Buy Suppressors In South Carolina | NFA

Navigating the world of NFA firearms can seem intimidating, but it doesn't have to be.At Elite Firearms, we specialize in making the process of owning suppressors, Short-Barreled Rifles (SBRs), and other NFA items straightforward and clear. This guide is designed to answer your most common questions and provide you with the accurate information you need to confidently purchase your first NFA item.

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Feel Free to stop in to chit-chat or call us for any questions:
843-877-6368

3120 Waccamaw Blvd Unit A, Myrtle Beach, SC, 29579, United States (US)

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Understanding the National Firearms Act (NFA)

The National Firearms Act, or NFA, is a federal law that governs the sale, transfer, and possession of specific categories of firearms and accessories. These regulated items are often referred to as "NFA items" or "Title II firearms." Understanding which items fall under these regulations is the first step for any prospective buyer.

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The primary categories of NFA items include

Suppressors (Silencers): These are devices attached to a firearm that reduce the sound of a gunshot. They are the most common NFA item purchased by civilians for hearing protection and improved shooting comfort.

Short-Barreled Rifles (SBRs): A rifle with a barrel length of less than 16 inches or an overall length of less than 26 inches.

Short-Barreled Shotguns (SBSs): A shotgun with a barrel length of less than 18 inches or an overall length of less than 26 inches.

Machine Guns: Any firearm capable of firing more than one shot with a single pull of the trigger. Civilian ownership is limited to transferable machine guns manufactured before May 19, 1986.

Any Other Weapon (AOWs): This is a broad category that includes items like pen guns, cane guns, and certain handguns with a vertical forward grip...

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Frequently Asked Questions About NFA Ownership

We get a lot of questions about the NFA process. Here are clear, straightforward answers to the most common inquiries we receive from customers in North and South Carolina.

Are suppressors and SBRs legal to own?

Yes, absolutely. In both North Carolina and South Carolina, it is perfectly legal for law-abiding citizens to own NFA items, including suppressors and SBRs. These items are not “illegal”; they are simply regulated at the federal level, which requires a specific purchasing process.

What is an NFA tax stamp, and how much does it cost?

To legally own an NFA item, you must receive approval from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in the form of a “tax stamp.” This is the official registration of the item to you or your trust.

As of January 1, 2026, the $200 tax stamp fee has been eliminated for suppressors, SBRs, SBSs, and AOWs. This means there is no longer a $200 tax to be paid for these items. You are still required to complete all the necessary paperwork and receive ATF approval, but the cost of the stamp itself is now $0.

How long is the wait time for ATF approval?

Wait times have improved dramatically with the implementation of the ATF’s eForms system. When you file a digital Form 4, the current wait time for approval is typically around 3 to 6 weeks (We see pretty fast approvals from time to time like less than a week on some). This is a significant reduction from the old paper-based system, which could take a year or longer. At Elite Firearms, we exclusively use the digital eForms system to ensure our customers get their NFA items as quickly as possible.

What is a gun trust and should I use one?

A gun trust is a legal entity created to take ownership of your NFA firearms. While not required, it allows multiple individuals (co-trustees, such as a spouse or family members) to legally possess and use the NFA items owned by the trust. This also simplifies the inheritance process, as the trust continues to exist and a successor trustee can take control without going through a new transfer.

Can I travel with my suppressor or SBR?

For suppressors, you can travel freely between states where suppressor ownership is legal without notifying the ATF. For SBRs and SBSs, you must file an ATF Form 5320.20 and have it approved before traveling across state lines. This form is free to file and serves as a notification of temporary transport.

Can I buy an NFA item from you if I live in North Carolina/ect?

Yes. Federal law requires that the final transfer of an NFA item be handled by a licensed dealer (FFL/SOT) in the buyer’s state of residence. We can facilitate this process by shipping the suppressor or SBR you purchase from us to a dealer in your state. You would then complete your Form 4 paperwork with that local dealer.

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Debunking Common NFA Myths

Myth

Owning an NFA item gives the ATF the right to search your home.

Fact

This is completely false. An approved tax stamp is proof of legal ownership, much like the title to your car. It is not a search warrant and does not waive your Fourth Amendment rights. Law-abiding owners of NFA items are subject to the same laws as any other citizen.

Myth

Suppressors make firearms completely silent.

Fact

Suppressors do not make guns silent; they make them significantly quieter. A suppressed firearm is still loud, but the sound is typically reduced to a level that is not immediately damaging to human hearing (below 140 dB). The primary purpose of a suppressor is hearing protection for the shooter and those nearby.

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Let Us Make the NFA Process Easy

At Elite Firearms, our goal is to be your trusted partner in NFA ownership. We handle the entire digital submission process in-house, including fingerprints and photos, to ensure your application is submitted correctly and efficiently. If you're ready to purchase your first suppressor or build an SBR, visit our shop and let our expert team show you just how simple the process can be!

843-877-6368

Browse Our NFA Inventory

Suppressors

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Short Barrel Rifles

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NFA Accessories

Mounts, pistons, adapters, and other accessories for your NFA items.

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Official ATF Information

Current NFA Regulations from the ATF

The following information is taken directly from official Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) sources

What is the National Firearms Act?

The National Firearms Act (NFA) was originally enacted in 1934. The law requires the registration of all NFA firearms with the Secretary of the Treasury. The NFA also imposes a tax on the making and transfer of firearms defined by the Act, as well as a special occupational tax on persons and entities engaged in the business of importing, manufacturing, and dealing in NFA firearms.

Source: ATF National Firearms Act | Last Updated: February 4, 2026

Firearms Subject to the NFA

According to the ATF, firearms subject to the 1934 Act include:

Shotguns and rifles having barrels less than 18 inches in length
Machine guns (fully automatic firearms)
Firearm mufflers and silencers (suppressors)
Any other weapons as defined by the Act
Destructive devices (added in 1968 amendments)

Source: ATF National Firearms Act | Last Updated: February 4, 2026

ATF's Authority Over NFA Items

ATF's National Firearms Act Division is the only federal authority permitted to regulate firearms covered by the National Firearms Act. The NFA Division processes all applications to import, export, make, manufacture, transfer and otherwise register NFA firearms and destructive devices. The division also responds to requests from individuals to temporarily or permanently move registered NFA firearms between states.

Source: ATF National Firearms Act Division | Last Updated: January 16, 2026

National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record

The ATF maintains the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record (NFRTR), the central registry for all items regulated under the NFA. More than 3 million items are currently registered in the NFRTR, which dates back to the enactment of the NFA in 1934. All NFA firearms must be registered in this system.

Source: ATF National Firearms Act Division | Last Updated: January 16, 2026

Required Forms for NFA Transfers

The ATF requires specific forms to be filed electronically through the eForms system:

ATF Form 1: Application to Make and Register a Firearm (for individuals building their own NFA items)
ATF Form 4: Application for Tax Paid Transfer and Registration of Firearm (for purchasing NFA items from dealers)
ATF Form 5320.20: Application for Transport of NFA Firearms (required for SBRs and SBSs crossing state lines)

Source: ATF National Firearms Act Division | Last Updated: January 16, 2026

How SC Elite Firearms Helps You Navigate These Regulations

Understanding federal regulations can be overwhelming. That's why we handle the entire NFA application process for you. We ensure all forms are completed correctly, submit them electronically through the ATF eForms system, and keep you updated throughout the approval process. Our team stays current with all ATF requirements so you don't have to. We take care of the paperwork so you can focus on enjoying your NFA items legally and responsibly.