New rules

[Sverre A.]

I have heard that it has become new rules concerning how many guns a hunter can bring with him into South Africa.
Is it correct that you only can bring with you one gun of each type?

With other words:

I can not bring with me 2 pistols – only one.  But if I want to bring with me a rifle added to the pistol – that`s ok.

Can somebody confirm this?
This is of course very important for the hunters.

[JJHACK]

You have never to my knowledge been able to bring in two rifles using the same cartridge. This is not a new rule.

It's not legal to hunt with a semi auto handgun (or rifle) of any cartridge. The rules are changing regarding handgun hunting so it's very important that you check this before you leave. You need to verify within a week of departing to be certain.

As of today you are allowed two rifles and one handgun when you enter the country. The handgun rules are really getting tight now and changing frequently. Be 100% certain you verify this with your PH or outfitter within a week of the time you intend to hunt.

[Sverre A.]

For the last 3 years - I have brought with me 2 handguns in different calibers (not any rifles) - and nobody at the airport said that was unlegal.  Maybe they don`t care - or don`t know the rules?

[JJHACK]

As of July 2004 they care and have taken the handguns from those trying to enter the country with them until they depart back to their home country. I strongly urge you to check the latest rules right before you depart. You can get lots of opinions on this but none really matter this far in advance of the trip. What matters is the most recent laws which you need to follow before you arrive. Since you must have a PH and an Outfitter in RSA just call/ Email  them and ask what the rules are the week before you leave. Its a simple matter to check right before you depart.

If hunting with a handgun is critical and makes or breaks the trip I would buy insurance for the constantly changing rules. That way you will not be out the deposit. Or maybe with your frequent trips you can make a deal with the outfitter that you will get your deposit back if the handgun rules fall through and you cannot hunt with a handgun.

[AfricanHandgunner]

I just went on a handgun hunt in August in SA, and brought 2 handguns with me.  I used a place called AIR2000 to secure my import permits in advance and had absolutely no trouble at all.  My understanding about the new regs is that handguns have to be "custom made for hunting"-whatever that means.  Also, NO semi autos!!  The couple of cases where guns have been confiscated were some guys trying to bring in Desert Eagle semi autos in I believe 50 A.E. caliber.

[Sverre A.]

I contacted the embassy, but they didn`t know anything about the rules.  Then they gave me a link www.proffesionalhunters.co.za. - but "this site can not be found".  Where can I find the rules on internet - if it is possible?

[Graybeard]

That would be because the you spelled the word professional wrong in the URL. Here is the correct URL that works:

http://www.professionalhunters.co.za./

[Sverre A.]

Thanks!

(copied the link from the embassy`s mail)

[Sverre A.]

Further information about firearms in SA


http://www.saps.gov.za/crime_prevention/firearms/legislation/60of2000_eng.pdf