The big question arising from the potential new ban on some types of guns in Tasmania is why? On Wednesday The Advocate reported that a new set of guidelines would see some guns removed from their owners if the weapons did not fit the right appearance. Essentially, if they look like a machine gun or rapid-fire weapon, that would be enough to see them banned. It could also extend to any gun with a pistol grip, fore-end shroud, detachable extended magazine shroud, or skeleton, folding or adjustable stock. They may be collector’s pieces and completely inoperable, or modified for a particular user with a disability. But if they are deemed to fit the criteria, they may be confiscated or banned. So far Police Minister Rene Hidding is yet to explain why. He needs to give a clear rationale behind the need for such a change. Apparently the regulation has always existed, but has never been enforced. The majority of Tasmanians are strong supporters of the now 20-year-old gun laws introduced in the aftermath of the Port Arthur massacre. And not too many would argue against bans on weapons which do, or could, pose a risk to the public. This was quite evident during the recent debate over the Adler shotgun. But to ban an item just because of its appearance seems to be a bridge too far. As Shooters and Fishers Party of Tasmania vice-chairman Matt Allen says, the restriction should be on the action of the gun, not what it looks like. Police in the state may have some good reasoning behind the move. But they are also yet to share this with the public. Gun owners are still asking questions. Hunting enthusiast Peter Darke told The Advocate that they had been sent a letter about the new guidelines five months ago, but received scarce information since that time. Mr Darke said that keeping the Tasmanian Firearms Consultative Committee in place would have helped with the current confusion, providing a forum to discuss issues like this among gun enthusiasts. The sooner that people with an interest in firearms can be given some clarity on this move, from the Minister or Tasmania Police, or at least some firm reasoning for the move, the better.

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