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What are Registration Types?

When purchasing an NFA item through Silencer Shop, you’ll be asked to select a registration type. This determines who is legally allowed to possess and use the suppressor once it is approved by the ATF.

Updated over a month ago

1. Individual

Registering as an Individual means the suppressor will be owned and possessed by one person — you.

Key points:

  • Only you may possess or use the suppressor on your own.

  • Other people may use the suppressor, but only when you are physically present and supervising them directly.

  • No one else can legally store, transport, or use the suppressor without you.

  • Fastest and simplest registration type.

  • Only your own information, photo, and fingerprints are required.

This is a great option if you do not plan to regularly share NFA items with others.


2. Trust

Silencer Shop offers two types of trusts:

  • NFA Gun Trust

  • Single Shot Trust (SST)

NFA Gun Trust

An NFA Gun Trust allows multiple people, called trustees or responsible persons, to legally possess and use the suppressor.

Key points:

  • Multiple people can be added to the trust.

  • All responsible persons must provide fingerprints, photos, and signatures.

  • Allows shared use and flexibility for long-term planning or inheritance.

Single Shot Trust

The Single Shot Trust is a simplified trust created for one specific NFA item.

Key points:

  • Each suppressor gets its own trust.

  • Additional responsible persons can be added after approval.

  • Great for quick processing with the option to convert to a multi-person trust later.

  • Single Shot Unlimited allows unlimited SSTs for future purchases.

Trusts are ideal if you want others (spouse, adult children, hunting friends) to legally possess or use the suppressor without you being present.


3. Corporation

Registering under a Corporation or LLC allows a legal entity to own the suppressor instead of an individual person.

Key points:

  • Employees or officers with authorized access may legally possess or use the suppressor.

  • Corporate documents must be provided (articles, operating agreement, etc.).

  • Only the responsible persons listed need photos, fingerprints, and signatures.

Corporation registration works well for business-owned firearms, security companies, training facilities, or shared-use environments.

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