Impact of noise on hearing in the military

Table 3 Peak sound pressure level range of different weapons*

Type of weapons	Peak sound pressure level range (dB)
Rifles
.45-70 Rifle	155.2-159.9
.30-06 Rifle	158.7-163.1
Shotguns
.410 Bore	151.0- 157.3
20 Gauge	154.8
12 Gauge	156.1- 161.5
Pistols
.22	151
9 mm Luger	159 163
.45 ACP	158
Other Weapons
Hand grenade	158
Light anti-tank weapon	184
Inside armored vehicle, continuous noise	L_Aeq103 – 107

*Adapted from Chen L, Brueck SE. Noise and lead exposure at an outdoor firing range – California. Health Hazard Evaluation report Sept 2011, and from Kramer WL. Gunfire noise and hearing. American Tinnitus Association. June 2002:14–15.

ISSN: 2054-9369