What’s a Solvent Trap and is it Legal

A solvent trap is a tool used to catch cleaning fluids used during the process of cleaning out the bore of a firearm. Solvent traps are designed to catch and hold potentially harmful or messy fluids in a series of chambers. While solvent traps look similar to suppressors they have a distinct difference. Solvent traps lack holes that would allow a projectile to pass through. They are not designed to be used during normal operation of a firearm. During use of a solvent trap extra consideration should be taken to ensure that the firearm being used is clear.

Can a Solvent Trap be Legally Converted to a Suppressor

Some people chose to convert solvent traps into suppressors. However, suppressors are controlled by the ATF. In order to convert a solvent trap to a suppressor an individual must obtain a tax stamp from the ATF. In order to apply for a tax stamp an individual must fill out and submit a Form 1. This form, once approved, allows for the manufacture of an suppressor from a solvent trap.

How to Convert a Solvent Trap

Before beginning the process of converting a solvent trap to a suppressor you must have an approved form 1 (a.k.a. tax stamp). If you need help applying for a tax stamp contact us at info@armadynemfg.com or contact a lawyer familiar with firearm law.

Once you have a tax stamp you need to engrave the serial number and relevant information on the solvent trap. The ATF has requirement for visibility of the serial number and it is recommended that you contact an engraver familiar with the rules of engraving firearms. The engraving must be placed on a part of the solvent trap that is required of the operation of the solvent trap as a suppressor. Generally this is the part of the suppressor that threads on the barrel of the firearm.

The last step is to drill holes in the solvent trap to allow a projectile to pass through from the barrel of the firearm. It is important that these holes are drilled in the correct location. Failure to do this could result in a baffle strike where a bullet hits a baffle causing poor accuracy at best to failure of the suppressor at worst. It is recommended that a guide is used to ensure correct alignment of the suppressor.

After you have received a tax stamp and drilled out the baffles the solvent trap has been successfully converted to a suppressor. Please remember that you are responsible for following all state and federal laws.

Torque Information

Recommended torque values for optic mount hardware. 6-48: 10 in/lb 6-32: 7 in/lb M4: 10 in/lb M3: 7 in/lb If threadlocker is used reduce torque

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