Suppressor-Ready Firearms:

What You Need to Know Before Threading a Barrel

8/22/20251 min read

Suppressors are becoming more popular every year, whether for reducing recoil, saving hearing, or improving accuracy. But before you screw one on, you need to make sure your firearm is properly threaded for a suppressor.

Legal Considerations

Suppressors are regulated by the National Firearms Act (NFA). You’ll need:

  • A $200 tax stamp ($0 Starting January 1st, 2026)

  • ATF approval (Form 4)

  • Compliance with state/local laws

Once approved, you’ll want a firearm that’s built or modified to handle a suppressor safely.

The Role of Barrel Threading

Threading a barrel means cutting precise grooves at the muzzle so you can attach a suppressor (or muzzle device). Common thread sizes:

  • 1/2x28 for most .22–.223 rifles and 9mm pistols

  • 5/8x24 for .30-caliber rifles

Why Precision Matters

Bad threading = dangerous results. If the threads aren’t concentric with the bore, the bullet may strike the suppressor baffles, causing catastrophic damage.

How Gunsmiths Thread Correctly

  • Barrel removed and secured in a lathe

  • Threads cut concentric to the bore

  • Shoulder faced square for proper alignment

  • Threads checked with gauges and alignment rods

Alternatives

  • Buy a factory suppressor-ready model

  • Use thread adapters (only if done right)

Conclusion

Suppressors are great tools, but threading must be done right. This is not a DIY job—get it done by a qualified gunsmith to ensure both safety and performance.

👉Ready for a suppressor setup? JT Arms provides precision barrel threading services with guaranteed alignment.