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Airgun law · World
Are Airguns Legal in Sri Lanka?
Mostly no, or only under severe restrictions.
Treated at or near firearm level, with an effective ban or major criminal-law exposure for ordinary ownership.
Tier 1: Severely Restricted
Effective civilian ban or extreme criminal penalties for unlicensed possession.
LK
The picture at a glance
Each measure below scores how restrictive Sri Lanka is on that part of owning or transferring an airgun, from permissive (green) to firearm-level (red).
ClassificationUnclear
Age ruleAdult / unspecified
PossessionVariable
Transfer / saleLicensed dealer process
TransportCased
AuthorityNational statute
The rules in detail
Classification
Unclear
Firearms Ordinance (1916, amended 1996): all air guns regulated. Permit from Ministry of Public Security required.
Age rule
Adult / unspecified
Adult licensing only.
Possession
Variable
Permit required.
Transfer / sale
Licensed dealer process
Through licensed dealers.
Transport
Cased
Cased.
Authority
National statute
National statute.
Hunting with an airgun
Limited; pest control in agricultural settings.
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
October 2024 Ministry of Defence order recalled all firearms licensed to civilians for self-defence (deadline extended to 21 Nov 2024) for a needs review; firearms licensed for crop protection, property protection and sport were excluded. Confirm current posture before any travel.
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.