Atf ruling on solvent traps 2018. “Solvent traps” are marketed as devices that attach to firearm barrels to catch excess solvent used when The ATF has issued rulings classifying some solvent traps as unregistered silencers, leading to legal challenges and enforcement actions. Nov 21, 2023 · “Solvent traps” are marketed as devices that attach to firearm barrels to catch excess solvent used when cleaning firearms. ATF has not classified any device as a “solvent trap,” because that term does not exist in the relevant Federal statutes or implementing regulations. The latest development in the ongoing controversy over the sale of "solvent traps" to customers in the US took place on Monday, November 20th with the issuance of an ATF Open Letter advising Federal Firearms Licensees of the agency's examination of devices marketed as solvent traps. they have no hole that passes directly The ATF's new open letter continues the agency's efforts to crack down on retailers selling DIY silencer-building kits online. ): Firearm Silencer The next phase of "solvent traps" evolution was the use of fuel filters, which more closely solid interior, are recognized as having a legitimate purpose as "solvent traps" because, like oil filters. Nov 21, 2023 · Federal courts have upheld this perspective, actively ruling that authorities may classify a device as a silencer even if it currently lacks operability. Sep 17, 2025 · Solvent traps are useful firearm-cleaning tools. “Solvent traps” are […] ATF Firearms & Ammunition Technology Division Technical Bulletin 17-02 UNCLASSIFIED/LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE April 20, 2017 Solvent Traps This infòrmation is provided to assist ATF personnel tasked with differentiating so-called solvent traps" from firearm silencers. Aug 22, 2025 · Delve into the ATF's stance on solvent traps, their legal status, and the federal mechanisms for tracking regulated firearm components. Linked here. This information is not intended to replace an official Firearms Technology Criminal Branch (FTCB) report of technical examination for classification purposes under the Gun Control Act (GCA) or National Firearms Act The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) recently examined devices commonly marketed as “solvent traps” and has determined that some of them are “firearm silencers” as defined in the Gun Control Act (GCA) and as defined in the National Firearms Act (NFA). ATF Firearms & Ammunition Technology Division Bulletin 17-02 Identification (cont. This article is about Understanding the ATF's Open Letter on Solvent Traps as Firearm Suppressors. All internal instructions, directives, or guidance to any and all employees and/or contractors assigned to or working with the Firearms & Ammunition Technology Division containing criteria, factors, or “indicators” to be used to make the determination of whether a “solvent trap” is classified as a silencer subject to regulation under Solvent traps are intended for maintenance purposes, whereas suppressors are regulated under the National Firearms Act (NFA) and require ATF approval for lawful ownership. OPEN LETTER TO ALL FEDERAL FIREARMS LICENSEES The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) recently examined devices commonly marketed as “solvent traps” and has determined that some of them are “firearm silencers” as defined in the Gun Control Act (GCA) and as defined in the National Firearms Act(NFA). Dec 27, 2025 · This article provides a precise, up-to-date overview of how the ATF views solvent traps, whether they are tracked as regulated items, and the legal implications for buyers, sellers, and distributors. Armed Attorney Richard Hayes discusses the letter, the case law applied, and what it means for all our Form 1 builders going forward. Their determination often hinges on whether the device is readily convertible into a functional silencer. . An unfinished firearm receiver that is too ‘readily’ convertible to a functioning state will, under such proposed rules, itself be a regulated firearm, and so too, by the articulation of these rules, may a ‘solvent trap’ body or kit that is too ‘readily’ convertible be likewise considered a silencer. Check out the latest firearm news shared by our community of authors at WeaponDepot Explore. In its new open letter, the ATF condemns solvent trap suppressors. A solvent trap can be converted into a suppressor, but without proper authorization, it is considered illegal. This guide explains when they’re legal, what modifications create legal risk, and how to remain compliant with federal and state law. As Attorneys Dillon Harris and Joshua Prince have previously… This information is provided to assist ATF personnel tasked with differentiating so-called "solvent traps" from firearm silencers. This stance reflects Congress’s intention to regulate devices designed for use as silencers, not just those in a fully assembled state. Nov 20, 2023 · “Solvent traps” are marketed as devices that attach to firearm barrels to catch excess solvent used when cleaning firearms. wcy0r, gzd4ku, hpspto, v12q, q1wv, 9hanu, pcx2fk, dvabg, 6qovc, hdo7o,