Gunshots are loud. Really loud. And that extreme noise poses a serious risk to your hearing. Understanding just how loud a gunshot is, measured in decibels (dB), is key to protecting yourself and others around you.
This article will break down the decibel levels you can expect from different firearms, explain the risks of hearing damage from gunfire, and discuss ways to mitigate that risk, like using silencers and hearing protection. We’ll also touch on how noise is measured.
So, just how many dB is a gunshot? Let’s find out.
How many decibels is a gunshot?
Gunshots are loud. Really loud. In fact, they handily exceed the levels that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) deems safe for hearing. But just how loud are they, and what does that loudness mean for your ears?
Understanding decibels
A decibel (dB) is a unit of sound intensity. The decibel scale isn’t linear, like inches on a ruler. It’s logarithmic, which means that even small increases in the number of decibels equate to big changes in sound intensity.
General gunshot decibel ranges
Unsuppressed gunshots typically range from 140 to 169+ dB, depending on the type of gun and the ammunition it’s firing.
Here are a few examples:
- .22 caliber rifle: 140 dB
- Shotgun: 155 dB
- Rifle: 158 dB
- Pistol: 158 dB
- .357 Magnum revolver: 169 dB
- .308 Win hunting rifle: 167 dB
- 5.56 NATO / .223 Rem AR-15 with a 16-inch barrel: 165 dB
Can Gunshot Noise Damage Your Hearing?
When it comes to noise, anything above 85 decibels is considered a threat to your hearing. Gunshots are way above this level, making them a serious risk.
Some experts say that a single exposure to an impulse sound under 140 dB might not damage your hearing. But gunshots are usually louder than that.
Repeated exposure to these high decibel levels can cause permanent damage. This damage can include both tinnitus (ringing in your ears) and hearing loss.
So, when you’re thinking about gun safety, don’t forget about hearing safety. It’s just as important.
The Role of Silencers in Reducing Gunshot Noise
Silencers, also known as suppressors, are devices designed to reduce the noise of a gunshot. By trapping and slowing down the rapidly expanding gases that create the initial “bang,” silencers can significantly lower the decibel level of a firearm.
A quality silencer can bring the noise level of a gunshot down by 25 to 40 decibels.
Here are some examples of what you might expect from a suppressed gunshot:
- .308 Win hunting rifle: 134 dB
- 5.56 NATO / .223 Rem AR-15 w/ 16-inch barrel: 136 dB
- 9mm pistol: 124 dB
- .22 LR pistol: 118 dB
- .22 LR rifle: 113 dB
A silencer changes the sharp “crack” of a gunshot into more of a “thud” or the sound of a nail gun being fired.
Hearing protection: Your first line of defense
If you’re around firearms, protecting your hearing is key. A single gunshot can cause permanent damage, so hearing protection should be considered a non-negotiable item when you’re shooting without a suppressor.
Types of hearing protection
There are two main types of hearing protection: earplugs and earmuffs.
- Earplugs. Earplugs come in foam, molded, and electronic styles. Foam earplugs are inexpensive and effective if inserted correctly. Molded earplugs offer a more custom fit. Electronic earplugs allow you to hear ambient sounds while still protecting you from sudden loud noises like gunshots.
- Earmuffs. Earmuffs are easy to use and provide consistent protection. They come in passive and active noise-canceling versions. Active noise-canceling earmuffs use electronics to further reduce the noise level.
Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)
The Noise Reduction Rating, or NRR, indicates how much noise the hearing protection will block. For example, hearing protection with an NRR of 30 will reduce the noise level by 30 decibels. Look for hearing protection with an NRR between 25 and 33 for the best protection.
Measuring gunshot noise levels and environmental factors
You can get a rough estimate of noise levels using apps on your smartphone. For example, the Decibel Pro app can help you measure the decibel levels in your environment. If you spend a lot of time around firearms, these tools can help you monitor your exposure and protect your hearing.
It’s also worth noting that sound travels faster in colder temperatures, which means that a gunshot might sound louder or travel further depending on the weather.
How far away can you hear a gunshot?
The distance you can hear a gunshot depends on a few things: the gun’s caliber, whether you’re in a city or the country, and the weather.
You can usually hear gunshots from pretty far away, especially in open spaces.
Silencers make a big difference. They really cut down on how far the sound travels.
For instance, you might hear a rifle miles away in the country. But a pistol with a silencer? Maybe only a few hundred yards.
To Conclude
Gunshots are loud enough to cause immediate and permanent hearing loss. To protect your hearing, learn about decibel levels, use a suppressor whenever possible, and always wear appropriate hearing protection. By prioritizing hearing safety and practicing responsible firearm use, you can enjoy shooting sports for a lifetime.