Certain sections of the Firearms Control Amendment Act, 2006 came into effect on 10 January 2011, and relate to the owners of muzzle-loading (antique) firearms. There is now a legislated definition for a muzzle-loader and, most importantly, owners of muzzle-loaders are required to apply for a competency certificate BEFORE 9 January 2012. As long as the application for competency has been lodged before the deadline, the ownership of the muzzle-loading firearms remains legal while the application is in process. For those who do not apply before the deadline the penalty is imprisonment for a maximum period of 15 years. Please note that only a competency certificate is required, not a firearm licence.

A muzzle-loader is now defined as:

A barrelled device that can fire only a single shot, per barrel, and requires after each shot fired the individual reloading through the muzzle end of the barrel with separate components consisting of a –

(i) measured charge of black powder or equivalent propellant;
(ii) wad; and
(iii) lead bullet, sabot or shot functioning as a projectile, and ignited with a flint, match, wheel or percussion cap.

TO APPLY FOR COMPETENCY FOR A MUZZLE-LOADER:

1. TRAINING

Unit Standard No. 243200 “Handle and Use a Muzzle-Loading Firearm” is required.

1. You need to successfully complete the test with an SAPS accredited Training Provider in order to qualify for a Proficiency Certificate.

2. Select an accredited and conveniently located training provider. See the list on the SAPS website at www.saps.gov.za or ask your nearest firearm dealer or Designated Firearms Officer. The prices charged by training providers will vary so it may pay you to shop around.

4. Once you pass the test, the training provider will issue you with a Proficiency Certificate and will send your details to SASSETA.

2. COMPETENCY CERTIFICATE APPLICATION

1. Obtain form SAPS 517 “Application for a Competency Certificate” from your nearest Designated Firearms Officer (DFO) or from the SAPS website.

2. Complete the form in black ink and prepare the following for submission:
• A certified copy of the page in your ID book with your photo • Two recent colour photos (passport size) – full head, face and shoulders against a neutral background • A certified copy of your Proficiency Certificate from the Training Provider • A certified copy of proof of your permanent residential address

3. Go to your local DFO to lodge the application. He/she will take two full sets of your fingerprints.

4. The DFO will check the form. If not fully complete, you will be told what is still needed.

5. You will then pay R70.00, by cash or bank guaranteed cheque, for the application for a competency certificate. The proof of payment will be certified and attached to your form.

6. You will be issued with an acknowledgement of receipt SAPS 523 to retain.

If your application is granted the competency certificate will be valid for a period of ten (10) years, unless there is a change of circumstances.

Appeal

If your application for competency is refused, you or your legal representative can appeal the refusal on form SAPS 530 “Notice of Appeal” within 90 days of the date on the refusal.

Contact information: Appeals Board, Private Bag X811, Pretoria, 0001 Tel (012) 353-6308 / 353-6309 or fax (012) 353-6211

Issued: 18 October 2011 at 10:45

Issued by: The SAGA Office  tel +27 31 5629951    fax: +27 86 5539615
For Legal requirements our physical address is given - NOT for mail Tandjo Centre, 4 Joseph Ave, Glen Anil, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.