A growing number of rural Americans are expressing excitement about the potential for Donald Trump to reverse a controversial 91-year-old firearms regulation.
This legislation concerns suppressors, commonly known as silencers, which have been subject to strict restrictions for decades.
Trump’s Stance on Suppressors and Firearm Regulations
During his first term, Trump took significant steps to ease firearm restrictions, including lifting a 20-year ban that prevented the sale of silencers to foreigners.
The ban, which was introduced in 2002, was meant to stop terrorist groups from acquiring American-made silencers.
However, the Trump administration argued that lifting the ban would benefit American manufacturers.
This year, Trump issued an executive order directing newly-appointed Attorney General Pam Bondi to review federal gun policies and identify any regulations that unfairly limit gun rights, with a particular focus on those implemented under the Biden administration.
A Step Closer to Reversing Suppressor Restrictions
Now, many gun-rights advocates believe that Trump may fulfill his campaign promise to end the restrictions on suppressors.
These advocates argue that the move is long overdue, as suppressors are viewed as an important tool for reducing noise and protecting gun owners’ hearing.
Benefits of Suppressors: Protection for Ears and More
Supporters of suppressors point out that they can significantly reduce the noise produced by firearms, making shooting more bearable, especially in environments where loud gunshots can be damaging to hearing.
Suppressors can reduce noise levels by 20 to 35 decibels, according to the NRA Hunter’s Leadership Forum, and are even used in Europe for hearing protection.
Adam Ashmore, an avid gun owner, explains that using a suppressor on his AR-15 rifle reduces its loud crack and concussive blast to a level barely louder than a standard .22 caliber rifle.
Contrary to popular belief, however, it doesn’t make the silent ‘pew’ sound commonly portrayed in movies.
Increasing Popularity Among Hunters
Mark Jones, national director of Gun Owners of America, adds that suppressors have become increasingly popular among hunters, particularly those who shoot large game like elk, deer, and antelope.
Suppressors help protect hunters’ ears from the sharp, punishing sound of high-caliber rifles and even reduce recoil, which can improve accuracy and comfort.
The National Firearms Act and Its Restrictions
Despite the benefits, suppressors are heavily regulated under the National Firearms Act (NFA) of 1934, which was originally designed to control gang violence during Prohibition.
Under the NFA, suppressors are subject to a $200 tax stamp, a lengthy approval process, and stringent licensing requirements.
Furthermore, once a suppressor is obtained, it cannot be loaned to others.
Trump’s Proposed Reforms and Potential Impact
If Trump’s proposed reforms move forward, suppressors could be purchased without the need for tax stamps or complicated paperwork.
Buyers would only need to show identification, undergo a background check, and, if cleared, they could leave the store with their suppressor the same day.
Ashmore supports the proposed changes, emphasizing that the media has exaggerated the risks associated with suppressors.
He believes the move would not lead to increased crime, arguing that suppressors are misunderstood by the public.
Congressional Efforts to Deregulate Suppressors
Meanwhile, efforts are also underway in Congress to ease the regulation of suppressors. U.S.
Representative Ben Cline and U.S. Senator Mike Crapo have reintroduced the Hearing Protection Act, which aims to make it easier for law-abiding gun owners to protect their hearing while participating in shooting sports.
Cline stated, “Americans who enjoy hunting and target shooting should be able to do so safely and legally without facing burdensome government regulations.”
He argued that the bill would ensure Second Amendment rights are upheld, making it simpler for responsible citizens to enjoy recreational shooting without unnecessary obstacles.
Opposition from Democrats
Despite the support from gun-rights groups, the bill has yet to gain any support from Democrats.
As the debate continues, many are watching closely to see if the push to deregulate suppressors will succeed under Trump’s leadership.