Belize Gun Shops: Where To Buy

Gun ownership in Belize is highly regulated. While it is legal to own a gun in Belize, it is considered a privilege, not a right. Strict gun laws mean that there are harsh penalties for those found with unlicensed guns or ammunition. The Firearms and Ammunition Control Board is the only entity authorised to issue a gun permit. On average, about 800 gun licenses are issued each year.

To obtain a gun license in Belize, applicants must pass a background check, which includes criminal, mental health, and medical checks, as well as previous firearm ownership records. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate knowledge of firearm safety and the law by passing a theoretical test and/or a practical training course. The minimum age for gun ownership in Belize is 16 years old, and gun owners must renew their licenses annually on their birthday.

There are several types of gun licenses available in Belize, including personal protection, farm use, hunting, special protection, and gun dealer licenses. The cost of a gun license varies depending on the type of license and the applicant's residency status. For citizens, a personal firearm license costs $75 per year, while a farm license costs $5 per year. Non-citizens typically pay significantly more for gun licenses.

Gun dealership: The OutdoorsMan Lounge in Belmopan

The OutdoorsMan Lounge in Belmopan is the place to go for all your gun needs in Belize. They offer a wide range of firearms, from handguns to rifles, and provide the necessary permits and licensing services to ensure you stay compliant with Belize's strict gun laws.

Firearms Available

At The OutdoorsMan Lounge, you can find a variety of firearms to suit your needs, whether it's for personal protection, farming, or hunting. They offer handguns such as the CZ-P-07 9mm, which is a popular choice for those seeking a concealed carry option. For farmers, they provide shotguns, including the Mossburg 500, ideal for protecting livestock and hunting. If you're interested in sport hunting, they also have rifles available, ensuring you can find the right firearm for your specific needs.

Permits and Licensing

The gun dealership understands the importance of complying with Belize's stringent gun laws. They provide comprehensive support throughout the licensing process, ensuring their customers obtain the necessary permits. Their staff are well-versed in the various types of permits available, including the Special Protection License, Hunting License, and Farm License. They guide customers through the background checks, mental health evaluations, and firearm safety training required to obtain these permits.

Customer Service

The OutdoorsMan Lounge prioritizes customer satisfaction and safety. Their knowledgeable staff are passionate about firearms and are always ready to assist customers in finding the right gun for their needs. They provide comprehensive guidance on gun safety and ensure their customers understand the legal requirements and restrictions that come with gun ownership in Belize. The dealership also offers a range of gun care products and accessories to maintain your firearm in top condition.

Location and Hours

Conveniently located in Belmopan, the capital city of Belize, The OutdoorsMan Lounge is easily accessible for those seeking their services. Their opening hours are designed to accommodate customers, with extended hours during the week and reduced hours on weekends. They are open from 9 AM to 7 PM, Monday to Friday, and 9 AM to 3 PM on Saturdays, giving customers ample opportunity to visit the dealership.

In conclusion, The OutdoorsMan Lounge in Belmopan is the go-to destination for gun enthusiasts and those seeking firearm solutions in Belize. With their extensive selection of firearms, dedicated licensing support, and customer-centric approach, they ensure a safe and satisfying experience for all gun owners in the country.

The Firearms and Ammunition Control Board issues gun permits

As of 2024, the Firearms and Ammunition Control Board is the only entity authorised to issue gun permits in Belize. The Board consists of a magistrate, the Home Affairs Ministry, and a representative from the Belize Police Department. It is headed by the CEO of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Sharole Carr-Saldivar. The Board was appointed with effect from 5 January 2024, following the introduction of a bill in the House of Representatives on 11 August 2023.

It is important to note that gun ownership laws in Belize are restrictive and the process to obtain a permit is rigorous. All gun permits must be renewed annually on the owner's birthday, and failure to do so can result in detention and incarceration without bail. Additionally, it is unlawful to possess a firearm while intoxicated, and violations of this law typically result in arrest and incarceration.

Belize has strict regulations regarding the type of weaponry that can be imported into the country, the type of weaponry that can be carried concealed, and the amount of ammunition that can be possessed. The process for importing a firearm into Belize involves declaring the weapon before arrival and registering it with the police department upon arrival.

Gun license fees

Gun laws in Belize are restrictive and difficult to navigate. The Firearms and Ammunition Control Board is the only entity authorised to issue gun permits. Permanent residents or citizens of Belize can apply for gun ownership, but a thorough background check is conducted, and the waiting period can be as long as six months.

There are several types of gun licenses available in Belize, including:

• Special Protection License
• Gun Repair License
• Sport Hunter License
• Farmer Gun License
• Shooting Range License
• Shooting Club License
• Firearm Safety Instructor License
• Heirloom Firearm License
• Company Gun License

The cost of a gun license depends on the type of license and the status of the applicant (i.e., whether they are a citizen, permanent resident, or non-citizen). Here is a breakdown of the gun license fees:

Farmer Gun License

This license is the cheapest option, especially for citizens. It costs BZ $5 per annum for citizens and BZ $25 per annum for non-citizens. One of the benefits of this license is that the holder does not need to be certified as competent to handle a firearm.

Personal Firearm License

The cost of this license is BZ $75 per annum.

Special Protection License

This license is one of the more difficult ones to obtain, as not many are awarded by the Police Commissioner. The cost is BZ $225 per annum for citizens and BZ $1,500 per annum for non-citizens.

Gun Repair License

The cost of this license is BZ $200 for citizens and BZ $500 for non-citizens.

Sport Hunter License

The Sport Hunter License costs BZ $150 for citizens and BZ $250 for non-citizens. This license is required for the general public to own .22 and .223 semi-automatic rifles.

Hunting License

The Hunting License costs BZ $450 for citizens and BZ $750 for non-citizens.

Dealer's License

For those interested in becoming gun dealers, the fee for a dealer's license is BZ $650 for citizens and BZ $7,000 for non-citizens.

It is important to note that gun license fees may be subject to change, and there may be additional costs associated with obtaining a gun license in Belize, such as the cost of a competency certificate.

Types of gun licenses

Gun ownership in Belize is restrictive and difficult to navigate. The Firearms and Ammunition Control Board is the only entity authorised to issue a gun permit. The country has a complex web of laws aimed at restricting gun ownership. Permanent residents or citizens of Belize can own a gun, but only after a thorough background check and a waiting period of up to six months. The maximum calibre allowed is 9mm, and anything above is deemed a prohibited firearm.

There are several types of gun licenses available in Belize, each with different requirements and restrictions. Here is an overview of the common types of gun licenses:

• Special Protection License: This license is one of the hardest to obtain, as not many are awarded by the Police Commissioner. It typically permits the carrying of handguns for personal protection.
• Gun Repair License: This license is required for individuals who repair firearms. It allows them to possess firearms for the purpose of repair and maintenance.
• Sport Hunter License: This license is for those who participate in hunting sports. It allows individuals to own and use firearms for hunting purposes.
• Farmer Gun License: This license is relatively easy for immigrants to obtain. Farmers can apply for this license to protect their livestock and for hunting. It is the cheapest option, costing BZ $5 per annum for citizens and BZ $25 for non-citizens.
• Shooting Range License: This license is for individuals who wish to use firearms at designated shooting ranges.
• Shooting Club License: This license is for members of shooting clubs or associations and allows them to possess and use firearms within the club's activities.
• Firearm Safety Instructor License: This license is for individuals who provide firearm safety training and instruction.
• Heirloom Firearm License: This license is for individuals who wish to possess and use firearms that have been passed down through generations as heirlooms.
• Company Gun License: This license is for businesses or companies that require firearms for security or other authorised purposes.

It is important to note that all gun licenses in Belize are gun-specific, and possessing a firearm that is not listed on the license is a serious offence. Additionally, gun licenses must be renewed annually on the owner's birthday, and failure to renew on time can result in detention and incarceration.

Rules for bringing a gun into Belize

Belize has strict gun laws and gun ownership is heavily regulated. Here are the rules you need to follow if you want to bring a gun into the country:

• Obtain the necessary permits and licences: Before bringing a gun into Belize, you must obtain the proper permits and licences. The Firearms and Ammunition Control Board is the only entity authorised to issue gun permits in Belize. The process typically involves a thorough background check, which can take up to six months.
• Understand the types of gun licences available: There are several types of gun licences available in Belize, including the Special Protection Licence, Hunting Licence, Farmer Gun Licence, and more. Choose the licence that best suits your needs and qualifications.
• Be aware of prohibited firearms and ammunition: Belize has strict rules regarding the types of firearms and ammunition that are permitted. Anything above 9mm, such as a .38 magnum or .45 calibre firearm, is prohibited. Sawed-off shotguns, machine guns, and certain types of rifles and revolvers are also prohibited.
• Follow the rules for transporting firearms: If you are travelling with a firearm, you must declare it before your arrival in Belize. The firearm will be impounded until it can be registered by the police department. A police constable will collect the weapon and transport it to the Racoon Street Police Station in Belize City for processing.
• Comply with ammunition restrictions: In addition to firearm restrictions, Belize has strict rules regarding ammunition. Gun owners are typically limited to purchasing 200 rounds of ammunition per year and must provide their licence when buying ammunition. Possessing excess ammunition or the wrong calibre can result in legal penalties.
• Renew your gun licence regularly: Gun licences in Belize must be renewed regularly, typically before the gun owner's birthday. Failing to renew your licence on time can result in detention and incarceration without bail.
• Abide by firearm possession rules: It is unlawful to be in possession of a firearm while under the influence of drugs or alcohol above the prescribed limit. This rule is similar to Belize's alcohol laws, and violation can result in arrest and incarceration without immediate bail.
• Understand the process for importing firearms: If you are importing a firearm into Belize, you must follow the proper procedures. The process for legally exporting a gun varies by country of origin, but regardless of how the weapon reaches Belize, it must be declared and registered with the police.
• Be aware of additional regulations: Belize has additional regulations regarding firearm modifications, safety training, and more. It is important to familiarise yourself with all the applicable laws and regulations before bringing a gun into the country.

Frequently asked questions