Any difference in loudness between 16" and 20" in 22LR?

[DMK]

I'm considering dedicated a 22LR upper for my AR. They come in 20" and 16" in various flavors. Since I'm planning to shoot it in my backyard, noise is a factor.

Would there be any appreciable difference in loudness between a 16" and 20" barrel when shooting HV 22LR?

 

[Greg L]

I think so. My boy's Scout Troop has both some Marlin Youth Model (short barrel) & some old Remingtons (military trainers?). There is more of a blast out of the Marlins. However that is just a not really paying attention observation on my part. I'm sure that someone will be along shortly will all the charts & graphs to give you the definitive answer .

Greg

 

[Mulliga]

Yes. I have an 18" Marlin and a 22" Romy trainer, and the trainer's report is noticeably quieter.

I wouldn't recommend a 16" barrel if you want to practice in earshot of any neighbors.

 

[MrAcheson]

The longer barrel should be quieter, but the shorter barrel will actually be faster...

 

[DMK]

Thanks guys. I'll go with the 20" then and also gain the benefit of a longer sight radius.

 

[artherd]

Yes, the 20" will be quieter.

.22 powder is a long-burning rifle powder. That is why it is as loud as my 9mm out of a pistol (and makes a similar muzzle flash) most of the powder burns outside the barrel in .22 pistols.

Can you own suppressors where you live? That is the best by far option.

 

[DMK]

Can you own suppressors where you live?

Not worth the cost or trouble for the intended purpose. My Marlin 60 is quiet enough with a 22" barrel so I think the 20" will work as well.

 

[Gordon]

Although the .22LR HS loading burns all its powder in 20" the drag down of bullet friction makes those 24-28" barrel REAL quiet ( with sub sonic loads!

 

[DMK]

You're right about that Gordon. I shoot a lot of Aguilla standard velocity out of my lever and bolt actions. It's much quieter than the HV stuff.

 

[WhiteKnight]

The 20" barrel will be much quieter.