One of the most frequent questions we receive at SA Provincial Service is whether blank firing guns are legal to own and carry under current South African law. With the rising need for self-protection, understanding the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000 is essential for every citizen.
The short answer is No. In South Africa, blank firing pistols (front-venting or top-venting) are classified as devices that do not fire a projectile. Therefore, they do not require a firearm license from the South African Police Service (SAPS).
However, while you don’t need a license, they are still governed by strict regulations regarding their appearance and use.
This is where many people run into trouble. Under the law, brandishing a blank gun in public is a criminal offense.
Concealment: If you are carrying a blank gun for self-defense, it must be carried in a holster or a concealed bag.
Intimidation: Threatening someone with a blank gun is treated by the law as if you were using a real firearm. If it looks real, the law treats the intent as real.
Legal Use and Self-Defense
Blank guns are excellent for deterrence. The sound (measured in decibels) and the muzzle flash are identical to a real firearm, which is often enough to deter an attacker.
Self-Defense: You may use a blank gun to scare off an intruder on your property.
Training: They are widely used for K9 training and film production.
Important Restrictions
Modification: It is strictly illegal to attempt to modify a blank gun to fire live ammunition. This is a high-level criminal offense.
Age Limit: You must be 18 years or older to purchase or possess a blank gun in South Africa.
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The Role of an Ownership & Identification Card
While the South African Police Service (SAPS) does not officially issue “licenses” for blank firing guns, many responsible owners choose to carry a Blank Gun Ownership Card.
Although not a legal requirement, obtaining an identification card for your device is highly recommended for several reasons:
Proof of Origin: In the event of a routine stop or security check, a professional ownership card proves that the device was purchased from a reputable, registered dealer rather than through unregulated second-hand channels.
Responsible Ownership: Carrying documentation shows law enforcement that you take ownership seriously. It signals that you treat your non-lethal device with the same discipline and respect as a real firearm.
Quick Reference: Our premium cards include your ID Number, Model Type, and Serial Number. This allows for immediate verification of your details without needing to carry bulky paper invoices.
Legal Context: These cards often cite the relevant sections of the Firearms Control Act, helping to clarify to third parties (like private security or neighborhood watches) that the device is a non-lethal imitation firearm.
By registering your device and carrying a dedicated ID card, you bridge the gap between “just owning a tool” and being a certified, responsible owner.
FAQ
Do I need a firearm license for a blank gun in South Africa?
No, blank firing pistols are not classified as firearms under the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000 because they do not fire a projectile. Therefore, they do not require a SAPS license.
Can I carry a blank gun in public?
You can carry a blank gun, but you must keep it concealed (in a holster or bag). Brandishing, displaying, or threatening someone with a blank gun is a serious criminal offense, treated as if you were using a real firearm.
Is it legal to modify a blank gun to fire live ammunition?
Absolutely not. Modifying a blank gun to fire live ammunition is a high-level criminal offense.
What is a Blank Gun Ownership Card?
While not legally required, an Ownership Card serves as proof of origin for your device. It shows law enforcement that your device was purchased from a legitimate, registered dealer, demonstrating responsible ownership.
How old do I need to be to own a blank gun?
You must be 18 years or older to legally purchase or possess a blank gun in South Africa.
Hi I think what you do is a very good thing to getting this information out to all South Africans due to many are incompitant in the knowledge of blank guns.
Thank you!
I would like to get the ownership card
Please contact us on our store number also available on whatsapp on 0681842344
Good morning, Naseem. I’m going to send you on email that I need a carrying and “Licence” for Blank gun.
I need pepper ” strong” rounds. A full carton of pepper rounds. 50.
Please email or message me on whatsapp please
Registration for blank guns
I want a blank gun for a Self defense am 17 years old