SAPS requires a comprehensive motivation from the applicant to explain the reason for wishing to possess the firearm and for what purpose it is intended. The motivation is submitted together with the application for a firearm licence.

The motivation must indicate whether the firearm will be used for hunting or sport shooting. If it is for hunting purposes, the motivation must include, amongst others, the following information:

• location and type of terrain where the applicant plans to hunt with the firearm (longer distances over open plains, or shorter distances in a typical bushveld environment)
• type of game to be hunted: small game or large game
• explain why the firearm and calibre are suitable for the intended purpose

If the firearm will be used for sport shooting purposes, the motivation must, amongst others, indicate the following:

• occasional sport shooting or dedicated sport shooting
• venue and level of participation
• type of sport shooting exercises
• suitability of the calibre for the type of sport shooting activity
• relevant characteristics of the firearm that makes it suitable for sport shooting