Montana AG Knudsen Offers Legal Guidance on Silencers in State

It seems to me over the last decade, give or take a few years either way, the proliferation of silenced weaponry has become more and more prevalent in gun owners.  In years past, having a buddy with one was a pretty rare occurrence.

via GIPHY

In today's times however, I probably have at least a dozen friends with one.  And it appears that owning one in Montana might get a little easier in the future also.  But for now, make sure you still have the license says Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen.

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Montana AG Knudsen Offers Legal Guidance on Silencers in State

In a press release on August 27, 2026, Montana AG Knudsen offered a bit of insight into the ownership of a silencer in the state.  Residents have been required to be registered with the Federal Alcohol, Tabacco and Firearms (ATF) agency when using a silencer for hunting purposes.

A man holding a rifle and aiming it at something

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A new ruling in the United States is now affecting how that law applies to residents in certain states, including Montana.  In July the "Big Beautiful Bill Act" was signed into law, which removed the longstanding $200-per-item federal tax on the possession, manufacture, and transfer of silencers.  Since Montana requires that stamp, confusion has ensued about what is legal within the state.

Montana Legislature Will Decide About How to Best Move Forward with Silencers

Knudsen said that for now, the law will remain the same in the state of Montana.  That law reads in part that "possession of an unregistered silencer remains a felony punishable by five to 30 years in prison and up to $20,000 in fines."

A close up of a black object in a field

However, the Montana AG did offer a little bit of insight into the future of silencers and their legality.  As the 2027 Montana Legislature begins preparations, "legislation has been introduced to alter or remove Montana’s criminal penalties for possession, manufacturing, or transferring silencers."

In the meantime, Montana law still requires suppressors to be registered with the ATF if used for hunting.