Recoil is the backward force that occurs when a firearm is fired. When a cartridge ignites inside the firearm’s chamber, a large amount of gases from the gunpowder rapidly expand, creating very high pressure. This pressure pushes the bullet through the firearm’s barrel at an incredible speed. Recoil is a physical effect generated from the release of gases and the bullet being shot away from the firearm. This means that the firearm moves backward in the opposite direction to the one in which the bullet is shot.
Recoil can vary in intensity depending on factors such as caliber, firearm weight, type of ammunition used, amount of gunpowder, and firearm design. Larger calibers and heavier ammunition typically generate more recoil. A heavier firearm weight can reduce the perceived recoil force by absorbing some of the energy.
Why Reduce Recoil?
Reducing recoil and its significant force is important for creating a positive experience in hunting and shooting. High recoil can be uncomfortable and painful for the shooter, and it can even lead to physical injuries with prolonged exposure. High recoil also affects accuracy and the ability to recover between shots.
How Silencers Reduce Recoil
All Stalon silencers reduce recoil when firing shots. The silencer acts as an expansion chamber where gases can expand and cool slightly before being released into the environment. By spreading out the gases and reducing their velocity inside the silencer, the force from the expanding gunpowder is diminished.
What changes at the muzzle
Rearward forceFull impulse
- Muzzle gasLeaves the barrel straight into the open air, at full pressure and full speed.
- Felt recoilThe whole rearward force from the expanding gas reaches your shoulder.
- Muzzle weightNothing is added in front of the barrel, so the rifle moves freely after the shot.
Rearward forceReduced impulse
- Muzzle gasExpands and cools slightly in the chamber, and is spread out before it is released.
- Felt recoilSlower, spread-out gas means less of the force from the expanding powder reaches you.
- Muzzle weightExtra weight on the barrel balances the rifle and reduces movement after firing.
Silencers are made from materials that add extra weight to the firearm’s barrel, helping balance the firearm and reduce movement after firing. They also contain damping materials designed to absorb and convert the energy from the recoil.
