Gun owners love to argue about the differences between a silencer and a suppressor. These devices may be heavily regulated or banned.
Synonym: sound moderator
The suppressor/silencer is a cyclindrical device placed at a gun's muzzle.
Features that can be suppressed:
(1) sound (muzzle report)
(2) muzzle flash
(3) recoil
Facts:
(1) It is difficult to completely eliminate all sound. Most devices reduce or alter the sound so that it is not as noticeable.
(2) Ammunition that goes above the sound barrier produces a sonic boom, which is not eliminated (ballistic crack).
(3) The cycling of the gun parts can produce sounds.
(4) The impact of the bullet on target can produce a sound.
(5) Ear protection is still required.
