Who’s REALLY More Quiet.. Airguns VS Suppressed .22LR

Published on February 11, 2026
Duration: 10:18

This video details an experimental comparison between the noise levels of airguns and suppressed .22LR firearms. The host, Ben, from Shooting Gear Reviews, uses a blind test with family judges to determine which is quieter from a neighbor's perspective. The tests involve various airgun and .22LR configurations, including the Western Airguns Anti-Venom suppressor and CCI's subsonic ammunition, concluding that suppressed PCP airguns can be exceptionally quiet.

Quick Summary

A suppressed PCP airgun, particularly when fitted with an airgun-specific suppressor like the Western Airguns Anti-Venom, can be quieter than a suppressed .22LR using subsonic ammunition. CCI Quiet-22 rounds are noted for their extreme quietness in .22LR.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Airgun vs .22LR Quiet Test
  2. 01:14Backyard Friendliness Test Setup
  3. 02:04Western Airguns Anti-Venom Suppressor Intro
  4. 02:35Subsonic .22LR Ammunition Selection
  5. 04:07Range Setup & Log Backstop
  6. 05:53Shooting Test Sequence
  7. 09:18Results & Conclusion: Quietest Option

Frequently Asked Questions

Are airguns quieter than suppressed .22LR firearms?

The video suggests that while unsuppressed PCP airguns can be loud, a PCP airgun equipped with a specialized airgun suppressor like the Western Airguns Anti-Venom can be quieter than a suppressed .22LR using subsonic ammunition, making it a potentially better choice for noise-sensitive areas.

What ammunition is best for quiet .22LR shooting?

For the quietest .22LR performance, CCI Quiet-22 ammunition (around 710 fps) is highly effective. Standard CCI Sub-Sonic rounds also offer reduced noise compared to high-velocity loads, though they may be slightly louder than the Quiet-22.

How does suppressor technology affect airgun noise?

Airgun-specific suppressors, such as the Western Airguns Anti-Venom, are designed to significantly reduce the muzzle blast of airguns. This technology can make high-powered PCP airguns remarkably quiet, often quieter than suppressed firearms.

What is the 'backyard friendly' noise level for shooting?

The concept of 'backyard friendly' implies minimal noise disturbance to neighbors. The test indicates that a suppressed PCP airgun can achieve this level of quietness, whereas even a suppressed .22LR might still be perceived as too loud in close proximity.

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