Suppressors, also known as silencers, are legal to own in many parts of the United States, but they are regulated by federal and state laws. Despite their portrayal in movies, suppressors (https://sylvanarms.com/) don’t render guns silent—they reduce muzzle blast, protect hearing, and help improve shooting accuracy. Whether you’re a recreational shooter, hunter, or professional user, owning a suppressor legally requires navigating a few essential steps. This article provides a straightforward overview of what’s involved in legally purchasing and owning a suppressor in the U.S.
Are Suppressors Legal?
Suppressors are legal for civilian ownership in 42 states as of 2025. They are prohibited in California, Hawaii, Illinois, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. In states where suppressors are allowed, you must also comply with federal laws governed by the National Firearms Act (NFA) of 1934, which is administered by the ATF.
Who Can Own a Suppressor?
To purchase a suppressor, you must meet all of the following federal requirements:
- Be at least 21 years old to buy from a dealer (or 18 to own via a trust or private transfer, where allowed)
- Be an American citizen or legal resident
- Have no felony convictions or disqualifying criminal background
- Be legally allowed to own a firearm in your state
- Reside in a state where suppressor ownership is permitted
Meeting these requirements qualifies you to proceed with the purchasing process, which involves a few additional steps.
How to Legally Buy a Suppressor
Suppressors are classified as NFA items, meaning you must follow a regulated process to acquire one legally. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Choose a Suppressor and Dealer
Start by selecting a suppressor that fits your firearm and use case. You must purchase it from a licensed Class III FFL dealer authorized to sell NFA items. Many online retailers also facilitate suppressor sales through in-network dealers.
If you’re customizing your firearm for portability or compact storage, you may also want to consider compatible accessories like a folding stock adapter. These adapters allow the stock of your rifle to fold to the side, making it easier to transport and store—especially useful for suppressed rifles, which can be longer due to the added suppressor length. Just be sure the overall firearm configuration remains compliant with all federal and state laws when using such modifications.
Step 2: Complete a Form 4
To transfer ownership of the suppressor to you, your dealer will help you fill out ATF Form 4. This form includes your personal information, photo, and fingerprint cards.
You also have the option to register the suppressor as an:
- Individual (simplest, but only you can use it)
- Trust (allows others listed in the trust to use it)
- Legal entity (for corporations or organizations)
A gun trust is especially useful for families or professionals who want more than one responsible party to have legal access.
Step 3: Pay the Tax Stamp
All NFA transfers require a $200 tax stamp, a one-time fee paid to the federal government. Once submitted, the ATF will begin background processing and review.
Step 4: Wait for Approval
As of 2025, eForm 4 submissions have reduced average wait times to approximately 60–90 days, although paper submissions can still take longer. Once approved, you’ll receive the official tax stamp, and your dealer can release the suppressor to you.
Owning and Using Your Suppressor
Once you legally own a suppressor, you may use it on compatible firearms for legal purposes, including:
- Target shooting
- Hunting (in states where allowed)
- Home defense
- Competition or tactical training
You must always carry a copy of your tax stamp when transporting the suppressor. While there’s no ongoing federal registration requirement, it remains an NFA item for life unless transferred, sold, or destroyed.
If you move to a different state, you must notify the ATF in advance using Form 5320.20, even if the suppressor never leaves your possession.
Final Notes
Suppressors offer genuine benefits: they reduce noise, help preserve hearing, and can improve firearm control. While owning one involves more effort than buying a regular firearm, the legal path is well established and increasingly streamlined through eForms and trusted dealers.
Before starting your application, check your state laws and consult your local Class III dealer. With proper steps, owning a suppressor can be safe, legal, and practical.