states. Of these 42 states, 41 of these states permit the use of these devices in hunting applications, allowing hunters to take advantage of the benefits suppressors provide in the field. In short, Americans throughout a majority of the country can legally enjoy suppressors. States That Prohibit Suppressors:

• California
• Delaware
• Hawaii
• Illinois
• Massachusetts
• New Jersey
• New York
• Rhode Island

Conclusion

All in all, we hope that this blog has aided in answering some of the common questions shooters have regarding suppressors. These items are becoming increasingly common among shooters of all types and represent a positive shift in American gun culture. Suppressors are awesome tools which can fulfil practical needs and be satisfying to shoot when done appropriately. While we here at True Shot Ammo do not carry suppressors, we do stock a wide range of ammunition for sale which caters to shooters of all types. Whether you want to buy bulk ammo or wish to pick up some subsonic ammo, we have got you covered. As always, happy shooting.