April 30, 2012
By Robert W. Hunnicutt
Most SGN readers know that silencers (as Hiram P. Maxim called them) or suppressors are legal in 40 of the 50 states, provided you get a $200 federal tax stamp. That bit of information is less well known by the general public; remedying that was the purpose of the Silencers are Legal Shoot at the Elm Fork Gun Club in Dallas April 28.
The shoot drew more than 2,000 spectators and participants, who examined and fired everything from .22 pistols to .50 cal. rifles, all suppressed. Even with dozens of people firing, there was no need for ear protection. You could hear birds chirping in the exhibitor area.
For more information on the shoot, see http://silencersarelegal.com/legalshoot/
The Elm Fork Gun Club The Elm Fork Gun Club is perhaps better known for the shotgun sports, but its rifle and pistol facilities are extensive and up to date, making it an excellent venue for the SAL Shoot.
The SAL Shoot The SAL Shoot was a family occasion, and suppressed arms are perfect for the new shooter, as they are quieter and kick less, too, making it easy for the tyro to concentrate.
Long lines Lines were long as showgoers lusted to get their hands on some of the latest in suppressed arms. Excellent weather and companionship made the wait easy, however.
Suppressors We tend to think of suppressors as primarily for pistols, but they have a lot of useful applications for long arms, too, especially in reducing position disclosure in combat.
Centerfire rifles Centerfire rifles still produce enough report to require hearing protection when fired indoors, but the bang is vastly reduced from what it would be without the can fitted.
Exhibitor tents Several exhibitor tents adjoined the range, making it easy for show visitors to try out the latest in suppressor technology without having to walk far from the firing line.
Suppressors and short-barreled rifles Suppressors and short-barreled rifles have come to dominate transactions conducted under the National Firearms Act as machine guns have become prohibitively expensive.
Silencer market SureFire may be more famous for its flashlights, but it, along with SGN advertisers like Spike's Tactical and Yankee Hill Machine, serves the silencer market as well.
