What You Need to Know Before Purchasing a Suppressor

If you’ve ever considered purchasing a suppressor, you’re not alone. Suppressors—also known as silencers—are becoming increasingly popular among firearms owners. They reduce noise, minimize recoil, and enhance shooting comfort, making them ideal for hunting, recreational shooting, and even home defense.

However, purchasing a suppressor in the United States involves more than simply picking one up at your local shop. It’s a regulated process overseen by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). Here’s everything you need to know to ensure a smooth purchase.

1. Ensure You’re Eligible

Before purchasing a suppressor, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 21 years old to buy from a dealer (18 for private transfers in some states).
• Be a U.S. citizen and legally allowed to own a firearm.
• Reside in a state where suppressor ownership is legal. (In Pennsylvania, for instance, suppressors are legal to own and use for hunting.)

2. Choose the Right Suppressor for Your Needs

Not all suppressors are the same. Factors to consider when choosing include:

• Caliber Compatibility: Ensure the suppressor matches your firearm’s caliber.
• Intended Use: Are you buying for hunting, target shooting, or another purpose?
• Thread Pattern: Make sure your firearm’s barrel threading matches the suppressor.

At Hammer Down Armament, can help you select the right suppressor for your needs. We have a suppressor EXPERT on staff to help you pick the best can for your use.

3. Decide Between Individual Ownership or a Trust

When purchasing a suppressor, you can register it either:

• As an Individual: The simplest option, but the suppressor can only be used by you.
• Through a Trust or Corporation: This allows multiple people to legally use the suppressor. A trust can also simplify transferring ownership to heirs.

4. Understand the NFA Process

Suppressors are classified as NFA (National Firearms Act) items, which means they require additional paperwork and approval from the ATF. Here’s how the process works:

Step 1: Fill Out ATF Form 4

The ATF Form 4 is used to transfer NFA items to individuals. You’ll need:

• Personal details (name, address, etc.).
• Your suppressor’s serial number and model.
• Passport-style photo and fingerprints.

At Hammer Down Armament, we use SilencerShop to prepare all the ATF forms and submit them electronically.  Using our SilencerShop kiosk eliminates the need for manual fingerprinting and passport photos. Quickly knock out your photos in store when you pick out you silencer and use their app to take a photo for your application. It takes less than 5 minutes!

Step 2: Pay the Tax Stamp Fee

Purchasing a suppressor requires a one-time $200 tax stamp, payable to the ATF. This fee has been in place since the 1930s and applies to all NFA-regulated items.

Step 3: Submit Your Application and Wait

In the past it has taken up to a year to receive approval. Lately, the wait times have dropped DRAMATICALLY! Our most recent approval came back in 26 HOURS! Typically they’re coming back in 3-5 days after the Form 4 is submitted. During this time, you cannot take possession of your suppressor.

5. Finalize the Transfer and Pick Up Your Suppressor

Once your application is approved, your dealer will contact you. At this point, you’ll complete the transfer process and can finally take your suppressor home.

6. Follow Local and Federal Laws

Even after purchasing a suppressor, you must follow specific regulations, including:

• Only using it in states where it’s legal.
• Transporting it according to federal guidelines.

Remember, owning a suppressor is a responsibility. Always prioritize safety and legal compliance.

Visit Hammer Down Armament for Expert Guidance

At Hammer Down Armament, we’re here to help you navigate the process of purchasing a suppressor. Our knowledgeable staff can answer your questions, help you choose the right suppressor for your needs, and guide you through the ATF paperwork process.

Stop by our store in Bellefonte, PA, to learn more. Let’s make your suppressor purchase smooth and hassle-free!