What is the legality of guns and firearms in Portugal?
In Portugal, the ownership and use of guns and firearms are highly regulated by law. The Portuguese Weapons Act classifies firearms into different categories, which determine the level of restriction on their ownership and use. The main categories include:
- Category A – Prohibited weapons, such as fully automatic firearms and explosives.
- Category B – Restricted weapons, which require a special license for possession and use. This category includes handguns, semi-automatic rifles, and shotguns.
- Category C – Firearms that can be acquired and possessed with a standard firearms license. This includes bolt-action rifles and single-shot shotguns.
- Category D – Air rifles and airsoft guns with a muzzle energy below a certain threshold (1 joule).
How can one obtain a firearm license in Portugal?
Obtaining a firearm license in Portugal is a strict process that involves meeting several requirements and undergoing background checks. To apply for a firearm license, one must:
- Be at least 18 years old (21 years old for Category B firearms).
- Have a clean criminal record.
- Pass a psychological evaluation.
- Provide a valid reason for firearm ownership, such as hunting, sport shooting, or collection.
- Complete a firearms safety course and pass a written and practical exam.
Once these requirements are met, the applicant must submit the necessary documents and pay the relevant fees to the National Police (PSP) for processing.
What are the laws, penalties, and law enforcement practices regarding firearms in Portugal?
Portugal has strict laws and penalties for those who do not comply with the regulations surrounding firearms. Some of the main offenses and their respective penalties include:
- Illegal possession of a firearm: up to 5 years imprisonment.
- Carrying a concealed firearm without a permit: up to 4 years imprisonment.
- Illegal use of a firearm: up to 8 years imprisonment.
- Illegal arms trafficking: up to 15 years imprisonment.
Law enforcement agencies, such as the National Police (PSP) and the Republican National Guard (GNR), are responsible for enforcing firearm laws in Portugal. This includes conducting inspections and raids on suspected illegal arms dealers, as well as monitoring the sale and possession of firearms through a centralized database.
What is the public opinion on guns and firearms in Portugal?
Public opinion on guns and firearms in Portugal tends to lean towards strict regulation and control. According to a 2016 survey, 62% of Portuguese respondents were in favor of stricter gun control measures, while 30% believed that the existing laws were sufficient. This may be attributed to the relatively low levels of gun violence in the country and a general preference for non-violent conflict resolution.
Which guns are commonly found in Portugal?
Some of the most commonly found guns in Portugal include hunting rifles, shotguns, and pistols for sport shooting. Additionally, collectors may possess antique firearms and replicas, provided they are properly registered and meet the legal requirements.
What are the rules regarding air rifles and airsoft guns in Portugal?
Air rifles and airsoft guns with a muzzle energy below 1 joule are classified as Category D firearms in Portugal. They can be purchased and used without a license, but they must be registered with the National Police (PSP). Airsoft guns with a muzzle energy above 1 joule are subject to the same licensing requirements as firearms.
According to GunPolicy.org, there were approximately 1.3 million registered firearms in Portugal in 2017, with an estimated 22.1 firearms per 100 people. The same source reports that there were 142 gun-related deaths in 2016, with a rate of 1.37 deaths per 100,000 people. This is significantly lower than the global average of 7.6 gun-related deaths per 100,000 people.
The main government resources related to firearms in Portugal include the National Police (PSP) and the Republican National Guard (GNR), which are responsible for enforcing firearm laws and regulations. Additionally, the Diário da República (Official Gazette) publishes the laws and regulations governing firearms, including the Portuguese Weapons Act.