Arms Act 1983: Firearms and Licences Flashcards
What is the definition of a firearm?
Anything from which any shot, bullet, missile, or other projectile can be discharged BY FORCE OF EXPLOSIVE and includes:
Anything that has been ADAPTED so that it can discharge shot…
Anything at the time not capable of discharging, but BY ITS COMPLETION or REPLACEMENT of any components of the CORRECTION OR REPAIR would be a firearm
Anything (otherwise being a firearm) which is for the time being dismantled or partially DISMANTLED
Any especially dangerous air gun.
What is the definition of an Air gun?
A weapon from which, BY THE USE OF GAS OR COMPRESSED AIR (not from force of explosive) and shot, bullet, missile or other projectile can be discharged.
Includes any air rifle or air pistol.
What is the definition of a Pistol?
Any firearm that is designed or adapted to be held and fired with one hand and includes any firearm that is less than 762mm in length.
Who may lawfully possess a firearm?
A person holding a current Category A Firearms licence.
Who may lawfully possess an Air gun?
16- under 18 years old with a firearms licence
18 years old - no licence required.
Who may lawfully possess an MSSA?
A person holding a current Category E Firearms licence.
Who may lawfully possess a Pistol?
A person holding a current Category B Firearms licence.
What legal requirements are placed on a firearms licence holder?
Keep licence legible and undamaged.
Produce it to police on demand.
If not on them, produce it at a police station within 7 days.
If change of address, notify police within 30 days.
Report to 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 ASAP.
How is a firearms licence obtained?
A person over 16yrs decides they want a licence (parental permission required 16-18yrs).
Application for firearms licence lodged with police.
Applicant sits and passes firearms test.
Police conduct inquiries into the applicants suitability.
Licence issued.
How long does the licence last?
10 years
Which firearms licence categories relate to which type of weapons?
Cat A:
Full licence for the possession and use of conventional firearms (not pistols, restricted weapons or MSSA’s)
Cat B:
Pistols, providing the owner is a member of a pistol club
Cat C:
Collections, restricted weapons and use of weapons in theatrical performances.
Cat D:
Firearms dealers
Cat E:
Military Style Semi-Automatic firearms
