Tasmania Police Detective Inspector Kim Steven said 29-year-old Timmothy Matthew Gardiner died from a single gunshot wound to the chest after an unstable homemade firearm had suddenly discharged.

"As a result of investigations carried out including interviewing a number of witnesses and gathering and analysing evidence from the scene, we are satisfied that Tim's death was a tragic accident," Detective Inspector Steven said.

"Police have been able to determine that Tim was in possession of a small homemade firearm at a residence nearby the unit where he was located at the time of his death. Police have spoken to three other men who were present when the incident occurred.

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"Police believe Tim was handling the homemade firearm when it suddenly discharged, firing into his chest. Tim then made his way to his mother's nearby residence, where he died a short time later."

Police were called to the residence at Blyth Street, Ravenswood about 7.50am on Saturday. Mr Gardiner had died on the lounge room floor in his mother's arms.

Detective Inspector Steven said it was a tragic accident, and that their thoughts were with Mr Gardiner's friends and family at this difficult time.

Police wished to thank members of the public who came forward with information about Mr Gardiner's death. They also reminded the community that homemade firearms were not only illegal, but extremely dangerous.

Tasmania has a permanent firearms amnesty, where unwanted, unregistered, or illegal firearms can be handed to police without penalty.