How loud is a 12-gauge shotgun?
A 12-gauge shotgun is about 165 dB, with a typical range of 160–170 dB. NIOSH lists a 12-gauge shotgun at 165 dB.
That is about 1,448 times as loud to the ear as normal conversation and 3.16e+10 times the sound energy.
Can it damage your hearing?
Yes, with enough exposure. At 165 dBA, NIOSH recommends a daily limit of less than a second; at the top of the range (170 dB) it is less than a second. Peaks above 140 dB can cause instant damage. Wear earplugs or earmuffs, keep your distance and limit time near the source.
How sound level changes with distance
Decibel figures always depend on distance. For a small source in open air, every doubling of distance lowers the level by about 6 dB; indoors, reflections reduce that drop. Use the sound-vs-distance calculator to estimate the level where you are.
Sounds as loud as a 12-gauge shotgun
More recordings elsewhere
- Shotgun Shot by LeMudCrab – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- Shotgun Cock Reload Layered (Powerful) by Paul368 – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- Shotgun by Radio Nowhere – CC BY-SA 3.0 (jamendo)
- Shotgun Shot 03.wav by MATRIXXX_ – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- Rifle-or-shotgun-reload.wav by MaximBomba – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
Frequently asked questions
How many decibels is a 12-gauge shotgun?
About 165 dB, with a typical range of 160–170 dB.
Is a 12-gauge shotgun louder than a jet engine?
Yes – a jet engine at takeoff is about 140 dB at 30 m, while a 12-gauge shotgun is about 165 dB.
How are these levels measured?
With a sound level meter, usually A-weighted (dBA) to match human hearing. Published figures depend on distance and conditions, so treat them as typical values.