With Dove season just around the corner, Texas is becoming one of the growing list of states that allows the use of silencers when hunting.
A silencer is a Title II Firearms which is restricted by the National Firearms Act and can only be sold by dealers who have a Class 3 SOT license. (They can also be purchased second-hand from individuals using the same ATF Form 4). Because of their classification they require a $200 Tax stamp and approval from the ATF or BATFE before you can take possession of them.
Other states including Texas have previously allowed the use of silencers when shooting varmint but not on game. While the law was passed in March, Texas hunters have been patiently awaiting September 1st to legally use silencers while hunting.
You will still need to apply and receive a state permit from the Texas Parks and Wildlife to hunt for alligators, game animals or game birds with a silencer.
When your ready to begin hunting with a silencer in Texas, you should contact a Texas Gun Trust Lawyer ® to discuss setting up a Gun Trust. Gun Trust when properly created can help protect you and your family from violations of the NFA and add additional flexibility that is not available for individual owners.
Gun Trust Lawyer® works with lawyers in more than 40 states including Texas to offer legally supported trusts as well as a do it yourself Gun Trusts Forms.
Note: While a Gun Trust is a type of Revocable Trust, a Traditional Trust is not appropriate for the ownership, or disposition of firearms including NFA Firearms.