Subsonic vs. Standard Velocity Are They Quieter?

Affiliate disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. As an affiliate, I may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

Subsonic vs standard velocity .22 LR

Are .22 LR subsonics really quieter than standard velocity? Yes, but the difference is not noticeable with a suppressor. Subsonic .22 LR ammunition travels slower than the speed of sound, so it avoids the sonic crack.

What to know

  • Unsuppressed: subsonic is quieter, but still loud enough to need hearing protection.
  • Suppressed: the difference becomes hard to notice. Suppressors are regulated under the National Firearms Act and state laws vary. See Anechoic suppressors where legal.
  • Cycling: some semi-autos may need standard velocity to cycle reliably.

Gear

Use ShellShock hearing protection (code Bullets4Bucks), find rimfire ammo at Natchez and True Shot Ammo (code Bullets4Bucks), and get cleaning supplies at Brownells.

Where to buy the gear mentioned in this post

Affiliate links: I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Keep watching and reading

Want these deals in your inbox?

Join the Bullets4Bucks newsletter — the best gun, optic & outdoor deals delivered every day. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

Leave a Reply