Debunking Senator Chris Murphy’s Misleading Take on Suppressor Taxes

By AmmoLand - June 2025

If you’ve been following gun gear debates lately, you might have caught Senator Chris Murphy’s recent comments about suppressors and the National Firearms Act (NFA) tax. He claimed that scrapping the suppressor tax would somehow empower mass shooters. Let’s just say — that’s not only off the mark, it’s downright misleading.

Why the NFA Suppressor Tax Doesn’t Keep Us Safer

Here’s the deal: suppressors, often called “silencers,” don’t make guns any deadlier. They simply reduce noise and recoil, which is huge for hearing protection and better shooting accuracy. The $200 tax stamp on suppressors, established back in 1934, was never about public safety in the modern sense. It’s an outdated hurdle that primarily affects responsible gun owners who want to protect their ears during outdoor shooting or hunting trips.

Separating Fact from Fearmongering

Senator Murphy’s suggestion that removing this tax will arm mass shooters is a classic case of fearmongering. There’s zero evidence that suppressors make crimes easier or more deadly. In fact, law enforcement agencies and the military use suppressors to protect hearing and improve communication during operations—not to commit crimes.

Suppressors: A Must-Have for Outdoor Enthusiasts

From my experience in the field, whether you’re out hunting, target shooting, or just enjoying some range time, suppressors are a game-changer. They reduce that sharp gunshot blast, making the whole experience safer and more enjoyable. Plus, keeping your hearing intact is no joke — once it’s gone, it’s gone for good.

The Real Talk: Modernizing Gun Laws

It’s time we rethink gun regulations with facts, not fear. Eliminating the suppressor tax would support responsible gun owners, promote hearing safety, and take a bite out of unnecessary bureaucracy. Instead of spreading false claims, lawmakers