Air guns have become increasingly popular in India for sports target shooting and recreational hobbies With this rise in popularity it is very important to understand the rules and regulations that govern the use and purchase of air rifles and air pistols in India This 2025 guide explains Indian air gun laws in simple terms so that buyers and enthusiasts can stay informed and compliant
Are Air Guns Legal in India
Yes air guns are legal in India but they are regulated by the Arms Act 1959 and Arms Rules 2016 The good news is that most modern air rifles and air pistols that are .177 caliber or 4.5 mm bore and generate less than 20 joules of muzzle energy do not require a firearm license This makes them accessible for hobby shooters sports players and collectors
Key Legal Provisions for Air Guns in India
1 Caliber and Power Limits
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Air guns up to .177 caliber 4.5 mm and under 20 joules muzzle energy are legal without license
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Air guns above this limit require a valid firearm license from local authorities
2 KYC and Purchase Requirements
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Buyers must provide government issued ID proof such as Aadhaar or PAN for verification
3 Purpose of Use
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Air guns can be used for sports training plinking and target practice
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They cannot be used for hunting or harming wildlife
4 Shipping and Transport Rules
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Legal air guns can be shipped across India through licensed sellers like Airsoft Gun India
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Carrying air guns in public requires proper packaging and proof of purchase
Common Misconceptions About Air Gun Laws
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Myth You need a firearm license for all air guns
Truth Only air guns above .177 caliber or more than 20 joules require a license -
Myth Air guns can be used for hunting
Truth Hunting wildlife with air guns is strictly prohibited under the Wildlife Protection Act -
Myth Air pistols are banned in India
Truth Air pistols under .177 caliber and 20 joules are fully legal without license
Buying Air Guns Legally in India in 2025
If you want to buy an air gun the safest way is to purchase from a certified and trusted seller Airsoft Gun India is one of the leading and legal suppliers in the country offering imported air rifles air pistols and CO2 powered models
When buying
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Always check caliber specifications
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Ensure the seller provides a valid bill and KYC verification
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Avoid unregistered or unauthorized dealers
States and Cities Where Air Guns are Popular
Air guns are popular across India including cities like Delhi Mumbai Bengaluru Chennai Kolkata Hyderabad Pune Jaipur Lucknow Patna Guwahati and Kochi With online shipping available buyers in smaller towns and villages can also get access to legal and high quality models
Why Buy from Airsoft Gun India
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100 Percent Legal and Compliant products following Indian Arms Rules 2016
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Nationwide Free Delivery with safe packaging
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Wide Range of International Brands like Diana SIG Sauer CZ and Steyr
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Trusted Storefront with showroom in Mumbai Goregaon East
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Expert Guidance to help you choose the right air rifle or air pistol
Conclusion
Indian air gun laws are clear and simple Air rifles and air pistols of .177 caliber or 4.5 mm bore and under 20 joules power are legal without license in 2025 This makes them a perfect choice for hobby shooters sports players and collectors
For a safe and legal purchase always buy from trusted sources like Airsoft Gun India They offer a wide range of imported air rifles air pistols and CO2 models with free delivery across India
Shop now at Airsoft Gun India and start your shooting journey with confidence