The National Rifle Association filed a lawsuit against the NRA Foundation, asserting ownership of intellectual property and alleging the foundation's leadership is operating in bad faith and withholding funds. NRA CEO Doug Hamlin stated the foundation has declined to approve 2026 grant funding, jeopardizing programs like the NRA National Firearms Museum and Eddie Eagle GunSafe program.

Liberty Ammunition will showcase its latest ammunition lineup at the 2026 Camfour event on January 10 & 11 in Fort Worth, Texas. New products include Bear Country, SPIKE, and several new rifle calibers. CEO Gary Ramey highlights Liberty's superiority and dealer support materials at Booth 22.

Celerant Technology is sponsoring and exhibiting at ATA 2026, powering the pop-up shop with its Cumulus Retail software for the fifth consecutive year. The system integrates STAR Micronics' mPOP hardware and WorldPay's mobile payment processing to create a seamless checkout experience for archery dealers.

Hi Mountain Seasonings, founded by Dean Clark in 1991 in Riverton, Wyoming, is celebrating its 35th anniversary. The company has grown from a single jerky seasoning product to over 200 items under current owners Hans and Kimberly Hummel, expanding from a 12x24 office to 28,000 square feet across multiple facilities.

WOOX, an Italian-made gunstock, axe, and knife manufacturer, announced Brian Matthews as National Sales Manager. Matthews will oversee domestic sales and report to CEO Ben Fleming, bringing extensive outdoor industry experience from Advanced Armament Corporation and BPI Outdoor.

American Sniper announced a strategic partnership with Maschmedt & Associates to expand retail presence across 23 western states. The collaboration will launch new tactical products including knives, gloves, and backpacks, with support from AGE Retail Partners managing the brand's retail expansion and the TACK-F Foundation receiving financial support.

Bowtech Archery appointed Colin Legge as Executive Vice President of New Products and Innovation. Legge brings entrepreneurial experience, technical archery expertise, and financial acumen from founding The Carriage Archery Club and working in banking and energy sectors.

Yankee Hill Machine, founded in 1951 by James H. Graham and Wallace Judd, will celebrate its 75th anniversary throughout 2026. The family-owned firearms suppressor leader plans to kick off celebrations at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas with second and third-generation Graham family members in attendance.

Safari Club International announced Karen Mehall-Phillips as Vice President Publications, overseeing all SCI and affiliated publications. With over 30 years of leadership in communications and publishing, Mehall-Phillips will develop growth strategies and manage editorial direction, digital publishing, and profitability across all SCI platforms.

Bryant Ridge's silver coin and bullion collection is featured in a live Premier Event on Collector's Elite Auctions, with lots starting at one penny and bidding closing January 11. The auction attracts metals collectors, outdoor enthusiasts, and preppers recognizing silver's value as a tangible asset and hedge against economic uncertainty.

The NSSF's Protect Liberty PAC received a $25,000 contribution from the National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers (NASGW) to support candidates dedicated to preserving Constitutional rights and Second Amendment protections ahead of the November 2026 election. NASGW President Kenyon Gleason and Protect Liberty PAC Treasurer Lawrence G. Keane urged industry members to support the super PAC's efforts.

German Precision Optics (GPO USA) launched the PASSION™ HDi riflescope line, featuring HD glass, fiber-optic micro-dot illumination, and third-turret parallax adjustment at price points from $349.99 to $449.99. CEO Mike Jensen emphasized the scope delivers premium optical performance while eliminating unnecessary complexity for hunters and shooters.

Sightron announced the SV 8x42 ED Binoculars designed for hunters, shooters, and observation enthusiasts. The binoculars feature a wide 70° apparent field of view, ED objective lenses for sharp images, fully multi-layer coated lenses, and waterproof construction with a Lifetime Performance Guarantee.

Hawke Optics announces new 2026 products including Vantage Turkey Scopes in Mossy Oak Bottomland, Vantage HD 34 FFP tactical scopes, refined Vantage HD 30 scopes, Vantage HD binoculars, Frontier ED X compact binoculars, and Carbon Fiber Pro Bipods featuring advanced optics technology and precision engineering.

The Council to Advance Hunting and the Shooting Sports announced that the R3 License Data Dashboard will not be maintained for 2026 following the completion of its development funding. The public tool provided free visualizations of hunting and fishing license purchase trends to support Recruitment, Retention, and Reactivation efforts.

Wildlife Forever announces Brandon Helm's hire as invasive species project manager. Helm will partner with stakeholders to promote the Clean Drain Dry Initiative and combat invasive species spread. He previously worked with the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership and Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

Zanders, an all-women-owned distributor based in Sparta, Illinois, announced an exclusive partnership with Henry Repeating Arms to distribute the limited First Strike Series rifles—the first guns produced at Henry's Rice Lake, Wisconsin facility. Only 250 guns per model will be available, each featuring a custom Wisconsin emblem and special serial numbers.

Regal Products announced that RSI International Business Development will represent its brand throughout Europe. RSI, based in Hallstadt, Germany, will expand access to Regal's secure-storage solutions including cable and trigger locks, protective cases, and SecureMe technology across the European Union and select nearby markets.

The Wild Sheep Foundation's Women Hunt program launched IGNITE, a new weekly podcast hosted by Dana Dykema featuring conversations with outdoor enthusiasts, conservationists, and hunting advocates. The podcast aims to connect and inspire women in the hunting and conservation community through authentic storytelling available on major platforms.

TriStar Arms introduces the APOC PRO 9mm pistol featuring a factory-threaded barrel for suppressors, RMS-pattern optics cut, and RMR adapter plate. Priced at $399.00, the compact striker-fired design combines modern capabilities with affordability and is available through TriStar's nationwide dealer network.

Remington Ammunition announces new centerfire rifle and handgun additions for 2026, including three 7mm Backcountry loadings, new Subsonic Rifle and Hard Cast product lines, and expanded Core-Lokt PSP and Core-Lokt Handgun options. Products will debut at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas.

Galco has released the Hawkeye IWB holster designed for the Springfield Prodigy with red dot sight. The holster features a protective shroud for optical sights, snap-on belt attachment, premium steerhide construction, and is available in black or tan finish with adjustable belt loops.

BANISH Suppressors unveiled the BANISH 556, an advanced 5.56 NATO/.223 Rem. suppressor featuring controlled-flow technology for sound and flash suppression. Designed by founder Brandon Maddox and his team, the full-auto-rated suppressor uses metal additive manufacturing and Inconel construction, priced at $999 with lifetime warranty.

CCI Ammunition announces 2026 product launches including Hunter Series 22 LR loads, High Bar Air Rifle Slugs in multiple configurations, and a Golden Boy Collector's Edition bulk pack developed with Henry Repeating Arms. New products will debut at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas.

BPI Outdoors and Bergara Rifles unveiled the BTi30 suppressor, a USA-manufactured precision tool featuring swappable vented or sealed end caps, HUB-compatible mounting, and external fluting. The suppressor reduces point-of-impact shift by up to 25% and is available in three Cerakote finishes with a $1,099 MSRP.

Guns.com announced an enhanced suppressor shopping experience with free shipping through January following the elimination of the federal NFA tax. The platform offers selections from over 50 manufacturers including Dead Air, GEMTECH, BANISH, and Rugged, with local pickup options through 2,000 gun shops nationwide.

Orion Wholesale announced it is now the exclusive distributor of Atrius Development Group products, including Ambidextrous Upgrade Kits and Forced Reset Selectors. CEO Ryan Spadafore stated the partnership aims to advance small-arms innovation and deliver products empowering Americans.

Chattanooga Shooting Supplies, Inc. (CSSI) announced an exclusive partnership with RCBS to offer the Matte Black Rock Chucker Supreme Single Stage Press, available only through CSSI. This limited edition combines RCBS's durability with a distinctive matte black finish, creating a unique sales opportunity for retailers.

Silencer Central announced Ammunition Depot as its newest partner in the Delivered by Silencer Central program, enabling customers to purchase suppressors online with a 99.9% first-time approval guarantee and front-door delivery in 42 states. Ammunition Depot, based in Kissimmee, Florida, joins the partnership to enhance convenience for hunters and shooters.

Iron Valley Supply announced it is now an official provider for Legend Outdoor Gear, offering pistol and rifle cases, cleaning kits, range bags, slings, and accessories. The Birmingham, Alabama-based distributor serves the shooting sports and outdoor community.

Derya Arms announced a distribution agreement with Fleet Farm, a Upper Midwest retailer with over 50 stores. The partnership will bring Derya's DY9 9mm pistol and .22LR Rifle Series to Fleet Farm locations starting December, with expanded offerings planned for 2026.

WATCHTOWER Defense, a veteran-founded American firearms manufacturer, will display the Standard Issue RAIDER15 and Special Duty RAIDER15 rifles at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas, January 20–23, at booth #7226. Both models are chambered in 5.56 NATO and feature ambidextrous controls with suggested retail prices of $1299 and $1899 respectively.

NSSF is hosting the 5th Annual Governors' Forum at SHOT Show 2026, featuring governors including Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Brad Little, Greg Gianforte, Jim Pillen, Joe Lombardo, and Mark Gordon. The forum, moderated by Shermichael Singleton, will discuss the firearm industry's importance and Second Amendment rights on January 21, 2026.

Mossy Oak will sponsor the 2026 Archery Trade Association (ATA) Trade Show Industry Celebration on January 7, featuring a live performance by country music star Chase Rice, free food and drinks, and a free event for ATA exhibitors and attendees in Indianapolis.

Major League Fishing Saturdays returns to Outdoor Channel every Saturday from 12-4 p.m. ET, featuring the Major League Fishing Bass Pro Tour and Team Series. Programming is also available on MyOutdoorTV for on-demand streaming.

Pursuit Channel announces the return of Strike Zone Tuesdays, its flagship prime time fishing programming block featuring shows like Jimmy Houston Outdoors, National Walleye Tour, Scott Martin Challenge, and Hank Parker's Outdoor Magazine. The lineup delivers tournament competition and expert angling content every Tuesday night starting at 7:00 p.m. ET.

Waypoint TV announced its addition to Free Live Sports, a free sports streaming platform from Sports Studio Inc., expanding its reach across Connected TV. The partnership delivers Waypoint TV's award-winning outdoor content spanning hunting, fishing, conservation, and adventure programming to millions of new viewers nationwide.

The High Road with Keith Warren releases part two of its Texas Coast Whitetail Management series, featuring Keith Warren and Johnny Piazza demonstrating precision shooting and ethical harvest practices. The episode showcases the new Excursion rifle by Shaw Barrels and highlights strategic culling for balanced whitetail genetics and herd management.

Welcome to 2026, the year of the horse—unless you’re in the firearms industry. And if you’re reading this, we assume you are. For you, 2026 is the Year of the Suppressor.

Thanks to Congress doing its job, and the President his, we have the elimination of the $200 Tax Stamp on short-barreled firearms and suppressors. Although the tax was not officially removed until Jan. 1, 2026, suppressor sales took off earlier, thanks in large part to companies absorbing the tax for customers.

Now that the tax is gone, it should be a free-for-all with suppressor sales going through the roof—at least in the short term. While the paperwork hurdles remain, faster approvals and the ATF’s proposed removal of the CLEO notification requirement—which alone adds seven days—mean the time from application to taking possession should shrink significantly.

This, of course, does not account for potential processing delays caused by a surge in eForm submissions, though one hopes the ATF’s NFA Division is prepared to meet demand.

Continuous Growth

Demand is certainly there. One suppressor manufacturer tells us dealers are already placing larger-than-normal orders in anticipation of a Q1 2026 consumer buying surge.

Rising demand is nothing new for the suppressor industry. Over the past 15 years, year-over-year growth has been impressive. Even so, the suppressor segment remains in its infancy when you view it by sheer product volumes.

The American Suppressor Association (ASA) was formed back in 2011, and at that time there were a total of 285,087 suppressors in circulation. That’s the total number over those 77 years since the National Firearms Act (NFA) became the law of the land in 1934.

According to Knox Williams, executive director of ASA, as of Jan. 2025 a little over 4.4M suppressors are in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record (NFRTR), the federal registry for NFA items. 

When the ATF releases the final numbers for 2025, Knox expects that number will be north of 5M, though how far north will depend on how the $200 Tax Stamp news in July impacted the buying habits. Nobody yet knows how many consumers were waiting until January 1, 2026, to purchase versus those that took advantage of promotions where companies absorbed the tax to promote 2025 sales July through December.

A study commissioned by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) and conducted by Southwick Associates—Suppressor Owner Study: Market Size, Purchase Profile & Journey, Satisfaction 2025—found that the suppressor market saw 265% growth in suppressor Form 4 registrations from 2020 to 2024. During that same period, the total number of suppressors in circulation doubled. 

For the uninitiated, Form 4 is the federal paperwork required under the NFA that covers the transfer of a suppressor. The Form 1 covers the creation of a suppressor. These same forms are used for other NFA items such as Short-Barreled Rifles (SBR) and Short-Barreled Shotguns (SBS).

The NSSF study also found that the overall suppressor market in 2024 came to $820M, with $156M of that in tax payments. Of those purchasing suppressors in 2024, NSSF reported 35% were first-time purchasers—which points to the continued mainstream acceptance of a suppressor as just another firearm accessory.

Mainstreaming Suppressors

Wiliams joked that the recent increased consumer acceptance of suppressors is an “overnight success story 15 years in the making.”

Suppressors are not new, but the five-year 265% growth rate is. Where we are today is a product of a lot of work, on multiple fronts, that got us to this point.

Legally, citizens in 42 states can now own suppressors, and hunt with them in 41. That’s thanks to the state-level lobbying work of several organizations including ASA, NRA, NSSF and others. That alone opened up the market for huge growth in suppressors.

Of course, just because it became legal to purchase did not mean buying a suppressor was an easy process. That didn’t happen until the businesses like Silencer Central, Silencer Shop, and Capital Armory helped change the way consumers navigate the NFA paperwork requirements.

Helping consumers and dealers prepare and submit the requisite paperwork alleviated a lot of the headaches. But there were still delays at the federal level in the processing times of that paperwork.

Thanks to the vagaries of antiquated processes and political slow-walking, approval times once stretched to 18 months or more. That’s all changed in the last few years. By April 2023 the wait was down to nine months. This past July it took me a total of 17 days from the start of the buying process to receiving my can. That includes the seven days needed for local law enforcement to review, and a couple days where I simply dragged my feet through the process.

The reality is wait time is no longer a deterrent to buying a suppressor.

Two other aspects to mainstreaming suppressors for the average consumer are marketing and the wide availability of firearms with threaded barrels.

I spoke to Ernie Beckwith, CEO of Dead Air, and he walked me through some of what his company has done to expand their customer base. The first is obvious, though so frequently overlooked—or outright ignored by companies—and that’s putting your foot on the gas when sales surge.

Dead Air increased its marketing budget to build its brand, not just sell product. The company is putting time, resources, and money into building relationships with customers.

The second step is one we all witnessed last January, and that’s the very high-profile collaboration with Ruger on the RXD suppressors. Beckwith told me, “collaborating with Ruger expanded our brand exposure, and put a lot of new eyes on the category.”

Ruger is just one of many companies that has been making guns that accept muzzle devices, and that commitment has only grown. According to Ruger’s Product Strategy Manager, Tabor Bright, “the Ruger product team now talks about suppression in just about every applicable product conversation.”

The fact is that there are easily more firearms in circulation that are capable of accepting a suppressor than there are suppressors currently available to outfit them. 

“Gun companies have been well ahead of the suppressor demand curve with models equipped with the threaded barrels,” observed Mark Keefe, editorial director for NRA Publications. “We’ve now reached a point where suppressors are no longer aspirational.”

“2026 is shaping up to be the year suppressors fully go mainstream, not just because of faster approvals, but because key barriers are falling at the same time,” said Cody Osborn, vice president of sales and marketing for suppressor manufacturer Q.

“Suppressors are no longer a long-term gamble or a psychological hurdle; they’re becoming a normal, repeatable purchase.”

Hunting Suppressed 

Hunting is another area in which suppression is rapidly going mainstream. More and more people are hunting suppressed, thanks to ASA, NRA, and the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF) leading the charge to legalize hunting suppressed in 41 states.

NSSF’s study of suppressor consumers found 30% responded that hunting was their primary reason for purchase, coming in second behind recreational shooting (39%).

And this isn’t lost on suppressor makers. They’ve taken note and are responding with products specifically designed for hunters.

One takeaway from the Ruger collaboration, Beckwith said, was recognizing just how rapidly the hunting segment is growing. With new products coming out for the hunting market, Dead Air is positioning itself to meet the needs of those hunters.

The same is true at Q. “For hunters, the value proposition is straightforward and practical: reduced recoil, improved accuracy, better communication in the field, and a safer experience for guides, partners, and PHs,” Osborn explained. “Suppressors are increasingly viewed as ethical hunting equipment, not tactical accessories.”

“We expect continued growth in suppressor adoption among hunters, particularly as purpose-built platforms and calibers become more accessible.”

That won’t be an issue. At Ruger, Bright says that “one of the very first and most unanimous decisions the Ruger American product team made was that every American Gen 2 rifle would ship with a threaded muzzle—no exceptions.”

Many in the industry are already hunting suppressed, and not just those working for suppressor makers. 

Peter Churchbourne, Executive Director of the NRA Foundation, and an avid hunter, has been hunting suppressed—where legal—since 2013 when “they were not widely used or even known about. Now there are 41 states where I can hunt.”

Projections

There’s little doubt that 2026 will be the Year of the Suppressor. Everything is coming together at the right time. The only question is how much growth will we see in 2026. On Friday, NSSF announced that it got word that ATF processed over 150k eForms on Jan. 1. The normal daily volume is closer to 2,500.

Buck Steele, President of Anechoic, sees 2026 as a year in which suppressor sales will double in volume over 2024 or 2025 numbers. He says the biggest growth segment will be the lower-priced $300 suppressors, where the removal of the Tax Stamp means there is no longer a 66% government markup.

Dead Air’s Beckwith sees a definite surge in sales, especially in Q1 and Q2, as those deterred by the $200 tax finally join the ranks of suppressor consumers. He believes after that we will see a leveling off to a new growth rate—but what exactly that will be is anybody’s guess.

One of the benefits of the removal of the Tax Stamp is that it opens the door to a constitutional challenge to the NFA. Williams says the ASA knew this all along, and viewed it as their fallback option to eliminating it through legislation, where 60 Senate votes are not there to invoke cloture, and end a filibuster.

ASA, along with the NRA, and the Second Amendment Foundation (SAF), are filing joint lawsuits. As are Gun Owners of America (GOA), Gun Owners Foundation (GOF), Palmetto State Armory, Firearms Regulatory Accountability Coalition, Silencer Shop and B&T USA in their own filing.

Williams admits this is “likely a multi-year process. A medium to long-term play that ASA and the others feel good about our likelihood of success.”

That would turn a suppressor purchase from a minor jumping through hoops to a simple 4473 transaction, like any firearm.

“But,” Williams says, “if you want a suppressor, don’t wait.”

What motivates consumers to buy a suppressor in 2026 might be a lot less complicated than we think. As Mark Keefe explained it, “The $200 Tax Stamp was essentially a poll tax on the exercise of the right to own a suppressor. When the poll tax was lifted, people voted. With the $200 Tax Stamp now gone, people are no longer financially discouraged from owning suppressors, and they will go out and exercise their right.”

— Paul Erhardt, Managing Editor, the Outdoor Wire Digital Network