Gun law changes rules for air rifles

New Zealand gun laws have been tightened and extended to cover all pre-charged pneumatic air rifles.
With the exception of airguns used in "air soft" and paintball sports, they will be defined as a class of especially dangerous airguns and subject to Arms Act 1983 firearms licensing requirements.
The new rules will take effect from tomorrow, October 15.
Wanganui arms officer Merv Beech said such air rifles were capable of causing serious injury or death.
"Some of these rifles are very powerful and have become increasingly expensive. The design and the technology is such that some models are really are up there in the top of range. This new ruling is a very good thing."
New Zealand police Inspector Joe Green said the rifles had increasingly becoming the weapon of choice for violent criminals.
"They own and use them without having to undergo the rigorous background checks required for a firearms licence. They have been used in two homicides in this country. So classifying these air rifles as specially dangerous airguns will ensure that they are subject to the firearms licensing regime."
It means that only fit and proper owners can now own a PCP air rifle, have the minimum storage arrangements, and complete safety training, he said.
The new ruling also allows police to work with Customs to control the importation of PCP air rifles.
Mr Beech said owners of PCP air rifles who do not have a firearms licence will be given three months (until January 14, next year) to come in.
They can either obtain a firearms licence, or dispose of the air rifle by selling or giving it to someone with a firearms licence (including a licensed dealer), or hand it in to police (without compensation).
Target shooters who use PCP air rifles will now need to either apply for a firearms licence, or arrange for appropriate supervision, and storage, from a member of an organised shooting club.
Mr Beech said if anyone was unsure they could call in and see him at the Wanganui Police Station or phone him. "And for young people under 16, the full responsibility now rests with their parents or caregivers," he said.
Go to http://www.police.govt.nz/service/firearms.