Posted: 7/15/2008 7:43:27 PM EDT
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New technology 3: spring-assisted firearms Issue As previously described, the Regulations separate firearms into two classification areas – manual and automatic, with automatic firearms subject to higher import controls than manual firearms. Some firearms now entering the market blur the distinction between manual and automatic because they use the energy from a compressed spring to move forward a working part(s) in an otherwise manual firearm. The Heckler and Koch R8 is an example of a firearm which includes spring-assisted technology in that it uses the energy from a compressed spring to perform part of the action of the bolt. Using the energy from a compressed spring in this manner is a common feature in assault rifles but it traditionally is not a feature present in manual firearms. As spring-assisted firearms require less energy and intervention from the shooter to facilitate the cycle of fire, firing speed is increased. The length of time between projectiles is shortened where the shooter is not required to manually perform the part of the action performed automatically by the spring. The spring-assisted firearm can potentially fire more rounds in the same period of time than a traditional manual firearm. On this basis, consideration must be given to the increased risk of spring-assisted firearms to the general community. Proposal It is proposed to amend the Regulations to classify firearms that use the energy from a compressed spring to move the breech bolt or breech block, into a higher controlled category. This would mean that importation would have to comply with one of the higher import tests. The Police Authorisation Test would not be available for these types of firearms. The proposed changes to the Regulations will restrict the importation of some firearms that are currently available overseas such as the Vector, the Cougar and the R8. |
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