Bringing guns into Mexico

[Fishbonker]

My wife and I just started talking about retirement and what we want to do. We both want to have a house on the beach in a warm climate. No way will we ever be able to afford this dream in the US, so she suggested looking into Mexico.

Here is my question, well sort of, a little more background first. I love to hunt so I'm alittle taken aback by all the signs I saw on the only visit I've had to Mexico. This was a short day trip to Nogales over a year ago. The signs were about bringing guns into Mexico and that I shouldn't.

Ok, so now I'll ask. Can I legaly own guns in Mexico? Any restrictions on type? How about Bows? I think it would be a hoot to go into the desert and plink as well as hunt coyotes.

Thanks for any imput. I'm just gettign started with the questions. Please be patient.

The 'Bonker

[bear]

As a foreigner, you cannot have a gun, period. If you are caught with one,
you will go directly to jail, probably for a long time.
(even for a bullet) All calibers 9mm and larger are reserved for police and millitary. Mexican Nationals may (with proper license ) own small calliber weapons (pistols).
Firearms are brought into Mexico by foreigners ONLY with a licensed Hunting
Guide service, albeit rarely.
Nothing will get you in jail quicker (except drugs) than breaking that law.
I left all my firearms behind in USA when I retired to Mexico.
Bows (not bowguns) are used in properly sponsored sports events and clubs.
In Mexico, police and millitary are the only persons allowed to legally carry firearms, without exception. All others go to jail.
The Napoleanic Legal Code applies in Mexico, "You are guilty until proven innocent". Its best to fully understand this before you come to Mexico.
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_p.../cis_1756.html

[Fishbonker]

Thanks for the quick reply. So I guess I'll be selling my stuff at the estate sale. That outa help the bottom line.

The 'Bonker

[David Stanley]

Bear, the Mexican laws pertaining to the ownership and use of firearms make perfect sense to me. Wish it were true in the US. David