Let’s talk about suppressors in Washington state — specifically about gun suppressor laws.
We’ve written before about the process of buying a suppressor in Washington. Gun suppressors, also known as silencers, are devices that reduce the sound of a gunshot. These gun accessories have been around for many years, and their sale and possession are heavily regulated in the United States.
Gun Suppressor in the State of Washington
To recap what we’ve written about gun suppressors (also known as silencers): They are simply attachments to a firearm that reduce the sound of the gunshot by trapping and slowly releasing some of the gases created when the gun is fired. This allows for reduced noise pollution and can help protect hearing when shooting firearms.
While some people think that using a suppressor means firing guns without making any noise at all, this isn’t true. (That cool pshoo-pshoo sound you hear in movies is totally fictional.)
Suppressors are legal to own in Washington State. You may purchase a suppressor and use it for any legal use, including target practice, self-defense, home defense, and hunting.
Keep in mind that there are also federal laws regulating the sale, purchase, possession and use of gun suppressors. The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms (ATF) regulates the manufacture, sale, and possession of all National Firearms Act (NFA) items, including gun suppressors.
In short, even if you meet all the requirements necessary to own one legally under state law, you must still comply with any federal regulations surrounding them before attempting to buy one.
Suppressors in Washington: The Process
In 1934, the National Firearms Act established strict regulations for acquiring NFA items such as suppressors. This involves mandatory background checks and fingerprint cards before receiving ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) approval. Acquiring these weapons can be done through a dealer or at certain kiosks provided by approved shops.
Purchasing gun suppressors in Washington state requires specific paperwork at the time of purchase. Sporting Systems can help you make heads or tails of these rules and regulations.
You’ll need to complete the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms & Explosives paperwork by submitting fingerprints and photographs. (This change was implemented in 2016 under rule 41F.)
Once submitted, you’ll pay a $200 tax stamp. After that, you just have to wait for the tax stamp approval. Afterward, we’ll transfer the suppressor to you.
Remember: Anyone convicted of certain felonies may be banned from owning or possessing any type of firearm including those equipped with silencers/suppressors.
Sporting Systems
Gun ownership comes with great responsibility. It’s important for all gun owners to be aware of their local firearm regulations so they don’t break any laws unknowingly or unintentionally put themselves or others in danger due to a lack of knowledge about their rights or obligations as responsible firearm owners.
Gun suppressors are heavily regulated in Washington state, but if you meet all requirements necessary to own one legally under both state and federal law then you can lawfully purchase and possess one in Washington State as long as you use it responsibly according to applicable laws and regulations.
Gun suppressors are an effective way to reduce noise pollution caused by gunfire while still allowing residents of Washington state to practice their Second Amendment rights responsibly.
Understanding these regulations before purchasing or using a gun suppressor is essential for staying safe and compliant with state law in Washington.
Let us know if you have any questions. We’re here to help you secure the weapons you may need for hunting, target shooting, or personal protection. We have been in business for many years and we’re very aware of what needs to be done in order for you to purchase firearms, accessories, or anything else you need.
