NFA items are firearms regulated under the National Firearms Act of 1934. This includes suppressors (silencers), short barreled rifles (SBRs), short barreled shotguns (SBSs), machine guns, and AOWs (Any Other Weapons). They require a federal tax stamp and background check.

How long does it take to get an NFA item?

With electronic filing (eForms), approval typically takes 30-90 days in 2026. Paper forms can take 6-12 months. Electronic filing with EFT fingerprints is the fastest method.

How much does an NFA tax stamp cost?

In 2026, the NFA tax stamp is $0 for individuals and trusts due to recent legislation. Previously, it was $200. Check current ATF requirements as this may change.

First NFA Item: Complete Beginner's Guide to Suppressors & SBRs

Updated January 2026 15 min read

Thinking about buying your first suppressor or SBR? The NFA process can seem intimidating, but it's actually straightforward once you understand the steps. This guide explains everything in plain English.

What is an NFA Item?

The National Firearms Act (NFA) of 1934 regulates certain types of firearms. To own them, you need:

To pass a background check
To pay a tax (currently $0 in 2026)
To submit fingerprints and a photo
ATF approval (via "tax stamp")

Once approved, you own the item like any other firearm—just with extra paperwork.

Types of NFA Items

Suppressors (Silencers)

The most popular NFA item. Reduces gunshot noise by 20-35 decibels. Does NOT make guns "movie quiet"—still requires hearing protection in most cases. Legal in 42 states.

Short Barreled Rifles (SBRs)

Rifles with barrels under 16" or overall length under 26". Popular for compact AR-15 builds. Legal in most states.

Short Barreled Shotguns (SBSs)

Shotguns with barrels under 18" or overall length under 26". Less common than SBRs.

Machine Guns

Fully automatic firearms. Only pre-1986 registered machine guns can be transferred to civilians. Very expensive ($10,000+).

AOWs (Any Other Weapons)

Catch-all category including pen guns, cane guns, smooth-bore pistols. Only $5 tax to transfer (but $200 to make).

Is It Legal in My State?

NFA items are legal federally, but some states have restrictions:

Suppressors Legal (42 states)

Prohibited in: CA, DE, HI, IL, MA, NJ, NY, RI

SBRs Legal (Most states)

Check your specific state—some like WA prohibit SBRs while allowing suppressors.

Check your state's NFA laws →

The NFA Process (Form 4)

When you buy an NFA item from a dealer, you use ATF Form 4. Here's the process:

Step 1: Choose Your Item

Find a suppressor, SBR, etc. you want at a dealer. Pay for it. The item stays at the dealer until your Form 4 is approved.

Step 2: Complete Paperwork

Your dealer will help you fill out Form 4 on ATF eForms. You'll need:

Personal information
Passport-style photo
Fingerprints (in EFT format)
CLEO information (for notification)

Step 3: Submit & Pay Tax

Submit the form electronically and pay the tax ($0 in 2026). Your application enters the ATF queue.

Step 4: Wait for Approval

ATF runs a background check and processes your application. Currently 30-90 days for eForms.

Step 5: Pick Up Your Item

Once approved, your dealer receives notification. Complete a 4473 background check (standard gun purchase form) and take your item home.

Fingerprint Requirements

ATF requires fingerprints for NFA applications. Here's what you need to know:

The FD-258 Card

This is the official FBI fingerprint card. You get fingerprinted on this card.

Where to Get Fingerprinted

Police stations / sheriff's offices
UPS Stores
Gun stores / FFL dealers
DIY at home

Converting to EFT

For electronic filing, you need to convert your FD-258 to EFT format. That's where SlapEFT comes in—upload your card image, get your .eft file in minutes.

Good news: Your EFT file works for ALL future NFA applications. Get fingerprinted once, convert once, use forever.

How Long Does It Take?

Electronic Filing (eForms) with EFT

Form 4: 30-90 days (typical)
Form 1: 30-60 days (typical)

Paper Filing

Form 4: 6-12 months
Form 1: 6-12 months

Recommendation: Always file electronically. It's 4-6x faster.

Total Costs (What to Budget)

The Item Itself

Suppressors: $300-$2,000+
SBR (if buying complete): $1,000-$3,000+
SBR (Form 1 build, just the stamp): Free in 2026

Tax Stamp

2026: $0 (recent legislation)
Previously: $200

Fingerprints

Fingerprinting: $0-50
EFT conversion: $10

Example: First Suppressor

Suppressor: $800
Tax: $0
Fingerprints: $20
EFT conversion: $10
Total: ~$830

First-Timer Tips

1. Start with a Suppressor

Suppressors are the most useful NFA item. They reduce noise, recoil, and make shooting more pleasant. Good first choice.

2. Use Electronic Filing

Always use eForms. Paper filing is 4-6x slower with no benefits.

3. Get Your Fingerprints Ready Early

Get fingerprinted and convert to EFT before you even choose your item. That way you're ready when you find what you want.

4. Individual vs Trust

Starting out? Individual is simpler. If you want family members to use your NFA items, consider a trust.

5. Choose a Good Dealer

A knowledgeable NFA dealer makes the process smoother. They'll help with paperwork and answer questions.

6. Be Patient

30-90 days feels long, but it will pass. Use the time to research accessories, get training, etc.

Ready for Your First NFA Item?

Get your fingerprints converted to EFT format so you're ready to submit.

Convert for $10 →