Can hunting rifles be used on shooting ranges?

Recent decisions by the Central Intervention of Arms and Explosives (ICAE) of the Civil Guard have generated uncertainty among hunters and sport shooters in Spain. In particular, the ban on the use of hunting rifles in sporting competitions has raised concerns within the sector. To clarify the scope of these measures, the ICAE addressed concerns in an interview with Jara y Sedal.

Clarifications from the Civil Guard

According to the ICAE, the decision to ban the use of hunting rifles in competitions responds to the need to unify criteria and ensure compliance with current regulations. The Civil Guard detected discrepancies in the application of the Weapons Regulations, particularly regarding the use of category 2.2 weapons (rifled long guns for big game hunting) in sporting events. It is considered that allowing their use in competitions could constitute "legal fraud" by circumventing the restrictions imposed on competition weapons.

What does this measure entail?

The ICAE's internal circular establishes that holders of type D firearms licenses, which cover big game hunting rifles, cannot participate in sporting competitions with these weapons. The Civil Guard emphasizes that each weapon has a specific purpose depending on the license that covers it and that a hunting rifle cannot be used in sporting competitions.

However, the ICAE clarifies that this does not mean hunters cannot continue to use their rifles on shooting ranges. Type D license holders may continue to shoot their weapons at:

• Shooting ranges, galleries or fields expressly authorized for rifled long guns for big game hunting.

• Hunting grounds, provided they are in season.

• Other areas suitable for hunting, as stipulated in article 149.2 of the Weapons Regulations.

The use of weapons in an unauthorized context can carry severe penalties. The Law on the Protection of Citizen Security classifies the misuse of weapons as a serious offense, with fines ranging from €601 to €30,000. If the offense is deemed to cause very serious harm, the fine could rise to €600,000.

Hunters may continue to use their rifles on shooting ranges as long as they are authorized. However, they may not use them in sporting competitions. The ICAE emphasizes that its objective is to ensure compliance with current regulations and avoid misinterpretations that could lead to sanctions. If in doubt, hunters are advised to consult with the relevant authorities to ensure their use of their weapons is legal.

Author: María Balletbó