Should You Buy a Suppressor Before 2026? Pros, Cons, and a Smart Strategy

If you’ve been thinking about buying a suppressor, there’s a major change on the horizon: starting January 1, 2026, the $200 NFA tax stamp for suppressors will be eliminated. While it sounds like a gift to shooters everywhere, there’s more to consider than just skipping a $200 fee. Supply, demand, and wait times will all play a role in how easy—or expensive—it will be to get your hands on a suppressor.

Here’s a guide to help you decide whether to buy a suppressor before 2026 and how to do it smartly.

Pros of Buying a Suppressor Before 01/01/2026

1. Lock in today’s prices
Manufacturers know demand is about to spike when the tax stamp disappears. That means higher MSRP and longer waitlists for popular suppressor models. Buying before 2026 helps you avoid paying extra due to supply-demand economics.

2. Secure your preferred suppressor
Popular suppressors sell out quickly. By purchasing now, you can pick your brand, model, and caliber without compromise—no endless scrolling through “out of stock” notices.

3. Potentially faster ATF approval
The ATF tax stamp processing time is first-come, first-served. Filing early—or having your dealer file strategically—can mean your NFA suppressor approval arrives sooner rather than after a 2026 backlog.

Cons of Buying a Suppressor Before 01/01/2026

1. You still pay the $200 NFA tax stamp
Purchasing now means the tax stamp still applies. Yes, it’s money out of pocket—but think of it as an “early adoption fee” for peace of mind and guaranteed availability.

2. Patience required for holding periods
We are already seeing longer wait times, and they could be extended the closer we get to Jan 1st, your suppressor might sit at the dealer for weeks to months compared to the 3-15 day average we have been graced with lately, before the ATF approves your tax stamp. 

You’ll need patience (and maybe some meditation).

3. Limited availability still possible
Even before 2026, popular suppressor models can sell out. If you’re picky, waiting too long could mean compromise—or a costly alternative.

How to Buy a Suppressor Now and File Later

Here’s a little-known but clever trick: you can purchase a suppressor today and have your dealer wait to file your ATF Form 4 until 01/01/2026.

This strategy lets you:

• Lock in today’s price

• Avoid post-2026 demand surges

• Potentially shorten ATF tax stamp wait times by filing the morning of Jan 1st.

Steps to execute this strategy:

1. Choose a reputable dealer that offers holding options.

2. Set up your E-Forms account at the time of sale.

3. Work with your dealer to submit your ATF Form 4 on or after January 1, 2026.

It’s a simple way to plan ahead and sidestep both higher prices and excessive delays.

Why Timing Matters

The 2026 tax stamp elimination isn’t just about saving $200. It’s a market game-changer:

• Manufacturer prices may rise due to increased demand.

• Wait times for tax stamps could stretch as more buyers flood the ATF.

• Early planning ensures access to the suppressor you want without compromise.

Bottom Line

If you’re serious about NFA suppressors and want to avoid the inevitable 2026 rush, buying now and strategically filing later is a smart move. You’ll secure your suppressor, avoid price spikes, and potentially get your tax stamp faster than those waiting until January 1, 2026.

Think of it as the pre-2026 suppressor strategy: smart, practical, and just a little sneaky.

Check out our inventory of popular suppressors here.

Your learn more about the process in our NFA process page here.

As always, if you have questions, please contact us!