Suppressors vs. Silencers: Separating Fact from Hollywood Fiction

From the Bench: Understanding the reality behind suppressor technology

By Kevin Cline, Blue Coat Arms Company

Originally published 2019 | Updated July 2, 2025

After years of working with firearms and talking to customers about suppressors, I've realized just how much misinformation surrounds these devices. Between Hollywood portrayals, media coverage, and general lack of public knowledge, suppressors might be one of the most misunderstood pieces of firearm equipment out there.

As someone still learning about the technical aspects of suppressor technology, let me share what I've discovered about these devices – what they actually do, how they work, and why the reality is quite different from what we see in movies.

The Terminology: Silencer vs. Suppressor

Hollywood's "Silencer" Myth

A "silencer" is essentially a Hollywood invention – a fantastical device created to make crime and spy movies more entertaining. In films, you see someone attach a small device to a pistol, and suddenly gunshots become whisper-quiet "pew" sounds that nobody notices.

The reality is far different.

What Suppressors Actually Do

A suppressor is the real-world counterpart to Hollywood's fictional silencer. Here's what actually happens:

How suppressors work:

• Redirect and redistribute gases that propel the bullet

• Slow down the escaping gases to reduce noise signature

• Create multiple expansion chambers that dissipate energy

• Reduce muzzle flash as a secondary benefit

Think of it like a car muffler for your firearm – it doesn't eliminate noise, it manages it.

The Decibel Reality Check

Sound Level Facts

Let me put suppressor performance in perspective with actual numbers:

Typical sound levels:

• Average gunshot: ~150-175 decibels

• High-end suppressor reduction: ~25-35 decibels

• Suppressed gunshot: ~125-140 decibels

• Hearing damage threshold: Begins around 85 decibels

What this means practically: If you've ever fired a gun while wearing hearing protection, that's approximately how loud a suppressed shot sounds. Still loud, still requires hearing protection, but more manageable.

Why the Confusion?

Hollywood has created unrealistic expectations about suppressor performance. In reality:

• Suppressors don't make guns "silent"

• You still need hearing protection when shooting suppressed firearms

• Neighbors will still hear suppressed gunshots

• The "Hollywood whisper" is pure fiction

Benefits of Suppressors

Practical Advantages

From what I've learned working with suppressed firearms, they offer several legitimate benefits:

Hearing protection:

• Additional layer of protection beyond ear plugs/muffs

• Reduced risk of hearing damage during hunting or training

• More comfortable shooting experience for extended sessions

• Better communication possible during training

Hunting applications:

• Reduced noise pollution for neighbors and other hunters

• Less disturbance to wildlife in the area

• Improved accuracy due to reduced flinch response

• Better follow-up shot opportunities when hunting

Range courtesy:

• More enjoyable experience for all range users

• Reduced noise complaints from surrounding areas

• Better training environment with less noise stress

• Improved instructor-student communication

International Perspective

What's interesting is that many European countries actually encourage or require suppressor use out of common courtesy to neighbors and wildlife. In some places, it's considered rude to hunt without one.

This highlights a cultural difference – what Americans often view with suspicion, other countries see as basic courtesy and hearing protection.

Limitations and Drawbacks

Physical Considerations

Suppressors aren't perfect solutions and come with practical limitations:

Size and weight:

• Add 7-9 inches to overall firearm length

• Increase weight at the muzzle end

• Affect balance of the firearm

• Make concealed carry impractical for most applications

Ammunition requirements:

• Work best with subsonic ammunition to avoid sonic crack

• Standard velocity ammo still creates supersonic noise

• Specialized loads may be required for optimal performance

• Reduced velocity can affect terminal ballistics

Firearm Compatibility

Not all firearms work well with suppressors:

Revolvers are problematic due to the cylinder gap allowing gas escape

Semi-automatic pistols may require modifications for reliable cycling

Some rifles need adjustable gas systems for proper function

Older firearms may not have threaded barrels for attachment

The Legal Process

Current Regulations

Suppressors are regulated under the National Firearms Act of 1934 (NFA) and managed by the ATF through Federal Firearms Licensees.

What the process involves:

• Background check through the ATF

• $200 tax stamp in addition to purchase price

• Extensive paperwork including photographs and fingerprints

• 8-12 month waiting period for approval (as of 2025)

• Serialized devices tracked like firearms

Total investment: Most quality suppressors cost $800-$1,500 plus the $200 tax, making them a significant investment.

State-Level Considerations

Suppressor legality varies by state:

• Legal in 42 states for hunting and sporting use

• Illinois has restrictions on hunting applications

• Some states prohibit civilian ownership entirely

• Local ordinances may add additional restrictions

Addressing the Misconceptions

Crime Statistics Reality

The data doesn't support fears about criminal misuse:

Historical perspective:

• Since 1934, only 6-7 prosecuted cases involved suppressors in crimes

• ATF 2017 report: Suppressors used in 0.008% of crimes

• Most defendants in suppressor crimes had prior federal charges

• Legal suppressor owners have extremely low crime rates

Why the Negative Perception?

Several factors contribute to suppressor stigma:

Media portrayal: Hollywood's unrealistic depictions create false expectations

Lack of education: Most people have never seen or used a suppressor

Political rhetoric: Used as talking points without factual basis

Regulatory complexity: The NFA process makes them seem more dangerous than they are

What I've observed: People are often afraid of what they don't understand, and would rather support bans than seek education about the actual technology.

Legislative Efforts and Future

Positive Legislation Attempts

Several efforts have been made to improve suppressor access:

National Hearing Protection Act (H.R. 155):

• Sought to remove suppressors from NFA regulation

• Would maintain background checks and serialization

• Aimed at hunters and sport shooters primarily

• Has been reintroduced multiple times but hasn't passed

State-level efforts:

• Illinois Senate Bill 50: Attempted to legalize hunting use

• Would maintain current purchase requirements (FOID, background check)

• Similar to laws in 42 other states

• Continues to face opposition despite safety data

What Can Be Done

Education remains the key to changing perceptions:

Individual actions:

• Learn the facts about suppressor technology and regulations

• Share accurate information with friends and family

• Contact legislators with factual data, not emotional arguments

• Support organizations that advocate for hearing protection rights

Industry responsibility:

• Provide accurate information about capabilities and limitations

• Demonstrate proper use and safety protocols

• Support research into hearing protection benefits

• Work with legislators on evidence-based policy

Modern Developments Since 2019

Technology Improvements

Suppressor technology continues advancing:

• Better materials offering improved durability and performance

• Modular designs allowing length and performance customization

• Improved mounting systems for easier installation and removal

• Enhanced coatings for better corrosion resistance

Regulatory Changes

Some positive developments in the regulatory environment:

• Improved processing times in some cases (though still lengthy)

• Better ATF communication about application status

• Increased state-level acceptance for hunting applications

• Growing law enforcement support for civilian ownership

Market Growth

Suppressor ownership has grown significantly:

• More manufacturers offering diverse options

• Better availability through dealers

• Improved customer education from manufacturers

• Growing acceptance among hunters and sport shooters

Practical Considerations for Potential Owners

Before You Buy

Consider these factors if you're thinking about a suppressor:

Intended use: Hunting, target shooting, or general noise reduction?

Firearm compatibility: Will it work with your current firearms?

Budget: Can you afford the device plus tax and wait time?

Storage and transport: Do you understand the legal requirements?

Choosing the Right Suppressor

Different designs serve different purposes:

• Rifle suppressors: Optimized for higher-pressure cartridges

• Pistol suppressors: Designed for lower-pressure rounds

• Multi-caliber options: Versatile but may compromise performance

• Dedicated caliber: Best performance for specific cartridges

Final Thoughts

After learning more about suppressors through customer interactions and industry research, I'm convinced that much of the controversy surrounding these devices stems from misinformation rather than facts.

What I've come to understand:

• Suppressors are safety devices first and foremost

• They don't make firearms "silent" like Hollywood portrays

• Legal owners use them responsibly for hearing protection and courtesy

• The regulatory process already provides extensive oversight

• Education, not legislation, is the key to addressing concerns

For those considering a suppressor: Do your research, understand the legal requirements, and have realistic expectations about performance. They're valuable tools for hearing protection and shooting courtesy, but they're not the magical devices portrayed in movies.

For those opposed to suppressors: I encourage you to learn about the actual technology and look at the crime statistics. The data shows that legal suppressor owners are among the most law-abiding citizens in America.

Remember: Criminals don't follow laws, period. Creating more restrictions on law-abiding citizens while ignoring the real sources of criminal activity doesn't improve public safety.

No matter your era, we got your six – whether you're interested in suppressors for hunting, sport shooting, or just curious about the technology, understanding the facts helps everyone make better decisions.

Questions about suppressors, NFA items, or firearm modifications? Blue Coat Arms Company provides consultation on suppressor compatibility, installation, and legal compliance. Contact us at 217-416-5962 or BlueCoatArms@gmail.com for expert guidance.