Exploring the Quietest Firearms: From Subsonic 22 LR to Silencer-Powered Quietness

Have you ever wondered if there is a firearm that could be made almost completely silent? Can a quietest gun exist? Let's delve into the world of firearms, silencers, and explore the possibilities of a nearly silent shot.

Subsonic 22 LR: The Best-Kept Secret

The Subsonic 22 LR is a standout choice for those seeking a firearm that can approach the realm of near-silence. Unlike its supersonic counterparts, these rounds do not produce an overt crack upon exiting the barrel. However, even with a suppressor, a semi-automatic firearm may still emit the sound of the bolt cycle. For instance, the Subsonic 22 Long Rifle can offer a remarkable level of quietness, but its semi-automatic nature might still give away its presence.

Real-World Experience with Suppressed Firearm

I personally own a bolt-action .22 LR with a suppressor. Although it's not a top-tier silencer, it still manages to be extremely quiet. It's worth noting that this firearm is not completely silent, but it's quiet enough that it would never draw attention even in a residential area. To put this to the test, I instructed my wife to turn around and listen to the shots being fired, paying attention to the noise level of both the regular .22 LR and the suppressed version. Surprisingly, they were both equally quiet in terms of decibels. This experiment underscores the effectiveness of a suppressor in reducing noise levels to near-undetectable levels.

Furthermore, I have used this suppressor-equipped rifle in my backyard during weekends. Despite the lack of a fence and neighbors within a close distance, no one ever paid any attention to my shooting activities. Sure, it might not be completely silent, but its quietness ensures that no one would mistake the sound for a gunshot.

The Invention and Patenting of the First Silencer

The concept of a silencer dates back to the early 20th century. The Crosman Emerson Inc. introduced the first commercially available silencer in 1909, called the "tremendous silencer." This invention revolutionized firearm suppressors and paved the way for modern designs. Over the decades, advancements in materials and designs have improved the effectiveness and quietness of suppressors, making them an essential accessory for those who seek a quieter shooting experience.

The 17 HMR: The Quietest Bullet

The .17 HMR Hornady Magnum Rimfire is considered one of the quietest options available. Its unique characteristics, including a small bullet weight and high velocity, contribute to its minimal noise level. This round is particularly effective when chambered in a rifle with a longer barrel, which allows more time for the gases to expand and reduce the sound signature.

The .22 LR: A Balanced Choice

The .22 LR is another excellent choice for those seeking a quiet firearm. Depending on the type of ammunition used, such as 22 CB or subsonic rounds, the noise level can be significantly reduced. Adding a suppressor can bring the noise level down to a level that is indistinguishable from a quiet environment. While it may not be completely silent, the combination of a quiet round and a suppressor can achieve a level of quietness that is almost movie-like.

The Quietest Gun: The .32 Caliber Welrod

According to historical records, the .32 caliber Welrod is considered the quietest firearm ever made. This weapon, designed in the 1940s, utilized subsonic ammunition and was so quiet that it was barely noticeable. In tests conducted 5 meters to the side of the muzzle, the .32 caliber Welrod was found to be quieter than a CO2 pellet pistol. While such a weapon is not commercially available today, the .32 caliber Welrod serves as an excellent historical reference for the potential of a truly silent firearm.

In conclusion, while a completely silent firearm may not exist, there are numerous options available that can greatly reduce the noise level of a shot. From the Subsonic 22 LR to the .22 LR with a suppressor, and the legendary .32 caliber Welrod, there is a wide range of firearms that can offer a near-silent shooting experience. While the legalization of silencers remains a controversial topic, advancements in technology continue to push the boundaries of firearm quietness.

Keywords: quietest guns, silencer, subsonic 22 LR