A friend of mine has told me that gun powder is not regulated, is this correct?
SB.
Thank you for the question. It has become quite an important one for many shooters because of difficulty obtaining some powders and, thus, the tendency to stock up whenever you see them.
I do not know what state or territory you are in, so I am unable to answer your question specifically. I shall therefore answer in general terms, as there are similarities between all states and territories.
Your friend is partially correct. Firearms legislation does not regulate primers and powder, but that does not mean that they are unregulated. An organisation called Worksafe or Work cover regulates this in most states, along with explosives and dangerous goods.
Generally you do not need a permit for up to 10kg of nitro powder. Black powder quantities are much lower, as black powder is an explosive rather than an accelerant. Some states and territories limit the number of primers (for example, the ACT limits the number to 5,000) while others do not.
There is also a requirement that powder be stored in its original container under lock and key when not in use.
If you exceed these quantities you may expose yourself to the risk of prosecution or compromise your home insurance policy.
Simon Munslow
0 Comments