Is it possible to own a category B weapon for sport shooting ?

Sport shooting is a popular discipline in France, combining precision, self-control, and adherence to safety rules. However, access to category B firearms — mainly pistols, revolvers, and certain semi-automatic weapons — is strictly regulated. This article provides an overview of the legislation, the conditions to be met, and the procedure to follow in order to legally possess a category B weapon for sport shooting purposes.

1. Understanding the categories of weapons in France

In French law, the firearms are divided into several categories according to their danger level and use:

• Category A : prohibited weapons (automatic war weapons).

• Category B : weapons subject to authorization (pistols, revolvers, certain semi-automatic rifles…).

• Category C : weapons subject to declaration (bolt-action rifles, pump-action shotguns...).

• Category D : free weapons or subject to simple declaration (bladed weapons, low-power replicas…).

In practice, most handguns and "sporting" semi-automatic rifles fall under category B.

2. What is a category B weapon ?

Category B weapons notably include:

• Pistols and revolvers (various calibers, from .22 Long Rifle to larger calibers such as 9 mm Parabellum) ;

• Semi-automatic rifles short or long barrel with energy greater than 10,000 joules ;

• Certain shoulder weapons modified or equipped with a specific magazine.

These weapons are considered to pose a high risk if diverted from their sporting use. Hence the requirement for strict control at entry and throughout the duration of possession.

3. Prerequisites for Sport Shooting

Before even being eligible to possess a category B weapon, one must:

1. To be licensed in an accredited shooting club

   • Valid FFTir (French Shooting Federation) or FSP (Sport Shooting Federation) license.

   • Attendance: justification of a regular practice (at least 6 sessions during the past year).

2. Present a medical certificate

   • Issued by an accredited doctor, certifying the physical and psychological fitness to handle the weapon.

   • To be renewed every 3 years (or more frequently depending on the prefecture).

3. Attend a safety training course

   • Knowledge of safety rules, loading/unloading procedures, and storage.

   • Initial training often organized by the club or federation.

4. The prefectural authorization procedure

The possession of a category B weapon requires a prefectural authorization, including the request which consists of several parts:

• Cerfa form no. 12650*02 duly completed.

• Photocopy of the FFTir license or club certificate.

• Medical certificate of no contraindication.

• Proof of identity and of residence.

• Criminal record extract (bulletin no. 3).

• Secure storage plan : description of the safe or strongbox where the weapons will be stored.

⏳ Processing time : approximately 2 to 3 months.

Once the authorization is granted, it is generally valid 5 years, "renewable upon presenting the license and the updated medical certificate again."

5. Obligations and responsibilities of the holder

Owning a category B weapon involves a number of ongoing commitments:

Failure to comply with these rules may result in criminal penalties, including the confiscation of the weapon and a prison sentence.

6. Conclusion

The possession of a weapon Category B Practicing sport shooting is entirely possible, but it comes with strict regulations: license, medical certificate, prefectural authorization, and enhanced security obligations. These regulations aim to reconcile the passion for sport shooting with the need to prevent any misuse or accidental use of firearms.

"The practice of sport shooting is not just a matter of precision: it is also a commitment to rigor and safety."

By following these steps and adhering to the spirit of sportsmanship, any enthusiast can fully enjoy this discipline while ensuring everyone's safety.