Oklahoma: Suppressor Bill Unanimously Passes Out of Committee

Yesterday, February 18, House Bill 2637 unanimously passed out of the House Wildlife Committee.  HB 2637, introduced by state Representative Kevin Wallace (R-32), would make it legal for Oklahomans to hunt with a suppressor on both public and private land.  HB 2637 is now awaiting a vote by the full House of Representatives.  Please contact your state Representative TODAY and politely urge them to support House Bill 2637.

Under current Oklahoma law, it is legal to hunt with a suppressor on private property so long as the hunter has permission from the landowner and lawfully possesses the suppressor in compliance with the National Firearms Act (NFA).  HB 2637 would revise current law and allow Oklahomans the freedom to hunt with suppressors on both public and private land.

In recent years, the use of suppressors has seen significant growth as more shooters and sportsmen learn of their benefits.  Evidence has shown that the use of suppressors fosters a safer and more enjoyable shooting and hunting experience for the following reasons:

• Suppressors protect against permanent hearing loss, one of the most commonly experienced hunting-related injuries, by decreasing the decibel level associated with muzzle blast;
• Suppressors increase shot accuracy by reducing noise and felt recoil, thereby mitigating trigger flinch and resulting in a more humane taking of game;
• Suppressors mitigate many of the hindrances associated with introducing newer generations to hunting, thereby helping to ensure the propagation of Oklahoma’s rich hunting heritage; and
• Suppressors benefit wildlife populations by decreasing stress and behavioral changes resulting from loud, widely audible firearm report.

Law-abiding Oklahomans should not be restricted to private lands when using a suppressor while hunting.  Once again, please contact your state Representative and politely urge them to support HB 2637.