Can You Shoot Subsonic Unsuppressed? Yes, But…
The short answer is yes, you can shoot subsonic ammunition unsuppressed. However, the "but" is crucial. While technically possible, shooting subsonic rounds without a suppressor offers several significant drawbacks compared to suppressed shooting. Let's delve into the details.
What is Subsonic Ammunition?
Subsonic ammunition is designed to travel slower than the speed of sound (approximately 1125 feet per second or 343 meters per second). This slower velocity reduces the characteristic "crack" of a supersonic bullet breaking the sound barrier, resulting in a quieter shot.
Why Use a Suppressor with Subsonic Ammunition?
While subsonic rounds are inherently quieter than supersonic rounds, they still produce considerable noise when fired unsuppressed. The noise isn't solely from the bullet breaking the sound barrier; other factors contribute significantly:
- The Gun's Mechanism: The mechanical sounds of the firearm's action (hammer fall, slide cycling, etc.) are still present and prominent without a suppressor. These sounds can often be louder than the subsonic round itself.
- Muzzle Blast: Even though the bullet is subsonic, the expanding gases exiting the barrel generate a significant muzzle blast, creating a substantial amount of noise.
- Reduced Effectiveness: The purpose of using subsonic ammo is often for stealth or reduced noise signature. The residual noise from an unsuppressed firearm compromises this purpose.
What are the Differences in Noise Levels?
The difference in noise levels between suppressed and unsuppressed subsonic rounds is considerable. A suppressed subsonic round might register around 110-120 decibels (dB), while an unsuppressed subsonic round could easily reach 130-140 dB. This difference of 20 dB represents a tenfold increase in perceived loudness. 140 dB is approaching the threshold of pain.
Does Subsonic Ammunition Always Need a Suppressor?
No, a suppressor isn't strictly required for subsonic ammunition. However, the benefits in noise reduction and overall firearm management are so significant that its use is strongly recommended for most applications where reduced noise is a priority.
What are the Alternatives to Suppressors?
While suppressors offer the best noise reduction for subsonic rounds, some alternatives can slightly reduce noise:
- Different Ammunition: Experimenting with different subsonic ammunition types (e.g., varying bullet weights or powder charges) may result in marginally quieter shots, though the improvement will likely be minimal compared to using a suppressor.
- Changing Shooting Positions: Careful attention to shooting positions can sometimes minimize sound reflection and amplify noise.
Is it Legal to Shoot Subsonic Ammunition Unsuppressed?
The legality of shooting subsonic ammunition unsuppressed depends entirely on local, state, and federal laws. Regulations surrounding firearm suppressors and ammunition vary widely. Always check and comply with all applicable regulations before using any firearm or ammunition.
In conclusion, while shooting subsonic ammunition unsuppressed is possible, it doesn't deliver the intended benefits of reduced noise and enhanced stealth. Using a suppressor is strongly recommended to fully realize the advantages of subsonic rounds. Remember to always prioritize safety and legality.
