No More $200 Tax Stamps for Suppressors — What You Need to Know
Wade E
As of July 4th, 2025, it’s official: the Big Beautiful Bill has passed—and it’s bringing a major shift to the suppressor world. Starting January 1, 2026, the $200 federal tax stamp on silencers will be eliminated.
That’s right: one of the biggest financial and psychological barriers to suppressor ownership is gone.
What’s Changing?
You’ll still need to complete the ATF Form 4 and pass a background check—none of that goes away. But the $200 payment that’s been required since the 1930s? It’s out the door.
Important: This change takes effect on January 1, 2026. Any Form 4 submitted before that date will still require the tax stamp..
This not only applies to suppressors (which obviously excites us), but also to short-barreled rifles (SBRs), short-barreled shotguns (SBSs), and even AOWs (any other weapon). It’s a massive win for the NFA community and a long-overdue step toward normalizing these legally owned tools.
What This Means for Suppressor Buyers
Demand Is About to Surge
When costs drop and barriers fall, people act. We expect to see a wave of new suppressor buyers entering the market. As with past moments of NFA reform or panic buying, some models may sell out quickly. Plan accordingly if there’s a suppressor you know you want.
ATF Processing May Slow Down
The tax may be gone, but the paperwork isn’t. We anticipate a surge of Form 4s being submitted in early 2026, and the ATF’s systems and staff will feel it. Delays are likely. If your goal is to be shooting suppressed as soon as possible, filing before the rush may be worth it.
You Keep More of Your Money
Every suppressor you buy after January 1, 2026 will cost you $200 less. That’s money you can put toward optics, ammo, or even another can. It’s a welcome change that makes suppressors more accessible to more people.
So, What Should You Do?
Here’s our take, based on years of working closely with customers, dealers, and distributors across the suppressor world. We see two good options.
Buy Now
If you want your suppressor in-hand before the crowd floods in, now’s the time. Yes, you’ll still pay the $200 tax. But you’ll also likely beat the rush and get your suppressor approved much sooner. ATF Form 4 approval times are at an all time low at the time of writing this article. If your priority is shooting suppressed this fall, this is your best option.
Watch for Dealer Incentives
Check with your preferred dealer to see if they’re offering any incentives or free tax stamp promotions right now. We work with many dealers and distributors, and we know offers are already out there—but they’re changing daily. If you find a deal, jump on it.
Our Take
SilencerCo was founded on the idea that suppressed shooting should be safe, legal, and accessible. This change is a massive step forward.
Whether you’re ready to file now or want to explore current deals, we’re here to help. Our team is standing by to walk you through every step of the process.
SilencerCo Is Taking Action
The repeal of the $200 tax stamp doesn’t just mark a win—it may have opened the door to something bigger. With the tax reduced to $0, the legal foundation of the NFA is suddenly vulnerable. If the NFA no longer generates revenue through suppressor tax stamps, does the registry and lengthy approval process still have constitutional backing? We believe it doesn’t.
That’s why SilencerCo is preparing a class action lawsuit to challenge the NFA as it applies to suppressors, SBRs, SBSs, and AOWs. We’re not alone—industry partners are lining up beside us. This is about more than just policy; it’s about restoring rights and ending unnecessary barriers once and for all.
Wade E
