Firearm suppressors, also known as silencers or moderators, are devices that attach to the muzzle of a firearm and reduce the sound, flash, and recoil of the shot. Contrary to popular belief, suppressors do not make firearms completely silent, but they do make them much quieter and safer to shoot.
Suppressors have many benefits for hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone who values their hearing and accuracy. Here are some of the benefits of firearm suppressors.
1. Reduced Noise Pollution
One of the main benefits of firearm suppressors is that they reduce noise pollution, which can disturb wildlife, neighbours, and other people in the vicinity. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the threshold for a hearing-safe impulse noise is 140 dB.
Most firearms produce sound levels above this threshold, ranging from 140 dB to 175 dB. A suppressor can lower the sound level by about 15 dB to 45 dB, depending on the Caliber, ammunition, and model.
This can make a significant difference in reducing the impact of shooting noise on the environment and the people around you.
2. Reduced Hearing Damage
Another benefit of firearm suppressors is that they reduce hearing damage, which can be caused by exposure to loud noises over time or by a single shot. Hearing damage can result in permanent hearing loss, tinnitus, or other auditory problems that can affect your quality of life.
Shooting without ear protection can be very harmful to your hearing, especially if you shoot frequently or for long periods. A suppressor can help protect your hearing by lowering the noise level to a safer range, or at least reducing the need for ear protection.
3. Reduced Recoil and Muzzle Blast
A third benefit of firearm suppressors is that they reduce recoil and muzzle blast, which are the forces and gases that push back on the shooter and the firearm when a shot is fired. Recoil and muzzle blast can affect your accuracy, comfort, and enjoyment of shooting.
Recoil can cause flinching, bruising, or fatigue, while muzzle blast can cause flash blindness, disorientation, or discomfort. A suppressor can help reduce recoil and muzzle blast by diverting and dissipating some of the gases that exit the barrel, making shooting more pleasant and manageable.
4. Increased Accuracy
A fourth benefit of firearm suppressors is that they increase accuracy, which is the ability to hit your target consistently and precisely. Accuracy can be influenced by many factors, such as sight alignment, trigger control, breathing, wind, and distance.
Suppressors can help improve accuracy by reducing noise, recoil, and muzzle blast, which can affect your concentration, confidence, and consistency. A suppressor can also help stabilize the bullet as it leaves the barrel, reducing turbulence and improving ballistic performance.
5. Enhanced Shooting Experience
A fifth benefit of firearm suppressors is that they enhance your shooting experience, making it more enjoyable, comfortable, and safe. Shooting with a suppressor can allow you to communicate better with your hunting partners or instructors, as well as hear your surroundings better.
Shooting with a suppressor can also allow you to shoot faster and longer without fatigue or discomfort. It can also make shooting more fun and rewarding by reducing noise complaints, attracting less attention, and increasing your satisfaction.
Conclusion
As you can see, firearm suppressors have many benefits that can improve your shooting skills, protect your health, and enrich your shooting experience. Suppressors are legal to own in most states in the US, but they require a special tax stamp from the ATF and a background check.
If you are interested in buying a suppressor for your firearm, you can find many options online from reputable dealers who offer firearm suppressors for sale online.
By choosing a quality suppressor that fits your firearm and your needs, you can enjoy the benefits of shooting suppressed for years to come.
