New Laws, Lower Costs, and What It Means for Gun Owners

The year 2026 marks one of the most significant updates to suppressor regulations in modern U.S. firearms history. After decades of financial and bureaucratic hurdles under the National Firearms Act (NFA), suppressor ownership has become more accessible than ever. While suppressors are still regulated, the removal of the federal tax stamp cost has fundamentally changed the buying landscape for hunters, competitive shooters, and everyday gun owners.

If you’ve been on the fence about purchasing a suppressor, 2026 may be the best time yet to get started. Our team at Next Level Armament is going to break it down.

The Biggest Change in 2026: The NFA Tax Stamp Is Now $0

As of January 1, 2026, the federal government eliminated the $200 tax stamp previously required for suppressors under the NFA.

For decades, that tax — originally implemented in 1934 — served as both a financial barrier and a deterrent to lawful ownership. While $200 may not sound significant today, it was designed to be punitive at the time and remained unchanged for nearly a century.

What This Means

• Suppressors no longer require a $200 payment to the ATF

• Short-barreled rifles (SBRs) and short-barreled shotguns (SBSs) also moved to a $0 tax

• “Any Other Weapons” (AOWs) no longer carry a transfer tax

This change alone reduces the real-world cost of buying a suppressor by hundreds of dollars, making them far more attainable for average gun owners. That means you’ll have plenty of money left over for accessories, like optics and flashlights!

All jokes aside, this is a huge step for the gun community.

What Has NOT Changed: Suppressors Are Still NFA Items

While the tax itself is gone, the stamp is not. Even though the payment for the tax stamp is not required, suppressors are still regulated under the National Firearms Act. That means the legal process remains largely intact.

You will still need to:

• Submit ATF Form 4 (or Form 1 if manufacturing)

• Complete a background check

• Provide fingerprints and a photo

• Receive ATF approval before taking possession

• Follow state and local laws, which still vary

In short, the cost barrier is gone, but the paperwork and approval process remain.

Why the 2026 Suppressor Update Matters

1. Suppressors Are Finally Affordable

With the tax stamp removed, suppressors are now priced closer to their actual manufacturing value. This opens the door for more shooters to experience the benefits of suppressed fire without artificially inflated costs. Whether you are a hunter, law enforcement, or you just enjoy firearms, this is huge news for you!

2. Hearing Protection and Safety

Suppressors bring many benefits to firearm enthusiasts. They are widely used to reduce hearing damage, concussion, and recoil. In many countries, they’re considered standard safety equipment. The 2026 update moves the U.S. closer to that mindset.

3. Market Growth and Innovation

As suppressor ownership increases, manufacturers are investing more heavily in:

• Lighter materials

• Improved mounting systems

• Better sound and flash reduction

• More caliber-specific options

Competition benefits the consumer — and 2026 is already showing signs of rapid innovation.

Why Next Level Armament Is the Best Place to Buy Suppressors

If you’re ready to take advantage of the 2026 suppressor update, where you buy matters just as much as what you buy. That’s where Next Level Armament (NLA) stands out.

Why Choose Next Level Armament

• Great selection of different caliber suppressors

• Expert guidance through the NFA process

• Up-to-date compliance with the latest 2026 regulations

• Customer support that actually understands suppressors

• Streamlined purchasing experience for individuals and trusts

With the tax stamp cost removed, many buyers are navigating suppressor purchases for the first time. Next Level Armament excels at walking customers through the paperwork, explaining mounting options, and helping match suppressors to specific firearms and use cases.

If you want a stress-free buying experience in 2026, Next Level Armament is one of the safest bets in the suppressor market.

State Laws Still Matter in 2026

While federal tax changes apply nationwide, state laws still control suppressor legality. Some states allow suppressors for all legal purposes, while others restrict or prohibit them entirely.

Before purchasing:

• Verify suppressor legality in your state

• Confirm hunting regulations if applicable

• Understand transport and possession rules

A reputable dealer like Next Level Armament can help ensure compliance before you buy.

What’s Next for Suppressors After 2026?

Many gun rights advocates view the 2026 update as a major step — but not the final one. Legislative efforts such as the Hearing Protection Act continue to push for removing suppressors from the NFA entirely.

If that happens in the future, suppressors could be treated like standard firearms accessories, eliminating registration and approval delays altogether.

Until then, 2026 represents the most favorable suppressor environment in U.S. history.