What Gun Owners Need to Know in the New Year

Major changes to federal suppressor regulations take effect in 2026, reshaping how American shooters buy, register, and maintain NFA-regulated items. With the removal of the traditional $200 tax stamp for many NFA categories, the process of acquiring suppressors becomes more accessible than it has been in nearly a century.

Our team at Heresy Design is going to break down the upcoming National Firearms Act (NFA) updates, what firearm owners can expect in 2026.

The Key Change in 2026: No More $200 Tax Stamp for Most NFA Items

Beginning January 1, 2026, the federal government is eliminating the $200 tax stamp requirement for several NFA-regulated items, including:

• Suppressors

• Short-Barreled Rifles (SBRs)

• Short-Barreled Shotguns (SBSs)

• Any Other Weapons (AOWs)

This change removes a longstanding financial barrier and significantly reduces the overall cost of obtaining a suppressor or building an SBR. While the tax stamp fee is disappearing, ownership remains regulated. The NFA still requires registration, paperwork, and approval before possession.

What Stays the Same: Required Forms and Background Checks

Even without the tax:

• ATF Form 4 is still required when purchasing a suppressor.

• ATF Form 1 is still required for building or modifying an NFA firearm.

• Fingerprints, photographs, and background checks remain mandatory.

• All approved items continue to be listed in the NFA registry.

The removal of the tax stamp lowers cost, but not compliance. Additionally, the tax stamp elimination does not apply to all NFA items. Machine guns and destructive devices still require the traditional $200 tax.

Administrative Updates and What to Expect in 2026

As the transition takes effect, firearm owners can anticipate:

• Updated versions of Form 1 and Form 4 reflecting the new zero-dollar tax

• A possible surge in application volume

• Temporary delays as systems adjust to the revised process

• Continued use of the ATF eForms system to streamline submissions

While the cost barrier is dropping, the legal structure of NFA ownership remains firmly in place.

Why This Matters for Suppressor Enthusiasts

Lower Cost, Higher Access

Removing the tax stamp brings suppressors within reach for a wider range of shooters, including first-time buyers and hobbyists who previously hesitated due to cost.

Growing Demand for High-Quality Gear

As suppressor ownership grows, so does the need for reliable silencers and accessories. This includes timing solutions, alignment tools, and purpose-built rimfire cans engineered for modern ammunition.

State Laws Still Apply

Certain states maintain their own suppressor restrictions, so buyers must remain aware of local laws even after federal changes take effect.

Where to Look for Suppressors

The surge in demand for suppressors and muzzle devices makes reliable equipment more important than ever. Heresy Design offers two standout products that pair perfectly with the new regulatory environment.

Heresy Design Resonance 22 Silencer

The Resonance 22 is a premium rimfire suppressor engineered for shooters who demand top-tier sound reduction and lightweight handling. Now you may be thinking, “why suppress a .22“? However, the Resonance 22 is designed to run on all rimfire calibers as well as subsonic 5.7mm ammunition, it prioritizes cleanliness, durability, and ease of use.

Key Performance Advantages of the Resonance 22

• Industry-leading sound suppression for rimfire and subsonic 5.7mm

• Ultralight construction for maneuverability and balanced handling

• Easy disassembly and maintenance, even after high round counts

• Reduced blowback and residue buildup for a cleaner shooting experience

Whether you’re plinking, target shooting, or training new shooters, the Resonance 22 offers the performance and reliability rimfire enthusiasts need.

Heresy Design Silencer Timing Device (STD)

The Silencer Timing Device (STD) is a patent-pending solution designed to simplify timing muzzle devices and silencer mounts. Instead of relying on bulky, multi-piece shim packs, the STD uses a streamlined three-washer system that installs in under 60 seconds.

Included in the Package

• Backing washer

• Base washer

• Timing washer

Core Features

• 180 degrees of rotational adjustment for precise timing

• Retains direct thread silencers to prevent walk-off during firing

• Simple, under-one-minute installation suitable for all skill levels

• Designed for 1/2-inch threaded barrels

• Strong tension system that prevents silencer loosening

• Precise alignment at 25 ft-lb of torque, requiring no over-tightening

• Made in the USA from 12L14/4140 steel with a durable black oxide coating

Product Specifications

• SKU: HSTDA

• UPC: 850055721166

• Compatibility: 1/2-inch threaded barrels

• Material: 12L14 / 4140 steel

• Coating: Black oxide

• Inside Diameter: 0.510 in

• Outside Diameter: 0.750 in

The STD provides “insurance” for your suppressor by helping prevent baffle strikes, endcap strikes, and thread misalignment—common causes of silencer damage.

Conclusion

The 2026 NFA updates represent a long-awaited shift for suppressor owners. By eliminating the $200 tax stamp for suppressors, SBRs, SBSs, and AOWs, the federal government is lowering financial barriers and making regulated firearms more accessible to everyday shooters. While NFA compliance and background checks remain in place, the cost savings are substantial and will likely drive a major increase in suppressor ownership.

As more shooters enter the suppressor market, high-quality equipment becomes essential. Heresy Design stands out as one of the best sources for precision suppressor accessories and rimfire silencers, including the Resonance 22 Silencer and the innovative Silencer Timing Device. These tools help ensure proper alignment, reliable performance, and long-term durability—exactly what firearm owners need in a changing regulatory landscape.

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