How much does legal assistance cost after a self-defence shooting?
When people plan for self-defence, they focus on firearms, training, and equipment. Very few plan for the legal battle that follows a shooting incident This is one of the most dangerous oversights by lawful firearm owners. The cost starts immediately Legal exposure begins the moment a shot is fired. Typical early costs include: These costs […]
Why am I investigated even if I acted in self-defence?
Many lawful firearm owners believe that acting within the law should prevent arrest or investigation. In South Africa, this is not how the judicial system works. Even when the use of force appears justified, a criminal investigation is mandatory. The legal reality When a firearm is discharged or used against another person, the state has […]
What does responsible firearm ownership mean in South Africa?
Responsible firearm ownership in South Africa is not defined by opinion or personal belief. It is defined by law, behaviour, training, and accountability. Owning a firearm carries legal obligations before, during, and after every interaction involving that firearm. At its core, responsible ownership means understanding that a firearm is not a lifestyle accessory. It is […]
Should I shoot to save a victim’s life?
2 Months ago, chaos erupted in Durbanville’s business district at around 11:00 when a man allegedly stabbed another man repeatedly and was then shot and wounded by a 64-year-old Bystander. The Bystander, the owner of a business nearby, witnessed the altercation, rushed to the victim’s aid and fired a shot at the attacker, still busy stabbing […]
The Firearms Control Amendment Bill Returns – And South Africans Must Stand Ready to Defend Their Rights
The controversial Firearms Control Amendment Bill, which ignited widespread public outrage in 2021, has quietly resurfaced at NEDLAC – and with it, a renewed threat to the rights of law-abiding firearm owners across South Africa. Despite overwhelming opposition during the previous round of consultations, the draft proposals remain largely unchanged. At their core lies a […]
Firearms Guardian stands by member wrongfully arrested after life-threatening attack
When Lizette Becker decided to become a firearm owner, it was not out of choice, but survival. Having endured two violent attacks – one of which claimed the life of her husband before her eyes – Lizette understood the importance of being able to protect herself and her children. She became a Firearms Guardian policyholder, […]
Was Ian Cameron entitled to shoot?
South African MP Ian Cameron, Chair of the Portfolio Committee on Police, was seriously injured during a brazen attack in Philippi, Cape Town, on 19 August 2025. Cameron, accompanied by fellow DA MPs Lisa-Maré Schickerling and Nicholas Gotsell, was returning from an oversight visit to a police training academy when three assailants hurled bricks through […]
Are Airguns Considered Firearms in South Africa?
What the Law Says – and What You Should Know Airguns (also called pellet guns or BB guns) are widely owned in South Africa for pest control, recreational shooting, and training. But many people are unsure whether these weapons are considered firearms under South African Law. Can you buy one without a licence? Can you […]
When can the the police declare a person unfit to possess a firearm?
In the article below, Johan Martin Director / Owner at Martin & De Beer Incorporated, provides a comprehensive overview of SAPS National Instruction 8 of 2017: Property and exhibit management, more specifically the investigation and declaration of unfitness to possess a firearm. This article serves as the second part to a previous article by Johan […]
Hollow Point Ammunition and Its Legality in South Africa
Hollow point ammunition has long been a subject of debate in both firearm and legal circles worldwide. Designed primarily for self-defence and law enforcement purposes, hollow point bullets are engineered to expand upon impact, thereby increasing the transferral of energy, while reducing the risk of over-penetration and collateral damage. In South Africa, a country with […]