IMPORTANT UPDATE: The ATF Responds on Solvent Traps

Published on January 20, 2022
Duration: 16:50

This video provides a critical update from attorney William Kirk of Washington Gun Law regarding the ATF's stance on solvent traps. The ATF is now considering solvent traps, even when unaltered, as illegal silencers, and has issued warning letters to purchasers of devices from manufacturers like Diversified Machine. This ruling impacts individuals who purchased these items, those who registered them via Form 1, and potentially carries state-level charges in Washington under RCW 9.41.250.

Quick Summary

The ATF now considers solvent traps, even unaltered ones, as illegal silencers under federal law. This ruling impacts purchasers of devices from companies like Diversified Machine, potentially invalidating Form 1 registrations and leading to demands for surrender. Washington State residents also face potential gross misdemeanor charges under RCW 9.41.250 if these devices are not legally registered.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Solvent Trap Context
  2. 01:31Diversified Machine Raid and ATF Letters
  3. 02:44Categorizing Solvent Trap Purchasers
  4. 04:01ATF Counsel Response on Unaltered Traps
  5. 08:09ATF Response on Registered Conversions
  6. 10:44Washington State Law Consequences

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ATF's current stance on solvent traps?

The ATF now considers solvent traps, even if unaltered, as illegal silencers under the Gun Control Act of 1968 and the NFA. This means possession is illegal, and purchasers may be required to surrender these devices.

What happened to Diversified Machine regarding solvent traps?

The ATF raided Diversified Machine, seizing records, and subsequently sent letters to purchasers demanding the surrender of solvent trap devices, claiming their mere purchase constitutes illegal possession of a silencer.

Does registering a solvent trap with a Form 1 make it legal?

According to the ATF's recent interpretation, even if a solvent trap was registered via Form 1, the legality is questioned if the manufacturer (like Diversified Machine) produced 'silencer parts' without proper licensing, potentially requiring a Form 4 instead.

What are the legal consequences for possessing solvent traps in Washington State?

In Washington State, using a device for suppressing noise is a gross misdemeanor under RCW 9.41.250 unless legally registered federally. Since the ATF now invalidates these registrations, possessors risk state-level criminal charges.

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