The concept of "Poland the Texas of Europe" in the context of firearms access evokes many emotions and controversies. On the one hand, we hear voices that, compared to some Western countries, the situation in Poland is quite good. On the other hand, there are concerns that even this semblance of freedom may be taken away from us. Do we really have reason to be pleased, or are we facing further tightening of regulations?
In December 2024, PAP published a commentary by Andrzej Idzikowski on access to black powder weapons and modern firearms. Idzikowski stated that in Poland there is "no need to relax" the regulations regarding weapon possession, arguing that we are the "Texas of Europe". The Ad Arma Foundation disagrees with this opinion, emphasizing that the current legal status treats weapon possession as a privilege, not a civil right.
Is Poland Really the "Texas of Europe"? A Look at the Statistics
To answer this question, it's worth looking at the facts and figures. According to data from the National Police Headquarters, a record 50,709 weapon permits were issued in Poland in 2025. This is a significant increase compared to previous years: about 5,000 more than in 2024 and almost 10,000 more than in 2023. The largest jump was recorded in 2022, when over 17,000 more permits were issued than in 2021.
However, as Prof. Daniel Boćkowski, a security expert, notes, even these record numbers are still "really not much". Poland has been a country with very restrictive access to weapons for years, both during communist times and after the fall of the system. The state was reluctant to grant permission to possess weapons, and the procedures were complicated.
Access to Weapons in Poland – Privilege or Right?
The Ad Arma Foundation rightly points out that in the current legal status, weapon possession in Poland is treated as a privilege granted by the state. This was confirmed by the Supreme Administrative Court, ruling that issuing a weapon permit, even for sports purposes, "is not an ordinary civil right, but a privilege". A permit for a weapon for personal protection is still issued at the discretion of the authorities.
This means that even if we meet all the formal requirements, the final decision depends on the discretion of the official. In practice, without proper "connections and acquaintances", obtaining such a permit is very difficult. What's more, the regulations on necessary defense are flawed and hinder self-defense. The system treats a citizen who wants to defend themselves with suspicion.
Costs and Restrictions – the Price of the "Texas of Europe"
Even if we manage to obtain a weapon permit, we must reckon with additional costs and restrictions. Mandatory membership in shooting clubs, exams, psychological tests, the purchase of an armored safe - all this generates considerable expenses. Additionally, we must remember that the state can take away this "privilege" from us at any moment.
Therefore, calling Poland the "Texas of Europe" is a big overstatement. In practice, we are dealing with costly access to hobby and recreation with the use of firearms, under strict state control. Many people who want to possess a weapon for self-defense encounter insurmountable difficulties.
What Can We Do to Get Closer to a Real "Texas of Europe"?
The Ad Arma Foundation rightly emphasizes that we must constantly fight to expand access to weapons. We cannot rest on our laurels and consider the current situation optimal. On the contrary, we must strive to make as many types of weapons as possible available without permits and registration.
Prof. Boćkowski notes that in countries with a strong deterrence system, such as Switzerland, Finland or Sweden, the ability to use weapons and organize resistance is the basis of state security. Therefore, we should take example from these countries and develop a culture of working with weapons and shooting skills among society.
How can we achieve this? First of all, through education and popularization of knowledge about safe weapon handling. It is also important to support initiatives that aim to simplify the procedures related to obtaining a pozwolenia-na-bron and increasing the availability of shooting ranges. We cannot allow Poland to become a "slave" country where owning a knife is a crime.
The Future of Weapon Access in Poland – What Awaits Us?
Prof. Boćkowski predicts that in the future we will witness an increase in the number of people possessing weapons and the number of shooting ranges. The growing affluence of society and the changing culture regarding weapons will favor this trend. However, for this process to proceed smoothly and safely, it is necessary to introduce appropriate regulations and educational programs.
We must remember that owning a weapon comes with responsibility. Therefore, education on safety and proper weapon handling is crucial. Only in this way can we avoid tragedies and ensure that weapons are used for protection, not for committing crimes.
Most Frequent Questions
Is it easy to get a weapon permit in Poland?
Compared to some European countries, access to weapons in Poland is more liberal, but it still requires meeting a number of conditions and going through a complicated procedure.
Is Poland the "Texas of Europe" in terms of access to weapons?
This term is highly exaggerated. Poland has more restrictive regulations than Texas, and access to weapons is treated as a privilege, not a civil right.
What are the costs associated with owning a weapon in Poland?
Costs include fees for exams, psychological tests, membership in a shooting club, the purchase of an armored safe, and regular weapon maintenance.
Are the regulations on necessary defense in Poland beneficial for citizens?
Unfortunately, these regulations are flawed and hinder self-defense, often treating the defending person with suspicion.
What can be done to improve access to weapons in Poland?
Efforts should be made to simplify procedures, increase the availability of shooting ranges, and provide education on safe weapon handling.
Is it possible to own a weapon without a permit in Poland?
Currently, most types of firearms require a pozwolenia-na-bron. It is possible to possess black powder weapons manufactured before 1885 or their replicas without a permit.
Is the number of weapon permits in Poland growing?
Yes, in recent years there has been an increase in the number of weapon permits issued, which is due to the growing awareness of society and the changing culture regarding weapons.
Is it worth having a weapon in Poland?
The decision to own a weapon is individual and depends on the needs and beliefs of the individual. However, it is worth remembering that owning a weapon comes with great responsibility and the need to comply with the law.
