The article in brief
The new gun laws in the United States and France bring significant changes for owners and professionals in the sector.
- Tighter controls More detailed checks for buyers aged 18 to 21 in the United States.
- Weapons Information System (SIA) in France: online account creation for holders.
- Private security Specific training required to carry weapons.
- Impact on hunting compulsory declaration of new acquisitions in the AIS.
- Weapons transport : legitimate reason required and specific transport conditions.
Ah, the new gun laws! Always a subject of debate, isn't it? As a gun shop owner, I have a front-row seat to observe legislative changes in this area. Let me explain the latest developments to you, so that you're up to speed with the new regulations.
Changes in gun legislation in the United States
You may not know it, but the United States experienced a real turning point in June 2022. A new arms law was signed, marking the biggest legislative breakthrough in this area for 30 years. I can still remember the excitement it caused in the industry!
Tighter controls and security
This American law does not pull any punches. It introduces new restrictions on weapons and devotes no less than 13 billion dollars to mental health and safety in schools. Quite a budget, don't you think?
But that's not all. Gun buyers between the ages of 18 and 21 are now subject to a more thorough criminal and psychological background check. It's a bit like asking them to take an exam before buying their first gun!
Prevention and control measures
The law goes even further by supporting provisions allowing weapons to be withdrawn from people deemed to be dangerous. A measure that I have to admit makes some of my customers cringe. It also introduces better controls on the illegal sale of weapons. Suffice to say that not everyone is happy about this!
New regulations in France
But let's talk about what's happening here in France. We've also had our fair share of changes. The most notable? The introduction of a new Weapons Information System (SIA).
The SIA: a digital tool for gun owners
This system is a bit like the health record for your firearms. It allows holders over the age of majority to create an online account, particularly those with a hunting licence or shooting licence. Practical, isn't it? Now you can do all your paperwork online and access your 'digital rack'. A real step forward, believe me!
Weapons classification
In France, weapons are classified into 4 categories: A, B, C and D. Each category has its own rules: A, B, C and D. Each category has its own rules. It's a bit like a colour code, but for weapons. Let's talk about category C, the one that often concerns hunters:
| Category | Types of weapons | Acquisition conditions |
|---|---|---|
| C | Hunting weapons (smooth-bore shotguns, rifles) | Hunting licence or sports shooting licence |
If you are interested in more powerful weapons, such as the FN Herstal FNX 45However, they generally belong to a different category and require specific authorisations.
Specific regulations for private security
Ah, private security! A field that has also seen its fair share of changes. Since 2017, new rules have governed the exercise of armed private security activities in France. I still remember the surprise of some of my clients working in this sector.
Training and carrying weapons in private security
If you thought you could become an armed security guard overnight, think again! Specific training is now required to carry weapons in this context. It's a bit like taking your driving test, but for weapons.
Here are the main requirements:
- In-depth initial training
- Regular training is compulsory
- Special authorisation to carry a weapon
These measures are designed to ensure the responsible and professional use of weapons in the private security sector. After all, security is no joke!
Impact of new laws on hunting practices
As a gunsmith, I work with a lot of hunters. And believe me, the new arms laws have had a significant impact on their hunting habits. But rest assured, this is not the end of hunting for all that!
Acquisition and possession of weapons for hunting
Hunters can still acquire category C weapons, such as smooth-bore shotguns or rifles. However, the rules governing their acquisition and possession have changed slightly. For example, it is now compulsory to declare any new acquisition of a weapon in the SIA. It's a bit like registering the birth of a new baby, but for your shotgun!
Transporting and carrying hunting weapons
The rules for transporting and carrying weapons for hunting have also been clarified. There must now be a legitimate reason for carrying a weapon, such as going to a hunting ground or shooting range. And, of course, the weapon must be transported in such a way that it cannot be used immediately. Gone are the days when you could walk around with your rifle slung over your shoulder like in a western film!
Ultimately, these new laws are designed to provide greater control over the possession and use of weapons, while preserving the rights of legitimate owners. It's a delicate balance, but one that's necessary to ensure everyone's safety.
Don't forget, if you have any questions about these new regulations, I'm here to guide you. After all, it's my job to help you navigate this complex world of weapons and legislation!
To learn more about this subject, I recommend that you consult the weapons wiki. These resources will give you a better understanding of technical terms and the fascinating history of weapons.