The reduction of gunshot noise and auditory risk through the use of firearm suppressors and low-velocity ammunition

<i>Objective:</i> This research assessed the reduction of peak levels, equivalent energy and sound power of firearm suppressors. <i>Design:</i> The first study evaluated the effect of three suppressors at four microphone positions around four firearms. The second study assessed the suppressor-related reduction of sound power with a 3 m hemispherical microphone array for two firearms. <i>Results:</i> The suppressors reduced exposures at the ear between 17 and 24 dB peak sound pressure level and reduced the 8 h equivalent A-weighted energy between 9 and 21 dB depending upon the firearm and ammunition. Noise reductions observed for the instructor’s position about a metre behind the shooter were between 20 and 28 dB peak sound pressure level and between 11 and 26 dB <i>L</i>_Aeq,8h. Firearm suppressors reduced the measured sound power levels between 2 and 23 dB. Sound power reductions were greater for the low-velocity ammunition than for the same firearms fired with high-velocity ammunition due to the effect of N-waves produced by a supersonic bullet. <i>Conclusions:</i> Firearm suppressors may reduce noise exposure, and the cumulative exposures of suppressed firearms can still present a significant hearing risk. Therefore, firearm users should always wear hearing protection whenever target shooting or hunting.