The ATF will drop prior-approval and registration rules for silencers, short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, and any other weapons as of October 9, 2026. Director Robert Cekada announced the nationwide shift in an open letter and FAQ after a federal court ruling, applying the same approach to every lawful owner and licensed dealer rather than only the lawsuit parties.

People who may legally possess firearms will not need agency permission to make or transfer those items or to add special markings. Unregistered silencers may travel across state lines, yet anyone moving short-barreled rifles or shotguns must still file Form 20 because Gun Control Act limits on those firearms were not blocked. Dealers remain subject to special occupational taxes, and machine-gun rules are unchanged.