Firearms Blog

The Arms (Amendment) Act, 2019 introduced stricter regulations for firearm ownership in India. Key changes include:

• Reduction in the number of firearms a person can hold from three to one
• Increased punishment for illegal possession of firearms
• Stricter background checks for license applicants
• Enhanced penalties for trafficking in illegal firearms
• Mandatory linking of firearms licenses with Aadhaar cards

These amendments aim to curb the proliferation of illegal firearms and enhance public safety. License holders should be aware of the new compliance requirements and ensure their licenses are up to date.

The .22 Long Rifle (LR) remains one of the most popular calibers for sport shooting and training in India. We tested five popular models:

1. IOF .22 Sporting Rifle: Official Indian Ordnance Factory offering with good accuracy but heavy trigger pull
2. Ruger 10/22: Semi-automatic with excellent aftermarket support
3. CZ 457: Bolt-action precision rifle with match-grade barrel
4. Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22: AR-style platform with lightweight polymer construction
5. Anschütz 1761: Premium option for competitive shooting

After extensive testing at 50 and 100 yards, the CZ 457 emerged as the best all-around option for accuracy, build quality, and value. The Ruger 10/22 offers the best customization options for tactical applications.

Responsible firearm ownership begins with strict adherence to safety protocols. The fundamental rules every gun owner must follow:

1. Treat Every Firearm as Loaded

Always handle firearms with the assumption they are loaded, even if you believe they are not.

2. Never Point at Anything You Don't Intend to Shoot

Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times, even when unloading or cleaning.

3. Keep Finger Off Trigger Until Ready to Fire

Rest your finger along the frame or slide until you have made the decision to shoot.

4. Be Sure of Your Target and What's Beyond

Identify your target positively before firing, and be aware of what lies beyond it.

5. Secure Storage Requirements

As per Indian law, firearms must be stored in a secure steel cabinet with separate locking for ammunition. Biometric safes offer the best combination of security and quick access.

Applying for a Non-Prohibited Bore (NPB) firearm license in India involves several steps:

Step 1: Eligibility Check

Ensure you meet the basic requirements: Indian citizen, at least 21 years old, no criminal record, and genuine reason for ownership (sport, self-defense, etc.).

Step 2: Document Preparation

Gather the following documents:

• Proof of identity (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID)
• Proof of address (utility bill, ration card)
• Passport-sized photographs
• Medical certificate from a registered doctor
• Character certificate from a gazetted officer
• Proof of threat (if applying for self-defense)

Step 3: Application Submission

Submit Form IV to your local District Magistrate's office along with all documents. Pay the application fee (varies by state).

Step 4: Police Verification

Local police will conduct background verification which includes interviews with neighbors and employers.

Step 5: License Issuance

If approved, you'll receive your license by registered post. Processing time is typically 3-6 months.

Tip: Maintain a clean record and provide complete documentation to avoid delays. Consider consulting with firearms experts for complex cases.

When evaluating air rifles, two critical factors are power and accuracy. Our testing methodology includes:

Power Testing

We measure muzzle energy using a chronograph to calculate foot-pounds of energy (FPE). Indian law restricts air rifles to under 20 joules (15 FPE).

Accuracy Testing

We conduct 5-shot groups at 10, 25, and 50 meters using various pellet types to determine optimal ammunition.

Top Models Comparison

Model	Muzzle Energy	Best Group at 25m (mm)	Pellet Recommendation
Precision XP	14.8 J	12.3	JSB Exact
Gamo Hunter	15.2 J	15.7	H&N Field Target
Diana Stormrider	13.5 J	10.8	Jumbo Diabolo

The Diana Stormrider offered the best balance of power and accuracy for target shooting, while the Gamo Hunter excelled for pest control applications.

Significant regulatory changes announced in 2024:

1. Digital License Management

The Ministry of Home Affairs has launched a national digital portal for firearm license applications, renewals, and transfers. Existing license holders must register on the portal by June 2025.

2. Ammunition Purchase Limits

New limits on ammunition purchases per year:

• NPB rifles: 200 rounds/year
• Pistols/revolvers: 100 rounds/year
• Sport shooters with NRAI affiliation: 50% higher limits

3. Safe Storage Requirements

All firearms must now be stored in GST-certified gun safes with at least 4mm steel walls. Random inspections will be conducted to ensure compliance.

4. Training Mandate

First-time license applicants must complete a 16-hour safety course from certified training centers before application submission.

5. Heritage Firearms Registration

Owners of antique firearms (pre-1899 manufacture) must register them by December 31, 2024, to retain ownership without a functional license.