The article in brief
Weapons categories in France have been governed by a complex system since 2013. Here are the key points to remember:
- 4 categories A (prohibited), B (authorisation), C (declaration), D (free)
- Le Weapons Information System (SIA) centralises the management
- From specific rules apply to transport and sales
- Weapons classification evolves regularly
Hi friends! Today we're going to be talking about a subject that's fascinated me ever since I opened my gun shop: the 4 categories of weapons. Believe me, it's a fascinating field, full of subtleties. So fasten your seatbelts, we're diving right in!
Weapons categories: a well-oiled system
You're probably wondering why we need to classify weapons. Well, it's simple: it allows us to regulate their acquisition and possession. In France, since 2013, a system has been in place with 4 categories of weapons. It's like a colour code, but for guns!
Category A: prohibited weapons
Let's start with the big one: category A. It's a bit like the VIP gun club, but in a "no public access" version. There are two sub-categories:
- A1 : Firearms and their components
- A2 : War material
These babies are off-limits to ordinary mortals. Only a few people with special authorisation can access them. It's a bit like having the keys to the safe at Fort Knox!
Category B: weapons subject to authorisation
Then there's category B. This is like a driving licence for weapons. Do you want a handgun or certain long guns? You'll have to ask the prefect nicely. And believe me, it's not enough to say "please"! Authorisation is valid for 5 years, and sports shooters have a maximum quota of 12 weapons. That's not bad enough for a small personal museum!
Category C: weapons to be declared
Category C is a little cooler. You can buy certain long guns, but don't think it's open bar! You still have to make a declaration. It's like telling your parents that you've brought home a pet. Only this time it's a bit more serious!
Weapons to suit all tastes
Now that we've seen the most regulated categories, let's move on to the last. It's a bit of an all-you-can-eat weapons buffet!
Category D: weapons on the loose
It's party time for category D! Unrestricted acquisition and possession of historical, bladed or neutralised weapons. It's a bit like being told "Go ahead, help yourself". But that doesn't mean you can do anything with them. Responsibility is the key!
The rules of the game
Do you think that's all? No, it's not! There are a whole host of little rules to be aware of. For example, if you want to travel with your toys in the European Union, you'll need a European firearms pass. It's like a passport for your guns!
And since 2018, if you want to sell a gun to your neighbour, you'll have to go through a professional. It's as if I were the official arms broker. It makes me laugh!
The Weapons Information System (WIS)
Oh, and I almost forgot! We now have a super computer system to manage all this: the SIA. It's like a adjusting the rise and handlebarsbut in digital form. It centralises everything and makes life easier for gun owners. That is, when it works!
Here is a summary table to help you find your way around:
| Category | Status | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| A | Prohibited except with special authorisation | Weapons of war |
| B | Subject to authorisation | Handguns, certain long guns |
| C | Subject to declaration | Certain long guns |
| D | Free acquisition and ownership | Historic weapons, white, neutralised |
The changing weapons landscape
The world of weapons is like fashion: it evolves! Recently, there have been some interesting changes. For example, pump-action shotguns have been upgraded to category B. It's as if your favourite toy had suddenly moved up to the big leagues!
And hold on to your hats, neutralised weapons are now in category C. It's a bit like saying to a toothless tiger: "Come on, you're a bit dangerous, we're going to keep a close eye on you!
I remember one customer who came to me in a panic because he thought his Skorpion was going to change category. I had to explain to him that no, this little gem was staying right where it was. We had a good laugh!
Finally, don't forget that if you have any questions, there are always professionals like me to help you. And if you want to find out more, I recommend you take a look at weapons wiki. Because in this field, knowledge is power!
