Newsletters

NHSA Newsletter

VOL. 15 (23) - 09-10-2019

PERMIT TO HOLD MORE THAN 200 ROUNDS FOR FIREARMS NOT LICENCED UNDER SECTION 16

Dear member,

We are aware that SAPS interpret the wording of section 91 of the FCA to mean that one may only have more than 200 rounds of ammunition for a firearm for which one holds a section 16 licence.

We are also aware that dealers are instructed by SAPS not to sell more than 200 rounds of ammunition in a specific calibre on one occasion if the buyer cannot present a Section 16 licence for the specific firearm (calibre).

The correct legal interpretation of the wording in Section 91 is, however, contested by advocates. 

One opinion agrees with the SAPS interpretation and the other that the wording of section 91 should be interprted as it is written (if you hold dedicated status you may hold more than 200 rounds of ammunition for each licence you hold under the FCA [Act 60 of 2000]).

You can read the two legal interpretations in the Newsletters on this Natshoot web page

Irrespective of the legal debate, which will only be solved by a court’s decision, the SAPS interpretation unfortunately prevails in practice.   

Until such time as a court has ruled on the correct interpretation, which will be costly, the current legal position is thus that one will have to apply for a permit to hold more than 200 rounds for a non-section 16 licenced firearm.  Use the application form you can download HERE.  SAPS do issue such permits as a number of our members have already applied for and received such permits.

Kind Regards

Natshoot Office