Class III Firearms FAQs

What is a Class III Firearm/Suppressor?

Class III includes select machine guns, silencers, destructive devices, short-barreled rifles and short-barreled shotguns.

Are Silencers Legal?

In most states, including West Virginia, Kentucky and Ohio, silencers may be owned by individuals, corporations and trusts.

Who Can Purchase a Class III Firearm?

Applicants must be:

• a United States citizen,
• at least 21 years old,
• meet the requirements for buying a handgun (not convicted of a felony, dishonorable discharged, etc.), and
• be a resident of the state where the firearm is purchased.

What is the Process for Purchasing a Class III firearm from Herd Tactical?

The paperwork process for purchasing a Class III firearm can seem daunting for many gun owners, but for most applicants, it will simply require some additional processing time.

Herd Tactical always has Class III/NFA items in stock and we can help you decide which items are a good fit for you. Once you have decided what item you would like to purchase, contact Herd Tactical to order (if necessary) and make payment. We will order your product and hold it until your approval is completed.

If purchasing as an individual:

You must also complete The Application for Tax Paid Transfer and Registration of Firearm Form (Form 4) and submit it with your $200 transfer tax. The staff at Herd Tactical will be happy to help you complete this form and submit it on your behalf. This form must include the serial number of the item you are purchasing, a recent color passport-sized photograph of the applicant, two completed FBI fingerprint cards, and a check made payable to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives for $200. Don't worry, we have all the paperwork needed at Herd Tactical and we will walk you through the process free of charge. Currently the BATFE estimates the individual processing time as 6-9 months.

If purchasing with an NFA Trust or Corporation:

Class III/NFA firearms can be purchased by using a NFA Trust or as a Corporation. 

Why is there an additional fee?

Individuals purchasing a "National Firearms Act" (NFA) weapon is required to pay a one-time Federal Excise Tax fee of $200.

How long is the typical wait for a Class III firearm/suppressor?

The time frame for processing a Class III application varies depending on the volume at the ATF. Currently, the wait times are 6-9 months.

How will I know I have been approved?
The ATF will notify Herd Tactical that your application has been processed. We will notify you that your paperwork is complete and you can pick up your firearm.