Shortening a s1 firearm Flashcards
Q: Why do people shorten firearms?
Shortening the barrel of a gun makes it more dangerous.
Q: What is the law on the shortening of barrels?
S6 Firearms Amendment Act 1988- this relates to smooth-bore s1 firearms.
(1) It is an offence to shorten to a length less than 24 inches the barrel of any smooth-bore gun to which section 1 of the principal Act applies other than one which has a barrel with a bore exceeding 2 inches in diameter; and that offence shall be punishable—
(a) on summary conviction, with imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months or a fine not exceeding the statutory maximum or both;
(b) on indictment, with imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years or a fine or both.
Q: How is the length of the barrel measured?
The length of the barrel is measured from its mussel (open circular end where the bullet exits the barrel) to the point at which the charge is exploded (chamber).
Q: What is the exemption within this offence?
S6(2) Firearms Amendment Act 1988
It is not an offence under this section for a registered firearms dealer to shorten the barrel of a gun for the sole purpose of replacing a defective part of the barrel so as to produce a barrel not less than 24 inches in length.
