What Does It Sound Like To Get Shot At? Bullet Sounds Near & Far

Published on November 20, 2022
Duration: 20:24

This video demonstrates the audible differences in bullet sounds at various distances, from 230 to 1000 yards. Garand Thumb, a recognized subject matter expert, explains ballistic acoustics using a variety of firearms and calibers. The experiment highlights the importance of range safety, including the use of defilade, and showcases how factors like distance, caliber, and suppressors affect the sound signature of a projectile.

Quick Summary

Garand Thumb conducts a ballistic acoustics experiment, recording bullet sounds from 230 to 1000 yards. Using firearms like the Glock 17 and Steyr HS .50 M1, the video demonstrates how distance, caliber, and suppressors impact projectile noise, emphasizing crucial range safety protocols like defilade.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Safety Setup
  2. 02:30230 Yards Testing
  3. 07:11450 Yards Testing
  4. 10:301000 Yards Testing

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the defilade mentioned in the video?

The defilade, in this experiment, refers to a natural earth berm used to provide safety for observers. It shields them from direct fire while allowing projectiles to pass safely overhead, enabling the recording of bullet sounds at various distances.

How does distance affect the sound of a bullet?

Distance significantly alters a bullet's sound. At closer ranges, the supersonic 'crack' is sharp. As distance increases, the sound can diminish, change pitch, or become less distinct, especially if the bullet becomes unstable or subsonic.

Do suppressors eliminate the sound of a gunshot?

Suppressors primarily reduce the muzzle blast noise. However, they do not eliminate the supersonic 'crack' of the bullet itself, which remains an audible component of the gunshot sound, particularly at longer distances.

What firearms were used in the bullet sound experiment?

The experiment featured a variety of firearms including a Glock 17 (9mm), Henry 45-70, M203 (40mm), KAC SR-15 (5.56mm), AK-103 (7.62x39mm), M1 Garand (.30-06 Springfield), and the Steyr HS .50 M1 (.50 BMG).

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