Belize

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godot

Joined
Oct 12, 2003
Messages
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Does anyone know (or have a clue) about the knife/gun laws in Belize. On paper it looks like a paradise, but I've read some areas are kind of dicey. This is similar to most of America (safe & unsafe areas), but I wouldn't want to wind up in some foreign prison just for protecting myself or carrying a Buck 110 or whatever.
thanks
 
godot said:
Does anyone know (or have a clue) about the knife/gun laws in Belize. On paper it looks like a paradise, but I've read some areas are kind of dicey. This is similar to most of America (safe & unsafe areas), but I wouldn't want to wind up in some foreign prison just for protecting myself or carrying a Buck 110 or whatever.
thanks
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Fairly strict weapons laws over there. Firearm permit, issued by the police for "good reason" is required to possess any type of firearm or ammunition. Magnum and large caliber pistols and rifles are illegal. Most of the firearms allowed are .22 rimfire rifles and single-shot 16 or 20 gauge shotguns. Not sure if 12 gauge is legal for civilians. In terms of knives, a 3" or shorter blade knife is legal to carry by statute, but much of it is up to the discretion of the individual police officer. You may be threatened with arrest for carrying a weapon until you pony up some bribe money; being a tourist, you may be especially vulnerable to such curbside extortion. Exemptions are made for carrying knives and machetes to and from work, fishing, etc. Illegal to carry a machete after dark. Belize City is a predominantly black crime-ridden slum and best avoided. Go out to the cayes (islands), such as Ambergris Caye if you plan to vacation in Belize. Not a whole lot to see or do except stroll the beaches and go out fishing. All in all, a very poor Third-World type nation. I once planned a vacation there, but a bit of research caused me to change my mind. This is just my opinion. You will have to do your own research and make your choice.
 
So you have never been there Tom? I've been down there 3 times and really like the country. Belize City is a dangerous place and there are some unsafe places up on the North border but everywhere else is very laid back. I don't remember ever even seeing a cop let alone being shook down by one for carrying a folding knife. Pretty much carried what ever I wanted and never worried about it. And there are certainly a lot of locals carrying machetes everywhere you look.
 
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