Suppressors....

[SaveAirInBottles]

I've always wondered about this.... Do SOF always use suppressors on their guns? If so why doesn't everyone? What are the benifits and downsides of having a suppressor? This question has bothered me for a long time, if any of you guys know, or even can speculate, I'd appreciate the input.

[DocSantiago7]

I'm no expert on firearms but I'm pretty sure they decrease the range and accuracy of your weapon.

[montstar]

a suppressor deceases the muzzle velocity, muzzle velocity being the speed the bullet travels as it leaves the barrel, of a bullet, therefore decreasing the range and stopping power of the shot. it may decrease the accuracy of long range shots, but up to 1000 yards i dont think it really changes anything.

[Lycurgus]

It changes the trajectory of the bullet. Use of them is mission dependent.

[barrowcanyon]

A suppressor is simply a "muffler". It provides a place for the spent gas(and thus the soundwaves generated by said gas) given off by the propellent of a given round to expand in a controlled manner. They do not alter the velocity of the projectile by very much, that is, they do not exert any 'force' on the projectile itself. The speed of sound is around 1100ftpersec. So, if the projectile is still traveling faster than the speed of sound then it will still give off a sonic "crack" as it moves through the atmosphere. So in order to take full advantage of a suppressor, or "muffler", the projectile's(bullet)velocity must be reduced by lessening the amount of propellant(gunpowder) in any given cartridge. Thus you have what are known as "subsonic" cartridges that are available from quite a few manufacturers. Many folks have taken up "handloading", which is making your own rounds using a reloading toolset.
This is the most popular and cost effective way to go. A complete reloading set can be had for as little as $75 and the empty brass, projectiles, primers and powder are also very cheap to get. By 'rolling your own' you have infinitely more choices as to the type(hollowpoint,frangible, fmj) and the weight of projectiles. The amount of money you save making your own is substantial and you get to practice more often with your firearm( think live fire PT!).