Quick Answer
Hearing protection is still highly recommended when using a suppressor, even if the sound level is reduced, as the sound pressure can remain high enough to cause permanent damage to hearing.
Suppressors and Sound Reduction
A rifle suppressor can reduce the sound level of a gunshot by as much as 30 decibels (dB), which is a significant decrease. For comparison, a normal conversation is around 60 dB, while a gunshot can reach levels over 140 dB. However, even with this reduction, sound pressure can remain high enough to cause permanent damage to hearing. A suppressor may not completely eliminate the risk of hearing damage, but it can significantly reduce the risk.
Hearing Protection and Suppressor Use
When using a suppressor, it’s essential to wear hearing protection to prevent permanent hearing damage. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) recommends wearing earplugs or earmuffs with a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of at least 25 dB when shooting a suppressed rifle. This can help reduce the sound pressure to a safe level, even with the suppressor in place. For example, if a suppressed rifle produces a sound level of 110 dB, wearing earplugs with an NRR of 25 dB can reduce the sound level to 85 dB, which is still within safe limits.
Suppressor Installation and Maintenance
Properly installing and maintaining a suppressor is crucial to ensure it functions correctly and safely. A suppressor should be installed on a barrel with a 1.5x28 TPI threading, which is the standard for most rifles. The suppressor should be securely tightened to the barrel to prevent it from coming loose during firing. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and inspecting the suppressor, can also help ensure it continues to function correctly and safely.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.