When you want to buy a suppressor, there’s paperwork, fees, and specific legal requirements to take care of. All this can cause confusion, delays, and hassle. The steps of how to buy a suppressor (when you don’t have enough knowledge) can even turn you off.
And that’s what we want to change.
If you seek a fuss-free process of buying a suppressor without hidden hurdles, you’re in the right place. Today, we’ll address things like background checks and legal requirements so you don’t have to guess or hope you’ve done things correctly.
We’ll show you the right path to buy a suppressor so you can move forward with confidence. Keep reading and bring your favorite suppressor home with no stress.
How to Buy a Suppressor—Step-By-Step Guide
A suppressor can:
- Reduce noise for a more comfortable shooting experience
- Protect your hearing and lower your risk of long-term damage
- Minimize recoil and help you stay focused on your target
So, if a specific suppressor is on your to-buy list, follow these steps to bring it home:
Confirm Legal Requirements in Your State
First, make sure that suppressors are legal where you live since different states have their own rules, and you don’t want to run into complications later. For example, some states allow suppressors with no extra restrictions, while others have strict or ban laws.
Check State Laws
State laws can change without much notice, so we recommend verifying your information through reliable sources. You might see updates on your state’s Department of Public Safety website or an official government page. You can also check local gun advocacy groups or local shooting ranges because they often keep track of new regulations. If your state bans suppressors outright, you must respect that rule, and if it places extra conditions on ownership, be aware of them before moving on to federal steps.
Minimum Age
Besides the state laws, federal law sets a minimum age requirement for suppressor buyers. The law says that you should be at least 21 years old if you plan to purchase from a licensed dealer. The National Firearms Act (NFA) includes suppressors in its list of restricted items, so the age rule applies here just like it does for other NFA items—it is non-negotiable. If you’re under 21, you can’t legally buy one through a Class 3 dealer.
Choose a Reputable Dealer
The next step is to look for a licensed dealer who can guide you through paperwork, help you avoid mistakes, and keep you updated on your order’s progress. It’s wise to pick someone with a good track record of NFA sales.
Federal Firearms License (FFL) Dealer with Class 3/SOT
You need a regular FFL holder who also has a Special Occupational Tax (SOT) status—called a “Class 3” license while buying a suppressor. This status lets them sell NFA items, including suppressors. A dealer with this qualification will be more familiar with the forms, fees, and rules for these types of transfers. You can ask your local gun store if they have a Class 3/SOT license or check their website.
Research Brands & Models
After you pick a dealer, choose the right suppressor that ticks all merit boxes. Suppressors differ by caliber, material, and design. Some are made of steel, which is tough and can handle a lot of use, while others use titanium since it is lighter and resistant to rust, though it can cost more. You also find aluminum options, which can be cheaper and lighter but may wear down faster under heavy firing. If you own multiple guns, opt for a suppressor that can handle more than one caliber to save money.
Complete the Required ATF Paperwork
Now is the time to file the correct paperwork with the ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives). Here are some important documents to keep track of when you’re learning how to buy a suppressor:
ATF Form 4
ATF Form 4 is the main document you’ll use to transfer a suppressor from the dealer to you. It’s also called the “Application for Tax Paid Transfer and Registration of Firearms.” In it, you’ll list personal details like your name, address, and identifying information. You also specify the suppressor’s make, model, and serial number.
Fingerprints & Photographs
You are also asked to submit a set of fingerprints and a passport-style photo to verify your identity and help the ATF check your background. Many Class 3 dealers offer fingerprinting services or can direct you to a local law enforcement office for this. You should submit fresh fingerprints each time you apply for an NFA item, even if you already have prints on file somewhere else. Plus, the photo you use must be recent and meet the size and quality requirements.
Background Check
The ATF runs a background check on every suppressor application—this check reviews your criminal history and verifies you’re allowed to own NFA items.
Pay the $200 Tax Stamp
If everything is in order, you’ll be required to pay a $200 tax to the ATF for each suppressor transfer. This fee is called the “Tax Stamp,” and it has been part of the National Firearms Act since 1934, so it’s a fixed cost that you cannot avoid. Once you pay the tax and receive approval, you won’t pay it again for that same suppressor. This tax helps fund the regulation of NFA items, and the ATF will not process your Form 4 without it.
Notably, you can pay this tax in different ways. For example, if you file your application by mail, you may pay with a check or money order made out to the ATF. If you use the ATF’s eForms system, you can often pay electronically using a credit card or an electronic check.
Submit Your Application & Wait
After you pay the tax, your dealer will submit your completed Form 4 to the ATF. At this point, some dealers go for the traditional paper forms, while others use the eForm system to speed things up. Either way, your dealer will send in your application, your fingerprints, your photo, and your tax payment details.
You will then start the waiting phase, which period can vary a lot. The ATF often has a backlog, and approval times may change throughout the year. When the eForm system functions well, you can see approvals in a few weeks. But paper forms may take much longer, sometimes up to a few months or more—be mindful of the wait.
Pick Up Your Suppressor
When the ATF approves your application, your dealer will receive an official notification. If you use paper forms, the ATF mails the approved Form 4 and your tax stamp. If you filed electronically, your dealer would receive an electronic copy. Once the dealer receives it, they will let you know you can pick up your suppressor. You must show proper identification and sign any final paperwork. After this, you are free to take your suppressor home.
Summing Up
A suppressor can give a smoother shooting experience because reduced sound levels help lower the risk of hearing damage. It can also help gain better focus on each shot. But if you want to purchase a suppressor, you must remain organized, submit accurate paperwork, and maintain a record of all approved documents. You should also budget for the tax stamp and any dealer fees to avoid surprises. A reliable dealer can be a great source of new information, and it helps to connect with those who share their experiences. If you’re in the market for a quality suppressor that meets your needs, check out the product catalog at Liberty Cans. We offer a range of models for different calibers and applications, so you’re bound to find one that makes your firearm even better.
FAQs
How long does it take to get a suppressor approved?
As we said, approval times vary—you may wait a few weeks or even months because the ATF’s backlog and the method of filing (paper forms or eForms) influence the timeline. The eForms method can expedite the process and reduce wait times to the shorter end of that spectrum.
What if I move to another state after purchasing a suppressor?
You should confirm that your new state allows suppressor ownership. If the state approves, you must update your address with the ATF by filing an ATF Form 5320.20, also known as the “Application to Transport NFA Firearms.” This form will notify the ATF of an interstate movement of a suppressor permanently and should be submitted well in advance of your move.
Can I use one suppressor for multiple firearms?
Yes, a single suppressor can be used on multiple firearms, provided it is compatible with the calibers and types of those firearms. You must ensure that the suppressor is designed to handle the specific calibers and pressure levels of each firearm to which it will be attached. Manufacturers specify the caliber compatibility and limitations for each suppressor model.