First, you need to clarify that you are referring to non-firing replicas, not firearms that replicate others. I would love to be able to collect the .22LR replicas of classic firearms myself, but most being semi-auto would only be allowed on a collectors licence, so little point.
I started collecting non-firing replicas when I was about ten years old. Back then they were very, very good replicas that were mechanically identical to the real thing, so function, controls, disassembly and such were exactly the same, though not compatible. Even grip plates wouldn't fit a real version.
For anybody with a mechanical interest in firearms they were an awesome way to learn how they worked. Without any licencing or storage restrictions. By the nineties the high-quality replicas were disappearing and being replaced with things like Denix models, that have some aesthetic resemblance but don't feel or function anything like a real firearm. High-quality models still exist but are very expensive, often more expensive than buying a real version, and are only unrestricted in two states nowadays. All other states classify non-firing models as real firearms, requiring the same licence as a real one, and crucially, genuine reason to own them. Making them really only available to theatrical armourers and collectors.
When I moved to Victoria I had to give all of my collection away as they are not legal here, which sucks.
Like most things, they serve a purpose to a niche audience.
Apollo wrote:Well, I know I'm old and senile but I thought I'd ask members their views on what is it all about.
I see an increasing number of Replica Firearms for sale, mostly semi-auto etc.
Not cheap, but why. Who would want a copy of something that you can't own that is not fully functional and what do you do with it..?? Hang it on the wall...?? Is that legal and is that asking for someone to steal it thinking it's the real thing..??
I understand places like RSL Clubs displaying past war Firearms that have been rendered unusable....okay history in Australia BUT.....a private person..??
They are not cheap, a beautiful photo would be nice...
I simply don't get it......