The article in brief
Discover powerful weapons without a licence: pellet rifles and crossbows. Here are the key points to remember:
- Pellet rifles up to 19.9 joules in free sale for adults (category D)
- Crossbows : powerful and silentalso available over the counter (category D)
- Safety is paramount recommended training and compliance with local regulations
- Responsible use these weapons are not toysmastery and prudence are essential
Ah, my friends! Here you are in my den, ready to discover the secrets of the most powerful weapons without a licence. As a gun shop owner, I can tell you that this is a subject that makes the eyes of many enthusiasts shine. So fasten your seatbelts, we're going to take a look at the legal options available to you!
Pellet rifles: power and legality
Let's start with the main course: pellet rifles. These little marvels are often the first choice when you're looking for a powerful weapon without getting bogged down in paperwork. And believe me, I've seen customers parade past with stars in their eyes in front of these beauties!
The 19.9 joule limit
Here's the crux of the matter: the 19.9 joule limit. This is the dividing line between total freedom and the world of licences and declarations. Pellet rifles up to 19.9 joules are freely available to adults, without any formalities. This is known as category D, the comfort zone for occasional shooters.
But be careful, as soon as you break the 20 joule barrier, you change dimension! You switch to category C, and then, my friends, you need a hunting licence or a shooting licence. I've seen more than one customer turn round on hearing that!
Performance and scope
Make no mistake about it, a 19.9 joule rifle is serious business. With it, you can aim accurately up to 30-50 metres depending on the model. That's more than enough for target shooting or small game. And between you and me, the difference with a 20 joule is so minimal that even the pros sometimes get it wrong.
Here's a comparison table to give you an idea:
| Power (joules) | Effective range (metres) | Category |
|---|---|---|
| 6,5 – 19,9 | 20 – 50 | D (over the counter) |
| 20 – 50+ | 50 – 100+ | C (declaration) |
Gauges and silencers
In France, we mainly find 4.5 mm and 5.5 mm. The 4.5 mm is more or less the standard, but the 5.5 mm is gaining ground. And for those who like discretion, there are silent models. I once had a customer who said to me: "It's perfect for not disturbing the neighbours when I'm training in my garden! We had a good laugh, but I still reminded him of the safety rules.
The crossbow: silent power
Ah, the crossbow! Now there's a weapon with some charm. And do you know what else? It's also freely available to adults, in category D like our friends the pellet rifle. It's the perfect option for those who want to combine power and silence.
Impressive speed
When I talk to my customers about crossbows, I often see their eyes widen when I tell them the figures. Just imagine: some hunting models can propel an arrow at nearly 395 km/h! That's almost as fast as Desert Eagle 50 AEa pistol legendary for its power.
Here is a short list of the advantages of the crossbow:
- Silent
- Details
- Powerful
- No permit required
- Reusable (unlike ammunition)
A hunter's choice
Crossbows are particularly popular with hunters. It offers an interesting alternative to firearms, especially in areas where noise can be a problem. I even had a customer tell me that he managed to shoot a wild boar with his crossbow! Of course, it takes practice and composure, but it just goes to show how powerful these things can be.
Responsibility and safety: the pillars of shooting
Before concluding, let me talk a little about responsibility. Whether it's a pellet rifle or a crossbow, these weapons are not toys. I always stress to my customers the importance of safety and compliance with the law.
The legal framework
In France, the law is clear: although these weapons are freely available, their use is regulated. You can't carry them just anywhere or use them just anywhere. I always advise my customers to find out about local regulations and to practise in suitable locations.
Training, the key to success
There's nothing like good training to master your weapon. Whether it's a pellet rifle or a crossbow, I always recommend taking a course or joining a club. Not only is it safer, but it also gives you the chance to meet other enthusiasts and exchange tips.
At the end of the day, the most powerful weapon without a licence will be the one you master best. Whether it's a 19.9 joule pellet rifle or a hunting crossbow, the most important thing is to practice responsibly and safely. And don't forget, if you have the slightest question, your favourite gunsmith (that's me!) is always there to advise you!
To find out more, I recommend that you consult the weapons wiki. Happy exploring and happy shooting!
