Hello everyone,

Today we will talk about atmorers on the film set.

Firearms add realism and intensity to films, but when mishandled, they can lead to tragedy. The presence of a qualified armorer is essential for safety—and in places like California and New York, it’s also the law.

What Is an Armorer?

An armorer is a licensed firearms expert responsible for:

Supplying, inspecting, and maintaining firearms used on set (whether real, blank-firing, or replicas)

Loading blank ammunition and ensuring the safe handling of weapons

Training actors in proper and safe weapon use

Coordinating with law enforcement

Tracking all weapons and ammo on set

Conducting safety briefings with cast and crew before any scene involving weapons

An armorer must balance technical skill, legal compliance, and on-set communication. Their job is not optional—it’s a legal and moral necessity.

Legal Requirements in California

California, home to Hollywood and countless productions, has some of the most comprehensive firearms rules in the film industry.

1. Entertainment Firearms Permit (EFP)

Issued by the California Department of Justice.

Required for any individual (including armorers) providing or handling real firearms on a production.

Includes background checks and firearm safety training.

2. No Live Ammunition

Live rounds are banned on film sets (California Penal Code § 12001).

Only blanks or inert dummy rounds may be used.

All ammunition must be tracked and accounted for by the armorer.

3. Notification to Law Enforcement

Productions must notify local police if firearms (even props) will be used—especially in public or exterior scenes.

Failure to notify can result in shutdowns, fines, or worse.

4. Fire Marshal Oversight

If firearms are used in conjunction with pyrotechnics or special effects, productions may need on-site fire marshals, especially in cities like Los Angeles.

The LAFD Film Unit may review safety plans, especially for scenes with simulated gunfire.

Legal Requirements in New York

New York—especially NYC—also enforces strict rules due to the density of the filming environment and public safety concerns.

1. Film Permits and NYPD Supervision

Productions must apply for a film permit from the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment (MOME).

Any use of real or replica firearms must be disclosed.

The NYPD Movie/TV Unit may require an officer to be present on set, especially during exterior shots or use of blank rounds.

2. Hiring a Qualified Armorer

Productions must employ a trained, insured armorer for any use of firearms.

The armorer must manage the weapons at all times and conduct safety briefings.

3. Blank-Firing Weapons and Special Effects

Any use of blanks must be carefully planned, and producers may need to submit a safety plan in advance.

Special effects and firearms often require separate approvals from both the city and NYPD.

4. Liability and Insurance

An armorer must carry firearms-specific liability insurance.

The production company also typically needs coverage for firearms use, especially when renting weapons or hiring specialized crew.

Best Practices (Applicable in All States):

Regardless of location, these safety practices should always be followed:

Only the armorer handles the weapons when not in use by the actor.

No live ammunition on set—ever.

Conduct a mandatory safety briefing before filming any scene with firearms.

Keep firearms secured and locked when not in use.

Always use dummy rounds and blanks, never real cartridges.

Maintain a detailed inventory log of all weapons and ammunition.

Actors must undergo firearm handling training, even for replicas.

Real-World Examples: What Happens When Procedures Are Ignored

1. Rust (2021) — Tragedy on Set

Actor Alec Baldwin discharged a revolver during rehearsal.

The gun contained a live round, which killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and injured director Joel Souza.

The film did not have sufficient safety protocols, and the armorer had dual responsibilities (also acting as props assistant).

Live ammunition was found on set, a direct violation of California and industry standards.

Criminal charges, civil lawsuits, and massive scrutiny followed.

Lesson: Even one lapse in armorer protocol or supervision can result in death. Live ammo on set is never acceptable.

2. The Crow (1993) — The Death of Brandon Lee

Actor Brandon Lee was shot and killed during filming with a prop gun.

A blank round was used in a revolver, but a bullet fragment had become lodged in the barrel from a previous dummy round.

When the blank was fired, it expelled the lodged projectile with deadly force.

The armorer and crew had not checked the barrel between uses, and safety protocols were not followed.

Lesson: Blanks are not safe at close range. Every firearm must be treated as capable of firing a projectile.

Final Takeaway: An Armorer Is a Lifesaver, Not Just a Crew Member

In the film industry, firearms are not props—they’re weapons, even when modified. When used improperly, they can cause permanent harm or death.

Having a trained, experienced, and well-equipped armorer on set is not optional—it’s the law, and it’s the standard that protects lives.

If you’re producing a film in California or New York, ensure:

– All permits are secured

– A qualified armorer is hired

– Your crew follows every safety protocol to the letter

Because one moment of negligence can turn a movie set into a crime scene.