Legality

Firearm suppressors, also known as silencers, are devices designed to reduce the noise and muzzle flash of firearms. They are commonly used in shooting sports, hunting, and law enforcement. The legality of firearm suppressor ownership in the United States is a complex issue, as it is regulated at both the federal and state levels.

At the federal level, firearm suppressors are regulated under the National Firearms Act (NFA) of 1934. The NFA requires that all suppressors be registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and that a $200 tax stamp be paid for each suppressor. This tax stamp can take several months to process, and the purchaser must undergo a background check.

In addition, the NFA sets strict guidelines for the manufacture, transfer, and possession of suppressors. For example, it is illegal for an individual to manufacture a suppressor without a license from the ATF. It is also illegal to transfer a suppressor to an individual who is not authorized to possess it under the NFA.

At the state and local level, the legality of suppressor ownership varies. Currently, 42 states allow the ownership of suppressors, with varying degrees of regulation. However, eight states – California, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, and Rhode Island – prohibit the possession of suppressors entirely.

In addition, some states require additional registration or permits for suppressor ownership. For example, in Colorado, a person must obtain a permit from the county sheriff's office to possess a suppressor, and in Iowa, suppressors are legal but require a permit from the state.

It is important to note that even in states where suppressor ownership is legal, there may be local ordinances or regulations that restrict their use. For example, some municipalities may prohibit the use of suppressors in certain areas, such as residential neighborhoods.

Despite the regulation of suppressors at both the federal and state levels, there has been some recent legislative action to ease restrictions on suppressor ownership. In 2017, a bill called the Hearing Protection Act was introduced in Congress, which would have removed suppressors from the list of NFA-regulated items and made them easier to purchase. However, the bill did not pass.

In conclusion, the legality of firearm suppressor ownership in the United States is a complex issue that is regulated at both the federal and state levels. While suppressors are legal in most states, their ownership and use are subject to various restrictions, and some states prohibit their possession entirely. It is important for gun owners to be aware of the laws and regulations in their state and local area before purchasing or using a suppressor