The Firearms Control Act: structure, definitions and licensing categories
Architecture of the Act
The Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000 (in operation since 2004), read with the Firearms Control Regulations, replaced the old registration system with a licensing system resting on two pillars: a competency certificate and a demonstrated need for the firearm. Know the chapter flow: definitions and prohibitions; competency; licences, permits and authorisations; safe storage and carrying; control of trade (dealers, manufacturers, gunsmiths); offences and enforcement.
Definitions that drive questions
- Firearm: any device designed or adapted to discharge a bullet or projectile by explosive action, and it includes the barrel, frame or receiver and unfinished components.
- Ammunition: the complete cartridge and its components - case, primer, propellant, bullet. A primer or a tin of propellant on its own is ammunition for the purposes of the Act.
- Restricted firearm, handgun, muzzle-loading firearm, antique firearm, dealer, gunsmith, possess (which includes keeping, storing and having under control).
Licensing categories
Section 13 (self-defence), section 14 (restricted firearm for self-defence), section 15 (occasional hunting and sports shooting), section 16 (dedicated hunter or sports shooter), section 17 (private collection), the business-purpose licences (for example a security service provider or a game ranch), and section 21 (temporary authorisation). Each category carries its own limits on numbers, firearm types and periods of validity.
Traps
Assuming a licence under one section authorises conduct allowed by another, and conflating possession components with a complete round. Remember the licensing category governs how you may acquire, hold and store the firearm; it does not decide whether you may lawfully use it in private defence - that is answered by criminal law.