The article in brief
France's new weapons law brings major changes for enthusiasts and professionals in the sector.
- Simplified categories reduction from 8 to 4 categories (A, B, C, D)
- Weapons Information System (WIS) : digitisation of procedures
- Increase in quotas for recreational shooters
- Reinforcement of penalties for carrying weapons without legitimate reason
- Adjustment period until January 2025 to achieve compliance
Hi friends! Today, we're going to be talking about a subject that's very close to my heart: the new weapons law in France. As a passionate gunsmith, I'm in the front row to explain the changes that will shake up our little world. So fasten your seatbelts, we're taking off!
The new weapons categories: simplification or headache?
Well, the government has decided to turn our little classification system upside down. Gone are the days of juggling 8 categories, now we're down to 4! A, B, C and D, how simple is that? Well, on paper...
Category A: the forbidden holy grail
Category A is a bit like the Fort Knox safe: forbidden with a few exceptions. I'd say you won't be seeing any in my shop any time soon! Unless you're a secret agent on a mission... But shhh, I didn't say anything!
Category B: authorisation, your key to success
For category B weapons, you will have to show your credentials. Proper authorisation will be required. It's a bit like getting a driving licence for your gun. Don't panic, I'm here to guide you through the administrative maze!
Categories C and D: between declaration and freedom
Category C requires a simple declaration. As for category D, it's total freedom! Well, almost. Just don't take a Swiss Army knife out into the street for no reason - you could be in for a surprise...
The weapons information system: welcome to the future!
Hold on tight, because the new arms law brings us fully into the digital age. The Firearms Information System (SIA) is the big brother that will know everything about your little toys. No more tedious paperwork at the prefecture - everything will be done online!
An SIA account: your new best friend
Just imagine: a personal account where all your weapons are listed. Practical, isn't it? No more digging through your papers to find the declaration for your favourite shotgun. It's all there, just a click away!
Simplified procedures... in theory
The SIA promises the best: faster, simpler procedures. But between you and me, I remain a little sceptical. You know me, I've always preferred human contact to a cold web interface. But we'll adapt, as always!
Gunsmith training: a new obstacle course
Behave yourselves, future colleagues! To become a gunsmith, you're going to have to go through the "prior authorisation" process. It's a bit like being asked for permission to learn to drive before taking your driving test. But don't worry, if you're motivated, anything's possible!
Are higher quotas good news?
Ah, let's talk about the good news! Sport shooters are going to be happy: the weapons quota has been increased from 12 to 15, and the ammunition quota from 2,000 to 3,000. It's Christmas before time! But don't get too carried away...
| Category | Old quota | New quota |
|---|---|---|
| Weapons | 12 | 15 |
| Ammunition | 2000 | 3000 |
These new quotas come with a few subtleties. For example, carcasses and lower parts of cylinder heads are now counted. It's a bit like counting your car's engine as a vehicle in its own right. Logical, isn't it?
And for shooting clubs, it's the same story: new quotas, but also new responsibilities. We're going to have to be rigorous in our stock management, my friends!
Speaking of precision, if you want to improve your technique, I highly recommend this article on the adjusting the front and rear sight: tips for precise aiming. It might come in handy with your new acquisitions!
Changes that will spice up our daily lives
La new arms law doesn't stop there, oh no! It brings a whole host of little surprises that will keep us on the edge of our seats until 2025. Here's a sneak preview:
- Some black powder ammunition has been upgraded to a higher category. It's a bit like your morning coffee suddenly becoming a triple espresso!
- The rules governing the trade and manufacture of weapons are changing. Suffice to say, it's going to be a sporty one for us gunsmiths!
- Bladed weapons have been given a more precise definition. Gone are the days when a kitchen knife could be mistaken for a medieval dagger!
But wait, that's not all! Criminal penalties have been stepped up. From now on, carrying or transporting a category D weapon without a legitimate reason could cost you dearly: 1 year in prison and a €15,000 fine. So you'd better think twice before carrying your favourite opinel!
And for private security enthusiasts, brace yourselves: the framework for armed private security activities is being tightened. Compulsory specific training, regular training... It's a bit like asking James Bond to re-take his driving test every year!
Speaking of mythical weapons, if you want to find out more about a French classic, take a look at this article on the PA MAS G1: everything you need to know. That's a little piece of French armaments history!
Time to adapt: don't delay!
As you can see, these changes will not happen overnight. The government is giving us until January 2025 to comply. It may seem a long way off, but believe me, it's going to happen faster than you think!
My friendly advice? Don't delay in getting up to speed. Come and see me at the shop and we'll take stock of your situation together. After all, it's my job to guide you through this maze of legislation!
And don't forget, the law changes, but the passion remains. Whether you're a marksman, a hunter or just a collector, the most important thing is to practise your passion within the law and in complete safety. That's the spirit of the true gun enthusiast!
With that, I'll leave you to digest all this information. Don't hesitate to come back to me if you have any questions. After all, we'll get through this period of change together. See you soon in my shop!
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