Opinion
Editor’s Note: After publication preparation, Silencer Central contacted AmmoLand News to clarify its position. CEO Brandon Maddox stated, “We have always been vocal supporters of the HPA, as well as the current proposed provision of a $0 tax stamp… Our priority has always been… advocating for deregulation and 2nd amendment rights.” This article has been updated to reflect the company’s response and will be further updated if additional information becomes available. This article includes information from anonymous sources and federal lobbying disclosures.
Rumors have been swirling in the firearms community about a company lobbying Congress to keep silencers under the National Firearms Act of 1934 (NFA). Lobbying disclosures show Silencer Central advocated for ‘suppressor tax stamp conservation legislation’ in 2024, prompting speculation about their stance on NFA deregulation.
AmmoLand News received similar reports from multiple sources but withheld coverage until corroborating documents and broader reporting emerged. With public discussion growing, we are now publishing what we’ve confirmed and what remains unclear.
Silencer Central is one of the largest sellers and manufacturers of suppressors in the United States. The company was part of the American Suppressor Association (ASA) but left the organization a year ago. The ASA represents manufacturers and sellers of hearing-saving devices. The ASA has lobbied for passage of the Hearing Protection Act (HPA) and publicly called for the removal of suppressors from the NFA.
Some industry insiders speculate, without public evidence, that Silencer Central’s lobbying may prioritize maintaining NFA regulations. Multiple sources familiar with Capitol Hill lobbying activities spoke to AmmoLand News under the condition of anonymity due to employment restrictions. While their statements are consistent with each other and with certain filings, these claims have not been independently confirmed.
Silencer Central’s business model is to ship suppressors directly to the buyer’s front door. This option is available for NFA items, but not for Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA) items. They also make the Banish line of suppressors. If suppressors were removed from the NFA, they would likely be reclassified under the Gun Control Act (GCA), which does not allow direct-to-consumer shipping for such items. This would impact Silencer Central’s current business model, which is built around direct home delivery in 42 states.
Click the link to read the whole article: Silencer Central’s Suppressor Lobbying Sparks Controversy
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