Hunting With a Suppressor in South Dakota – Is It Legal & What You Need to Know
From prairie dogs on the plains to whitetail in the Black Hills, South Dakota gives hunters every reason to go quiet. Suppressors are fully legal to use while hunting — and they can be a game changer in open-country or predator-heavy environments.
Here’s a full breakdown of how to use suppressors legally while hunting in South Dakota, and why they’re worth considering for your next hunt.
Are Suppressors Legal for Hunting in South Dakota?
Yes. Suppressors are legal to own and use for hunting in South Dakota, as long as they’re properly registered through the ATF under the National Firearms Act (NFA).
You can use a suppressor to hunt:
- Whitetail deer and other big game
- Coyotes, foxes, and other predators
- Prairie dogs and varmints
- Small game (with legal firearm and ammo combinations)
There are no known restrictions specific to suppressor use on public or private land for hunting purposes in South Dakota.
Why Use a Suppressor While Hunting in South Dakota?
South Dakota’s wide-open terrain and frequent predator activity make suppressors a practical advantage in the field.
Suppress Sound Across the Prairie
In flat, open country, suppressors reduce the sharp report that can travel for miles — keeping things quieter for nearby landowners and wildlife alike.
Improve Hearing Safety
Skip the ear protection and stay alert in the field. Suppressors lower decibels enough to protect your hearing while allowing for better awareness of game movement.
Better Follow-Up on Prairie Dogs & Predators
A suppressor helps avoid spooking nearby targets, letting you stay on task for pest control or calling sessions.
Ammo Considerations: Subsonic vs. Supersonic
With South Dakota’s mix of long-range terrain and fast-moving game, your ammo choice can help maximize suppressor performance.
- Subsonic ammo helps with stealth and sound reduction — great for predators and close-range shots
- Supersonic ammo gives you reach and punch — especially for prairie dogs or big game at distance
Compare subsonic vs. supersonic ammo
Do You Need a Trust to Hunt With a Suppressor in South Dakota?
Not required, but highly recommended if you’re not hunting alone.
A Single Shot Trust from Silencer Shop makes suppressor ownership easier by allowing:
- Shared legal access with your spouse or hunting partner
- Smoother ATF submissions in the future
- Simpler inheritance or transfers down the road
Where to Buy a Suppressor for Hunting in South Dakota
Silencer Shop has kiosk locations and dealer partners throughout South Dakota — making it easy to complete the full suppressor process without confusion or delays.
Here’s how it works:
- Buy your suppressor and tax stamp online
- Get fingerprinted at a local kiosk
- Submit your paperwork through a Powered By Silencer Shop dealer
How to Buy a Silencer
Find a Suppressor Dealer in South Dakota
FAQ – Hunting With Suppressors in South Dakota
Can I hunt big game with a suppressor in South Dakota?
Yes. Suppressors are legal for deer, elk, and other big game hunting.
Are suppressors allowed for predator hunting in South Dakota?
Absolutely — they’re especially popular for coyotes and foxes.
What about suppressor use on public land?
There are no suppressor-specific restrictions for public hunting grounds in South Dakota.
Do I need to carry my suppressor paperwork while hunting?
Yes. Keep a digital or printed copy of your ATF Form 4 and tax stamp with you.
Can someone else hunt with my suppressor?
Only if they’re on your NFA trust or you are supervising them during use.
Learn More About Suppressor Laws in South Dakota
Looking to get the full breakdown on suppressor legality and purchasing in SD?
South Dakota 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.