Overview of Maltese Gun Laws

Published on July 2, 2019
Duration: 9:28

Malta's firearm laws, updated in March following the EU Arms Directive, require prospective owners to join a police-licensed association and complete a safety course. Licenses are specific to firearm types (shotguns, muzzle loaders, rifles, pistols, collectors). The law now permits up to 20 firearms under a standard target shooting license, with a special license for semi-automatic firearms with high-capacity magazines. Carrying firearms is not permitted. Collectors can acquire unlimited firearms, including pre-1946 automatics and historical pieces, provided they have safe storage, though shooting automatics requires a special permit.

Quick Summary

In Malta, acquiring a firearm requires joining a police-licensed association and completing a safety course. Laws, updated by the EU Arms Directive, allow up to 20 firearms under a standard license, with a special license for semi-automatic firearms with high-capacity magazines. Carrying firearms is prohibited. Collectors can own unlimited firearms, including pre-1946 automatics, with safe storage being key.

Chapters

  1. 00:02Introduction to Maltese Gun Laws
  2. 00:39How to Buy a Firearm in Malta
  3. 00:45Changes Since 2006 and EU Directive
  4. 01:43March Law Changes: EU Arms Directive
  5. 02:02Target Shooting License (Shotguns/Muzzle Loaders)
  6. 02:15Target Shooting License A (Rifles/Pistols)
  7. 02:42Special License for High-Capacity Magazines
  8. 03:33Difficulty in Acquiring Licenses
  9. 04:18Carrying Firearms in Malta
  10. 04:38Collector's License Explained
  11. 05:18Collector License Split: Regular vs. Special
  12. 05:56Limitations on Automatic Firearms
  13. 06:31Desired Changes for Collectors
  14. 07:28Definition of Antique Firearms
  15. 08:13Shooting with a Collector's License
  16. 09:07Conclusion: Malta's Gun Law Setup

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the initial steps to legally buy a firearm in Malta?

To buy a firearm in Malta, you must first join a police-licensed firearms association or club. Following this, you'll need to complete a mandatory basic firearm safety course provided by these organizations before submitting your application to the police.

How has Malta's firearm law changed with the EU Arms Directive?

The EU Arms Directive led to changes, including an increase in the firearm limit under a standard target shooting license from 10 to 20 pieces. A new 'Special' license was also introduced for semi-automatic firearms with high-capacity magazines.

Can I carry a handgun in Malta?

No, carrying firearms is not permitted in Malta. The concept of carrying firearms for personal protection or general use does not exist within Maltese law.

What are the rules for collecting firearms in Malta, especially automatics?

Malta allows collectors to acquire an unlimited number of firearms, including automatic ones, if manufactured before 1946. Semi-automatic firearms with high-capacity magazines also have specific licensing. Safe storage is the primary requirement.

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