The initial proposal included two arbitrary restrictions which would have limited the decibel reduction of suppressors allowed in the field to 30 dB, and would have also prohibited the use of subsonic ammunition by anyone using a suppressor while hunting. Prior to the final vote, Commissioner Louise Klarr offered an amendment to remove these two provisions from the proposed rule. Her measure passed also 4 – 1.
“We are incredibly excited that hunters in the great state of Michigan can now use suppressors to help protect their hearing while they’re in the field,” said Knox Williams, President of the American Suppressor Association. “It was a pleasure working to educate the NRC Commissioners and members of the DNR on the realities of suppressor use. We applaud their decision to remove the prohibition on suppressor hunting without the two restrictive provisions. In doing so, they have done their part to ensure that the next generation of hunters does not have to sacrifice their hearing.”
The American Suppressor Association was one part of the team working to legalize suppressor hunting in Michigan. The ASA would like to thank the National Rifle Association, the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF), Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC), and Safari Club International (SCI) for working together on this initiative to make Michigan a safer place to hunt.
The American Suppressor Association is also grateful for the support of our members, as well as everyone who took the time to support this initiative. We are very excited about bringing suppressor hunting to The Great Lakes State. We will continue to work towards our goal of legalizing suppressor ownership and hunting in all 50 states through our No State Left Behind campaign. Special thanks to Michigan for taking us one step closer!
Since 2011, 16 states have legalized suppressor hunting for all game animals. Despite common misconceptions, suppressors are not silent. They are simply mufflers for firearms. There are many benefits to using a suppressor, including:
- HEARING PROTECTION: Noise induced hearing loss and tinnitus are two of the most common afflictions for recreational shooters and hunters. Everyone knows that gunfire is loud, but very few people understand the repercussions that shooting can have on their hearing until it’s too late. Suppressors reduce the noise of a gunshot by an average of 20 – 35 dB, which is roughly the same as earplugs or earmuffs. By decreasing the overall sound signature, suppressors help to preserve the hearing of recreational shooters, hunters, and hunting dogs around the world.
- SAFER HUNTING: Most hunters do not wear not wear hearing protection in the field because they want to hear their surroundings. The trouble is, exposure to even a single unsuppressed gunshot can, and often does, lead to permanent hearing damage. Suppressors allow hunters to maintain full situational awareness, while still protecting their hearing. The result is a safer hunting experience for the hunter, and for those nearby.
- NOISE COMPLAINTS: As urban developments advance into rural areas, shooting ranges and hunting preserves across the country are being closed due to noise complaints. Although it can still be heard, suppressed gunfire helps mitigate noise complaints from those who live near shooting ranges and hunting land.
- ACCURACY: Suppressors reduce recoil, and help decrease muzzle flinch. These benefits lead to improved accuracy, better shot placement, and more humane hunts.
