Buying a Suppressor: Demystifying the Process

Purchasing a suppressor (aka silencer) can feel like navigating a maze, but it’s simpler than you think once you know the steps. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or just curious, let’s debunk some myths and walk through the process to get your suppressor legally and hassle-free.

Common Myths About Suppressors

Let’s clear up some misconceptions right away:

• Myth: A suppressor has to stay on one gun. Nope! Suppressors have their own serial numbers and can be moved between compatible firearms legally.
• Myth: You pay a yearly tax stamp. Not true. You pay a one-time $200 tax stamp per suppressor serial number. Buy one can? That’s $200. Buy another? Another $200.
• Myth: Anyone can borrow my suppressor after I get it. Big no! Only the person named on the tax stamp or listed on a trust can legally possess the suppressor. Letting others use it without proper documentation is a federal violation—don’t risk it.

Step-by-Step Guide to Buying a Suppressor

Here’s how to get your suppressor, broken down into clear steps:

1. Create an ATF eForms Account Head to eforms.atf.gov to set up a free account. This is where you’ll manage all your National Firearms Act (NFA) items, like suppressors.
   • The ATF assigns you a username (you don’t choose it), which will be emailed to you. Write it down!
   • You’ll pick a PIN number. Keep this safe—your dealer will need it later.
2. Find a Licensed NFA Dealer Look for a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) with a Special Occupational Tax (SOT) status, which allows them to deal in NFA items like suppressors. Check with local gun shops or online retailers to confirm they’re NFA-friendly.
3. Choose and Pay for Your Suppressor Pick the suppressor that fits your needs (e.g., caliber, size, or brand). You’ll need to pay for it upfront before starting the ATF paperwork. Research options to ensure compatibility with your firearms.
4. Decide: Individual Tax Stamp or NFA Trust You have two options for registering your suppressor:
   • Individual Tax Stamp: Registers the suppressor to you alone. Only you can legally possess it. Cost: $200 per suppressor.
   • NFA Trust: Allows multiple people (e.g., family members) to be listed as “responsible persons” who can possess the suppressor. It also simplifies transferring NFA items if something happens to you. A trust costs extra (e.g., ~$90 for a LEMS NFA Trust), but it’s worth it for flexibility. Not sure which to choose? A trust is great for sharing or estate planning, while an individual stamp is simpler for solo use.
5. Get Fingerprinted You’ll need fingerprints for the ATF Form 4. The easiest option is an Electronic Fingerprint Transmission (EFT) file, an ATF-approved format you can reuse for future NFA purchases.
   • Many dealers or third-party services offer EFT fingerprinting (~$60). This is a service we provide here at LEMS if you are in the Valdosta, Georgia area, contact us for details!
   • You’ll upload the EFT file during the Form 4 process.
6. Take a Passport-Style Photo Snap a recent, clear photo of yourself (a cell phone works fine). This goes with your Form 4 application to verify your identity.
7. Complete the ATF Form 4 with Your Dealer Work with your dealer to submit the Form 4 through the ATF eForms system. You’ll need:
   • Your eForms username and PIN.
   • Your EFT fingerprint file.
   • Your passport photo.
   • Details about the suppressor (e.g., serial number). This takes about 15 minutes if you’ve got everything ready. Your dealer will guide you, but double-check all info for accuracy.
8. Wait for Approval Once the Form 4 is submitted, the ATF reviews it. Wait times vary:
   • eForm 4s typically take 1-3 months (sometimes faster, but don’t bank on 2-7 days for individuals or 15-30 days for trusts, as you mentioned—verify these estimates).
   • You’ll get email notifications on your eForms account, just like your dealer. Resist the urge to pester them—it won’t speed things up!
9. Pick Up Your Suppressor When your Form 4 is approved, head to your dealer. You may need to fill out an ATF Form 4473 (the standard firearm purchase form) for their records. Then, congrats—you’re taking home your new suppressor!

Tips for a Smooth Process

• Be Patient: ATF wait times can be unpredictable. Check your eForms account for updates instead of calling your dealer.
• Double-Check Paperwork: Errors on the Form 4 can delay approval.
• Research Your Suppressor: Ensure it’s compatible with your firearms and meets your needs (e.g., sound reduction, weight).
• Stay Legal: Never let anyone not on your stamp or trust possess your suppressor to avoid federal penalties.