Weapons; General Information

Weapons, such as firearms, certain knives, swords, defensive sprays, etc., are classified into various categories under the Weapons Act. Handling them—including acquisition, possession, carrying, firing, transportation, transfer, manufacture, handling, trade, and modification, etc.—is either unrestricted, subject to an age requirement, subject to a permit, or generally prohibited. The acquisition and possession of ammunition are regulated in a similar manner. If you have any questions, please contact your district administrative authority (district office or independent city).

As a general rule, only individuals who have reached the age of 18 are permitted to handle firearms or ammunition. Exceptions apply, for example, when shooting at authorized shooting ranges under supervision. For the purchase and possession of large-caliber firearms, the minimum age for sport shooters is generally 21 years. To purchase large-caliber firearms, individuals between the ages of 18 and 25 must also submit a medical-psychological evaluation of their personal suitability. Hunters are exempt from this requirement. If you wish to handle firearms or ammunition, you will in most cases need a firearms permit from your district administrative authority. This permit is issued upon application, for example, in the form of a firearms ownership card, a firearms license, a shooting permit, a manufacturing and trading permit, etc. The requirements for obtaining these permits generally include being trustworthy and physically fit, being able to demonstrate a credible need, possessing the necessary expertise, and, in some cases, having appropriate liability insurance.

You are generally considered trustworthy if you have behaved lawfully up to this point. A demonstrated need may exist primarily for sport shooters, hunters, firearm collectors, and individuals who can prove they are at significant risk. The required expertise can be acquired through state agencies, private institutions (e.g., sports clubs), or through hunter training.

If you own firearms or ammunition, you must ensure that these items are stored safely. This is to prevent firearms or ammunition from being lost or from being taken without authorization by third parties, particularly children and adolescents.

For more information, please refer to the relevant service description (see “Related Topics”). 

Like other government permits, firearms permits are subject to fees. You can inquire about the specific fees at the relevant district administrative authority (district office or independent city) or view them in the corresponding service description (see “Related Topics”).