Hunting With a Suppressor in Indiana – Is It Legal & What You Need to Know

From deer in southern hardwoods to coyotes in northern cornfields, Indiana hunters can legally use suppressors in the field, and more are choosing to. Suppressors (also called silencers) help reduce recoil, protect hearing, and keep your shooting discreet in populated rural areas.

Here’s what you need to know about hunting with a suppressor in Indiana.

 

Are Suppressors Legal for Hunting in Indiana?

Yes. Suppressors are legal for both ownership and use while hunting in Indiana, as long as they are registered with the ATF and comply with federal law under the National Firearms Act (NFA).
You can legally use a suppressor while hunting:

  • Big game (e.g., white-tailed deer, wild turkey)
  • Small game and upland birds
  • Coyotes, foxes, and other predators
  • Nuisance species and pest control

Indiana places no additional restrictions on suppressed hunting beyond existing firearm and season laws.

 

Why Use a Suppressor While Hunting in Indiana?

Reduce Noise Around Rural Homes

Suppressors help reduce complaints when hunting in more populated or shared areas.

Stay Aware Without Hearing Protection

You can ditch bulky ear pro and still hear game movement or shot opportunities with suppressed setups.

Improve Accuracy and Control

Suppressors minimize recoil and muzzle rise — helping with faster follow-ups and tighter groups.

 

Ammo Considerations: Subsonic vs. Supersonic

Suppressor performance can vary depending on your ammo. In Indiana, terrain and shot distance should guide your choice.

  • Subsonic ammo is great for close-range predator or pest hunts with minimal report
  • Supersonic ammo gives you the velocity needed for deer across open ag fields

Compare subsonic vs. supersonic ammo

 

Do You Need a Trust to Hunt With a Suppressor in Indiana?

Not required, but definitely worth considering.

Silencer Shop’s Single Shot Trust gives Indiana hunters added flexibility:

  • Share suppressor use with a spouse or hunting buddy
  • Simplify future NFA purchases
  • Protect suppressors as assets in your estate plan

Explore the Single Shot Trust

 

Where to Buy a Suppressor for Hunting in Indiana

Suppressor ownership in Indiana is fully legal and supported through Silencer Shop’s nationwide network. You can complete the entire process - from purchase to eForms submission - online and locally.

Here’s how:

  • Choose your suppressor and add your tax stamp
  • Use a local Silencer Shop kiosk to scan your fingerprints
  • Submit your application through a Powered By Silencer Shop dealer

How to Buy a Silencer
Find a Suppressor Dealer in Indiana

 
FAQ – Hunting With Suppressors in Indiana

Are suppressors legal for deer hunting in Indiana?

Yes. Suppressors are fully allowed during legal deer seasons and with permitted firearms.

Can I hunt coyotes or varmints with a suppressor?

Yes. Indiana hunters often use suppressors for predator control and nuisance animal management.

Do I need to carry paperwork when hunting with a suppressor?

Yes. Always keep your ATF Form 4 and tax stamp with you when using a suppressor afield.

Can others use my suppressor while hunting?

Only if you’re present during use, or if they’re listed on your NFA trust.

Are suppressors allowed on public land in Indiana?

Yes. Indiana does not restrict suppressor use on public hunting lands.

 

Learn More About Suppressor Laws in Indiana

Want the full scoop on owning and using a suppressor in Indiana?

Indiana suppressor laws and how to buy one legally

 

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Suppressor laws can change and may vary by locality. Always consult your local law enforcement agency or a qualified attorney to verify current regulations in your area before purchasing or using a suppressor.