Ammunition designed for .22 caliber firearms can be categorized by its velocity relative to the speed of sound. Standard velocity .22 Long Rifle rounds typically exceed the speed of sound, creating a sonic crack upon firing. Subsonic .22 ammunition, by contrast, is engineered to remain below the sound barrier. This characteristic eliminates the sonic crack, often resulting in a quieter report. For instance, some subsonic rounds utilize heavier bullets to maintain comparable energy levels at lower velocities.
The reduced noise signature offers several potential advantages. In hunting applications, it can minimize disturbance to surrounding wildlife, potentially increasing hunting success rates. It’s also beneficial for target shooting, where reduced noise contributes to a more comfortable and less disruptive shooting experience, particularly in noise-sensitive environments. Historically, specialized subsonic loads were developed for suppressed firearms, as eliminating the sonic crack is crucial for maximizing suppressor effectiveness. However, the benefits extend beyond suppressed shooting, making subsonic ammunition a popular choice even without a suppressor.