Alabama Approves Suppressors for Hunting

by
posted on May 15, 2014
sinews.jpg (62)

The Alabama Department of Conservation voted unanimously last week to make Alabama the 32nd state to permit hunting with suppressors. The approval came after an Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries' (WFF) recommendation in March that the prohibition on suppressed firearms be lifted to allow hunters in the state to use legally possessed suppressors in the field.

The change, subject to approval by an administrative review, will modify Alabama's current hunting regulations to strike the ban on "silenced firearms" for the legal taking of game. This change would allow those who have National Firearms Act (NFA) registered suppressors as well as a valid Alabama DCNR hunting license to both harvest game animals and eradicate non-game pests during open seasons. The move was supported by the National Rifle Association and suppressor/silencer manufacturers and associated trade groups.

"This change marks a major step in the right direction for hunters in the state of Alabama who wish to protect their hearing while hunting game animals," said Knox Williams, President of the American Suppressor Association (ASA).

Interest in suppressor use has increased exponentially in the past few years, as shooters and hunters have become more aware of potential hearing damage caused by firearms. Suppressors also reduce recoil and muzzle rise, and in many cases may help increase accuracy. For hunters, this translates into fewer wounded and lost animals, which is a good thing for sportsmen and wildlife alike. Further, the noise reduction offered by suppressors is seen as a benefit for hunters seeking permission to hunt on private land and in areas of expanding urbanization where hunting is permitted, as well as at shooting ranges located in developing areas.

Heavily regulated under federal law, suppressors are formally classified as "Silencers" under the National Firearms Act (NFA) of 1934, requiring a one-time $200 federal tax (per device) and an FBI background check for purchase. Persons in possession of unregistered or untaxed suppressors may be found in violation of federal tax code (tax evasion), a felony punishable by fines and up to ten years in prison.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (BATFE) is currently tasked with enforcing suppressor regulations in accordance with federal law. Suppressors are classified as a restricted "firearm" and, as such, each has its own individual serial number. Presently, 39 states permit suppressor ownership. It remains illegal to own suppressors in California, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont.

Latest

Rock River Arms Operator
Rock River Arms Operator

First Look: Rock River Arms DMR Rifles

Lots of new ways to take an AR-pattern rifle out to longer distances.

Why Choose A Slim Pistol?

Handgun thickness is dictated by magazine dimensions, which vary based on capacity, construction and feed geometry.

Review: Bushnell Match Pro ED 5-30x56 mm

Let’s start with the non-traditional review stuff right now. The new Match Pro ED 5-30x56 mm scope from Bushnell is not earth-shattering.

Red Dots for Old Eyes

It has happened against my will and without my permission, but I got old. Parts of me did anyway. I first noticed it in my late 40s when I had trouble reading the headstamp on a cartridge.

First Look: Vortex Defender-CCW Micro Red Dot

Designed from the ground up with concealed carry in mind.

Shoot United Launches 2023 Nationwide Event Schedule

Twenty events across the country, all designed to introduce people to the shooting sports.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Illustrated delivered to your inbox.