In Germany the number of people holding a “small firearms licence” is rising steadily.
By the close of 2025 the National Firearms Register recorded 906 141 licences – a new high.
At the end of 2021 the figure had been 740 038, an increase of a little more than 22 percent over five years.
The count has climbed each year: 781 186 at the end of 2022, 833 870 in 2023 and 871 838 by the end of 2024.
A holder of a small licence may carry stun‑guns, irritant and signalling weapons.
This privilege extends beyond one’s private dwelling, shop premises or owned land.
However, the weapon must be concealed; it may not be carried visibly, and carrying it at public events is prohibited.
The requirements for obtaining a licence are modest – any adult without a criminal record can apply.
According to the Federal Administrative Office, shooting outside licensed ranges, outside one’s home, shop or fenced property is forbidden, except in cases of self‑defence or emergencies.
Small licences are valid indefinitely.
