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How to Legally Buy a Suppressor

The in-store kiosk from the Silencer Shop makes it easier than ever!

Going Through the Process of Buying a Suppressor

We decided to take the plunge and purchase a silencer or suppressor (both terms are acceptable).

I wanted one because, well just because I wanted one. And for research and development of some products we are working on that interface with them.

When looking into what it takes to purchase one it began to seem like a cumbersome process. Fingerprints, pictures, forms to download and fill out and mail in and the WAITTTTTTTTT….. I hate waiting for a new toy especially when it’s already been paid for.

Well I am here to tell you there is an easier way. Silencer Shop has made it super easy to go through the process. With their in-store Kiosk setups you can do it all in one place. Or an online / in-store hybrid.

Check out our live process of getting a supressor using the in-store kiosk.

6 Steps to Buying a Suppressor

  1. Buy a Suppressor. Either online, or in-store. You will create an account online if you purchase online. You
    will create an account at the kiosk in the store if you purchase in-store. You will be emailed a QR code that you will need to finish the process at the kiosk either way, so have your phone with you. Support your local gun stores when and where you can. Buy from them if possible!
  2. Go to a Kiosk Location. If you bought on-line you will have to go to a kiosk location (found on Silencer Shops website) if you bought in-store, well you’re already there!
  3. Follow the Instructions on the Kiosk. Log into or create an account at the kiosk and follow the instructions. The fingerprint process was a bit tricky at first but you’ll pick up on it pretty quick and your gun store owner will help you. You will create an account, submit your personal information, scan your fingerprints, answer the form 4473 questions and submit. The kiosk operator will then take your picture and upload it to your account. The whole process took about 15 minutes.
  4. Electronically Sign the Forms when Silencer Shop emails them to you. Your FFL will electronically sign the same documents and return them to the ATF. Silencer Shop says that email should arrive to you within 48 hours for signature. In fact, as I am sitting here typing I got an email saying I should have my Docu-sign email within 24 hours and my purchase was not quite 24 hours ago.
  5. Wait. Sit back and wait for the process to take place (current time is 6 to 8 months). You cannot take possession of your silencer until you are approved. Your FFL will hold it until that happens. Unfortunately this is the one part of the process that Silencer Shop has not been able to make easier. You still have to WAITTTTTTT….
  6. Go Play! Enjoy your new toy when you are approved!
Getting my picture taken for my account.

Choosing Your Suppressor

Choosing a suppressor is an individual choice and research is a must. You will want to buy based on your individual usage. Be prepared to spend some money for quality. A $200 or less silencer is that cheap for a reason. I’ll leave it at that.

So, we went with the Dead Air Nomad-30 silencer. I really like the versatility of this model. Plus, there is no minimum barrel length rating, lightweight, short compact but thicker design. And can handle anything from .22 to .300 Win. Mag.

Made with stainless steel and Titanium, and full auto rated for the average shooter this thing should last a lifetime with good maintenance. Direct thread to just about any thread pattern with a back plate change and fits with a variety of quick change brake and flash hider options.

Watch the video about it and all the accessories that you can get!

With tax and tax stamp your going to be about $1,100 all in, really not bad for one of the top-rated suppressor in the market. Dead Air consistently makes the list of top suppressor manufacturers out there.

Look for a full review of this suppressor this winter when my WAITTTT is finally over.


Want to see what other people are choosing for their suppressor? Join our online AR community!

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