Suppressor How To

How to Buy a Suppressor

Buying a suppressor is straightforward when you follow the required steps. Yowie Outdoors can help you choose a model, complete your ATF eForm 4 filing, and finish transfer after approval.

Suppressor vs. Silencer

These terms refer to the same device. “Silencer” is the legal term used in federal law, while “suppressor” is the more common industry term.

How long does it take?

Approval times vary. For current estimates, check the ATF processing times page: https://www.atf.gov/resource-center/current-processing-times.

Steps to Buy a Suppressor

1. Choose your suppressor. Select the suppressor that fits your firearm and goals. You can place your order through our retail website or contact us at [email protected] for help.
2. Choose your registration method. Register as an Individual, Traditional NFA Trust, or Corporation.
3. Complete your profile and fingerprints. We collect your information for ATF eForms submission and review your filing before certification.
4. Submit ATF Form 4 and tax stamp payment. Each suppressor requires a separate ATF tax stamp. The federal tax stamp is $0 per item.
5. Wait for ATF approval. Once approved, we will contact you to complete final transfer.

After Your Form 4 Is Approved

After approval, you may pick up your suppressor by appointment. This remains the simplest option.

For Minnesota customers, Yowie Outdoors also offers an optional in-state direct shipment service after approval. This option requires a post-approval ATF Form 4473, required CLEO notification, and a mandatory waiting period before shipment.

Optional In-State Direct Shipment After Approval

Direct shipment after approval is available for $50. Applicable taxes may apply.

1. Form 4 approval is received and you are notified.
2. Yowie Outdoors starts the post-approval ATF Form 4473 and completes seller Section A first.
3. You complete buyer Section B remotely, including the required sworn statement.
4. We review and finalize the Form 4473, document the NICS exception, and complete the non-over-the-counter transfer record.
5. We send CLEO notification by certified or registered mail with return receipt requested.
6. We wait at least 7 days after receiving proof of CLEO delivery or refusal.
7. Your suppressor is shipped to your Minnesota address with adult signature required on delivery.

Contact Yowie Outdoors by email to start the direct shipment process after approval: [email protected].

Ways to Register a Silencer or Other NFA Item

Choosing a registration method can feel confusing at first. Most customers choose one of three paths below.

• Individual: The suppressor is registered to you personally. This option is usually the simplest for paperwork, but it is the least flexible for shared possession.
• Traditional NFA Trust: A trust can list trustees and beneficiaries and is often chosen by customers who want more flexibility for possession and long-term planning.
• Corporation: The suppressor is registered to the business entity. Authorized officers may possess it under the company structure.

Changing Your Filing Method

If you change registration methods after filing, the suppressor generally must be re-filed and re-approved.

Use the table below to help decide which method may fit your needs.