The laws and policies of firearms (collectively referred to as firearms or weapon control regulations) regulate the manufacture, sale, transfer, possession, modification and use of small arms by civilians. Many countries have a strict firearm policy, while some have permissive policies. The only countries with permissive weapons laws are: Albania, Austria, Chad, Republic of Congo, Honduras, Micronesia, Namibia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Senegal, Tanzania, United States, Yemen and Zambia, although some other countries such as Canada and the Czech Republic, although theoretically limiting, are the countries that must be published. Countries with strong weapons culture can give civilians the right to defend and carry weapons, and have a liberal weapons law than neighboring jurisdictions. Countries governing access to firearms will usually limit access to certain firearms categories and then limit the category of people who can be licensed for access to such firearms. There may be separate licenses for hunting, sports shooting ( alias target shooting), hidden self-defense, collection, and carry, with different requirements, permissions, and responsibilities.
The law of weapons is often enforced with the aim of reducing the use of small arms in criminal activity, determining which weapons are considered capable of inflicting the greatest damage and the easiest to hide (such as pistols and other short-barrel weapons). People who are restricted from access to law against firearms may include persons under a certain age or have criminal records. Firearms licenses may be denied to those who feel most at risk of hurting themselves or others, such as those with a history of domestic violence, alcoholism or substance abuse, mental illness, depression or attempted suicide. Those applying for a firearms license may have to demonstrate competence by completing a weapon security course and indicating provisions for a safe location to store weapons.
Legal weapons are considered permissive in countries where the authorities will grant a firearm license that will be the basis for ordinary citizens who meet the legal requirements. Legal weapons are restrictive when licenses are granted on a publishable basis, at the discretion of the regulating authority, often requiring the applicant to indicate the reason why they need firearms. The law of weapons is considered strict when it is difficult or impossible for ordinary citizens to obtain firearms through legal means.
The laws that restrict small arms can also limit other weapons, such as explosives, crossbows, swords, electric shock weapons, air rifles, and pepper sprays. It can also limit the accessory of firearms, especially high-capacity magazines and sound suppressors. There may be restrictions on the number or type of ammunition purchased, with certain types prohibited. Due to the global coverage of this article, detailed coverage can not be provided for all of these; the article will instead try to summarize briefly the laws of each country's weapons in terms of small arms use and ownership by civilians.
Video Overview of gun laws by nation
Afrika
The Bamako Declaration on the General Position of Africa on the Proliferation, Distribution and Trade of Weapons and Light Weapons was adopted in Bamako, Mali, on 1 December 2000 by representatives of the 51 member states of the Organization of African Unity (OAU). The provisions of this declaration recommend that the signatories shall procure the possession of light and light weapons illegally as criminal acts in accordance with national law in their respective countries.
Kenya
The law of weapons in Kenya is defined in the Arms Act (Cap 114) of Kenyan Law. Chief Licensing Officer (CLO) has the authority to grant, deny, or revoke a firearms license. Applicants must be 21 years of age or older, passing a rigorous background check for criminal activity, mental health and domestic violence, and the country's original reason (s) for their needs personally owning and carrying firearms. Checks are regularly repeated, with failure to pass resulting in immediate retraction of the license. After being licensed to own a weapon, no additional permission is required to carry a concealed firearm.
South Africa
In South Africa, the Firearms Control Act 60 (enacted in 2000) regulates possession of firearms by civilians. Ownership of firearms depends on the competency test and several other factors, including the applicant's background check, the examination of the applicant's premises, and, since July 2004, the granting of weapons by the police. There are several different firearms licenses, allowing different types of weapons for different purposes. Guns and carrying public goods are legal under all types of licenses without additional permission.
The only forbidden forbidden weapons are exploding firearms and automatic firearms, and firearms that have been modified with drill or barrel length without permission.
Maps Overview of gun laws by nation
America
ArgentinaFirearms in Argentina are restricted, and are governed by ANMaC (Agencia Nacional de Materiales Controlados) since late October 2015 when the agency replaced RENAR (Registro Nacional de Armas de la Republica Argentina), both branches of the Department of Justice and Human Rights.. To own firearms in Argentina, one must be a legitimate user. Applicants must be: 21 years of age or older, provide a medical certificate stating they are physically and mentally healthy, complete safety courses, provide a valid income, live and pass a background check. A successful applicant is a fingerprint and issues a license that must be renewed every five years. Someone may not legally fire firearms in Argentina if they are not legitimate users, even if the gun belongs to someone else. Once legitimate users want to buy firearms, they must provide a safe location to store firearms (s), and provide acceptable reasons for wanting firearms - such as collecting, targeting, hunting, business, or defending at home.
Firearms must be purchased through licensed dealers and registered with ANMaC. If firearms are inherited, a re-registration form must be submitted. There is no limit to the number of firearms they have as long as they are stored properly. Sales of ammunition are recorded but not limited.
Carrying licenses for licensed handgun owners are very difficult to obtain, and require appearing before the ANMaC board to make their case. Bringing Permits are renewed annually to re-examine their "clear and existing" hazards, and the permits are usually revoked immediately if these dangers are removed. Those who deal with money or valuables or in personal security may be granted a business license.
A handgun over.32 is a conditional use; automatic pistol is completely banned for civilians. A bolt-gun rifle above.22 Long rifles and semi-automatic rifles above.22 Long Rifles with irreversible magazines are used conditionally; full automatic rifle and semi-automatic rifle at the top. 22 Rifle Length with removable magazine is prohibited. Semi-automatic rifles and rifles with barrels between 380 and 600 mm (15 and 24 inches) in length are conditional use; Full automatic rifles and rifles with barrels below 380 mm (15 inches) are forbidden.
Brazil
All firearms in Brazil must be registered. The minimum age for ownership is 25 years, and a certificate of talent and mental health is required before the acquisition of firearms and every three years thereafter. Generally illegal to carry firearms outside the dwelling. Executive Order No. Ã, 5.123, from 1 July 2004 allows the Federal Police to confiscate firearms that are not owned for legitimate reasons; self-defense is not considered a valid argument.
The total number of firearms in Brazil is estimated at between 14 million and 17 million with an estimated 9 million unregistered. In a 2005 referendum, Brazilians opposed the government's proposal to ban total arms sales to civilians.
Canada
Canadian firearms law is stated in the Firearms Act. Ownership and acquisition licenses (PALs) are distributed by the RCMP (federal police) and require firearm training and passing tests, background checks, and reference interviews. PAL allows the purchase of the most popular sports and rifle guns. A Restricted-PAL (RPAL) has an additional course for limited weapons, which increases storage requirements. The two main reasons for possessing firearms are target shooting and hunting. Bringing firearms for self-defense against human threats is prohibited, but "permission to bring wilderness" can be obtained for protection against wild animals.
There are authorization requirements for transportation (ATT) for forbidden and illicit weapons, which must be registered. Non-citizens can obtain non-resident firearms declarations from customs officers, for temporary authorization of 60 days to carry firearms that are not banned to Canada.
In Canada, firearms fall into one of three categories:
- Unlimited: Long arms with an overall length greater than 26 inches (660 mm) and semi-automatic with lars longer than 18.5 inches (470 mm). It can be owned with ordinary PAL, and is the only class of firearms that can be used for hunting.
- Restricted: This includes a gun with a barrel length greater than 4.1 inches (105 mm), and a long weapon that does not meet the length requirements for unrestricted but not forbidden. This weapon requires ATT, so it can only be removed in the range.
- Prohibited: These weapons are generally not owned by civilians, and include full automatic weapons and many military weapons, and guns with barrel lengths equal to or shorter than 4.1 inches (105 mm), and they are silent to 0.25 and. 32 cartridges. Usually, the only way to have this is to be a grandfather in or through an inheritance. Most magazines for semi-automatic long weapons capable of holding more than 5 cartridges of fire centers or 10 bullets for pistols are prohibited.
Chile
In Chile, article 92 of the Constitution states possession of weapons as a privilege granted in accordance with special laws. Firearms arranged by police. The possession of civilian weapons is permitted by law but is not advised by the authorities, with regular press releases and campaigns denouncing the dangers of personal firearms.
The firearms permission issued by the police requires the applicant to be 18 years old, to provide a mental health certificate issued by a psychiatrist, to have a clean criminal record without domestic abuse, and to pass a written test on the safety and knowledge of firearms. Final approval is in the hands of the district police commander, who can refuse permission in a "justified case" not specified in a letter of law. There are five types of permissions:
- The defense permit allows ownership of 2 firearms that must remain at the stated address.
- Hire permits require hunting licenses, and allow up to 6 firearms.
- Sports permissions require membership in a registered weapons club, and allow up to 6 firearms. It is possible for those under 18 to get this permission.
- The collection permit allows unlimited firearms to be owned, but does not allow holders to have ammunition. Collectors should have special security measures reviewed by the police.
Each has a limit on the type of firearms, and allows for permits issued by the police to purchase a certain amount of appropriate ammunition from a particular gun store. Transportation permission is required to take firearms from the permit holder's residence to a particular shoot or hunting ground, and is valid for two years. The firearms transported must be lowered and not attached to the body.
The self-defense permit enables carrying firearms for protection against certain human threats. Such permission is valid for one year, but since the police commander can refuse the application without mentioning the reason, they are very rarely issued. Automatic firearms are forbidden for civilian use.
Honduras
The law of arms in Honduras is stated in the Law on the Control of Arms, Ammunition, Explosives and Other Related Materials in 2000. In April 2002, the National Arms Registry was established, requiring all citizens to register their firearms with the Department of Defense.
In 2003, the suspension of certain assault rifles was passed, restricting citizens from having military-style rifles such as AK-47 and M-16. In 2007, an additional decision suspended the right to openly carry firearms in public, and limit the number of firearms held per person.
Jamaica
The law of arms in Jamaica is expressed in the Law of Arms and is governed by the Firearms License Authority. Applicants must pass a police background check and complete the certification process to obtain firearm licenses for rifles, pistols and rifles. Rifles and rifles for hunting or sport-shooting purposes are easier to obtain than pistols. Automatic weapons are completely outlawed. The gun is limited to.45 caliber for a revolver or 10 mm for a pistol. Ammunition purchases are limited to 250 rounds per year for rifles and 50 for pistols, with applications for additional ammunition generally given during the hunting season. Safe gun is required to store all firearms and ammunition. Once licensed, no additional permission is required to carry firearms open or hidden, unless carrying a firearm is temporarily prohibited under section 22 of the Act.
Mexico
Under the Mexican Constitution, citizens and legal residents have the right to possess weapons, but can only carry them according to police regulations. Applicants must have clear criminal records and proven income and residence (ie: can not be homeless). New firearms purchased through the Department of Defense. Prohibited weapons include: large-caliber pistols; a rifle with barrels shorter than 25 inches (640 mm) or larger than 12 gauge; and fully automatic rifles or large caliber. A pistol is allowed for house defense. For hunting and shooting sports, up to nine long rifles and one pistol are allowed, requiring membership in hunting or firing clubs. Collectors may be authorized to have additional and forbidden weapons. The carry license may be issued to those employed by private security companies, or those who may be the target of the crime.
Panama
Obtaining firearms in Panama requires a Certificate of Ownership of Firearms, which requires lengthy background checks and training. The minimum age to own a firearm is 18 years. Separate permits that allow carrying hidden firearms, with all the same requirements, are available for those aged 21 and over. Several types of firearms and ammunition, such as automatic firearms, long weapons whose barrel has been shortened, or a piercing armor circle, are forbidden even for licensed gun owners.
United States
In the United States, weapons laws are found in a number of federal laws, imposed by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). The right to defend and bear arms is protected by the Second Amendment to the Constitution, and most state constitutions also guarantee this right. There are some differences across the country because federal and state laws apply to possession and possession of firearms.
People are generally prohibited from buying firearms if:
- they have been convicted of serious crimes, or other crimes that could be sentenced to more than one year in prison, or under indictment for it
- they are fugitive from court
- they have been convicted of a violent crime of domestic violence
- they are unlawful, or addictive, users of all substances that are illegally controlled
- they have been convicted mentally disabled
- they have been fired from the Armed Forces in a disrespectful condition
- they have removed their US citizenship
Carrying weapons, either openly or closed, is governed by the state, and this law has changed rapidly over the past decade. By 2016, most countries have licensed to carry pistols on issues that must be expended for qualified applicants. Some states issue a permit issuing to the discretion of the issuing authority (called probable-problems), while eleven states allow unauthorized carrying of firearms (called Constitutional carry). Twenty-six countries make it possible to carry handguns without a temporary permit, in general, twenty states require permission to do so and four states plus Washington D.C prohibit the use of open handguns. There are legal challenges to carrying out hidden laws, with different rulings for their constitutional validity.
Asia
People's Republic of China (PRC)
The possession of weapons in the People's Republic of China (PRC) is strictly regulated by law. Generally, citizens are not allowed to own weapons. The possession of civilian weapons is largely confined to legal entities, non-individuals, including sports organizations, official hunting reserves, and wildlife protection, management and research organizations. The main exception to the general ban on individual firearms is for the purpose of hunting. Illegal possession or the sale of firearms may result in a minimum sentence of 3 years in prison, and penalties for arms trade including life imprisonment.
Hong Kong and Macau
In Hong Kong and Macau, gun ownership is strictly controlled and ownership is primarily in the hands of law enforcement, military, and private security companies (providing protection for jewelry and banks). Under Article 13 of the 238 Arms Capture and Ammunition Law of Hong Kong law, a license is required for unlimited firearms and ammunition. Licenses may be issued after a rigorous process to examine criminal records or a history of mental illness. License holders can store other firearms at home in locked boxes, but ammunition should be stored in different places. Only fully automatic arms are prohibited; found in unlicensed holdings may be fined HKD $ 100,000 and face up to 14 years' imprisonment.
East Timor
Under Timorese law, only military and police forces may own, carry and use firearms.
In late June 2008, Prime Minister Xanana GusmÃÆ'Â o o introduced a proposed arms law to Parliament for "urgent debate", pushing back the scheduled budget discussion. The new law, which will allow civilians to have weapons, sparked a fierce debate in East Timor's parliament. The United Nations, which has peacekeepers deployed in the country, also expressed concern over the new law.
India
Weapons in India are strictly regulated by law. The Arms Act, 1959 and Arms Rules 1962 prohibit the sale, manufacture, possession, acquisition, import, export, and transportation of firearms and ammunition except under license, which is difficult to obtain. The Government of India has a monopoly on the production and sale of firearms, with the exception of a few light burden rifles, whose limited quantities can be produced and imported. The Arms Act classifies firearms into two categories: Banned (PB) and Non-Forbidden Bore (NPB), where all semi-automatic and fully automatic firearms fall under the Bore Forbidden category. The Arms Act of 1962 is added to the PB category of firearms that can move and burn.303, 7.62 mm,.410,.380,.455,.45 rimless, or 9 mm caliber ammunition. The smooth-bore weapon has a barrel shorter than 20 in (510 mm) also determined as a PB weapon.
Licenses for the acquisition and possession of firearms PB and NPB can be provided by state or district judges before 1987. From that year, the issuance of the PB firearm license was the responsibility of the central government. License is valid for three years and can be extended. The sale of firearms requires both parties to have permission.
The criteria considered during the NPB firearms permit problem is whether applicants face threats to their lives. The PB firearms criterion is more stringent, often for people in government positions facing immediate danger or threat, those whose jobs involve open threats and dangers, and family members of these people. The PB license becomes more regulated by 2014, when other eligible people are often denied on the grounds of national security. Exceptions were made for defense officers who were allowed to keep firearms without a license under Defense Service rules, and some professional shooters.
The most common household firearm is a 12 barrel double barrel rifle (known as DBBL 12 Bore). Other common firearms are 0.315 bolt-action rifles (magazine capacity of 5 cartridges) and 0.32 revolver (6 cartridge capacity).
Indonesia
Indonesia generally has strict weapons laws. Licensing is usually only issued to civilians employed in professions involving firearms such as military and law enforcement, with the exception of politicians and businessmen.
Applicants must be at least 21 years of age to obtain a firearm license, and undergo a thoroughly comprehensive background check and mental evaluation. They should also state the real reason for owning firearms, which include hunting, target shooting, gathering, security, and self-defense. All firearms must be registered. The pistol license is valid for five years and can be renewed.
The civilian population can not have military weapons, but may have a long shotgun. The gun can only be used for sports shooting and hunting. But in 2012, claimed that the police have issued permits to ordinary citizens.
Israel
The law of weapons in Israel is comprehensive even though soldiers are allowed to carry their service weapons or are not in charge. Civilians must obtain a firearm license to obtain, possess, sell or transfer firearms and ammunition legally.
Only a small group of people are eligible for firearms licenses: retired certain military personnel, police officers or turnkey; residents of settlements (in the West Bank and Golan Heights) or those who often work in such cities; and licensed hunters and animal control officers. Age requirements vary: 20 or 21 for those who complete military service or equivalent civil service, 27 on the contrary, and 45 for non-citizens. The applicant's firearm license must be a resident of Israel for at least three consecutive years, passing a background check (criminal, health, and mental history), establishing original reasons for possession of firearms (such as self-defense, hunting, or sports), and graduation weapons training course. Approximately 40% of applications for firearms licenses are denied.
Those who hold a firearm license must update it and pass the shooting course every three years, and undergo a psychological assessment at least once every six years. Security officers must pass this test to renew their permission to carry firearms belonging to their employers. Applicants must show that they have a safe place in their residence to store firearms. Permits are only granted for personal use, and holders for self-defense purposes may only have one gun and buy an annual supply of 50 cartridges (although more can be bought to replace bullets used at range range).
In addition to the personal license of firearms, organizations may issue licenses to members or employees for activities related to the organization (eg security firms, shooting clubs, other workplaces). Members of officially recognized shooting clubs (eg: practical shooting, Olympic shooting) qualify for a private license that allows them to have additional firearms (small rifles, handguns, air rifles and air pistols) and ammunition after demonstrating the need and meeting the time minimum membership and activity requirements. Unlicensed individuals wishing to engage in practice shooting are permitted to use supervised hands at range range.
Most individuals who have a license to own a gun can carry them publicly, hidden or openly.
In 2005, there were 237,000 civilians and 154,000 security officers were given permission to carry firearms. Another 34,000 Israelis have weapons illegally due to their failure to renew their firearms license. In 2007, an estimated 500,000 small licensed weapons were held by civilians, in addition to 1,757,500 by the military, and 26,040 by the police.
Japanese
Japanese weapons law begins by stating "No one will have firearms or firearms or swords or swords", and very few exceptions are allowed. Residents were allowed to have firearms for hunting and firing, but only after proposing lengthy licensing procedures. After ten years of possession of the rifle, licensees may apply to obtain a rifle.
Kuwait
Kuwait has strict firearms laws. Firearms may be licensed to citizens (or foreigners recommended by the Minister of the Interior) who are at least 25 years old and fully capable of handling weapons, without criminal records, which are not suspects or under police supervision, and who have a source of income. Hunting guns are the most commonly licensed weapons. Rifles for.22 rifles are also common, with hunting rifles and sniper rifles more difficult to obtain. The gun is only allowed for VIP. Automatic rifles and machine guns are not legally permitted for civil ownership.
Lebanon
In the Republic of Lebanon, possession of firearms in addition to pistols, hunting weapons and antiques is illegal and only the last two are allowed to leave their home owners, making Lebanon one of the most controlled countries of weapons in the Middle East. Ignoring this law, however, is prevalent. Lebanon does not officially grant the right to bear arms, but this is a strongly held cultural belief in the country. Firearms licenses are granted to certain individuals, but these tests are not open to the public and require special needs to be demonstrated.
Arms control is largely unsuccessful in Lebanon because of its historic weapons culture, lack of control or effective central government authority over many parts of the country, and the frenzied nature of the area. Although the cannons were once the leading in the region, but they have all ceased since the mid-1930s, but remain legal with permission. Lebanon has become one of the largest arms markets in the Middle East.
Lebanon is ranked 58th in the world for personal per capita firearms.
Malaysia
Malaysia has strict weapons laws. The Arms Act (1960) requires Malaysians to have a license for the manufacture, import, export, repair, or possession of firearms. A firearm license may only be granted by the Chief of Police of a country. Removing firearms in crimes such as extortion, robbery, fighting arrest and house rupture are punishable by death penalty. Flaunting firearms for one of the scheduled offenses (without usage) carries a life sentence and whipping sentence of not less than six strokes. Ownership of unlawful firearms carries a penalty of up to fourteen years in prison and a whip. While the general public can not obtain weapons through legal means, the black market for weapons does exist.
North Korea
In 2009, North Korea enacted a new law that strictly regulated firearms.
Pakistan
Pakistan has a permissive firearm law compared to other countries in South Asia, and has the sixth highest number of personal weapons in the world. The law regulates carrying weapons in public in most urban areas. Personal weapons are prohibited in educational institutions, hostels, dormitories and lodging houses, exhibitions, meetings or processions of political, religious, ceremonial, or sectarian characters, and in legal courts or public offices. The law in Pakistan does not specify that weapons licenses should be rejected or revoked, and permit ownership of a number of weapons including pistols of various sizes and fully automatic weapons. The culture of weapons is very strong among the Pakistanis and an important part of rural life in the North-West region where it is not uncommon to see people legally carrying RPGs and assault rifles.
Philippines
The Philippines generally has strict weapons laws, although it is liberal compared to other Asia-Pacific countries due to its active weapons culture. The control of Philippine arms became famous in 1972 during the presidency of Ferdinand Marcos which imposed a ban on almost all civilian rifles. The current weapons laws in the Philippines are outlined from Republic of 10591 Act, signed in 2013. To own firearms, citizens must obtain a License of Ownership. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age and have no history of criminal activity or domestic violence. The licensee may carry a pistol in a public place with the purchase of License to Bring (PTC), which is provided on a possible basis. Applicants must demonstrate the need for a PTC, such as the impending threat of danger; PTC is usually given to lawyers, accountants, media practitioners, cashiers, bank tellers, priests, ministers, rabbis, priests, doctors, nurses, or engineers.
Most Filipinos have firearms for self-protection and target shooting, which require licensing. Despite strict laws, the culture of weapons is very strong in the Philippines, partly due to the influence of American culture.
Singapore
Singaporean citizens must obtain a license to possess firearms or ammunition legally; applicants must provide justification for licensing, such as target shooting or self-defense. The target shooting license allows possession of a weapon, provided it is safely stored within an approved and protected range of fire, and is not taken from the range of fire without special permission. Self-defense permits are rarely granted, unless one can justify a 'direct threat to life that can not be eliminated fairly'. There is no limit on the kind of small weapons a person owns after obtaining a license.
South Korea
South Korea has a strict gun policy. Hunting and sports licenses are issued, but any firearms used in these circumstances should be kept at the local police station. Air rifles should also be stored at the police station; cross crosses and electric shock devices are also classified as firearms but their personal retention is permitted. Tasers are forbidden, and having a toy gun without an orange tip is strictly prohibited. Violations of firearms laws may result in a fine of US $ 18,000 and up to 10 years in prison.
The majority of South Korean men are trained well in the use of firearms, due to conscription. Nevertheless, the weapons culture is primarily absent in South Korean society outside the military, and weapons and death rankings are among the lowest in the world.
Taiwan
The possession of weapons in Taiwan is forbidden to ordinary citizens. Currently there are more than 5,000 owners of official personal pistols, of which 1,000 are used for self defense and 4,000 are used for hunting by native Taiwanese. The gun owners in Taiwan are required to receive routine inspections every two years as well as random checks by the police.
Thai
Thai firearms licenses are granted only for self-defense, property protection, hunting, or sports use. Licenses may not be granted to anyone who is a recurrent or mentally unstable offender. Since October 2017 citizenship is required to purchase and use firearms. Someone is also not allowed to carry their weapons without additional permission to bring hidden. Even for Thai citizens are allowed to have firearms, expensive firearms. Firearms and explosive equipment are completely automatically banned.
Turkish
Turkey is restrictive in terms of weapons control laws. Automatic and semi-automatic firearms "are forbidden for civil ownership (without or limited exceptions)", and for any application, "the applicant may be required to produce a medical certificate stating that he or she is capable of handling firearms and that he or she has no obstacles psychological - or physical - ". Background checks are mandatory, and "original reasons" are required to issue licenses.
The civilian population must also apply through the police for permission to carry a gun or license carrying a rifle (the latter also requiring a hunting license). They must have special reasons before the app, and the license is expensive. Special professions such as police, military personnel, judges, public prosecutors, and senior politicians have their own life permit from the government, and can apply for free licenses for handguns and rifles.
Vietnamese
Firearms in Vietnam are limited to law enforcement and military alone, with gun ownership banned for ordinary civilians. The main exception to this is for hunting and sports purposes that require the user to undergo a mandatory background check to obtain a firearms license.
Europe
Bosnia-Herzegovina
The Bosnian-Herzegovina federation has relatively liberal weapons laws compared to other European countries. The weapons are governed by Weapons and Ammunition Law. People over 21 can apply for permission. Those with a history of criminal activity, mental illness, alcohol or drug abuse will be denied permission. There is also a thorough background check, interviewing neighbors and family, and the applicant must complete the course and pass a multiple choice exam. The police had the last word on the matter, with a possible appeal to a police captain. Firearms should be kept in a "safe place" in the residence, and may be confiscated by the police if the owner is found irresponsible. Hidden carry allowed with permission. Pepper sprays can be brought by women if registered with the police.
Georgia
In Georgia, civilians over 18 can get firearms permission from the Ministry of Interior, allowing them to buy and store firearms for hunting and sports (pump-action guns, hunting rifles, carbines, combined combined firearms), self-defense (pistols, air rifles, sprays, electric tranquilizers) or collections. Permission denied for mentally ill people, drug addicts, alcoholics, and those with criminal records.
Iceland
In Iceland, a license is required to own or own a firearm. National government safety courses must be passed before applying for a license. Special licenses are required to have a gun, which can only be used for target shooting in a licensed range. Semi-automatic firearms have caliber restrictions, while fully automatic firearms are only allowed for collectors.
Norwegian
Firearms in Norway are governed by the Arms Arms Act, with a new secondary law enacted on 1 July 2009 providing more detailed regulations. Firearms licenses for rifles or rifles may be issued by police to "drunk and responsible persons" aged 18 years or over, with a clean police record, documenting the need for the weapon. It may need to get a hunting license or a shoot sports license first. For pistols, the minimum age of ownership is 21. Firearms or their vital components should be kept safely in the dwelling, and police may conduct inspections after 48 hours of notification.
Russian
Russian citizens over the age of 18 may obtain firearms licenses after attending weapon safety classes and passing federal tests and background checks. This license is for five years and can be renewed. Firearms can be obtained for self-defense, hunting, or sports activities. Bring permits can be issued to hunt firearms that are permitted for hunting purposes. Initially, purchases were limited to long banned firearms and pneumatic guns with a muzzle energy of up to 25 joules (18Ã, ft? Lbf). After five years of possession of a rifle, a rifle can be purchased. Pistols are generally not allowed. Rifles and rifles with barrel less than 500 mm (20 inches) are forbidden, as well as firearms firing in bursts and having a capacity of more than 10 bullets. Suppressors are prohibited. An individual can not have more than ten weapons (up to five rifles and up to five rifles) unless they are part of a registered weapons collection.
Serbian
Serbia has arms laws and ranks second in per capita weapons with a strong weapon culture, especially in rural areas, with about one million weapons in the circulation of the law. The weapons are governed by Weapons and Ammunition Laws ( Zakon ouuu Jui municiji ).
Persons over 18 can have firearms with permission, which are denied to those with a history of crime, mental disorder, or a history of alcohol or substance abuse. There is a thorough background check with the police who have the final decision. Firearms should be kept in "safe places", and may be confiscated by the police if the owner is found irresponsible.
Rifles, rifles, and pistols can be owned with the appropriate permits, although the license for the gun is very tight. Having permission to own a firearm does not by itself allow the carrier to carry firearms anywhere outside the home, regardless of whether it is hidden or not hidden. Hidden concealment licenses for pistols need to prove an imminent threat, with police making a final decision. Therefore, having a concealed carry license in Serbia is very rare. There is no limit on the number of firearms owned, although every weapon transaction is recorded by the police. There is no limitation on rifle caliber (smaller than.50 MBG, however). Firearms and fully automatic suppressors are forbidden to civilians. People over 18 can buy and carry electric guns and electric sedatives without the necessary permits. People over the age of 16 can carry OC sprays. There is no limit on the number of rounds that can be purchased. Ammunition can be purchased only for the caliber where the firearm owned is a cubicle. Reload is only allowed for those who have passed the exam in handling explosives. Old firearms (produced before 1900), historically significant firearms, and black powder firearms can be purchased without any permission.
Serbia has its own weapons and ammunition industry. Zastava Arms, Prvi Partizan and Crew? Ik export internationally.
Switzerland
Pistol ownership in Switzerland is relatively high compared to most European countries (Swiss household level containing at least one firearm is estimated at 24.45% by 2016 from GunPolicy.org , - lower than Germany, France , and Austria - though including firearms issued by militia). Switzerland has a universal military service for military service. A recent referendum in 2011 on calls for forcing military weapons to be stored at military sites was defeated. Weapons can be voluntarily stored in a local arsenal and there is no longer any obligation to store weapons at home.
"The Federal Law on Arms, Weapons and Ammunition" (WG, LArm) from Switzerland June 20, 1997 has a purpose (Article 1) to combat the use of their faulty weapons, accessories, spare parts and ammunition. It arranges the acquisition of weapons, their introduction to the territory of Switzerland, exports, storage, ownership, carrying, transportation, and brokers. It regulates the manufacture and trade of weapons, and seeks to prevent the mistake of carrying ammunition and harmful objects. Article 3 states that "The right to acquire, possess and carry weapons is guaranteed in this legal framework".
Ukraine
Ukraine is the only European country without firearms laws; regulation is by No. Orders 622 Ministry of Home Affairs. Firearms licenses may be issued to citizens who meet age requirements (21 for rifles, 18 for hunting rifles, and 25 for rifles), have no criminal record or history of domestic violence or mental illness and have specific reasons such as targeting, hunting or gathering. Pistols of 0.22, 9 mm, 357 magnum and.38 caliber are only allowed to shoot targets and those who can prove threats to their lives (which are also usually given concealed concealment permissions). All firearms must be kept secure.
European Union
European Directive No. 91/477/EC sets minimum standards relating to civilian acquisitions and possession of firearms that EU member states should apply to their national legal system. Member States are free to adopt tougher rules, which lead to differences in the degree of legal access to firearms among EU countries. Austria
In Austria, firearms are registered by an authorized dealer or thief within 6 weeks of purchase by a citizen aged 18 or over, after completing a background check. Break-action and repeat shotgun shotgun and break-action can be purchased without any restrictions. Semi-automatic rifles and rifles (non-pump action) require firearm licenses or carry-on licenses, and should be kept safely. All-automatic weapons, some military-style semi-automatic rifles, action-pump rifles, and rifles with barrels shorter than 45 cm (18 inches) or 90 cm (35 inches) in total are limited, with rare licenses being issued.
Antique weapons made before 1871 do not require a license or registration. Ammunition sales are generally unrestricted, though permits are required for handgun ammunition and some rifle ammunition.
Cyprus
The Republic of Cyprus has strict weapons control. Private citizens are strictly forbidden to have pistols and rifles of any caliber, including 0.22 rimfire. Unlimited rifles for two rounds are allowed under license, issued by the provincial police. Rifles must be for the purpose of hunting, and licensed citizens can have up to ten rifles, usually double-barreled. Firearm licenses are required to purchase ammunition, up to 250 shells per purchase, with sales recorded. Cyprus also controls the air rifle, and the owner of the air rifle requires a license.
Czech Republic
The Czech Republic is unusual because most gun owners (240,000 of 300,000) have their weapons for self-defense purposes. In addition, the Czech Republic has a hidden carry-issue permit system, in which each self-defense license holder can carry up to two hidden firearms ready for immediate self-defense. This gave the Czech Republic a higher rate of per capita secret weapons than the US (in 2010) even though weapons possession rates were much lower.
A weapon license can be obtained by passing weapons capability tests, medical examinations and having a clean criminal record. Although the level of general arms possession remains relatively low, the ability to own and carry firearms in general is fundamental freedom. This is illustrated by the Czech Republic's historical experience of the prohibition of firearms under the Nazi and Communist dictatorships.
Crime with legally owned firearms is rare, with 45 incidents recorded by 2016, 17 of them "dangerous" (compared to a total of more than 800,000 legally-owned weapons). The law of weapons is not a problem until the EU Directive (see above), leading to a proposal to secure the weapons of Czech citizens through the adoption of a constitutional amendment that would make firearms the property of the state as a matter of national security, thus taking it outside the scope of EU law. However, this provision is not approved by the Senate of the Czech Parliament, and therefore not become law, because constitutional law must be approved by the senate to pass.
Denmark
Civilians in Denmark aged 16 and above can obtain weapons licenses for hunting or firing. This requires passing a multiple-choice written test and a practical test, after which a certified hunting instructor instructs determine whether suitors are suitable for possession of weapons. Licenses are usually granted if the applicant has no or little value on their criminal record.
Hunting licenses allow over-the-counter purchases and unlimited number of gun holdings up to 12 gauge and 2-round capacity. From there, the police should be informed about the purchase of your new weapon through the online form. Bolt-action rifles can also be bought freely, even though they require a rifle license purchased through the police. The allowable caliber ranges from as small as possible, all the way up to.50 BMG, with.50 BMG not included. A semi-automatic rifle is permitted if the rifle is limited to 2 rounds (hunting in Denmark), or without limitation on capacity (hunting outside Denmark). Currently, only larger caliber (.308, 6.5x55,.300wm etc.) are issued as semi-automatic rifles to hunt abroad..223/5.56x45 and similar caliber rifles are generally not approved. Hunters must pass a shotgun test or rifle before being allowed to hunt.
For sport shooting purposes, guns can be used too, such as a bolt-action rifle almost all caliber (.50bmg as one of the exceptions). Sports rifles are often booth at 22lr and 6.5 x 55mm. A semi-automatic rifle is not allowed for sport shooting.
Pistol: After two years of active membership in a shooting club, one can apply for a pistol clearance which is then subject to background checks and approval by the police, and a person must be 20 years of age. Approved caliber: All caliber under 9mm (9x19, 38 Spl, 357 magnum,.32acp etc.), plus a larger caliber number;.40sw, 45 ACP, 44 Spl. Maximum number of pistols is 6 in 22 cal. When applying for weapon number 3 it requires special permission from the justice department. The big caliber rifle, larger than 22 cal, is limited to a maximum of 2 in the same caliber. Means one can only at a certain time have 2 pistols in 9 mm. However, at the same time it is legal to have 2 additional handguns in 9 mm, if they are revolver. For all pistols, regardless of caliber, the overall length should be at least 210 millimeters (8.2677 inches), measured without orthopedic clutches and lifting parts.
A weapon license for sporting purposes (both long and short firearms) should be renewed every 5 years. The gun permit for a hunting rifle must be updated every 10 years. Rifles are not on individual permissions, and holders are allowed to have this as long as they have a valid hunting license - and they can save it up to 10 years after the hunting license expires - but they are not allowed to store ammunition without a valid license.
Bringing firearms in public is strictly prohibited, however, proportional self-defense is allowed. This means, that if a person is attacked with a firearm, they are legally allowed to defend themselves proportionally - for example, with their own firearms.
Automatic weapons are completely prohibited for civilian use, unless a special permit is issued by the Ministry of Justice. These licenses are extremely rare, and are usually only granted to persons or companies that work for, or supply the Police or the Military.
Illegal possession of firearms may be sentenced to at least one year in prison. Civilians may hold private possessions, including pistols, revolvers, rifles, and rifles in their homes. This and ammunition should be stored in an approved weapon cabinet (EN1143-1 grade 0 or better). Police can check firearms fired from the club in their sole discretion, but require a court order to check firearms held privately.
Finnish
Ownership and use of firearms in Finland is governed by the State Arms Act of 1998. Weapons are individually licensed by local police, without limitation on the number of licenses a person may own. License is granted for recreational use, exhibition or (in certain circumstances) professional use. No weapon types are explicitly prohibited, but licenses are only granted for a reason. In general, this does not include all but the hunting and sports weapons of non-professional use. All-automatic weapons are generally not allowed. With the exception of law enforcement, only specially trained security guards can carry weapons loaded to the public.
In November 2007, Finland updated their weapons laws to comply with EU directives by abolishing the ability of children aged 15 to 18 to have their own permission, but the possibility to have a double license for weapons that have been licensed under license of permanent license that age group. In 2011, a constitutional law committee concluded that people over the age of 20 could receive permission for semi-automatic pistols; individuals must show sustained activity in pistol sport for two years before they can have a license to have their own gun.
French
In France, hunting licenses or sport shooting permits are required to purchase firearms. As of September 2015, firearms are divided into four categories that define the rules that apply to their property and use. C category Firearms can be obtained by hunting license or affiliation with range of fire, and medical certificates. The category B firearms also need to complete at least three shooting sessions with an instructor.
One can not have more than 12 central weapons, and can not have more than 10 magazines and 1,000 rounds of ammunition per firearm. A one-year carry license can be issued to people "exposed to extraordinary risks to their lives" that allow for carrying a gun and a maximum of 50 rounds. Such authorizations are very rare, because the state will provide police protection. Since November 2015, police were allowed to carry their firearms while they were off duty.
German
The possession of weapons in Germany is restrictive, governed by the Federal Weapons Act (Germany: Waffengesetz) of 1972. This law applies to weapons with fire energy exceeding 7.5 joules (5.5Ã, ft? Lbf). Firearms licenses may be granted to persons over 18 who have no criminal or mental defects, who are considered reliable and may prove the need to own firearms. A separate license is required for each firearm owned. The target shooter must be a member of the shooting club with 18 visits recorded in the previous 12 months. A license to carry a firearm is a second-tier license that allows to be carried away in public, and is reserved only to those with special needs.
Some special weapons and ammunition are strictly prohibited, such as automatic firearms. Buying, owning, lending, using, carrying, making, converting and trading these weapons is illegal and can be punished up to five years in prison, seizure of arms and fines of up to EUR10,000. Using illegal weapons for any crime can be punished with 1 to 10 years in prison.
The German National Rifle Registry, introduced at the end of 2012, counts 5.5 million law firearms legally owned by 1.4 million people.
Greek
Greece has tight weapons control. Rifle (limited to 3-round capacity), guns and pistols are allowed, and this requires licenses issued by the provincial police. To buy pistols and rifles, citizens must have a carrying permit or a target shooting license (for rifles). Semi-automatic rifles are prohibited. Hunters can have up to 10 rifles and sports shooters can have up to 7 weapons, and no license-checks or records are kept for ammunition purchases for rifles but target shooters can only have 500 rounds per weapon.
Hungarian
The law of weapons in Hungary is relatively strict, regulated by Code 24/2004, governmental decree 253/2004. (VIII 31.) and the direction of the Minister of Home Affairs 49/2004. The law applies to weapons with fire energy exceeding 7.5 joules (5.5Ã, ft? Lbf). Firearms licenses may be granted to persons over 18 who have no criminal or mental defects, who are considered reliable and may prove the need to own firearms. Police takeovers, through theoretical, mental and psychological tests and strong Justification such as membership in hunting clubs or rifles are required to have semi-automatic rifles, hunting rifles, rifles or pistols. Automatic rifles are prohibited.
In 2010, there were 129,000 registered gun owners (1.3% of the population) in Hungary with 235,000 firearms. Most of them hunt guns, and guns for self-defense. Armed violence is very rare in Hungary; Police use deadly weapons less than 10 times a year, on average.
ireland
The law of weapons in Ireland is very strict, requiring all firearms to be licensed individually through GardaÃÆ' (police). Applicants must be 16 years of age and have strong grounds for ownership, safe location for storing firearms, evidence of competence with firearms or arrangements to achieve this, providing access to medical records and two character references, and caution and temperate habits medium. Applicants convicted for certain offenses determined will be denied firearms certificates. Personal protection is not a valid reason for ownership.
Irish firearms law is based on the 1925 Arms Act, which was amended by the following acts in 1964, 1968, 1971, 1990, 1998 and 2000. The cumulative effects of this modification, together with modifications in other acts and confusion over the amendments applied , resulted in the recommendation of the Irish Law Reform Commission in 2006 that all remaining legislation should be restated (written in one document with all previous Story revoked). However, the 2006 Criminal Justice Act, contains a rewrite of almost 80% of the Arms Law. Quickly followed by amendments in 2007 and further amendments in 2009, exacerbated the legislative chaos. In 2014, the recommendations of the Law Reform Commission have not been fully implemented; The Arms Act consists of the early 1925 Act amended by about twenty Acts which are separate and well understood by only a handful of people directly involved in the preparation, amendment or use of them. Extensive complaints have emerged over the application of the law, with several hundred cases of judicial review won in the High Court and Supreme Court by firearms owners, all relating to licensing decisions that do not comply with the Arms Law.
Italy
In Italy, the police license issued national weapons to those aged over 18 without a criminal record, who did not suffer from mental illness or known as substance abusers, who could prove competence with firearm safety. The shooting sports license allows the transport of firearms that are not loaded and shoots them within specified range of fire. The hunting license allows the holder to engage in a hunt with a firearm. Hidden carry licenses allow a person to carry publicly loaded firearms, and require proving "legitimate reasons" to do so (for example: a security guard or a jewelry seller at risk of robbery). The number of firearms owned and owned by a person in their home is limited to three common pistols, six hand pistols or long weapons, unlimited long-range hunting weapons, and eight historic firearms (produced before 1890). This limit can be exceeded by collector license.
Private firearms must be registered with the local police department within 72 hours of acquisition. Ammunition purchases must also be registered, and ownership is usually limited to 200 rounds of handgun ammo and 1500 rounds of hunting ammo.
Dutch
In the Netherlands, gun ownership is limited to law enforcement, hunters, and target shooters (self-defense is not a valid reason to own firearms). Hunting licenses require passing a hunter safety course. To have a gun to shoot a target, the applicant must be a member of the club shoot for a year. People with crime, drug addiction, and mental illness may not have firearms.
Once obtained, firearms must be stored in a safe and annually inspected by the police. Firearms can only be used to defend themselves as a matter of "equal power". Automatic firearms are strictly prohibited, but there are some restrictions: semi-automatic, pistols, and magazines of all legal sizes, like all types of ammunition. A licensed gun owner may have only five firearms listed on his license at a time.
Polish
The possession of weapons in Poland is governed by Weapons and Munitions Act May 21, 1999, as amended further, requiring licenses to own and possess firearms. However, weapons laws are relaxed in 2011 and again in 2014. Also year to year the number of licenses granted grew. This, in general, removes the discretionary authority of the police to refuse licenses without explanation. The current law states that targeted shootings and gathering permits should be issued and self-defense may be issued.
To obtain a firearm license, the applicant must have no criminal record, conduct medical and psychological evaluations and pass the test according to their reasons for wanting firearms (held by police in self-defense, the Polish Sport Shooting Association for target shooting, or the Polish Hunting Association to hunt). Permission is issued indefinitely, although self-defense requires medical and psychological evaluation every 5 years.
Each permission determines the type and amount of weapons a holder can own. These values ​​vary greatly depending on the type of licensing and documented needs, but it is an established practice to receive about 5 slots for target shooting and hunting and 10 slots for collection. The target-shooting license requires the applicant to have a valid shooting competition license (by taking part in 2 to 4 ISSF-organized shooting competitions per year for each category of firearms dim
Source of the article : Wikipedia
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