How Loud is a Blank Gun?

Blank guns can reach anywhere from 125 to over 160 decibels, louder than a chainsaw, a rock concert, and in some cases even louder than a real firearm. But not all blank cartridges are created equal. The brand and powder load you choose makes a significant difference in the sound your blank gun produces.

Blank guns are commonly used in South Africa for self-defence, security training, and film production, and the loudness of the cartridge you choose matters for each use case. Here's how the most popular 9mm P.A.K. blank cartridges in South Africa compare, ranked from loudest to quietest.

Blank Gun Cartridge Loudness Comparison

💥 1. Victory Sport (V.Sport)

• Loudness: 150 to 160 decibels
• Profile: Extremely loud. The top choice for maximum deterrent effect or film realism.
• Use: Ideal for self-defence, offering an explosive sound as a means to intimidate aggressors.

💥 2. Kaizer

• Loudness: 145 to 155 decibels
• Profile: Delivers a sharp, punchy crack. Not far off in intensity to Victory Sport.
• Use: Common in personal protection kits and training.

💥 3. Codex

• Loudness: 135 to 145 decibels
• Profile: A moderate round that offers decent sound intensity.
• Use: Preferred for training environments and airsoft realism.

💥 4. Ozkursan

• Loudness: 125 to 140 decibels
• Profile: One of the quieter options available, but still loud enough to challenge a firework.
• Use: Suitable for beginner users, practice drills, or indoor simulation (with ear protection).

View all our blank cartridges

Hearing Safety When Firing Blank Guns

Even a single shot from a blank gun can cause permanent hearing damage. Keep these precautions in mind:

• Always wear hearing protection. Use earplugs or earmuffs every time you fire, even one shot at 150+ decibels is enough to cause immediate hearing damage.
• Be mindful of enclosed spaces. Firing a blank gun indoors or inside a vehicle amplifies the sound significantly. Doubled-up protection (earplugs plus earmuffs) is recommended.
• Warn people nearby. The blast from a blank gun can startle and potentially harm the hearing of anyone standing close by without protection.

So, How Loud Is a Blank Gun?

Extremely loud. Depending on the cartridge, a blank gun can produce a blast exceeding 160 decibels, that's louder than a jet engine at 100 metres. If you want maximum deterrent power, Victory Sport and Kaizer cartridges deliver the biggest bang. For training or practice where noise is a concern, Ozkursan offers a more moderate report while still being unmistakably loud.

Whichever cartridge you choose, always use ear protection and handle your blank gun responsibly.

Related Guides

• Do You Need a Licence for Blank Guns in South Africa?
• Can You Carry a Blank Gun in Public in South Africa?
• Can a Blank Gun Shoot a Real Bullet?

Ready to buy? Shop our full range of blank guns, from R999 with free delivery over R2000. Premium quality, no licence required.