In 42 of 50 states, it is legal to own a firearm silencer. A silencer, suppressor, or sound moderator can reduce the sound of a gunshot. Banning suppressors has recently been proposed as a gun control measure, as criminals can use silencers to commit crimes and limit the ability of the police to gain an accurate position of the shooter. However, gun control opponents say there is a need for silencers because they can negate the need for hunters to wear hearing protection. In my opinion, people should have a legal right to own a suppressor. *