Hunting With a Suppressor in West Virginia – Is It Legal & What You Need to Know
Whether you're tracking whitetails in the Appalachian hills or hunting coyotes along the Ohio River valley, suppressors are fully legal for hunting in West Virginia. The Mountain State has embraced suppressor ownership, giving hunters an edge in the field — with quieter, safer, and more effective shots.
Here’s everything you need to know about hunting with a suppressor in West Virginia.
Are Suppressors Legal for Hunting in West Virginia?
Yes. Suppressors (also referred to as silencers) are legal for both ownership and use while hunting in West Virginia. As long as your suppressor is registered under the National Firearms Act (NFA) and you’ve received ATF approval, you can use it while hunting:
- Big game (e.g., deer, black bear, turkey)
- Small game and upland birds
- Predators such as coyotes and foxes
- Nuisance and non-game animals
There are no suppressor-specific hunting restrictions for public or private land in West Virginia.
Why Use a Suppressor While Hunting in West Virginia?
Suppressors offer real performance and comfort benefits in West Virginia’s rugged terrain and thick timber.
Reduce Noise Near Farms and Homes
Suppressors keep your shots discreet in rural or residential fringe areas — protecting neighbor relationships and livestock.
Protect Hearing Without Losing Situational Awareness
Suppressors reduce the need for traditional ear protection, helping you stay alert to nearby movement or follow-up shots.
Quieter Predator and Nuisance Hunts
Suppressors help manage echo and keep coyotes or nuisance species from scattering after a first shot.
Ammo Considerations: Subsonic vs. Supersonic
The ammo you choose matters — especially when paired with a suppressor in West Virginia’s dense woods and rolling hills.
- Subsonic ammo is quieter and ideal for short-range predator or small game hunting
- Supersonic ammo maintains full energy and accuracy for big game and longer-range field shots
Compare subsonic vs. supersonic ammo
Do You Need a Trust to Hunt With a Suppressor in West Virginia?
No, but a trust offers several benefits.
Silencer Shop’s Single Shot Trust gives you the ability to:
- Legally share use with a hunting partner or family member
- Add additional suppressors without new paperwork
- Simplify long-term estate planning and ownership transfers
Where to Buy a Suppressor for Hunting in West Virginia
Suppressor ownership is easier than ever in West Virginia — thanks to Silencer Shop’s kiosk system and dealer network.
Here’s how the process works:
- Choose your suppressor and add your tax stamp at checkout
- Use a local Silencer Shop kiosk for fingerprinting and form submission
- Complete your ATF eForm through a Powered By Silencer Shop dealer
How to Buy a Silencer
Find a Suppressor Dealer in West Virginia
FAQ – Hunting With Suppressors in West Virginia
Can I use a suppressor for deer hunting in West Virginia?
Yes. Suppressors are legal for use while hunting all big game species in the state.
Are suppressors allowed for predator or nuisance animal hunting?
Yes. Coyotes, groundhogs, and other nuisance species can be hunted with a suppressor.
Do I need to carry my ATF paperwork while hunting?
Yes. Always keep a copy of your Form 4 and tax stamp with your suppressor.
Can I loan my suppressor to someone for hunting?
Only if they’re listed on your trust — or if you’re physically present while they use it.
Are suppressors allowed on public land hunts in West Virginia?
Yes. There are no suppressor-specific restrictions for public land hunting.
Learn More About Suppressor Laws in West Virginia
Want the legal breakdown and purchase process for suppressors in the state?
West Virginia 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.