Understanding Texas Suppressor Laws
Everything Texas Gun Owners Need to Know
For years, suppressor ownership has been surrounded by myths, misinformation, and changing regulations. Recent federal legislation and the federal court decision in Jensen v. ATF have created even more confusion.
This guide explains what has changed, what has not changed, and what every Texas firearm owner should understand before purchasing or manufacturing a suppressor.
WHAT IS A SUPPRESSOR?
A suppressor (sometimes called a silencer) is a firearm accessory designed to reduce the sound, muzzle blast, and concussion produced when a firearm is discharged.
Contrary to Hollywood movies, suppressors do not make firearms “silent.” Instead, they help reduce noise to safer and more comfortable levels while improving communication on the range and reducing recoil and muzzle blast.
Common reasons Texans purchase suppressors include:
- Hearing protection
- Hunting
- Recreational shooting
- Home defense
- Competition
- Professional use where authorized
ARE SUPPRESSORS LEGAL IN TEXAS?
Yes.
Suppressors may be legally possessed and used in Texas by individuals who comply with applicable federal and Texas law.
Texas does not prohibit law-abiding citizens from owning suppressors.
WHAT IS THE TEXAS SUPPRESSOR FREEDOM ACT?
In 2021, the Texas Legislature passed House Bill 957, commonly known as the Texas Suppressor Freedom Act.
The law declared that certain suppressors:
- Manufactured entirely in Texas;
- Remaining within Texas; and
- Meeting the statutory requirements of Texas law,
are not intended to be subject to federal regulation under the National Firearms Act.
The Act also repealed the former Texas criminal prohibition on possessing or manufacturing suppressors.
DID HB 957 ELIMINATE FEDERAL LAW?
No.
Although Texas enacted HB 957, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) continued enforcing federal National Firearms Act requirements.
For several years, prudent firearm owners generally continued complying with federal registration and transfer requirements despite the Texas statute.
WHAT CHANGED IN 2026?
Two major developments occurred.
Federal Tax Eliminated
Congress reduced the federal making and transfer tax for many NFA firearms to $0.
This eliminated the historical $200 tax that had applied to many suppressor transfers and manufacturing applications.
Jensen v. ATF
The federal court decision in Jensen v. ATF challenged continued enforcement of portions of the National Firearms Act after Congress reduced the tax to zero.
The district court granted significant relief affecting certain federal NFA requirements for qualifying parties covered by the court’s injunction.
Because the litigation remains active, the legal landscape continues to evolve.
DOES JENSEN REPLACE THE TEXAS SUPPRESSOR FREEDOM ACT?
No.
These are two different legal developments.
Texas Suppressor Freedom Act
A Texas statute enacted by the Legislature.
Jensen v. ATF
A federal court decision addressing enforcement of portions of the National Firearms Act.
They work independently and should not be confused.
WHO MAY BENEFIT FROM JENSEN?
Eligibility depends upon:
- The Court’s injunction;
- Current federal law;
- Applicable Texas law; and
- The facts of each transaction.
Crosshairs Texas verifies eligibility before proceeding with any transaction relying upon the current court order.
WHAT HAS NOT CHANGED?
Several important laws remain in effect.
- Texas firearm laws.
- Federal Gun Control Act provisions.
- Laws regarding prohibited persons.
- Interstate firearm transfer requirements.
- Hunting regulations.
- Federal restrictions unrelated to the Jensen decision.
WHAT DOES CROSSHAIRS TEXAS DO?
We help customers navigate this changing legal environment.
Services include:
✓ Suppressor Sales
✓ Special Orders
✓ NFA Transfers
✓ Digital EFT Fingerprints
✓ Passport Photos
✓ eForm Assistance
✓ NFA Trust Guidance
✓ Temporary Jensen Compliance Procedures
✓ Ongoing Customer Support
SHOULD I WAIT?
Every customer’s situation is different.
If you’re considering purchasing a suppressor, we recommend discussing your goals with one of our knowledgeable staff members. We’ll explain the current legal landscape, review your options, and help determine the most appropriate path based on today’s laws and regulations.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Stop by Crosshairs Texas or schedule an appointment with one of our NFA specialists.
We’ll help you understand your options and guide you through every step of the process.
Ready to Get Started?
Start Your NFA Purchase Today.
