Can a foreign national legally own an air pistol in India?

[JJ777]

Hi, I am wondering if a foreign national can legally own an air pistol in India? I am in Delhi. I asked some street cops today and they said that a foreigner can have no weapon in India. Then I called the Delhi Police Licensing Unit and asked. It was difficult to hear the official, but I thought that he said a foreign national can only have an air pistol for firing practice (did he mean real pistol?), and maybe something about a six month limitation. If any one can give me the correct information, I would be grateful.

Warmly,
J.

[ak27]

Hi J, please introduce yourself at 'Introductions & Welcomes Section' first.

As of your query, following the latest supreme court's stay on Delhi HC verdict, Air Guns are not be classified as Firearms of any sort and hence they do not need a license to be possessed. I guess since they are not considered arms and not restricted by the law in the first place it does not make a difference if the owner is a foreigner.

[mundaire]

No need for any paperwork, so long as the air-pistol satisfies the infamous "deal wood test". Most air-pistols do, so just go ahead and get yourself one.

Cheers!
Abhijeet

[JJ777]

Thanks so much for the good information. Based on my experience with the cops, does it mean I am going to have trouble if a cop finds out that I have one? There were four cops today and they agreed that I could not have an air pistol. Are most Delhi cops going to think the same way? Thanks again!

[goodboy_mentor]

Most of the lower level cops do not know much about law. You may go ahead and buy air pistol. If ever confronted with cops, try to politely convince them that it is sold openly without requirement of arms license in market since it not a firearm and thus not covered under Arms Act 1959. If necessary talk with their senior.

[mundaire]

Thanks so much for the good information. Based on my experience with the cops, does it mean I am going to have trouble if a cop finds out that I have one? There were four cops today and they agreed that I could not have an air pistol. Are most Delhi cops going to think the same way? Thanks again!

I just hope you are not planning to "carry" one on your person for "scaring" away potential criminals! If so, then you're best advised to drop any such plans in a hurry!!! For why, check out some of the older threads under the self-defence/ home-defence section here. For example see http://www.indiansforguns.com/viewtopic.php?f=14&t=5428

Cheers!
Abhijeet

[roh_mitra]

jj what use of the air pistol you are seeking? if you are seeking it for self defence, it won't be a good idea as the goons now have easy access to illigal fire arms. Any how a good thing would be to keep a copy of the bill from the dealer mentioning the remark " air pistol for sporting purpose does not require licence" to keep of the cops harshing you now & then.

[JJ777]

Thanks for the advice all. I'm glad to have some experts like you men to ask. I'm grateful for this site.

[Humrahi]

Air Rifle/or an Air Pistol is not a firearm ( no gun powder in a cartridge with a blasting cap or a primer and a bullet). Therefore it does not come under Arms act and no license is required to own it by anyone in India. But if you have the urge to teach some civic sense to those who leak on the side walk or spit beetle juice in wrong place and confront you on the wrong side of the road, then aim steady at the point of offence, pull the sling shot and let him have it !

Just kidding ! They will never change.