Safe Transactions
MaltaGuns helps buyers and sellers find each other, but the platform does not process payments, hold escrow, or transfer firearms on your behalf. Every transaction is a private arrangement that must comply with Maltese firearms law.
This guide explains how to protect yourself, recognise red flags, and complete a transfer correctly.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Firearms transfers in Malta are governed by the Arms Act (Chapter 480) and administered by the Police Weapons Office. Always confirm current requirements before proceeding.
What MaltaGuns does — and doesn't do
MaltaGuns provides:
A marketplace to list and discover firearms and related items
Seller identity and license verification badges
Contact tools between buyers and sellers
Reporting for suspicious or prohibited listings
MaltaGuns does not:
Process payments or offer buyer protection
Guarantee the condition or legality of listed items
Handle firearms transfers or police paperwork
Act as a middleman in disputes between private parties
Verify before you trust
Before agreeing to meet or pay, check the seller's profile:
Identity verified — the seller has completed Didit identity verification
License uploaded — required for firearms sellers; confirms they hold a valid Maltese firearms license
Registered seller badge — indicates full seller verification on MaltaGuns
Establishment account — licensed gun stores listed as establishments offer an additional layer of commercial accountability
A seller who refuses to verify identity, avoids meeting at a licensed dealer, or pushes for immediate payment without inspection is a red flag.
Legal transfer in Malta
Firearms cannot simply change hands between private individuals without following the legal process. In Malta, transfers typically require:
Both buyer and seller holding appropriate licenses for the item
Notification and approval through the Police Weapons Office
Processing via a licensed firearms dealer where required
Updated registration reflecting the new owner
Arrange to inspect the firearm at a licensed gun store where possible. Dealers are familiar with transfer paperwork and can guide both parties through the process.
For inherited firearms or complex transfers, see our guide on inheriting firearms in Malta.
Payment safety
Never send full payment before you've inspected the item in person
Avoid irreversible methods (cash transfers, crypto, gift cards) until you've verified the item and transfer plan
Get a receipt from the dealer handling the transfer
Document the agreed price and what's included before payment
Be cautious of deposits — if asked for a deposit, agree terms in writing first
Meeting and inspecting the item
When viewing a firearm:
Meet in a safe, public, or licensed premises — not a private home if you can avoid it
Confirm the item matches the listing (make, model, calibre, condition, serial number)
Ask to see the seller's license and the firearm's registration documentation
Do not load or handle the firearm unless you are trained and the seller permits it in a safe environment
Walk away if anything feels wrong — there will be other listings
Red flags to watch for
Price significantly below market value with urgency to decide
Seller won't meet in person or at a licensed dealer
Stock photos only, or photos that don't match the description
Requests for payment via untraceable methods before viewing
Pressure to skip the licensed dealer or police transfer process
Listing prohibited items or items the seller's license doesn't cover
New account with no verification badges asking for upfront payment
Report suspicious listings so our team can review them.
If something goes wrong
Disputes between buyer and seller — MaltaGuns cannot mediate private transactions. Seek legal advice if needed.
Fraud or theft — contact the Malta Police immediately.
Prohibited or illegal listings — report through the platform and notify the Police Weapons Office.
Platform issues — contact MaltaGuns support through the Help Center.
Seller responsibilities
If you're selling, you are equally responsible for a safe and legal transaction:
Only list items you legally own and are authorised to sell
Describe items honestly — misrepresentation can have legal consequences
Confirm the buyer holds the appropriate license before agreeing to sell
Complete the transfer through the proper legal channels
Keep records of the sale as required by law
FAQs
Does MaltaGuns offer escrow or buyer protection?
No. All payments and transfers are arranged directly between buyer and seller.
Can I ship a firearm to the buyer?
Firearms transfers in Malta follow strict rules. Do not ship firearms without confirming legal requirements with the Police Weapons Office and a licensed dealer.
Should I pay a deposit to hold an item?
Only if you're comfortable with the risk and have agreed terms in writing. Prefer completing the transaction in person at a licensed dealer.
How do I know a seller is verified?
Check their profile for identity verification and license badges. Registered sellers display a verified seller status.
When in doubt, speak to a licensed dealer or the Police Weapons Office before handing over money or taking possession of a firearm.