The Lowdown
Yo, Poland’s gun game is leveling up. By the end of 2024, there were 930,121 registered firearms and 367,411 active permits. That’s a massive jump from 2018’s 215,602 permits.
Who’s Packing?
Hunters: 140,113 folks with 398,571 guns.
Sports shooters: 84,638 people holding 229,308 firearms.
Collectors: 93,708 individuals owning 247,744 pieces.
Personal protection: 43,819 permits with 39,280 guns.
Notably, permits for personal and property protection saw over a 100% increase in 2024.
How to get a license?
It is not a difficult task for someone to get a gun permit. The permit is issued by the provincial head of the Police. To get a gun permit you must show the reason for receiving it, be at least 21 years of age, be physically and mentally healthy, not addicted to alcohol, drugs or medicines and not pose a threat to yourself and the environment.
You have to bring a certificate from an authorized physician and psychologist, the rest will be checked by the police. The whole procedure may take several months. The weapon must be stored in a proper safe or armored safe, and cannot legally be carried with you. Of course, you can carry your weapon when going to a shooting range for example but it must be unloaded! Get caught with it shopping in Biedronka and you could be in trouble!
Remember also that hunters need to be a member of a shooting club for one year and sports shooters the same at shooting clubs. Collectors need to also be members of collectors’ associations. Oh, and there’s also an exam you need to pass.
