Silent and Safe: The History and Legality of Firearm Suppressors in the US
Suppressors, also known as silencers, have long been a controversial topic in the firearms industry. Many people associate suppressors with crime and illegal activity, but the truth is that suppressors have a rich history and are widely used by law-abiding gun owners today.
Suppressors were first invented in the early 1900s by Hiram Percy Maxim, who also invented the Maxim machine gun. Initially, suppressors were used by military and law enforcement personnel to reduce noise and muzzle flash, but they quickly found their way into the civilian market as well.
Despite their popularity, suppressors were heavily regulated in the United States through the National Firearms Act (NFA) of 1934. The NFA placed strict requirements on the ownership and use of suppressors, including a $200 tax stamp, a waiting period, and a thorough background check.
The Hearing Protection Act (HPA), introduced in 2017, aimed to remove suppressors from the NFA’s list of regulated items. The HPA would have made it easier for law-abiding gun owners to obtain suppressors, as they would no longer need to go through the time-consuming and expensive process of obtaining a tax stamp. However, the bill was never passed.
Today, the process for obtaining a suppressor in the United States is still heavily regulated. In addition to the $200 tax stamp, applicants must also undergo a background check and provide fingerprints and photographs. The entire process can take several months, but for those willing to go through it, the benefits of owning a suppressor can be significant.
One of the primary benefits of using a suppressor is reduced noise. In a home defense situation, the loud noise of a firearm can be disorienting and even damaging to the shooter's ears. A suppressor can reduce the noise to a more manageable level, making it easier for the shooter to maintain situational awareness and communicate with others.
Another benefit of using a suppressor is reduced recoil. The added weight of a suppressor can help to balance the firearm, reducing felt recoil and improving accuracy. This can be especially beneficial for those who are new to shooting or who have limited physical strength.
When it comes to purchasing a suppressor, there are a variety of options available on the market. Some of the most popular manufacturers of suppressors include SilencerCo, Dead Air Armament, and SureFire. Each manufacturer offers a variety of models and designs, so it's important to do your research and choose the suppressor that best fits your needs and budget.
In conclusion, suppressors have a rich history and are widely used by law-abiding gun owners today. While the process for obtaining a suppressor in the United States is still heavily regulated, the benefits of owning one can be significant, including reduced noise and recoil. With the right research and preparation, owning a suppressor can be a safe and enjoyable addition to any gun owner's collection.