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Are Airguns Legal in Papua New Guinea?
Yes, but heavily regulated.
Legal in principle, but the compliance burden is high, often with firearm-grade steps for the airguns most people want.
Tier 2: Major Restrictions
Full firearms-licence regime for the airguns most enthusiasts would actually buy.
PG
The picture at a glance
Each measure below scores how restrictive Papua New Guinea is on that part of owning or transferring an airgun, from permissive (green) to firearm-level (red).
ClassificationUnclear
Age rule18+
PossessionVariable
Transfer / saleVariable
TransportVariable
AuthorityUnclear
Before you buy or sell
- Air rifles are included in the firearm definition.
- Carry without RPNGC Commissioner permit is an offence.
- Customs seizure risk is real if documents are incomplete.
The rules in detail
Classification
Unclear
Papua New Guinea's Firearms Act definition of firearm includes an air rifle or other rifle/gun from which a shot, bullet, missile, irritant liquid, gas, powder, or other bodily-harm-capable substance can be discharged.
Age rule
18+
18+. The Firearms Act 1978 allows a firearm licence only where the owner is of or over 18 (s.9(1)(a)), and air rifles are firearms under s.2. A licence is revoked if the holder is under 18 (s.12).
Possession
Variable
Air rifles are included in the firearm definition, so possession/carry requires licence or permit treatment under the Firearms Act framework.
Transfer / sale
Variable
Sale, hire, acquisition, and import of firearms are permit/licence-controlled. Buyer/hirer permit requirements were strengthened by amendment.
Transport
Variable
It is an offence to carry a firearm in PNG without a permit from the RPNGC Commissioner. Transport only with permit documentation, unloaded and secured.
Authority
Unclear
National Firearms Act administered by the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary / Registrar / Commissioner.
Hunting with an airgun
Qualified / permit-confirmed only.
Deer
Unresolved / not addressed
Not listed
Turkey
Unresolved / not addressed
Not listed
Small game
Unresolved / not addressed
Not listed
Predators
Unresolved / not addressed
Not listed
Other big game
Unresolved / not addressed
Not listed
Import & travel
Local & import notes
Visitor procedure
Do not import an airgun without a valid PNG import/possession/carry permit and customs declaration. PNG customs has seized weapons where documentation was not in order.
Keep exploring
This is a plain-language summary compiled from primary statutes and official guidance. It isn't legal advice. Laws change and local rules vary, so verify the current rules with the relevant authority before buying, selling, or hunting.