Arms Act, 1983

Question 1

What is the definition(s) of a firearm under the Arms Act 1983?

Answer 1

Anything that can discharge any shot, bullet, missile or other projectile by force of explosive;

• Anything that has been adapted so that it can be used as a firearm.
• Anything which isn’t currently functional but by it completion, correction, repair or replacement of any component would be a firearm.
• Anything which is otherwise a firearm and is currently partly or wholly dismantled.
• An especially dangerous air gun

Question 2

Under the Arms Act 1983, what is the definition of an MSSA?

Answer 2

A firearm which, after being loaded fires, ejects and chambers a cartridge after each pull of the trigger but doesnt include any pistol or semi-automatic firearm that, with its magazine (if any), is maintained at all times in a sporting configuration.

Question 3

What is the definition of ‘Possession’ under the Arms Act 1983?

Answer 3

In this Act, possession ideally is when someone has KNOWLEDGE of the firearm and PHYSICAL CONTROL over it.

[Section 66 determines; that the occupier of any building/dwelling etc, or driver of any vehicle is deemed to be in possession of any firearm/restricted weapon etc, found in that building/dwelling or vehicle]

Question 4

Under the Arms Act 1983, who needs a firearms licence?

Answer 4

• Anyone over 16yrs for legal possession of a firearm
• For an air gun, anyone between the ages of 16yrs & 18yrs.
• Licences must be renewed every 10yrs

Question 5

What are the 5 endorsements for a firearms licence under the Arms Act 1983?

Answer 5

A: Full Licence for the possession and use of conventional firearms (not pistols, restricted weapons or MSSAs)
B: Pistols , providing the owner is a member of a pistol club
C: Collections, restricted weapons and use of weapons in theatrical performances.
D: Firearms Dealers
E: MSSAs

Question 6

Under the Arms Act 1983, what are the duties of a licence holder?

Answer 6

• Keep their licences legible and undamaged.
• Produce it to the police on demand or, if they do not have it with them, produce it at a police station within 7 days.
• If they change their address, notify police with 7 days.
• Report to the police, in writing, the circumstances of any theft, loss or destruction of the firearm.
• If death or injury results from the use of the firearm, report the circumstances to the police as soon as practicable.

Question 7

What does Section 26 of the Arms Act 1983 give police the power to do?

Answer 7

Empowers Police to demand to view a holders firearms licence. They must produce it immediately or, if they dont have it with them produce it at a police station within 7 days.

Question 8

What does Section 40 of the Arms Act 1983 give police the power to do?

Answer 8

Empowers Police to DEMAND THE INFORMATION of anyone in the possession of any firearm, airgun, pistol or restricted weapon. If they refuse, caution them that they may be arrested without warrant.