@ 44 AMP,
It's leagle to use in more states than not, but one should always check.
GeauxTide said:
A suppressor reduces that number by 25-30db. Could get some fancy electronic ear plugs....
You're right he could, but suppressors have other benifits as well. The main one is they reduce recoil as well making a rifle more shootable without the added noise and concussion from a brake. They're more comfortable to wear than ear plugs or muffs, and a suppressor doesn't get in the way of a good cheek weld like some ear muffs can. Plus you don't have to worry about people hunting and shooting with you as much.
The only real downside to suppressors is the $200 tax stamp, needing permission from the government to own, and how slow those approvals are. I've spent more money on one optic than I had on two suppressors. Since I started shooting suppressed in 2020, my friends and hunting buddies are buying them to use as well.
It is hard for people who have never been around suppressors to understand why other people use them. My wife doesn't understand, she says half the fun of shooting is the bang. She enjoys shooting revolvers the best so a suppressor wouldn't do much anyway.
@ redhawk41,
At $1000 for a stainless rifle you're severely limiting your options. There just isn't a lot out there at $1000 or less. After building a few custom rifles, I can tell you, you'll never put something together as cheaply as you can buy.
For a stainless rifle you're looking at $700-900 for a Savage or a Tikka. If you want to replace the stock, then Tikka will be your best option. Just stay away from budget rifles in general as you'll be limiting your options.
Weight should be a concern, you don't want a suppressed rifle significantly heavier than your current favorite hunting rifle. 10-12 lbs or even heavier is usually okay for a range or competition/PRS style rifle, but the majority of people hate to carry them around on a multi day hunting season after elk. So I will encourage you to try and keep the rifle 9 lbs or less, and it isn't impossible task with todays rifles, certain optics, and a Ti suppressor.
The TBAC suppressors are light the Ultra5 is only 8 oz and 5" long, then there is the new Banish Backcountry at 8 oz and 5.5" long. The Banish and TBAC Ultra5 will cost about $1000 MSRP, plus tax stamp, and taxes. The Harvester will probably be the most affordable suppressor in the 10 oz range right now, you can purchase one with a rebate for less than $700 before tax stamp and taxes through Silencer Shop.