Subsonic ammunitions are ammunitions designed to operate at velocities below the speed of sound (Mach 1), which at standard conditions is 340.29 m/s (1,116.4 ft/s). This avoids the supersonic shockwave or "crack" of a supersonic bullet, which, particularly for suppressed firearms, influences the loudness of the shot.[1][2][3]
Subsonic ammunition usually uses heavier bullets to retain as much kinetic energy as possible at the lower velocities. Some subsonic ammunition is used in non-suppressed firearms to gain the advantages of heavier bullet weights.
- ^ Paulson, Alan C (1996). Silencer History and Performance, Vol 1: Sporting And Tactical Silencers. Paladin Press. ISBN 0-87364-909-5.
- ^ Paulson, Alan C; Kokalis, Peter G.; Parker, N.R. (2002). Silencer History and Performance, Vol 2: CQB, Assault Rifle, and Sniper Technology. Paladin Press. ISBN 1-58160-323-1.
- ^ Shooting Range Industries. Shooting Terms; What Is Bullet Drag, Bow Shockwave, Mach Speed Number, Boat Tail & More - Shooting Range Industries. [online] Available at: <http://www.shootingrangeindustries.com/shooting-terms-what-is-bullet-drag-bow-shockwave-mach-speed-number-boat-tail-more/>