A suppressor, also known as a silencer, is a device that is attached to the barrel of a gun to reduce the amount of noise it makes when fired. It does this by trapping the expanding gases that are created when the gunpowder explodes and pushes the bullet out of the barrel. These gases are then cooled down and reduced in volume before being released from the suppressor.
Suppressors are most commonly used on firearms such as rifles and pistols, but can also be used on other types of guns such as air rifles and paintball guns. They are legal to own in many countries, although there may be restrictions on how they can be used.
In the United States, suppressors are regulated by the National Firearms Act of 1934. This act requires that suppressors be registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), and a tax must be paid on each one. There are also restrictions on who can buy and use suppressors. For example, felons are not allowed to possess them.
Suppressors can be very effective at reducing the noise of a gunshot, but they will not eliminate it. In addition, the use of a suppressor can affect the accuracy and velocity of the bullet. For these reasons, they are not typically used by military or law enforcement personnel.