1. Can a suppressor make my gun Hollywood quiet?
No. Suppressors reduce noise, but they won’t make your gun whisper-quiet. Even with subsonic ammo, you’ll still hear the action cycling and the bullet impacting the target. A suppressed firearm sounds more like a nail gun than a silenced assassin’s pistol from the movies.
2. Do suppressors wear out?
Yes, like any firearm accessory, suppressors have a lifespan. The baffles take the brunt of high-velocity gas and heat, causing erosion over time. Hard-use suppressors, especially on short-barreled rifles, wear out faster. But high-quality materials like Inconel or titanium can last tens of thousands of rounds.
3. Does a suppressor affect accuracy?
It depends. A well-made suppressor can actually improve accuracy by reducing muzzle blast turbulence and recoil. However, adding weight to the barrel can change harmonics, which might shift point of impact. If you’re shooting for precision, re-zero your rifle after attaching a suppressor.
4. Can I legally hunt with a suppressor?
In most states, yes! Suppressors make hunting safer by protecting hearing and reducing noise pollution. They also help avoid spooking game as much as an unsuppressed shot. But check your state laws before heading into the woods.
5. Do I need a special license to own a suppressor?
No license, but you do need to file ATF paperwork, pay a $200 tax stamp, and pass a background check. The process is easier than people think, and eForms have made approvals much faster. Gunprime can help you navigate the process.
6. Can I put a suppressor on any gun?
Almost any firearm can be suppressed, but you need a compatible threaded barrel or an adapter. Some guns, like revolvers (except for a few like the Nagant M1895), don’t suppress well because they leak gas from the cylinder gap.
7. Does a suppressor make my gun dirtier?
Yes, especially on semi-autos. Suppressors trap gas, which increases blowback into the action, leading to more carbon buildup. This means you’ll need to clean your gun more often, particularly the bolt carrier group and chamber area.
8. Are there suppressors for shotguns?
Yes, but they’re not as common. Suppressed shotguns work, but due to the wide spread of shot patterns, baffle design is tricky. Some models, like the SilencerCo Salvo 12, allow you to adjust length for different noise reduction levels.
9. Can I use the same suppressor on multiple guns?
Yes, with the right mounting system. Many suppressors come with interchangeable mounts to fit different calibers. For example, a .30-cal suppressor can work on a 5.56 rifle, but not the other way around. Always check pressure ratings and thread compatibility before swapping.
10. Can I build my own suppressor?
Technically, yes, but it requires an ATF Form 1 application and approval before you start. Making one without approval is a felony. If you’re interested in DIY suppressors, ensure you follow all legal requirements.
Suppressor Buying FAQ
11. How long does it take to get a suppressor?
At Gunprime, most customers get approval in 2 days to 2 weeks, with some receiving theirs in as little as 24 hours. The exact time depends on ATF processing speed, eForms efficiency, and your individual background check.
12. Can I buy multiple suppressors at the same time?
Yes! There’s no limit to how many suppressors you can buy, but each suppressor requires its own Form 4 and $200 tax stamp. Buying multiple at once doesn’t necessarily slow down approval, and you might even get them approved on the same day.
13. Can I put my suppressor on different guns?
Yes, as long as the suppressor fits the firearm’s barrel threading or you use an adapter. A .30-caliber suppressor, for example, can work on a .308 rifle, 6.5 Creedmoor, .300 Blackout, and even a 5.56 rifle. However, a .22LR suppressor is not rated for larger calibers like .223 or .308.
14. What’s the difference between buying as an individual vs. a trust?
- Individual: Simplest method, faster processing, only you can possess the suppressor.
- Trust: Allows multiple people to legally use the suppressor (co-trustees), but may take slightly longer for ATF processing.
Gunprime can help set up a suppressor trust if you need one.
15. Can I take my suppressor across state lines?
Yes, but only to states where suppressors are legal. Unlike SBRs (short-barreled rifles), you don’t need ATF permission to transport a suppressor between legal states. Always check state laws before traveling.
16. Do I have to register my suppressor with local law enforcement?
No. There’s no state or local registration required in most areas. Once you complete the ATF approval process, your suppressor is legally yours.
17. Can I sell my suppressor later?
Yes, but only through a licensed dealer with the proper ATF transfer process. Private sales of suppressors aren’t allowed without going through the NFA paperwork again.
18. Will a suppressor reduce my gun’s reliability?
On most guns, no. However, some semi-auto firearms experience increased backpressure, which can affect cycling. Adjustable gas blocks, suppressor-specific barrels, or tuning the gun can help optimize performance.
19. What happens if my suppressor gets damaged?
Most suppressor manufacturers offer warranties that cover baffle strikes or other damage. If a suppressor is destroyed beyond repair, you may need to file new paperwork for a replacement.
Related: 5 Things You Didn't Know About Suppressors
