Air pistols and rifles are often perceived as frivolous weapons, as there’s a common misconception that purchasing them doesn’t require a permit. However, in practice, things are not so clear-cut. In Ukraine, the circulation of such weapons is partially regulated by law, and in some cases, they are considered equivalent to firearms, with all the corresponding requirements. Therefore, before purchasing airguns, it’s important to understand when a permit is required and when it isn’t. Ignoring these rules can lead to fines and other legal consequences.
In this article, we’ll examine whether a permit is required for airguns and how they are classified in Ukraine. We’ll also examine the rules for their storage, transportation, and use.
Ukrainian legislation, specifically Order No. 622 of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine, classifies airguns according to two technical parameters: caliber and muzzle velocity. They are conventionally divided into two main categories. The first includes low-power models with a caliber of up to 4.5 mm and a muzzle velocity of up to 100 m/s. The second category includes airguns with a caliber over 4.5 mm and a muzzle velocity of over 100 m/s.
Ukrainian legislation clearly defines the line separating airguns that do not require a permit from those subject to state control. This is the so-called 4.5 mm caliber and 100 m/s muzzle velocity rule.
Airguns that can be purchased without a permit are exclusively those with a caliber of up to 4.5 mm and a muzzle velocity of up to 100 m/s. In this case, it can be freely purchased (after reaching the age of majority), as well as stored and carried without paperwork at National Police stations.
Ukrainian law clearly defines the technical parameters that, if exceeded, require pneumatic weapons to be registered with the Ministry of Internal Affairs. These criteria are enshrined in regulations and are mandatory.
First of all, this applies to calibers over 4.5 mm (muzzle energy over 7.5 J). Such weapons are no longer considered low-power and fall under the category of controlled weapons. The second parameter is a muzzle velocity of over 100 m/s. If this figure is exceeded, the airgun is considered potentially more dangerous and requires a permit.
It’s important to note that if even one of these parameters exceeds the established limits (for example, a larger caliber or higher bullet velocity), the weapon automatically moves into the controlled category.
If you plan to purchase an airgun with a caliber greater than 4.5 mm and a projectile velocity greater than 100 m/s, you must complete the full permitting process. This consists of several sequential stages, each of which is mandatory.
The first step is completing a firearms safety training course. The course is conducted at certified shooting ranges or training centers under the guidance of instructors. During the training, you will gain basic theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Upon completion of the course, you will receive an official certificate confirming your completion of the training.
Next, you must undergo a medical examination and receive a certificate in the form 127/o. This certificate is issued by a public or private medical institution and contains the reports of a psychiatrist and a drug addiction specialist. Without this certificate, you cannot apply for a permit.
After this, you can begin applying for a permit to purchase an airgun with a caliber greater than 4.5 mm and a muzzle velocity greater than 100 m/s. To do this, you must contact the National Police department at your place of residence and submit a package of documents, which includes:
The police will review the submitted documents within one calendar month. If approved, an extract from the Unified Weapons Register is issued, granting the right to purchase the weapon. This document is valid for a limited period of three months.
After purchasing an airgun with a caliber greater than 4.5 mm and a muzzle velocity greater than 100 m/s, it must be registered and a permit to possess and carry the weapon must be obtained. To do this, the following documents must be submitted to the National Police department:
Following the review of the application, a permit is issued to store and carry pneumatic weapons with a caliber greater than 4.5 mm and a muzzle velocity of over 100 m/s. It is valid for 3 years, after which it must be renewed.
In Ukraine, the rules for storing and transporting airguns in a vehicle depend on their technical characteristics. These primarily concern the caliber and muzzle velocity.
If an airgun does not exceed the legally established limits (caliber up to 4.5 mm and muzzle velocity up to 100 m/s), simplified requirements apply to its transportation:
The use of a cover or case for transporting such airguns is optional. However, we still recommend using such accessories to avoid damage and to avoid attracting unnecessary attention.
If the caliber of an airgun exceeds 4.5 mm and the bullet velocity is 100 m/s, it is considered a firearm. Therefore, its storage and transportation are regulated by Order No. 622 of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine. In this case, the following requirements must be met:
The optimal location for transporting airguns with a caliber greater than 4.5 mm and a projectile velocity greater than 100 m/s is the trunk of a car, where the weapon is physically separated from the driver and passengers. It is advisable to additionally secure the case or holster to prevent it from shifting during movement.
Remember that violating the rules for storing and transporting pneumatic weapons with a caliber greater than 4.5 mm and a muzzle velocity of over 100 m/s is considered a violation of firearms storage and transportation regulations and entails administrative liability (a fine of 7 to 20 non-taxable minimum incomes) with possible confiscation of the weapon.
The question of the rules for carrying airguns in Ukraine is of interest to many who plan to purchase one, especially for self-defense. It is important to understand that in our country, airguns with a caliber of up to 4.5 mm and a muzzle velocity of up to 100 m/s are not formally classified as firearms. This means they can be freely purchased, stored, and carried without a permit. However, this does not mean that such weapons can be used for self-defense without restrictions. Its use can have legal consequences, especially if it results in injury or property damage.
To avoid problems, follow these basic rules:
If we’re talking about powerful airguns with a caliber greater than 4.5 mm and a muzzle velocity exceeding 100 m/s, carrying them without the appropriate documents is a direct violation of the law.
Use of airguns of any caliber in Ukraine Shooting is permitted only in areas where it is safe for others and does not disturb public order. The best option is specially equipped shooting ranges, complexes, and firing ranges. Such areas provide controlled conditions, have the appropriate infrastructure, and comply with all safety requirements.
Shooting airguns of any caliber is prohibited on private property and in public places. Using them in courtyards, parks, on streets, or even on private property is considered an administrative offense, punishable by a fine and confiscation of the weapon. The use of airguns in public places is permitted only for the protection of life, health, or property.
In Ukraine, citizens aged 18 and over have the right to purchase airguns. This rule applies to both low-power and high-power models, but the purchasing process differs significantly.
Airguns with a caliber of up to 4.5 mm and a muzzle velocity of up to 100 m/s are classified as freely circulating. Such weapons can be purchased without a special permit. To purchase one, simply present a Ukrainian passport or international passport.
Airguns that exceed at least one of the above parameters (caliber over 4.5 mm or muzzle velocity over 100 m/s) are considered high-powered and are considered firearms. Purchasing such weapons requires the appropriate permit, which must be obtained from the National Police.
It is also important to know that airguns of any caliber are sold exclusively through specialized stores licensed by the Ministry of Internal Affairs. This is important for several reasons:
Every citizen of Ukraine who has reached the age of 18 has the right to purchase an airgun of any caliber for sports, training, or other legal purposes. In the case of high-powered airguns, this right is exercised only after obtaining the appropriate permit. In this case, along with the right comes responsibility.
Illegal handling of weapons in Ukraine includes any actions that violate the requirements established by Order of the Ministry of Internal Affairs No. 622. This is subject to administrative or criminal liability, depending on the nature of the actions and their consequences.
Administrative liability occurs in the following cases:
Such offenses are subject to fines (usually between 7 and 20 non-taxable minimum incomes), confiscation of the weapon with compensation for its value, or confiscation.
Criminal liability occurs in more serious cases. These include:
In such cases, the punishment is significantly harsher—from fines and community service to restriction or imprisonment.
It is important to understand that pneumatic weapons, even low-power ones, are not toys. Misuse can lead not only to administrative or criminal liability, but also to actual damage to property or the health of others. Therefore, responsible handling of any caliber of firearm is a prerequisite for its legal ownership.
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