Guns for everyone? Myths and truth about why Ukrainians need a weapons law
Ukrainians once again got a chance for a weapons law: the Verkhovna Rada is considering two relevant draft laws. It's not the first attempt to regulate the circulation of civilian weapons in Ukraine. However, no draft law has passed the first reading.
We're waiting for Rada's decision and analyze why the issue of weapons legislation is relevant for Ukraine, and answer the most common questions.
What will the law on weapons change: will the number of owners increase and will they walk the streets with sawed-off guns?
In fact, it's unlikely: since 1998, Ukrainians can legally own numerous types of weapons. However, after reaching a certain age and under several requirements: for example, hunting smoothbore weapons are allowed from 21 years of age, and rifled weapons (carbine, rifle) are allowed from 25. Certain categories of Ukrainians can get a short-barreled shotgun (traumatic weapon): judges, journalists, assistants to deputies, etc. So, if there are no crowds of armed people on the streets now, they shouldn't appear in the future.
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