Suppressors (often called silencers) have long been surrounded by myths and misconceptions. Whether it’s misinformation from movies or a lack of understanding about firearm regulations, suppressors are often misunderstood. In this guide, we’ll separate fact from fiction, helping you understand what suppressors really are and how they work.

Myth 1: Suppressors Make Guns Completely Silent

Fact: Despite what Hollywood portrays, suppressors don’t make guns completely silent. Instead, they reduce the sound of a gunshot by slowing and cooling the gases released when a round is fired. Most suppressors lower the noise by 20–35 decibels (dB), which is significant but doesn’t render a firearm silent. A suppressed gunshot is still as loud as a jackhammer or a car horn.

Key Point: Suppressors reduce noise to safer levels but do not eliminate it entirely.

Myth 2: Suppressors Are Illegal

Fact: Suppressors are legal in most states across the United States. As of now, suppressors are legal for civilian ownership in 42 states. However, they are regulated under the National Firearms Act (NFA), requiring buyers to undergo a background check, pay a $200 tax stamp, and wait for ATF approval.

Key Point: Suppressors are legal but heavily regulated. Always check your local laws before purchasing one.

Myth 3: Suppressors Are Only for Criminals

Fact: This myth is a result of their portrayal in movies and TV shows. In reality, suppressors are used by hunters, sport shooters, and firearm enthusiasts for practical reasons. They reduce noise pollution, protect hearing, and improve accuracy by reducing recoil. Suppressors are tools for responsible firearm owners, not criminals.

Key Point: Suppressors are legal accessories used for safety and performance enhancement.

Myth 4: Suppressors Eliminate the Need for Hearing Protection

Fact: While suppressors reduce the noise of a gunshot, they don’t always lower it below safe hearing levels. For example, a suppressed .223 rifle may still produce sound levels around 130–140 dB, which can damage hearing with prolonged exposure. Double protection—using both a suppressor and hearing protection—is ideal.

Key Point: Suppressors reduce noise but don’t replace hearing protection entirely.

Myth 5: Suppressors Are Only for Tactical or Military Use

Fact: While suppressors are often associated with military and law enforcement, they’re widely used by civilians for recreational and hunting purposes. Hunters, for instance, use suppressors to avoid scaring game or disturbing nearby wildlife. They also protect the shooter’s hearing during outdoor hunts.

Key Point: Suppressors have practical uses for civilian shooters, including hunting and target practice.

Myth 6: Suppressors Are Hard to Maintain

Fact: Suppressor maintenance is straightforward, especially with modern designs and advanced coatings. Many suppressors, like those from Echo Zulu Defense, feature DLC and hBN coatings that resist carbon buildup, making cleaning easier. Routine cleaning and proper storage are usually all it takes to keep your suppressor in excellent condition.

Key Point: Properly maintained suppressors can last a lifetime with minimal effort.

Myth 7: Suppressors Are Expensive

Fact: While some suppressors can be costly due to materials like titanium or Inconel, there are options for various budgets. The additional cost of a $200 tax stamp and ATF processing may seem daunting, but the suppressor’s longevity and benefits often outweigh the initial investment.

Key Point: Suppressors come in a range of prices, and their long-term value justifies the cost.

Myth 8: Suppressors Affect Accuracy

Fact: High-quality suppressors, when properly mounted, can improve accuracy by reducing recoil and muzzle rise. However, poorly manufactured or misaligned suppressors may negatively impact accuracy. Always use suppressors designed for your firearm and check alignment carefully.

Key Point: A good suppressor can enhance accuracy when correctly installed.

Myth 9: Suppressors Are Difficult to Buy

Fact: While purchasing a suppressor involves more steps than buying other firearm accessories, the process is straightforward. You’ll need to select a suppressor, complete ATF Form 4, pay the tax stamp, and wait for approval. Many dealers offer assistance to streamline the process.

Key Point: Suppressors require some paperwork, but the buying process is manageable.

Myth 10: All Suppressors Are the Same

Fact: Suppressors vary widely in terms of materials, construction, mounting systems, and performance. For example, titanium suppressors are lightweight and ideal for hunting, while Inconel suppressors are better for high-volume shooting. Choosing the right suppressor depends on your firearm, intended use, and personal preferences.

Key Point: Research and select a suppressor that matches your specific needs.

Why Suppressors Matter

Suppressors enhance the shooting experience by reducing noise, recoil, and muzzle flash. They promote safer shooting practices, improve accuracy, and are particularly valuable for hunting and recreational use. By understanding the facts about suppressors, you can make informed decisions and debunk common myths.

Ready to explore the benefits of suppressors? Browse Echo Zulu Defense’s lineup of precision-engineered suppressors, designed for safety, performance, and durability.