[Ron Wood]

No�«l,
You very likely are correct in all your comments. I think that although it isn't too probable that the "average" criminal is aware of the requirements to fire a suppressed weapon, there are probably a few above average criminals who can read and understand the principles. Also, 9mm or other large caliber seems an odd choice to decimate garden pests when a .22 or pellet gun would suffice. I think that it is as much the appearance of criminal intent rather than actual use that prompts the control of suppressed weapons.