VIP Email Draft — ATF NFA October 2026 Update

DRAFT — NOT FOR PUBLICATION

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Hey VIP Members,

It's Zach and Chase. We wanted to reach out directly to our VIP list because there's a big federal update that affects anyone interested in suppressors, short-barreled rifles, or other NFA items — and we want to make sure you hear it from us first, with the full picture.

What Happened on October 9, 2026

The ATF and Department of Justice issued new guidance effective October 9, 2026. The short version: the federal government announced it will no longer enforce certain NFA prior-approval requirements for suppressors, short-barreled rifles (SBRs), short-barreled shotguns (SBSs), and certain other covered items. The federal NFA making and transfer taxes on these items have been reduced to $0.

What this means in practice: eligible suppressor transfers can now be processed through a Form 4473 — the same paperwork you complete for any firearm purchase — rather than requiring a prior Form 4 approval and the months-long wait that came with it.

The Important Distinction: Nonenforcement Is Not Repeal

We want to be straight with you about this. The ATF's announcement is an enforcement-discretion decision — not a congressional repeal of the NFA. The underlying statutes remain on the books. If enforcement resumes in the future, individuals possessing unregistered NFA items could face serious legal consequences, and there is no guaranteed grandfather protection.

We're not trying to scare anyone — we genuinely don't know what future enforcement will look like. But we believe informed customers make better decisions, and we want you to understand both the opportunity and the risk before you decide which route to take.

Voluntary Form 4 Is Still Available

ATF has confirmed it will continue accepting voluntary Form 4 applications for covered items. If you prefer the registered route — for peace of mind, estate planning, or protection against future policy changes — that option remains available. We can help with voluntary Form 4 registration.

Our Florida SBR Policy

For short-barreled rifles and shotguns, we're taking a cautious approach. Florida Statute 790.221 creates some legal uncertainty about whether an unregistered SBR satisfies Florida's exception for federally lawful possession. Until that question is resolved, Crum & Co. will continue requiring an approved ATF Form 4 before transferring any SBR or SBS. We'd rather be safe than put our customers or our business at risk.

Updated Transfer Fees

Contact Us Before Ordering

Please contact us before ordering or shipping any suppressor or NFA item to our store. Unannounced shipments are subject to the $100-per-item blind-transfer fee. A quick call or message before you order protects both of us.

As always, thank you for being part of the Crum & Co. family. We're excited about what this means for our customers and we're committed to handling every transaction responsibly. If you have questions, give us a call or stop by the store.

— Zach & Chase
Crum & Co. Outdoors