Supersonic vs. Subsonic Ammo: Hear the Difference in Sound

Published on April 29, 2024
Duration: 0:46

This video demonstrates the audible difference between supersonic and subsonic ammunition. It explains that supersonic rounds travel faster than the speed of sound, causing a 'crack' that reaches the ear before the gunshot report. Subsonic rounds travel slower, meaning the gunshot report is heard first, followed by the bullet's arrival. The demonstration uses an AR-15 with .223 caliber (supersonic) and a revolver with .38 Special caliber (subsonic) to illustrate this phenomenon.

Quick Summary

The primary audible difference between supersonic and subsonic ammunition is the timing of the sounds. Supersonic rounds travel faster than the speed of sound, so you hear the bullet's sonic crack before the gunshot report. Subsonic rounds travel slower than sound, meaning the gunshot is heard first, followed by the bullet's arrival.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Supersonic vs. Subsonic Ammo
  2. 00:10Sound Difference Explained
  3. 00:23Supersonic Ammo Demonstration
  4. 00:30Subsonic Ammo Demonstration
  5. 00:38Supersonic Sound Replay
  6. 00:41Subsonic Sound Replay

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main audible difference between supersonic and subsonic ammunition?

The key difference lies in the timing of the sounds. Supersonic ammo travels faster than sound, so you hear the bullet's sonic crack before the gunshot. Subsonic ammo travels slower than sound, so you hear the gunshot first, then the bullet's arrival.

How does caliber affect whether ammo is supersonic or subsonic?

Caliber itself doesn't dictate supersonic or subsonic. It's the bullet's velocity. For example, .223 rounds from an AR-15 are typically supersonic, while .38 Special rounds from a handgun are often subsonic, though specific loads can vary.

Can you hear the bullet itself when firing supersonic rounds?

You don't hear the bullet's physical impact directly before the gunshot. Instead, you hear the 'crack' or sonic boom created by the bullet as it exceeds the speed of sound, which precedes the gunshot report.

What firearms were used to demonstrate supersonic and subsonic ammo?

The demonstration featured an AR-15 rifle firing .223 caliber ammunition, which is typically supersonic. A chrome-plated revolver firing .38 Special ammunition was used to demonstrate subsonic rounds.

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