The basics of how to purchase a silencer can seem daunting due to the paperwork and regulations involved. However, silencers can offer several benefits, including noise reduction and increased shooting comfort. In this post, I will walk you through the steps to purchase a silencer legally and safely per federal and state laws.
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Before you embark on the silencer purchasing journey, educating yourself about the legal and technical aspects is crucial. Understanding the laws and regulations surrounding silencers is essential. In the United States, they are regulated under the National Firearms Act (NFA), making it necessary to be well-informed about federal and state-specific requirements. Locate a reputable Class 3 Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer. These dealers are authorized to sell NFA-regulated items. They can be instrumental in guiding you through the process.
The first step in acquiring a silencer is to select the right one for your needs. Factors to consider include caliber compatibility, length, weight and attachment method. Silencers are available for various firearms, so ensure you choose one compatible with your firearm’s caliber and barrel threading.
You have two primary options for purchasing a silencer: as an individual or through an NFA trust. The choice depends on your personal circumstances and legal considerations. An NFA trust can provide flexibility and simplify the process by allowing multiple people to use the silencer, but it may require legal assistance to set up.
The NFA process involves extensive paperwork, but a Class 3 dealer can assist you in completing the necessary forms. The two primary forms you’ll need to submit are the ATF Form 4 and the ATF Form 5330.20, also known as the Responsible Person Questionnaire. You will need to submit fingerprint cards along with passport-sized photos. Your local law enforcement agencies might be helpful for the cards, or you can pay for an electronic fingerprinting service, such as PrintScan, for this task. Note: Our Babbs used this service and had her prints done at a UPS store.
You must include a check or money order for the transfer tax fee, currently $200, with your application. Your dealer will handle this transaction. Be sure to verify the current tax rate and payment method with your Class 3 dealer or the (ATF) for any changes that may have occurred.
Once your paperwork is complete, submit it to the ATF. After this step, the most challenging part of the process begins – the waiting period. As a warning, the ATF processing times can vary, but it’s not unusual for it to take at least six months to receive your approved Form 4. You can check the current ATF processing times here.
Once your Form 4 is approved, the silencer is transferred to you and you can pick it up from the dealer. You feel like you hit the lottery, and then you remember that you paid for this at least six months ago. Remember to bring all required documentation.
NOTE: Ensure you always keep a copy of your approved Form 4 with the silencer.
Remember that while the federal government regulates silencers, individual states may have their own laws and regulations. Ensure you comply with federal and state laws to avoid legal issues. Purchasing a silencer can be a lengthy and paperwork-intensive process, but the benefits of reduced noise and recoil can make it worthwhile for many firearms enthusiasts. By following the steps outlined in this article and seeking assistance from a Class 3 FFL dealer, you can legally purchase a silencer for your firearm by navigating the NFA requirements. Remember to stay informed about any changes in regulations or tax rates, as these may evolve over time. Always prioritize safety and adherence to the law throughout the process.
For more information about purchasing a silencer, check out SilencerCo’s helpful instructions.
Avery Skipalis is the owner of Skip’s Tactical Solutions, an organization that focuses on empowering women, men and children to make sure that no one else becomes a victim. She gained her firearms experience from the military where she’s been a military firearms instructor for 10.5 years. She’s also a certified NRA rifle and pistol instructor and Glock Advanced Armorer since 2015. She’s attended Sig Sauer Academy, FNH, Special Operations Command Armorers courses as well as multiple Advanced Shooting Schools across the United States. She resides in Florida with her husband and 2 kids. She’s currently serving in the United States Air Force and loves sharing her passion with others. She thinks it’s important that women also feel like they’re in control of their own safety. View all posts by Avery Skipalis
