This is the second letter I recieved in reply from BATF Firearms Technology Branch 
Chef, Edward Owen.
I retyped it, so I don't guarantee it to be letter for letter accurate to what he 
sent me.  Text in brackets [like this] was inserted or changed by me (for 
example, I wrote the word section, instead of using the section symbol, as I 
don't know if it is the same character in everyone's www browsers).













DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY
BUREAU OF ALCOHOL, TOBACCO AND FIREARMS
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20226

MAY -2 1995

								E:CE:F:TE:RAT
									3312.5

Mr. William R. Mills
2562 N. Dewey Avenue
Fresno, California 93722

Dear Mr. Mills:

This refers to your letter post marked April 6, 1995, in which you have 
follow-up questions concerning the classification of a sound suppressing 
device for a paint pellet gun.

Previous examination of sound suppressing devices for paint ball guns by 
this office has determined that these devices possess design features and 
charactaristics consistent with firearm silencers.  Additionally, when tested, 
these devices reduced the audible sound of a firearm.  Your drawings are 
consistent with such devices.

Since we have preliminarily determines that the subject device would meet 
the definition of a firearm silencer, you would, prior to making the device, 
have to submit ATF Form 1, Application to Make and Register a Firearm,  
to the National Firearms Act Branch, pay a $200 making tax and recieve 
approval of the application.  The NFA Branch can be reached at:

	Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco & Firearms
	National Firearms Act Branch
	650 Massachusetts Avenue, NW., Room 5300
	Washington, DC 20226
	(202) 927-8330

After such approval, the device can be submitted to the Firearms 
Technology Branch for a formal classification.  After examination the 
device will be returned to you.  In the event that the device is determined 
not to be a firearm silencer, you will be refunded the $200.

We trust the foregoing has been responsive to your inquiry.  If we may be 
of any further assistance, please contact us.

		Sincerely yours,
		[signature]
		Edward M. Owen, Jr.
		Chief, Firearms Technology Branch.