AFTE Store - Firearm Sound Level Measurements: A Study of Selected Parameters and Variables Part 2

Modern dB meters capable of accurately measuring the peak decibel (dB) levels of gunshots and other impulse sounds can be used in a variety of configurations depending on the firearm and the issue to be studied and the particular purpose of the measurement. The MIL standard procedure described in Part 1 and the control firearm-ammunition combination provided a reproducible setup configuration and a means of verifying proper performance of the dB meter with the idea that others carrying out such measurements could inter-compare data. Part 2 describes and illustrates the effects of a number of variables on dB measurements. These include barrel length, subsonic vs. supersonic discharges, muzzle pressure, microphone position, microphone standoff distance, scale selection, and environmental variations.