South African Firearm Competency Test — Questions and Answers

Question 1: What is the main practical difference between a rifle and a shotgun at distance?

A shotgun fires further
There is no difference
A rifle has no sights
A rifle is generally more accurate over longer distances (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A rifle is generally more accurate over longer distances

A rifle's rifled barrel spins a single projectile for accuracy over long distances, whereas a shotgun's spreading shot pattern is suited to closer ranges.

Question 2: What does a '+P' marking on a box of ammunition indicate?

The ammunition is suitable for pistols only
The ammunition is loaded to higher-than-standard pressure (Correct answer)
The ammunition has a polymer-tipped bullet
The ammunition has a positive rifling twist

Correct answer: The ammunition is loaded to higher-than-standard pressure

+P indicates overpressure ammunition loaded to higher chamber pressures than standard, which increases velocity but should only be used in firearms rated for it.

Question 3: What does 'imminent threat' mean in the context of self-defence?

A threat that happened last week
A danger that is about to happen or is happening now (Correct answer)
A threat made on social media only
A possible future argument

Correct answer: A danger that is about to happen or is happening now

An imminent threat is one that is occurring or about to occur. Defence is not justified against a threat that has already passed or is merely anticipated far in the future.

Question 4: What unit is commonly used to express bullet weight in ammunition specifications?

Milligrams
Grains (Correct answer)
Grams
Ounces

Correct answer: Grains

Bullet weight is conventionally measured in grains (gr), where one grain equals approximately 0.0648 grams, allowing for precise specification of bullet mass.

Question 5: Before testing for competency, an applicant must complete accredited training based on what?

Military service
Unit standards registered with SAQA (Correct answer)
A university degree
A first-aid course only

Correct answer: Unit standards registered with SAQA

Competency training and assessment are built on unit standards registered with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and delivered by accredited training providers.

Question 6: Who is legally responsible for the safekeeping of a licensed firearm?

The dealer who sold it
The licence holder (Correct answer)
SAPS
Any adult in the household

Correct answer: The licence holder

The licence holder remains personally responsible for the safe storage and use of the firearm and can be held accountable if it is lost, stolen or misused through negligence.

Question 7: What is 'limp wristing' and why does it matter with a semi-automatic pistol?

A weak grip that can cause feeding malfunctions (Correct answer)
A method of aiming
A type of holster
A cleaning technique

Correct answer: A weak grip that can cause feeding malfunctions

Limp wristing is a loose, unsupported grip that absorbs recoil energy needed to cycle the slide, often causing the pistol to jam or fail to eject.

Question 8: What must you usually do immediately after a self-defence shooting?

Hide the firearm
Report the incident to the police and cooperate (Correct answer)
Say nothing to anyone ever
Leave the scene quickly

Correct answer: Report the incident to the police and cooperate

You should report the incident to SAPS as soon as possible, ensure scene and personal safety, and cooperate with the investigation that follows.

Question 9: What is a 'warning shot' considered under South African law and safe practice?

Generally discouraged and potentially dangerous and unlawful (Correct answer)
A legal requirement before defending yourself
Mandatory in all cases
A way to scare off any intruder safely

Correct answer: Generally discouraged and potentially dangerous and unlawful

Warning shots are discouraged because the bullet can injure innocent people and the act may itself be reckless; defensive force should be used only when genuinely justified.

Question 10: Which law governs the possession and use of firearms in South Africa?

The Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000 (Correct answer)
The National Road Traffic Act
The Criminal Procedure Act
The Dangerous Weapons Act

Correct answer: The Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000

The Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000 (FCA) is the principal law regulating firearm competency, licensing, possession and use in South Africa.

Question 11: Which of the following best describes 'stopping power' in the context of ammunition selection?

The ability of the bullet to penetrate the thickest materials
The loudness of the report produced when the firearm is fired
The relative ability of a round to incapacitate a threat quickly (Correct answer)
The ability of the bullet to travel the greatest distance

Correct answer: The relative ability of a round to incapacitate a threat quickly

Stopping power is an informal term describing how effectively a given round can incapacitate a threat, influenced by bullet diameter, weight, velocity, and expansion characteristics.

Question 12: Why must you use only the ammunition calibre marked on the firearm?

It loads faster
The colour matches better
Wrong ammunition can damage the firearm or injure the shooter (Correct answer)
It is cheaper

Correct answer: Wrong ammunition can damage the firearm or injure the shooter

Firing the wrong calibre or pressure of ammunition can cause dangerous malfunctions, damage the firearm, and seriously injure the shooter or bystanders.

Question 13: What does a shotgun typically fire?

Compressed air
Multiple small pellets (shot) or a slug (Correct answer)
Blank cartridges only
A single solid bullet only

Correct answer: Multiple small pellets (shot) or a slug

A shotgun usually fires a cartridge containing many small pellets called shot, though it can also fire a single solid projectile known as a slug.

Question 14: How is the size of a shotgun bore most commonly described?

By calibre in millimetres
By gauge (Correct answer)
By barrel length
By magazine size

Correct answer: By gauge

Shotgun bore size is usually expressed as a gauge, such as 12-gauge or 20-gauge. A smaller gauge number means a larger bore diameter.

Question 15: Which of these is a common type of handgun action?

A bolt action
A semi-automatic pistol (Correct answer)
A lever action
A pump action

Correct answer: A semi-automatic pistol

Handguns are typically revolvers or semi-automatic pistols. Bolt, pump and lever actions are associated with rifles and shotguns.

Question 16: What does the term 'calibre' refer to when describing a firearm or cartridge?

The length of the firearm barrel
The maximum range of the projectile
The weight of the bullet in grains
The internal diameter of the barrel, typically expressed in millimetres or inches (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The internal diameter of the barrel, typically expressed in millimetres or inches

Calibre refers to the internal diameter of the firearm barrel and is used to match the correct ammunition to the firearm.

Question 17: What should a responsible firearm owner do immediately upon discovering that they have obtained the wrong calibre of ammunition for their firearm?

Store the ammunition safely and exchange or return it without attempting to use it (Correct answer)
Remove the bullet from the cartridge and discard the case
Force the cartridge into the chamber manually
Attempt to fire one round to confirm the mismatch

Correct answer: Store the ammunition safely and exchange or return it without attempting to use it

Using the wrong calibre ammunition can cause catastrophic firearm failure; the ammunition must be stored safely and exchanged for the correct calibre without any attempt to fire it.

Question 18: When is the use of a firearm in self-defence legally justified in South Africa?

When someone insults you
Only when there is an unlawful, imminent threat to life and force is necessary and proportionate (Correct answer)
Whenever you feel threatened in any way
Any time you are on your own property

Correct answer: Only when there is an unlawful, imminent threat to life and force is necessary and proportionate

Private defence requires an unlawful and imminent attack on a legal interest such as life, where the defensive force used is necessary and proportionate to the threat.

Question 19: What should you do if your licensed firearm is lost or stolen?

Report it to SAPS immediately (Correct answer)
Tell only your insurer
Buy a replacement quietly
Wait to see if it is found

Correct answer: Report it to SAPS immediately

A lost or stolen firearm must be reported to the South African Police Service immediately, both as a legal duty and to limit your liability for its misuse.

Question 20: What may happen if you possess a firearm without a valid licence in South Africa?

A criminal offence with possible imprisonment (Correct answer)
A written warning only
Nothing, if you have a competency certificate
A small administrative fee

Correct answer: A criminal offence with possible imprisonment

Possessing a firearm without a valid licence is a serious criminal offence under the FCA and can result in arrest, prosecution and imprisonment.

Question 21: What information is typically found on the headstamp of a cartridge?

The bullet weight only
The expiry date of the ammunition
The manufacturer and calibre of the cartridge (Correct answer)
The maximum safe chamber pressure

Correct answer: The manufacturer and calibre of the cartridge

The headstamp is stamped on the base of the cartridge case and typically identifies the manufacturer and the calibre designation.

Question 22: What documents typically accompany a firearm licence application?

A driving licence only
Only a photograph
Competency certificate, ID, proof of address and motivation (Correct answer)
A passport stamp

Correct answer: Competency certificate, ID, proof of address and motivation

Applications generally require your competency certificate, identity document, proof of residential address, fingerprints and a motivation for needing the firearm.

Question 23: Why is hearing and eye protection recommended when shooting rifles and shotguns?

To look professional
Because the law bans shooting without it indoors only
To improve accuracy
To protect against muzzle blast, noise and ejected debris (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To protect against muzzle blast, noise and ejected debris

Muzzle blast can permanently damage hearing, and ejected casings, gases or fragments can injure the eyes, so proper protection is strongly recommended.

Question 24: What may disqualify a person from being declared a fit and proper person to hold a firearm?

A history of violence or relevant criminal convictions (Correct answer)
Living in a city
Being left-handed
Being over 60 years old

Correct answer: A history of violence or relevant criminal convictions

A history of violence, certain criminal convictions, dependence on substances, or being subject to a protection order can result in a person being found not fit and proper.

Question 25: What should you do if a semi-automatic pistol fails to fire when you pull the trigger?

Shake the firearm vigorously
Pull the trigger repeatedly and quickly
Keep it pointed in a safe direction, wait, then clear it (Correct answer)
Look down the barrel immediately

Correct answer: Keep it pointed in a safe direction, wait, then clear it

On a misfire, keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, wait several seconds in case of a hang-fire, then safely clear the stoppage.

Question 26: Who carries the burden of acting within the law when a firearm is used?

The licensed firearm owner (Correct answer)
The attacker
SAPS
The firearm dealer

Correct answer: The licensed firearm owner

The licensed firearm owner is responsible for ensuring that any use of the firearm falls within the bounds of the law of private defence and the FCA.

Question 27: When should you apply to renew a firearm licence before it expires?

At least 90 days before the expiry date (Correct answer)
After it expires
Renewal is never required
On the day it expires

Correct answer: At least 90 days before the expiry date

An application for renewal must be made at least 90 days before the licence expires; failing to renew in time can make possession of the firearm unlawful.

Question 28: Where is the ammunition held in a typical semi-automatic pistol?

In a rotating cylinder
In a detachable magazine (Correct answer)
Loose in the grip
In an internal tube under the barrel

Correct answer: In a detachable magazine

A semi-automatic pistol feeds cartridges from a detachable box magazine, usually housed in the grip, into the chamber as each round is fired.

Question 29: What is the safest way to carry a holstered firearm in public for self-defence?

Concealed and secured, with the trigger guard covered (Correct answer)
Held in the hand at all times
Tucked into the waistband without a holster
Loose in a jacket pocket

Correct answer: Concealed and secured, with the trigger guard covered

A firearm should be carried concealed in a proper holster that covers the trigger guard and retains the firearm securely, preventing accidental discharge or loss.

Question 30: What must you obtain before you can apply for a firearm licence in South Africa?

A competency certificate (Correct answer)
A driving licence
A hunting permit
A trading licence

Correct answer: A competency certificate

A competency certificate, issued by the South African Police Service (SAPS), is a legal prerequisite before you may apply for a firearm licence.

Question 31: What is the purpose of the safety catch on a pistol?

To load the magazine faster
To help prevent the firearm from firing unintentionally (Correct answer)
To improve accuracy
To clean the barrel

Correct answer: To help prevent the firearm from firing unintentionally

A manual safety is a mechanical device intended to reduce the risk of an unintentional discharge, but it never replaces safe handling and trigger discipline.

Question 32: How long is a firearm competency certificate generally valid before it must be renewed?

5 years (Correct answer)
10 years
1 year
2 years

Correct answer: 5 years

A competency certificate is valid for the same period as the related licence, commonly five years for self-defence, and must be renewed before it expires.

Question 33: Under which section of the FCA is a firearm for self-defence usually licensed?

Section 13 (Correct answer)
Section 16
Section 20
Section 9

Correct answer: Section 13

A firearm for self-defence is licensed under Section 13 of the Firearms Control Act, which permits one handgun (not fully automatic) for that purpose.

Question 34: What is a key reason why old, corroded, or damp ammunition should never be used?

It will permanently damage the firearm's finish
It produces more noise than standard ammunition
It reduces the magazine capacity of a semi-automatic firearm
It may cause a misfire, hangfire, or dangerous pressure spike leading to injury (Correct answer)

Correct answer: It may cause a misfire, hangfire, or dangerous pressure spike leading to injury

Moisture and corrosion degrade the primer and propellant, leading to misfires, hangfires, or unpredictable pressure spikes that can cause firearm damage or serious injury.

Question 35: May you use a firearm to protect only property, such as a cellphone being stolen with no threat to life?

Only at night
Yes, if it is expensive
Yes, always
Generally no, lethal force to protect property alone is rarely justified (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Generally no, lethal force to protect property alone is rarely justified

Using lethal force purely to protect property, where there is no threat to a person's life or bodily integrity, is generally not justified and may be unlawful.

Question 36: What is the minimum age to be issued a competency certificate for a firearm in South Africa?

21 years (Correct answer)
25 years
16 years
18 years

Correct answer: 21 years

An applicant must generally be 21 years or older to be declared competent, although the Registrar may make an exception for younger applicants in limited circumstances.

Question 37: Which action is commonly found on a hunting rifle?

Break action with shot
Bolt action (Correct answer)
Revolver action
Blow-back pistol action

Correct answer: Bolt action

Bolt-action rifles are popular for hunting and target shooting because they are accurate, reliable and chamber rounds one at a time with a manually operated bolt.

Question 38: What legal principle limits how much force you may use in self-defence?

Right of way
Seniority
Equality of arms
Proportionality (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Proportionality

The force used must be proportionate to the threat. Using deadly force against a minor or non-life-threatening attack can make the defence unlawful.

Question 39: What does 'rifling' inside a barrel do?

Spins the bullet to stabilise it in flight (Correct answer)
Slows the bullet down
Cools the barrel
Reduces the noise

Correct answer: Spins the bullet to stabilise it in flight

Rifling is a series of spiral grooves cut into the bore that impart spin to the bullet, stabilising it so it flies straight and true.

Question 40: How many self-defence firearms may a person normally licence under Section 13?

One (Correct answer)
As many as they can afford
Two handguns
Up to four

Correct answer: One

Section 13 generally allows a person to be issued a licence for only one firearm for self-defence purposes.

Question 41: What licence category typically applies to a firearm used for hunting and sport-shooting purposes?

No licence is needed for hunting
A self-defence licence under Section 13
A dedicated hunter or sport-shooter licence under Section 16 (Correct answer)
A business licence

Correct answer: A dedicated hunter or sport-shooter licence under Section 16

Hunting and sport-shooting firearms are generally licensed under Section 16 of the FCA, often linked to membership of an accredited hunting or sport-shooting association.

Question 42: A competency certificate confirms that the holder is competent in which of the following?

Knowledge of the Act and the safe handling of a firearm (Correct answer)
Vehicle maintenance
Advanced marksmanship only
Business management

Correct answer: Knowledge of the Act and the safe handling of a firearm

Competency confirms the person knows the relevant provisions of the Firearms Control Act and can handle the specific type of firearm safely and responsibly.

Question 43: What happens to your firearm licence if your competency certificate lapses and is not renewed?

The licence automatically becomes permanent
Your authority to possess the firearm can be affected and you risk unlawful possession (Correct answer)
Nothing changes
You receive a new firearm

Correct answer: Your authority to possess the firearm can be affected and you risk unlawful possession

Competency underpins your licence, so allowing it to lapse without renewal can place you in unlawful possession and lead to enforcement action by SAPS.

Question 44: What is the correct order of the first two steps when applying for a firearm in South Africa?

Obtain a competency certificate, then apply for the firearm licence (Correct answer)
Buy the firearm, then apply for competency
Join a club, then buy ammunition
Apply for the licence, then do training

Correct answer: Obtain a competency certificate, then apply for the firearm licence

You must first complete training and be issued a competency certificate by SAPS, and only then may you apply for the licence for the specific firearm.

Question 45: How must a firearm and its ammunition be stored at home under the FCA?

In a prescribed safe or strong-room (Correct answer)
In a drawer next to the bed
In the boot of a vehicle
Anywhere out of sight of children

Correct answer: In a prescribed safe or strong-room

The Firearms Control Act requires firearms to be stored in a safe, strong-room or device that meets the prescribed SABS standard to prevent loss or theft.

Question 46: Why is it dangerous to fire overpressure (+P or +P+) ammunition in a firearm not rated for it?

It causes excessive fouling in the barrel
It will cause the rifling to wear out faster
The higher chamber pressure can exceed the firearm's structural limits, risking catastrophic failure (Correct answer)
It reduces accuracy at long range

Correct answer: The higher chamber pressure can exceed the firearm's structural limits, risking catastrophic failure

Overpressure ammunition generates chamber pressures beyond what a standard-rated firearm can safely contain, potentially causing the firearm to rupture and injure the shooter.

Question 47: Before crossing a fence or obstacle while hunting, what should you do with a rifle?

Throw it over the fence first
Carry it on your shoulder loaded
Keep it loaded with the safety off
Unload it or make it safe and control the muzzle (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Unload it or make it safe and control the muzzle

When crossing fences, ditches or other obstacles, make the firearm safe, control the muzzle direction, and never climb while holding a loaded, ready firearm.

Question 48: What is the primary purpose of the cartridge case in a round of ammunition?

To house and protect the primer, propellant, and bullet as a single unit (Correct answer)
To reduce the recoil felt by the shooter
To increase the bullet's velocity
To guide the bullet through the barrel rifling

Correct answer: To house and protect the primer, propellant, and bullet as a single unit

The cartridge case holds all four components — primer, propellant, bullet, and case — together as a complete, loadable round.

Question 49: What is the effect of barrel rifling on a bullet in flight?

It slows the bullet down to improve accuracy
It causes the bullet to spin, which gyroscopically stabilises it for improved accuracy (Correct answer)
It flattens the bullet trajectory over long distances
It reduces the noise produced when the firearm is fired

Correct answer: It causes the bullet to spin, which gyroscopically stabilises it for improved accuracy

Rifling imparts a spin to the bullet as it travels down the barrel; this gyroscopic spin stabilises the bullet in flight and dramatically improves accuracy.

Question 50: Under the South African Firearms Control Act, which category of ammunition is prohibited from civilian possession without specific authorisation?

Armour-piercing ammunition (Correct answer)
Shotgun slug ammunition
Hollow point pistol ammunition
Rimfire .22 LR ammunition

Correct answer: Armour-piercing ammunition

Armour-piercing ammunition is prohibited for civilian possession under Schedule 2 of the Firearms Control Act unless a specific permit is granted.

South African Firearm Competency Test

The South African Firearm Competency Test assesses knowledge of the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000 and firearm-specific handling, safety, and legal use requirements before a licence can be issued by SAPS.

Questions

60 min

Time Limit

70%

To Pass

Checking for saved progress...

Exam Rules

You can skip questions and return to them later
Flag questions for review before submitting
No feedback shown until you submit the entire exam
Unanswered questions count as wrong — answer everything
10 pretest questions are mixed in and don't affect your score
Timer auto-submits when time runs out
Your progress is auto-saved every 30 seconds