📌 Introduction

Understanding firearm licensing in South Africa is essential before applying for a gun licence. The Firearms Control Act, 2000 (Act 60 of 2000) regulates civilian firearm ownership and sets out different licence sections based on the primary intended use of the firearm. The three most common licence sections for private individuals are:

• Section 13 – Self-Defence
• Section 15 – Occasional Sport Shooting or Hunting
• Section 16 – Dedicated Sport Shooting or Hunting

Each section has different requirements, limits, and motivations. This guide explains the differences between Section 13, 15 and 16 firearm licences, while also correcting common legal misconceptions.

🛡️ Section 13 Firearm Licence – Self-Defence

A Section 13 firearm licence is issued for personal self-defence against unlawful threats. Key Features:

• Purpose: Self-defence
• Firearm limit:
  • Usually one handgun OR one shotgun
• Semi-automatic rifles: ❌ Not permitted
• Ammunition limit:
  • 200 rounds per licence
• Association membership: Not required
• Motivation: Must show a genuine need for self-defence

⚠️ A firearm licensed under Section 13 may not be primarily used for sport shooting or hunting.
Best for:
Individuals seeking everyday personal protection.

🎯 Section 15 Firearm Licence – Occasional Sport Shooting or Hunting

A Section 15 firearm licence is intended for individuals who participate occasionally in sport shooting or hunting and do not hold Dedicated Status. Key Features:

• Purpose: Occasional sport shooting or hunting
• Firearm limit (without Dedicated Status):
  • Maximum of 4 firearms in total
  • Maximum of 2 handguns
• Semi-automatic firearms:
  • May be approved with proper motivation
• Ammunition limit:
  • 200 rounds per licence
• Dedicated Status: Not required
• Proof required: Occasional participation (range use, hunting invites, etc.)

✅ Important clarification: It is LEGAL to carry a Section 15 licensed firearm for self-defence, provided the firearm is lawfully carried and used in accordance with the Act.
Best for:
Occasional hunters and recreational sport shooters.

🏆 Section 16 Firearm Licence – Dedicated Sport Shooting or Hunting

A Section 16 firearm licence is designed for individuals who regularly and actively participate in shooting sports or hunting and who hold Dedicated Status. Dedicated Status Requirement: Dedicated Status must be issued by a SAPS-accredited association, such as:

• SAPSA (South African Practical Shooting Association)
• SADPA (South African Defensive Pistol Association)
• NHSA (National Hunting and Shooting Association)
• Other accredited associations

Key Features:

• Purpose: Dedicated sport shooting or hunting
• Dedicated Status: Mandatory
• Firearm limit:
  • No fixed numerical limit (must be reasonable and well motivated)
• Ammunition limits:
  • Higher than non-dedicated licences
• Firearm types:
  • Semi-automatic rifles and shotguns permitted
• Supporting documents:
  • Activity logs, endorsements, and association confirmation

✅ Legal clarification: It is LEGAL to carry a Section 16 licensed firearm for self-defence.
Best for:
Competitive shooters, dedicated hunters, and frequent participants.

📊 Section 13 vs 15 vs 16 – Quick Comparison

Licence Section	Purpose	Dedicated Status	Firearm Limit (Without DSS)	Typical Use
Section 13	Self-defence	No	1 firearm	Daily personal protection
Section 15	Occasional sport / hunting	No	Max 4 firearms (2 handguns)	Recreational use
Section 16	Dedicated sport / hunting	Yes	Flexible (motivated)	Competitive / frequent use

⚖️ Important Legal Clarifications & Misconceptions

• Hollow-point ammunition is LEGAL
• Carrying with a loaded chamber (one-up) is LEGAL
• 200 rounds applies per licence, not per person (without Dedicated Status)
• There is NO legal limit on magazine capacity
• Section 15 and 16 firearms may be carried for self-defence
• Firearms must be licensed for a primary purpose, but lawful defensive use remains permitted
• Incorrect licence selection or poor motivation often results in refusals or long delays

Proper training, competency certification, and legal understanding are essential before applying.