When it comes to getting fingerprints for your NFA application, two popular options are Silencer Shop's kiosk system and SlapEFT's conversion service. Both produce EFT files for electronic ATF filing, but they work very differently. Here's how they compare.
In This Guide
Quick Overview
| Feature | Silencer Shop | SlapEFT |
|---|---|---|
| Method | In-store kiosk | Online conversion |
| Location Required | Partner dealer | Anywhere (online) |
| Cost | Free (with purchase) | $10 |
| EFT File Ownership | Limited (in their system) | Full (you download it) |
| Use Anywhere | Only with SS dealers | Any dealer or direct ATF |
| Form 1 Support | Limited | Full support |
How Silencer Shop Kiosks Work
Silencer Shop has kiosks installed at partner dealers across the country. The kiosk captures your fingerprints digitally and stores them in Silencer Shop's system.
The Process
- Find a dealer with a Silencer Shop kiosk
- Create a Silencer Shop account
- Visit the kiosk and scan your fingerprints
- Your prints are stored in their cloud system
- When you buy suppressors through SS, they use those prints
Silencer Shop Pros
- Free with purchase: No additional cost when buying through them
- One-time enrollment: Prints stored for future purchases
- Integrated system: Seamless if you use SS dealers
- Digital capture: No ink needed
Silencer Shop Cons
- Location dependent: Must visit a partner dealer
- Ecosystem lock-in: Prints primarily work with SS dealers
- No downloadable EFT: Can't use prints with non-SS dealers
- Form 1 limitations: System designed for Form 4 purchases
- Travel required: May need to drive significant distance to kiosk
How SlapEFT Works
SlapEFT converts your existing FD-258 fingerprint card into an EFT file that you own and control.
The Process
- Get fingerprinted anywhere (police, UPS, DIY)
- Photograph or scan your FD-258 card
- Upload to SlapEFT
- Receive your .eft file in minutes
- Use it with any dealer or direct ATF filing
SlapEFT Pros
- Location independent: Works from anywhere
- You own the file: Download and use anywhere
- Works with any dealer: Not locked to one ecosystem
- Form 1 friendly: Perfect for builds and direct filing
- Unlimited reuse: Same file works forever
- Fast: Minutes, not a trip to a store
SlapEFT Cons
- Costs $10: Not free (though fingerprinting is separate)
- Requires existing card: Need to get fingerprinted first
- Manual upload: You handle ATF submission yourself
Detailed Comparison
Flexibility
Winner: SlapEFT
SlapEFT gives you a file you can use anywhere—with any dealer, for any application type, forever. Silencer Shop prints are primarily useful within their ecosystem.
Cost
Winner: Depends
If you're buying through Silencer Shop anyway, their kiosk is free. If you're not, SlapEFT at $10 plus fingerprinting costs is very affordable.
Convenience
Winner: Depends on location
If you have a SS kiosk nearby and are buying from them, it's convenient. If not, SlapEFT from home is more convenient.
Form 1 Applications
Winner: SlapEFT
SlapEFT files work perfectly for direct ATF filing. Silencer Shop's system is designed around Form 4 dealer transfers.
Future Flexibility
Winner: SlapEFT
Your EFT file works forever with any dealer. If you switch dealers or want to file Form 1s, you're covered.
When to Use Each
Use Silencer Shop If:
- You're buying exclusively through SS partner dealers
- There's a kiosk conveniently located near you
- You only need Form 4 transfers
- You don't mind being in their ecosystem
Use SlapEFT If:
- You want to file Form 1s (building suppressors/SBRs)
- You want freedom to use any dealer
- No kiosk is convenient to you
- You already have FD-258 cards
- You want to own your fingerprint file
- You're in a rural area without nearby kiosks
Use Both If:
Some NFA enthusiasts use Silencer Shop for purchases from their dealers while also having a SlapEFT file for Form 1 builds and other dealers.
Get Your Own EFT File
Own your fingerprints. Use them anywhere, forever. Convert for $10.
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