Suppressor Legal Definition?

[Revdrshad]

I'm not sure if this has been discussed anywhere else.
Is a Suppressor by legal definition a "Firearm?" And if so does that mean I have to transport it in my Trunk? Or is it an "Accessory?" And I can have it in the passenger compartment of my vehicle, or carry it on my person?
Any info would be appreciated...

[Revdrshad]

I realize it is a "Firearm." How does that equate to travel/transportation/possession in Michigan?

[rexzor2007]

Now you got me wondering. When it comes to carrying, the law does specify the difference carrying/transporting a pistol and a "long-gun," but I don't know if it uses the terminology "firearm." I'll do some research myself and see what comes up in this post.

[GLOCKME]

I have never seen anything about a suppressor being a firearm??
I believe thats right up there with a loaded magazine being considered a "firearm"..

[Roundballer]

I realize it is a "Firearm." How does that equate to travel/transportation/possession in Michigan?

A Suppressor, by its' self is not a "firearm". Here is the definition of a "firearm":
MCL 750-222

(d) “Firearm” means a weapon from which a dangerous projectile may be propelled by an explosive, or by gas or air. Firearm does not include a smooth bore rifle or handgun designed and manufactured exclusively for propelling by a spring, or by gas or air, BB's not exceeding .177 caliber.

The only other places the laws mention this type of device (excluding the penalties for violating these laws ) are:
MCL 750-232 and MCL 750-224. The two laws define a "Silencer" or "Muffler" and state the requirements for records. Note: No where in MCL is the term "Suppressor" used in reference to this type of device.

If you are looking specifically for the language as to how to "carry" or "transport" one, you will not get a cite of law. Those actions are not restricted or regulated, therefore you will not find a law as to how to do it without violating a law.

In other words, in Michigan, you may carry/transport it in any manner you wish. You may also carry it in any place that you wish. It is unregulated.

[GarrettJ]

I have never seen anything about a suppressor being a firearm??

A Suppressor, by its' self is not a "firearm". Here is the definition of a "firearm":
MCL 750-222...

If you are looking specifically for the language as to how to "carry" or "transport" one, you will not get a cite of law. Those actions are not restricted or regulated, therefore you will not find a law as to how to do it without violating a law.

I imagine where the confusion comes in is that federal law does include silencers in the definition of a "firearm" in the NFA.

18 USC 921 (3) says: "The term “firearm” means... (C) any firearm muffler or firearm silencer..."

In general, the feds do not regulate how a firearm is transported. And since MI state law does not recognize silencers as "firearms", state firearm transport laws do not apply.

In other words, there appear to be no restrictions on how one transports a silencer.

[Revdrshad]

That's how I was looking at it too.
Thanks everyone!!