2026 changed suppressor buying more than any year in decades. The tax stamp is $0, and you no longer have to wait months for ATF approval. Here's what changed and how to choose.
What changed in 2026
- January 1, 2026: the $200 tax on suppressors, SBRs, SBS and AOWs dropped to $0.
- October 9, 2026: ATF stopped enforcing Form 4 approval and registration for those same items, so they can now transfer on a Form 4473 and background check.
What didn't change: you still fill out a Form 4473, pass the NICS check and show ID. Machine guns still require full Form 4 approval and the $200 tax. The NFA law itself still exists. This is an enforcement policy that a court, DOJ or Congress could reverse.
Your two ways to buy
| Registered (eForm 4) | Same-day (4473) | |
|---|---|---|
| Tax stamp | $0 | $0 |
| Paperwork | 4473, NICS, plus fingerprints and photo (done in store) | 4473, NICS and ID |
| Wait | Usually days; we store it free | Take it home the same day |
| On record with ATF | Yes | No |
Either works. Decide before you buy: an item taken home without registration generally can't be registered later. Our SOT staff will walk you through both. Full details are on our NFA page.
Choosing your first suppressor
- Caliber: a can rated for a larger caliber can often be used on smaller ones, but never the other way around. Many people start with a 9mm pistol can, a 5.56 rifle can, or a .30-cal can that covers several rifles.
- Mount: direct thread is simple and light; quick-detach (QD) mounts let one can move between rifles fitted with that brand's muzzle device. Match the thread pitch to your barrel (1/2x28 is common on 9mm and 5.56 guns).
- Weight and length: titanium and aluminum cans are lighter. Stainless and Inconel take more heat and abuse.
- Hearing: a suppressor makes shooting much quieter, but most guns are still loud. Keep wearing ear protection.
Brands we carry
We carry almost 200 suppressors, including SilencerCo, Dead Air, HUXWRX, SureFire, Q, Ridgeback Defense, and Arizona-made Kinetic (Gilbert) and Dillon Rifle Company (Phoenix).
State note
Suppressors are not legal for civilians in California, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island or Washington, D.C. Bought one from another dealer? Ship it to us. NFA transfers are $30.
New to rifles?
Most first suppressors go on an AR-15. If you're new to the platform, Rifle Fundamentals covers setup, zeroing and handling before you add a can.
Classes that help
Get solid on the host gun first; the suppressor is the easy part.
- Rifle Fundamentals (AR-15) · $99.99
2 hours, up to 6 students. Safe long-gun handling, zeroing, positions and reloads on our indoor range. Thursday evenings at 5:45 PM. - Private Instruction · $140/hour
One-on-one or two shooters, on your schedule. Bring your own firearm or use ours. Built around your skill gap, not a fixed curriculum. - Basic Handgun · $95
2 hours, 1-6 students. Grip, stance, sights and trigger, then 50 rounds with one-on-one coaching. Handgun provided. Wednesday evenings at 5:45 PM.
See upcoming class dates Full course catalog
Taught by NRA-certified instructors. Range members save 10% on every course.
Questions? Call us at (602) 715-2677 or stop by 6030 E Main St, Suite 103, Mesa, AZ 85205.
General information current as of October 2026, not legal advice. Laws change; check the current statute or ask an attorney about your situation.