How to Buy a Suppressor

 

Purchasing a suppressor is a straightforward, but regulated process and we're here to help you!

As suppressors are classified as National Firearms Act (NFA) items, buying one involves specific legal steps to ensure compliance with federal and state laws.

 

Whether you’re new to suppressors or just need a refresher on the process, this guide walks you through everything you need to know, from choosing the right suppressor to completing the necessary paperwork and picking up your new gear.

1. Verify Local Laws
Aside from choosing the right suppressor for you, this is the most important step in the process.  Check your state and local laws to ensure suppressors are legal in your area. While they are federally regulated, not all states allow civilian ownership of suppressors.

2. Choose a Suppressor
Research and select the suppressor that best fits your firearm and intended use. Factors to consider include caliber compatibility, weight,  size, material, durability, and suppression effectiveness. Please contact us if you would like help in selecting the suppressor best suited for your intended use.

3. Select an NFA Dealer

Suppressors are classified as NFA items, so you must purchase them through a Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer authorized to sell NFA items. Ensure the dealer is knowledgeable about the process and can guide you.

4. Fill Out ATF Form 4
To legally purchase a suppressor, you need to complete ATF Form 4, which transfers ownership of the suppressor from the dealer to you. This form requires your personal information, a photo of yourself, your fingerprints. The selected dealer will walk you through the necessary steps. If you are using the E-form system it takes less than 10 minutes for the whole process.

5. Submit the Application

Once the ATF Form 4 is complete, submit it along with a $200 tax payment for the NFA tax stamp, your fingerprints, and a passport-style photo. You can file this application either electronically via the eForms system or by mailing a paper application.

6. Wait for ATF Approval

The hardest part of the process by far.  Approval times vary but typically range from 6 to 12 months for trust or paper copies and 12 hours to 3 months for the eform individual.

7. Receive Approval and Tax Stamp

When the ATF approves your application, you’ll receive a copy of the approved Form 4 and your tax stamp. Keep these documents secure, as you must present them upon request to prove lawful ownership of the suppressor.

8. Pick Up Your Suppressor

Once approved, visit your NFA dealer to complete the transfer and pick up your suppressor. You will  need to complete a 4473 when you pick up the NFA item, it is a final step to confirm the correct person is getting the item. This 4473 background check does not need to be phoned in and there should never be a fee attached by the dealer.

9. Follow Ownership Rules

After purchase, comply with all federal, state, and local laws regarding suppressor ownership and use. Always carry a copy of your tax stamp and approved Form 4 when transporting the suppressor. Use it only in legal locations and for lawful purposes. Never loan or transfer the suppressor to someone else without going through the ATF transfer process.

While buying a suppressor involves additional steps and a waiting period, many firearm owners find the benefits, such as reduced noise and recoil, worth the effort. Work with reputable dealers and follow all legal requirements

to ensure a smooth process.