Is This the Quietest Rifle in History?

Published on September 14, 2025
Duration: 34:24

The De Lisle Carbine, a WWII-era integrally suppressed bolt-action rifle, is examined for its exceptional quietness. Developed for clandestine operations, it converted Lee-Enfield rifles to fire .45 ACP using a massive integral suppressor, achieving historically low sound levels around 85-86 dB. Modern comparisons show it outperforms many contemporary suppressed firearms, with its report becoming indistinguishable from ambient noise at 100 yards.

Quick Summary

The De Lisle Carbine, a WWII-era bolt-action rifle, is renowned as one of history's quietest firearms. Its massive integral suppressor, built around a Thompson SMG barrel and firing subsonic .45 ACP, achieved sound levels around 85-86 dB, outperforming many modern suppressed weapons.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: The De Lisle Carbine - Quietest Rifle?
  2. 02:39History & Development: WWII Clandestine Ops
  3. 04:08Technical Design: Massive Integral Suppressor
  4. 06:41Modern Comparisons: De Lisle vs. Modern Suppressors
  5. 10:25Distance Sound Testing: 100 Yards & Beyond
  6. 13:35Wet Suppressor Performance: Paintball Gun Quiet
  7. 14:48Accuracy & Component Breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions

What made the De Lisle Carbine so quiet?

The De Lisle Carbine's exceptional quietness stemmed from its massive integral suppressor, which enveloped the barrel and provided significant volume for sound baffling. Combined with its bolt-action mechanism firing subsonic .45 ACP rounds, it achieved historically low decibel ratings.

How does the De Lisle Carbine compare to modern suppressed rifles?

In sound suppression tests, the De Lisle Carbine often outperformed modern suppressed firearms. Its large suppressor volume and bolt-action design allowed it to achieve lower decibel levels, especially at greater distances where its report became nearly inaudible.

What caliber does the De Lisle Carbine fire?

The De Lisle Carbine fires the .45 ACP cartridge. It was developed by converting .303 British Lee-Enfield rifles to use this larger, subsonic round, which is crucial for effective suppression.

What was the historical purpose of the De Lisle Carbine?

The De Lisle Carbine was developed during World War II for clandestine operations by British Commandos and the OSS. Its extreme quietness made it ideal for covert missions where minimizing detection was paramount.

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