What is the legality of guns and firearms in Durango, Mexico?
In Mexico, the right to bear arms is recognized and regulated by the Federal Constitution. However, the acquisition and possession of firearms are strictly controlled by the Federal Law of Firearms and Explosives. In Durango, a state in Mexico, the same federal laws apply. Individuals are allowed to possess firearms for self-defense, sport shooting, or hunting, but they must meet specific requirements and obtain the necessary permits.
How can one obtain a firearm license in Durango?
Obtaining a firearm license in Durango requires following a series of steps, which include:
- Being a Mexican citizen or legal resident
- Being at least 18 years old
- Having a clean criminal record
- Passing a psychological evaluation
- Providing proof of a legitimate reason for owning a firearm (e.g., self-defense, sport shooting, hunting)
- Completing a firearms safety course
- Submitting an application to the Ministry of National Defense (SEDENA)
- Paying the corresponding fees
Once these requirements are met, and the application is approved, the individual can legally purchase and possess firearms in Durango.
What are the laws and penalties surrounding firearms in Durango?
As in the rest of Mexico, there are strict laws and penalties related to firearms in Durango. Some of these include:
- Illegal possession of a firearm: 3 to 7 years in prison
- Carrying a firearm without a permit: 2 to 5 years in prison
- Illegal sale or transfer of a firearm: 5 to 15 years in prison
- Using a firearm to commit a crime: Additional penalties, depending on the severity of the offense
What is the public opinion on guns/firearms in Durango, Mexico?
Public opinion on firearms in Durango, as in the rest of Mexico, is varied. While some people support the right to bear arms for self-defense and other lawful purposes, others are concerned about the potential for increased gun violence and the influence of organized crime. Additionally, many citizens feel that the government should focus on improving public safety and addressing the root causes of crime, rather than simply tightening gun control measures.
What kind of guns can be found in Durango, Mexico?
In Durango, as in the rest of Mexico, only certain types of firearms are allowed for civilian ownership. These include:
- Bolt-action, lever-action, and semi-automatic rifles with a caliber of .30 or lower
- Shotguns with a barrel length of at least 25 inches
- Handguns with a caliber of .380 or lower
Firearms with higher calibers, as well as fully automatic weapons, are restricted to military and law enforcement use.
What are the rules regarding air rifles and airsoft guns in Durango, Mexico?
In Mexico, air rifles and airsoft guns are considered non-lethal weapons and are not subject to the same regulations as firearms. However, they must still be used responsibly and with caution. It is illegal to brandish or use an air rifle or airsoft gun in a manner that could cause fear or harm to others. Violators may face fines or even criminal charges.
What is the firearm ownership per capita and other gun statistics in Durango?
Exact figures on firearm ownership per capita in Durango are difficult to obtain, as many guns in Mexico are owned illegally or are not registered. However, according to a 2017 report from the University of Sydney, there were approximately 15.5 firearms per 100 people in Mexico. It is worth noting that the situation in Durango may differ from the national average due to factors such as local crime rates and cultural attitudes toward guns.
For more information on firearms laws and regulations in Durango and Mexico as a whole, consult the following resources:
- Federal Law of Firearms and Explosives (in Spanish)
- Ministry of National Defense (SEDENA) (in Spanish)
- GunPolicy.org – Provides an overview of gun laws and statistics in Mexico