Hush Now! We're Discussing Silencers in Washington State
Ever wished your target practice wasn't quite so, well, loud? Maybe your pet poodle jumps every time you let off a round at the range? Fear not, firearm fancy folks, because silencers (also known as sound suppressors, for all you fancy lads and lasses) are legal to own in the great state of Washington!
That's right, folks. You can ditch the earmuffs and embrace a world of quieter shooting without breaking the law (though your wallet might take a slight hit, but we'll get to that later).
Can I Own A Silencer In Washington |
But Wait, There's More!
Now, before you go John Wick on your local gun store, there are a few things to keep in mind. Silencers aren't exactly like buying a bag of gummy bears. Here's the lowdown:
-
It's a Federal Fiesta: While Washington welcomes your newfound love for hush-hush shooting, you'll also need to tango with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) because silencers are considered National Firearms Act (NFA) items. Think of it as getting a special permit to own a fancy gadget for your gun.
-
Patience is a Virtue (and a Requirement): The ATF application process can take anywhere from a few months to a year, so don't expect instant gratification. But hey, at least you'll have plenty of time to pick out the perfect name for your new noise-cancelling friend.
-
Cost Considerations: Silencers aren't exactly cheap. Budget accordingly, because you'll be looking at a $200 tax stamp from the ATF on top of the silencer itself.
Important Note: While silencers reduce the sound of gunfire, they don't make it silent. Hollywood has a lot to answer for.
Tip: Read actively — ask yourself questions as you go.
So You Want to Join the Silencer Club? How To…
-
Find a Class 3 FFL Dealer: These guys are your go-to gurus for NFA items. They'll help you navigate the ATF paperwork jungle.
-
Fill Out the ATF Forms: Be prepared for some bureaucratic bumps. It's not rocket science, but it's not a walk in the park either.
-
Pay the Man: That $200 tax stamp we mentioned earlier? Yeah, Uncle Sam wants his cut.
-
Wait (and Maybe Wait Some More): The ATF processing times can vary, so settle in for the long haul.
Remember: Patience is key, and a well-informed shopper is a happy shopper (and a quieter shooter).
## FAQ: Silencer Shenanigans in Washington
How to find a Class 3 FFL Dealer in Washington?
Tip: Scroll slowly when the content gets detailed.
A simple Google search with "Class 3 FFL dealer [your city, WA]" should do the trick.
How much does a silencer cost?
Prices vary depending on the brand and model, but expect to spend anywhere from $400 to $1000 or more.
Tip: Don’t skim past key examples.
Will a silencer make my gun silent?
Nope! Hollywood lied. Silencers significantly reduce the sound of gunfire, but they don't eliminate it entirely.
Can I use my silencer for hunting?
Tip: Revisit this page tomorrow to reinforce memory.
Yes, as long as it's legal to use a suppressor for the specific game you're hunting. Always check local hunting regulations.
Is there a waiting period to buy a silencer?
Technically, no. However, the ATF processing time can take several months, so you'll be waiting for your tax stamp before you can take your silenced beauty to the range.