Czech Republic Witnesses Unprecedented Surge in Gun Purchases

During the first half of this year, the Czech Republic has seen a remarkable upswing in the acquisition of firearms, with citizens purchasing more handguns and rifles compared to the entirety of the previous year.

Women are increasingly expressing interest in obtaining gun licenses. However, the prevailing trend leans towards acquiring firearms that do not necessitate a license. For instance, individuals are opting for gas pistols and Flaubert cartridge revolvers, resembling conventional handguns.

To purchase such a pistol or rifle used for self-defense and sport, an ID card is sufficient.

In the first six months of this year, nearly 12,500 firearms, which do not require a license for purchase, were officially recorded by the Interior Ministry. This figure surpasses the corresponding period from the previous year by 3,500 units.

These firearms fall under the C-I category. To lawfully purchase, possess, and transport them, one must be at least 18 years old, possess a Czech Republic residency, and maintain a clean record. Furthermore, the firearm must be registered with the relevant police department. Even those who have not undergone a medical examination can procure firearms for personal use.

The turmoil in Ukraine has also fueled a heightened interest in firearms licenses. Last year, the number of new license holders rose to 5,000, contributing to a total of 314,000 owners. Milena Bačkovska from the Interior Ministry’s Security Policy Department affirmed that a consistent influx of 1,000 to 2,500 new license holders occurs regularly, attributing this trend to the Ukrainian conflict.

“We clearly interpret this as a reaction to the war in Ukraine. People just want to be prepared,” Bačkovska said.

An emerging phenomenon is the growing number of women obtaining firearms licenses. In the initial half of this year, 1,592 new license holders were registered, of which 439 were women. Bačkovska highlighted this shift, stating, “It’s remarkable. Historically, around 10 percent of applicants were women, but this year they constitute a quarter of the total.”

Interest is also surging in category B firearms, including 9mm CZ and Glock pistols. While the previous year witnessed approximately 480,000 such purchases, by June of this year, the tally had already surpassed 490,000.

Petr Steiner from the Armed gun store confirmed, “Anyone who was eligible to purchase a firearm did so. Prominent brands like Glock or AR 15 rifles faced shortages, even outpacing the popularity of the Czech Model 58 submachine guns. Even slightly usable second-hand pistols were in demand for self-defense.”