Wills and Trusts
A Gun Trust Makes Suppressor Hunting Legal & Easy
A common question we get is “Can you own and hunt with a suppressor in Texas?” Yes, you absolutely can—and many hunters already do. Suppressors (also known as silencers) are legal to possess in Texas as long as you follow the federal registration process under the National Firearms Act (NFA). Many Texans choose to register their suppressor using a gun trust, which makes ownership and shared use easier. Once legally registered, suppressors can be used for hunting both game and non-game animals in Texas.
Why More Hunters Are Using Suppressors
Hunting with a suppressor provides several benefits:
- Hearing protection: Suppressors reduce the sound of gunfire enough that many hunters no longer need to wear earplugs or muffs while hunting.
- Less disruption to wildlife: A suppressed shot causes less panic among surrounding animals, helping preserve the quality of your hunting spot.
- Neighbor-friendly: Suppressors help reduce noise complaints, especially when hunting on rural property near residential areas.
- Improved communication: With less blast noise, hunters in a group can speak and hear each other more clearly while tracking or stalking.
Suppressors don’t make guns “silent,” but they do reduce the loud, sharp report of a gunshot to a much safer and more manageable level.
Legal Requirements for Suppressor Ownership
Suppressors are regulated by federal law, not just state law. To legally own a suppressor in Texas, you must:
- Be at least 21 years old.
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- Live in a state (like Texas) where suppressor ownership is legal.
- Pass a background check.
- Complete an ATF Form 4 and pay a one-time $200 tax stamp.
- Register the suppressor either individually or through a gun trust.
Why Use a Gun Trust?
A gun trust makes owning NFA items like suppressors easier and more flexible. Instead of registering your suppressor under your individual name, a gun trust allows multiple people (called trustees) to lawfully possess and use the suppressor. This is especially useful if you want to let someone borrow your suppressor for a hunt.
Benefits of using a gun trust include:
- Shared access: Other trustees can use the suppressor without you being present.
- Estate planning: A gun trust can specify who inherits your suppressors and other NFA items after your death.
- Avoid probate: A gun trust keeps your suppressors and other firearms out of probate court, simplifying transfers after your death.
Suppressors for Hunting Are Here to Stay
Texas Parks & Wildlife officially allows suppressors for all types of legal hunting. Whether you’re after whitetail deer, feral hogs, or predators like coyotes, you can enjoy the benefits of a suppressor while staying compliant with Texas law.
Ready to Get Your Gun Trust?
Suppressor ownership is easier now than it has been in almost 100 years. Start with a Texas gun trust today and simplify the process of purchasing and owning a suppressor.
