For decades, the $200 tax acted as a deterrent, often discouraging first-time buyers despite suppressors’ proven benefits for hearing protection, reduced recoil, improved accuracy, and less disturbance to game or neighbors during hunts. Now, with the tax gone:
- Suppressors are even more appealing for hunters—allowing shots without ear protection while maintaining situational awareness and reducing spooking wildlife.
- SBRs offer better maneuverability and balance for home defense or tactical use.
Demand has exploded, with dealers reporting 44–65% out-of-stock rates and ATF systems handling record submissions (including temporary website issues on day one).
Get Your Suppressor or SBR in 2026 (Step-by-Step)
The process is simpler than ever, thanks to streamlined ATF eForms that have cut approval times from months to often just weeks (or even days in some cases).
- Choose your path:
- Buy pre-made (e.g., a suppressor): Use Form 4 for transfer from a dealer.
- Build your own (e.g., Form 1 SBR or homemade suppressor): More customizable and cost-effective.
- Select a trusted provider — Services companies like Tactical Shit provide, handle paperwork, avoid kiosks, as currently they are actually adding days to the submission time with processing
- Submit via eForm — No tax payment step anymore! Provide fingerprints, passport photos, and pass the background check. Apply individually or via a gun trust (great for multiple users/family).
- Wait for approval — Expect faster processing, but high volume may cause some delays. Once approved, pick up your item from the dealer after completing a standard Form 4473.
Pro tip: Order soon—supply shortages are real as manufacturers ramp up to meet demand.
Best Guns/Platforms to Form 1 (Build Your Own NFA Item)
With the $0 tax, Form 1 conversions (making your own SBR, suppressor host, etc.) are more popular than ever. Look for modular, threaded-barrel designs that are easy to modify (e.g., swap brace for stock) and allow caliber/barrel flexibility.
Here are some top recommendations for great starting platforms:
Pistols → SBR Conversions (compact PDW-style builds):
Rifles & PDWs (versatile suppressor hosts or SBRs):
Shotguns (SBS or home-defense builds):
These platforms shine because they’re affordable, modular, and let you own the gun in a non-NFA config while waiting for approval.
A New Era for NFA Owners
The $0 tax stamp is a game-changer—a “welcome but incomplete victory” per gun rights advocates, with ongoing lawsuits pushing to eliminate remaining registration requirements entirely. For now, it’s easier and cheaper than ever to protect your hearing, enhance your hunt, or build the perfect custom setup.
If you’re in a suppressor-legal state and ready to join the growing community, 2026 is the perfect year to start. Research your options, choose a reputable outfitter, and enjoy the benefits of quieter, more enjoyable shooting!