Your first steps in owning a firearm in South Africa – Navigating the maze!
Owning a firearm in South Africa is a serious responsibility, regulated under the Firearms Control Act (FCA). Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process effectively:
Who Can Own a Firearm in South Africa?
Any citizen or permanent resident aged 21 or older, with no criminal record or disqualifying mental illness, is eligible to own a firearm.
Exceptions:
- Individuals under 21 can apply if they participate in sport shooting or are employed in roles such as working in a gun shop.
- Non-residents working in South Africa may apply through Section 21.
Step 1: Proficiency Training for Competence
The first requirement is to complete proficiency training at a PFTC-accredited institution, such as Tac SHAC. This training includes:
Core Training Modules
- Unit Standard 117705: Covers the Firearms Control Act and the legalities of firearm ownership.
- Additional Unit Standards for Firearm Types:
- Handgun (Unit Standard 119649)
- Self-Loading Rifle (ARs, etc.) (Unit Standard 119650)
- Manually Operated Rifle (e.g., bolt-action rifles) (Unit Standard 119651)
- Shotgun (Manual and Semi-auto) (Unit Standard 119652)
Step 2: Theoretical Phase
Each Unit Standard involves:
- Formative Exam: An open-book exam based on the training manuals provided by your institution.
- Summative Exam: A closed-book test conducted by your trainer, requiring a pass mark of 80% or higher.
Step 3: Practical Phase
This phase takes place on a shooting range and includes:
- Safety training and firearm operation (e.g., safeties, loading/unloading).
- Fundamentals of shooting: grip, breathing, sight alignment, stance, follow-through, and trigger squeeze.
- Shooting tests:
- 40 rounds for handguns, self-loading rifles, and manually operated rifles.
- 20 rounds for shotguns.
A perfect score (100%) is required to pass this practical assessment on your final target.
Step 4: Applying for a Competency Certificate
Once training is complete, you’ll receive:
- Training Certificates.
- PFTC Statement of Results.
These documents, along with the following, are needed for your SAPS Competency Certificate application:
- Completed SAPS 517 form.
- Two passport photos.
- Copy of your ID document.
- Character references.
Submit these to your local Designated Firearm Officer (DFO), who will take your fingerprints (required for a criminal background check) and may request to meet your references. This can ONLY be done by the DFO, no other parties are able to do this.
Step 5: Preparing for Your Firearm Licence Application
Once your competency certificate is approved, you can apply for a firearm licence by submitting a SAPS 271 form stating your intended purpose (to mention a few):
- Self-Defence (S13)
- Occasional Hunting (S15)
- Dedicated Sport Shooting (S16)
Additional Documentation
- Written motivation explaining why you need the firearm (with supporting evidence like crime stats for self-defence).
- Endorsements for specific firearms with specific serial number (for sport shooting or hunting).
- Copies of your ID and competency certificate.
- Spousal endorsement letter (optional but recommended if married).
Important Tips for First-Time Applicants
- Keep Copies: Retain duplicates of all documents in your application.
- Timelines: Legally, applications should be finalized within 90 days. Contact GOSA (Gun Owners South Africa) if delays occur.
- SABS-Certified Safe: Before receiving your firearm, install a compliant safe secured with Rawl bolts (GOSA can assist with advice and bolts).
Why Choose Tac SHAC?
At Tac SHAC, we guide you through every step, from training to application, ensuring compliance with all requirements. We also collaborate with GOSA to assist our clients in navigating the complexities of firearm ownership in South Africa.
Owning a firearm is a right and a responsibility. Let Tac SHAC help you make it a safe and lawful journey.
For further assistance, contact us or watch our detailed video guide:
By Lynette Oxley – Tac SHAC – PFTC Accredited Firearm Trainer
Email: lynette@tacshaconline.co.za or WhatsApp +27 72 244 8262 or visit our Contact Us Here