Silencer Central — the company that pioneered home delivery of suppressors, has filed a federal lawsuit against FedEx and its subsidiaries, alleging negligent misrepresentation and breach of contract after the shipping giant abruptly refused to continue transporting suppressors.
The complaint, filed October 8 in the U.S. District Court for the Southern Division of South Dakota, claims FedEx misled Silencer Central during lengthy negotiations and then reneged on a signed contract that was essential to the company’s nationwide delivery network.
“I’ve been discriminated against by big banks for over 20 years because of the type of business I’m in. Now it looks like common carriers are changing the rules to avoid transporting firearms and accessories,” said Brandon Maddox, CEO of Silencer Central.
A Deal Gone Cold
According to the lawsuit, FedEx courted Silencer Central throughout 2024, visiting its Sioux Falls headquarters and negotiating terms to handle its suppressor shipments, including the company’s hallmark to-your-door customer delivery service. The deal was finalized, and Silencer Central began transitioning its logistics to FedEx.
Then, almost overnight, FedEx reportedly backed out.
“They woke up one morning and decided they didn’t want to ship suppressors,” Maddox said. “We entered into a major contract in good faith, and then the rug was pulled out from under us.”
Silencer Central argues that the reversal not only caused financial and operational damages but also represents another instance of corporate discrimination against lawful firearms businesses. Maddox previously fought, and won, a dispute with J.P. Morgan Wealth Management over a similar denial of services.
Second Amendment Discrimination
“It’s hard for me to believe FedEx’s actions were motivated by anything other than anti-gun sentiment,” Maddox added. “This kind of treatment seems to inordinately affect law-abiding, fully compliant firearm-related businesses. I hope the new administration will look into it.”
The case could have major implications for how major shipping and financial institutions handle commerce within the firearms industry — especially for FFLs and NFA dealers that rely on large carriers for nationwide service.
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