China is amending its public security law to include penalties on those who carry replica guns in public, which it considers a threat to public security.
China has a strict but controversial gun policy. Many enthusiasts unknowingly end up in hot water for buying replica guns that are considered toys in other parts of the world, but are seen as deadly weapons by the Chinese authorities.
In a document released in 2010 by the Ministry of Public Security, an illegal firearm is defined as guns that are able to fire bullets with a specific kinetic energy of over 1.8 joules per square centimeter. However, the minimum specific kinetic energy needed to penetrate human skin is 16 joules per square centimeter.
The Ministry of Public Security said it is currently soliciting public opinions and feedback on the draft of the revised Public Security Management and Punishment Law.
The draft states that those who carry restricted weapons or replica guns in public could face detention from five to 10 days. Those who fabricate, trade, transport, mail, store or possess air guns or rifles will be detained for up to 15 days and fined a maximum of 5,000 yuan ($735).
