SMJ wrote:@Abhijeet- thanks for the detailed response and for driving home some excellent points from a more macro perspective; I totally see what you mean. I could not agree more that it is going to affect all of us who love this sport! I second Ibalajis question - what now would be the best way to handle such a situation when it arises?
SMJ,
Look at the brighter side of it. If this air gun rule comes into force, yhey would have to give time to air gun holders to either sell the guns of get a license for them.
Best would be to apply for a license which would be for sports purpose and not self protection and self protection is the only category of licences being issued now days.
It would be difficult if not impossible to refuese the license if you are otherwise eligible for owning a license, as you have legally held the air gun/s for years for sport purpose and taking up a sport does not mean that you have to participate in state or national level competitions. It could be for your own satisfaction.
This would mean that any one who wants an arms license should buy a cheap secondhand .22 air gun and hope the rule gets implemented. Then getting additional weapons would be much easier in the sport category, As he will not have to justify the need but only a desire for taking part in other category of the sport.
Therefore, the only people who would be affected would be persons who already have 3 fire arms and airguns as well.
Atul