Silencer Central, a company known for selling firearm suppressors, finds itself in an unusual position within the gun industry. Despite being in the business of selling suppressors, the company has been reported to have lobbied against legislation that would ease restrictions on these products. This stance aligns them with anti-gun groups, raising questions about their business strategy.
In 2024, Silencer Central reportedly spent $50,000 lobbying against bills intended to deregulate suppressors. The company’s actions seem contrary to its customers’ interests and the broader movement toward deregulation spearheaded by conservative legislators and supporters of gun rights.
Silencer Central explained its position through an email stating it supports “any viable legislative proposal which would enhance or expand our customers to purchase, possess and legally use suppressors.” However, evidence suggests they are involved in efforts that do not align with the Hearing Protection Act but rather support tax stamp conservation legislation.
The company’s response came after an article from InsideSources/DC Journal accused them of siding against pro-suppressor legislation. Silencer Central’s Senior Manager Joe Kurtenbach clarified that funds were used for efforts related to wildlife conservation and range building via tax stamp revenue—a move separate from the Hearing Protection Act.
This situation unfolds amid growing acceptance of suppressors in America. Currently, there are approximately 4.9 million suppressors owned by civilians in the U.S., reflecting increased awareness of their benefits and cultural normalization. Legislative momentum is evident with multiple bills like the SHUSH Act and Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill seeking to reduce restrictions on suppressor ownership.
Historically, suppressors were tightly regulated under the National Firearms Act of 1934 due to fears stemming from organized crime during Prohibition. Despite this regulation, public perception has shifted significantly towards viewing suppressors as common firearm accessories.
As discussions continue over deregulation efforts and Silencer Central’s role within this landscape, questions remain about whether their approach will alienate customers or prove strategically beneficial by maintaining market barriers.
