Suppressor Deregulation Unveiled: Your Complete Guide to the Hearing Protection Act

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Posted by Witt Machine & Tool Co. on May 22, 2025

At Witt Machine & Tool Co., we’re passionate about crafting high-quality suppressors that protect your hearing and enhance your shooting experience. The recent passage of the budget reconciliation bill by the U.S. House of Representatives, which includes provisions from the Hearing Protection Act (HPA) to remove suppressors from the National Firearms Act (NFA) and eliminate the $200 tax stamp, is a game-changer for shooters and hunters alike. But what does this mean for you, our valued customers? Let’s break down the next steps, what the future holds, and how you can prepare for a world where suppressors are as easy to buy as your favorite rifle scope.

A Big Win, But the Journey Isn’t Over

The House’s vote to include HPA provisions in the reconciliation package is a huge step toward making suppressors more accessible. If fully enacted, this legislation will remove suppressors from the NFA, eliminating the $200 tax stamp, lengthy ATF Form 4 wait times, fingerprints, and local law enforcement approvals. Instead, buying one of our precision-crafted Witt Machine suppressors could be as simple as purchasing a firearm with a standard background check. However, several key steps remain before this becomes reality. Here’s what’s next:

1. Senate Review and Vote

The bill now heads to the Senate, where the Republican majority in the 119th Congress (2025) is likely to support pro-Second Amendment measures. The reconciliation process allows passage with just 50 votes (plus the Vice President), bypassing the filibuster. The Senate may tweak the bill, potentially adding a fallback to reduce the tax stamp to $0 while keeping some NFA rules, to comply with the Byrd Rule.
What to Expect: The Senate could act within 1-3 months, possibly by late summer or early fall 2025.

2. Reconciling House and Senate Versions

If the Senate makes changes, a conference committee will iron out differences between the House and Senate bills to create a final version both chambers can agree on. If the Senate passes the House’s version as-is, this step could be skipped, speeding things up.
What to Expect: This could take 2-6 weeks, potentially wrapping up by late 2025.

3. Presidential Signature

Once both chambers approve the bill, it goes to President Trump, who has consistently championed Second Amendment rights. We expect him to sign it swiftly.
What to Expect: Signature within 10 days of receiving the bill, likely in late 2025 or early 2026.

4. ATF Regulatory Updates

If signed into law, the ATF will need to reclassify suppressors under the Gun Control Act (GCA), requiring only a standard Form 4473 background check (like buying a rifle or shotgun). The HPA also mandates destroying certain NFA records and may offer refunds for the $200 tax stamp paid within the last two years—a potential bonus for recent Witt Machine customers!
What to Expect: Regulatory changes could take 3-12 months, with simpler purchasing possibly starting in 2026.

5. Navigating Potential Challenges

Gun control groups may push back with legal challenges, arguing suppressors pose risks. But with 4.5 million suppressors registered by 2024 and negligible criminal use, these arguments are losing steam. A supportive Congress and Supreme Court should help keep things on track.
What to Expect: Challenges could delay implementation, but we’re optimistic for a resolution by 2026-2027.

What This Means for You as a Suppressor Buyer

As a potential Witt Machine suppressor buyer, you’re likely wondering: Should I buy now or wait? Here’s our take on the future and how to plan:

The Current Landscape (2025)

Right now, buying a Witt Machine suppressor involves the NFA process: a $200 tax stamp, ATF Form 4, fingerprints, passport photos, and local law enforcement notification. Thanks to ATF’s e-Form system, wait times are often just days or weeks—faster than ever! Our team at Witt Machine works with trusted dealers to make this process seamless, using kiosks for fingerprints and photos. A high-quality suppressor like our Mod 1 averages around $500, plus the $200 tax, but it’s an investment in safer, more enjoyable shooting.

The Future Landscape (2026 and Beyond)

If the HPA becomes law, buying a Witt Machine suppressor will be as easy as picking up a new rifle. You’ll complete a Form 4473, pass a quick background check, and walk out with your suppressor the same day—no tax stamp, no lengthy waits. This could lower costs and boost demand, potentially making our suppressors even more affordable. The SHUSH Act, a bolder proposal, could go further by removing suppressors from the GCA entirely, treating them like accessories with no background checks. While exciting, this faces tougher hurdles, so we’re focused on the HPA’s more achievable goals.

Should You Buy Now or Wait?

  • Buy Now: If you want a suppressor for hunting, sport shooting, or home defense, don’t wait. Our suppressors reduce noise by 20-30 decibels, protecting your hearing today. Plus, if the HPA passes with a refund provision, you might get your $200 tax back. Our dealers make the process straightforward, and you’ll be ready to shoot suppressed while others wait for deregulation.

  • Wait for Deregulation: If you’re comfortable waiting until late 2025 or early 2026, you could save the $200 tax and enjoy a simpler purchase process. However, there’s no guarantee of passage, and compromises (like a $0 tax with NFA rules intact) or legal delays could slow things down.

Don’t Forget State Laws

Even if the NFA restrictions are lifted, some states may impose their own taxes or registration requirements. The HPA aims to preempt these, but check your local laws. Our team at Witt Machine can connect you with dealers who know your state’s regulations inside and out.

How to Stay Ahead of the Game

At Witt Machine, we’re here to help you navigate this exciting time. Here’s how to prepare:

  • Stay Informed: Follow the bill’s progress on Congress.gov (search H.R. 404 or S. 364) or check updates from the American Suppressor Association (ASA), NRA, or Gun Owners of America.

  • Get Involved: Contact your Senators or the Senate Budget Committee to urge support for full NFA removal. Your voice matters!

  • Shop Smart: Visit our website to explore our suppressor lineup, like the Canooter Valve or Ultra Compact models, designed for performance and durability. Our dealers can guide you through the current process or prepare you for deregulation.

  • Ask Us: Have questions about suppressors or the HPA? Reach out to Witt Machine’s customer service for expert advice tailored to your needs.

Looking Ahead: A Timeline for Suppressor Change

Here’s our estimated timeline for when you might see suppressors become as easy to buy as a Witt Machine muzzle brake:

  • Summer-Fall 2025: Senate reviews and votes on the bill, potentially with amendments.

  • Late 2025: House and Senate reconcile differences; President signs the bill.

  • 2026: ATF updates regulations, enabling same-day suppressor purchases with a background check. Refunds may be issued for recent tax stamp payments.

  • 2026-2027: Any legal challenges are resolved, solidifying deregulation.

Join the Suppressor Revolution with Witt Machine

The potential removal of suppressors from the NFA is a historic opportunity to make shooting safer and more accessible. At Witt Machine & Tool Co., we’re thrilled to be part of this movement, crafting suppressors that deliver top-tier performance for hunters, sport shooters, and tactical enthusiasts. Whether you buy now or wait for deregulation, we’re here to support you with premium products and unmatched expertise.

Ready to learn more? Browse our suppressor lineup at WittMachine.net or contact our team to find a dealer near you. Let’s make shooting quieter, safer, and more fun—together.

Stay loud about your rights, but shoot quiet with Witt Machine.

Disclaimer: Legislative outcomes are subject to change. Always verify federal and state regulations before purchasing a suppressor.