Each country in the European Union has its own rules regarding the purchase of pellet guns. To acquire a compressed air rifle in Belgium, what provisions must an individual comply with? To answer questions about purchasing shipping and transportation, we have reviewed Belgian legislation. Our experts answer all these questions simply and concisely Luftgevär.
Ludovic, our specialist in compressed air weapons, maintains a permanent legal watch. He updates this blog article after each development regarding the regulations on pellet rifles.
THE CLASSIFICATION OF COMPRESSED AIR WEAPONS IN BELGIAN LAW
Belgian legislation considers pellet rifles to be non-firearms. Indeed, the propulsion of a projectile does not result from the combustion of powder or a primer. Based on this principle, the legislator classifies air rifles in the category of free-fire weapons.
The official texts do not mention any power limit. Consequently, Belgian citizens can access the most powerful pellet rifles on the market .
The purchase of such a weapon requires the presentation of proof of identity. The gunsmith’s duty is to control the purchaser’s majority.
TRANSPORTING AN AIR RIFLE IN BELGIUM
The texts governing weapons for free sale also provide rules to follow for transport. As a reminder, carrying a pellet rifle always remains subject to a legitimate reason.
Transporting an air gun between home and the shooting range remains possible. This type of weapon does not fall within the scope of the royal decree of July 13, 2000 relating to shooting ranges for firearms. Transporting an air rifle between home and a private domain therefore remains possible. Provided of course that security and public order are respected.
Transporting the pellet rifle must respect a certain number of rules. These are provided for by the circular relating to the application of weapons legislation. During transport, a pellet gun must not be loaded. In addition, the owner of the rifle must not be able to seize it immediately. We recommend transporting the pellet rifle in a soft sheath or a rigid padlocked case.
STORAGE OF PELLET GUNS
Keeping an air rifle at home does not require any formalities. The regulations in force do not provide for any precise measures. However, you should follow some safety rules when storing a compressed air pump at home.
For storage, choose a secure location so as to make access out of the reach of children or thieves. Likewise, when storing, make sure that the weapon is no longer supplied with ammunition. Finally, consider equipping it with a trigger guard lock so as to make its immediate use impossible.