From America to Sweden, Here Are 6 Countries That Legalized Firearms For Civilians

Illustration. (Photo: Pixabay)

YOGYAKARTA – Firearms are tools used to launch bullets or projectiles through the barrel toward the desired target, as a result of an ammunition explosion. From this understanding, it can be concluded that firearms are dangerous goods and should only be used by security authorities such as the TNI/Police because they can injure civilians.

Although classified as dangerous goods, several countries legalize firearms, of course with several requirements and rules. So, which country is it?

6 Countries That Legalized Firearms

Compiled by VOI from various sources, Tuesday, October 11, 2022, here are some countries that allow civilians to legally own firearms.

1. the United States of America

The United States has legalized guns since 1971. This policy has even been included in the constitution since the beginning of Uncle Sam's country.

In the United States, buying and owning a firearm is the right of every civilian. Some American states do not require history checks for their citizens to own a firearm. In fact, firearms can be purchased freely in some stores and advertised online.

Thanks to the legalization of firearms, the United States has become the country with an estimated number of firearms per capita of around 1.2. Although legal, some states still regulate the use of firearms so that they are not misused in public places, such as schools, shopping centers, and so on.

2. the Republic of Serbia

The second country to legalize firearms for its citizens is Serbia. Those who are 18 years of age and have a permit are allowed to own a firearm.

However, this does not apply to residents who have mental health disorders, have committed crimes, and have a record of using illegal goods and alcoholic beverages.

In Serbia, firearms must be placed in a special cabinet and will be confiscated if the owner commits the abuse.

3. Finland

A firearms license in Finland can be obtained by civilians as long as there is a clear reason.

Finland allows its citizens to own civilian weapons for hunting, firearms collection, shooting training, and job requirements.

4. Canada

Every Canadian who is 18 years of age and over is allowed to own a firearm.

However, before a firearms license is granted, the local government will conduct a criminal history and mental health check. Firearms licenses in Canada can be renewed every five years.

Illustration of a firearm (jasongillman/Pixabay).

Despite legalizing firearms, the Canadian government still imposes restrictions. For example, people who have firearms must keep them locked and without bullets.

5. Iceland

The Icelandic government will issue a firearms license to citizens aged 20 years and over, after conducting a criminal history check.

In addition to checking criminal records, Icelanders must also have a clear reason for obtaining a firearms license.

Iceland is ranked 15th as the country with the most firearms.

Despite legalizing firearms, Iceland has managed to suppress mass shootings. In 2009, there were only four deaths related to firearms.

6. Sweden

Sweden is a country where a third of the population owns a gun. Swedes who wish to own a firearm must meet several requirements, such as passing a written test, a shooting test, joining a gun club, and proving that they have never been convicted of drunk driving.

This is information about countries that legalize firearms.