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Firearms Control Amendment Bill 2025: How Proposed Changes Affect Gun Owners
A Shift in the Law That Could Change Who Can Own What
In 2025 the Firearms Control Amendment Bill is still under consideration in South Africa. It has not yet become law. But the proposed changes are bold and wide-ranging. If passed, everyday law-abiding firearm owners may see some rights they currently take for granted vanish or be severely curtailed.
At the heart of the debate sits Section 13 of the Firearms Control Act (2000). This section currently allows people who meet certain criteria to hold a firearm licence for self-defence. The Bill seeks to remove that provision entirely. In other words, self-defence would no longer be a valid reason to licence a firearm.
What Else Is on the Table
Beyond the removal of self-defence, the following proposed changes are being heavily discussed as part of the Bill:
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Hunters and sport shooters may face stricter licensing limits on how many firearms they may own and on what types are permitted.
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Ammunition limits would be tightened for those with licences. There is talk of restricting how much one may hold at any time.
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Private collections of firearms and ammunition could be abolished or at least severely restricted. Existing collectors might be required to deactivate some items.
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Competency certificates might need renewal every five years, and you may need a valid competency certificate to renew your licence.
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The Registrar of Firearms (a role in SAPS) may be granted more power, especially over enforcement, licences, renewals, and adherence to the new rules.
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Blank guns (which fire non-lethal rounds) may be brought under stricter regulation or even banned from import, following concerns that criminals are using them in crimes.
Why the Government Says This Is Necessary
The stated aim is to address South Africa’s high levels of violent crime. Legal firearms and ammunition are seen by the government as being part of the problem, especially when licences exist but enforcement, renewals, or oversight are weak. There is worry that illegal firearms and misuse are outpacing the system’s ability to regulate effectively.
What Critics Are Saying
Opposition voices are loud. Here are some of their main concerns:
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Removing self-defence as a reason to hold a firearm licence is seen by many as stripping citizens of their ability to protect themselves, especially in areas where response from police is slow.
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Hunters, sport shooters, and private collectors fear their livelihoods or hobbies will be unfairly limited. They might have to give up some guns or reduce usage or ownership.
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Some argue that while the law targets lawful owners, criminals with illegal guns are unlikely to be affected significantly.
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There are also serious complaints about how little transparency there has been in the process. Stakeholder groups say they were insufficiently consulted.
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Constitutional challenges are expected, especially since rights to life, bodily integrity, and security are guaranteed in the Constitution. Critics argue that any law must be tested against those rights.
Where It Stands Now
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The Bill is under review at the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC), which includes stakeholders such as civil society, unions, business, and government.
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It has not been passed into law. So far it’s still a draft, with debate ongoing in Parliament and in public forums.
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There is considerable public interest and social media activity. Gun-owner groups, safety advocates, and civil rights organisations are closely watching and frequently releasing commentary.
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The regulation of blank guns is being pushed forward separately via trade policy notices, particularly on imports. The government is considering either stricter permit rules for blank guns or banning their importation entirely.
What This Means for You If You Own a Firearm
If you currently have a firearm licence or are applying for one, or engage in hunting or sport shooting, these are things to watch:
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Licences based on self-defence may in the future be refused. Any plans you had around that will need rethinking.
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Be sure your competency certificate is valid and up to date. Under proposed rules, it’s likely that you’ll have to renew it more often and submit it with licence renewals.
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Keep track of how much ammunition you legally hold. New laws may limit what quantities are allowed.
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Private collections may no longer be fully protected under law. If you collect firearms or ammunition as a hobby, some of your collection might have to be deactivated or otherwise limited.
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Stay engaged with public consultations and your local representatives. The shape of the final law depends heavily on stakeholder input in NEDLAC and Parliament.
A Local Angle That Isn’t Being Talked About Enough
In many townships and rural areas, people say that police response times are long and criminal attacks frequent. For many individuals gun ownership isn’t just about sport or hobby; it’s about personal safety. The Bill, if enacted as proposed, forces a greater reliance on the state for protection. That has implications for trust in policing, for people’s sense of security, and for how safe people feel in their homes.
Also, blank guns have emerged in media reports as a tool used by criminals to intimidate victims. While these imitation firearms fire blanks, their appearance and possible modification mean they’re often treated by victims and law enforcement as real guns. The proposed import regulation or ban could reduce that threat if enforced properly.
The Road Ahead
This remains a contested and evolving process. Public comment, constitutional review, and legal challenges are likely. The final law, if passed, may differ significantly from the current draft. For now gun owners should stay informed, understand what their existing licence and competency credentials allow them, and watch for updates from SAPS, government gazettes, and trusted organisations representing firearm owners.
Also read: Bail in South Africa 2025: Why Some Walk Free While Others Stay Behind Bars
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Featured Image: Central News
