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Are Airguns Legal in Ireland?
Yes, but heavily regulated.
Legal in principle, yet the compliance burden is high — often firearm-grade steps for the airguns most people actually want.
Tier 2 — Major Restrictions
Full firearms-licence regime for the airguns most enthusiasts would actually buy.
IE
The picture at a glance
Each measure below scores how restrictive Ireland is on that part of owning or transferring an airgun, from permissive (green) to firearm-level (red).
ClassificationThreshold-based
Age rule18+
PossessionVariable
Transfer / saleVariable
TransportCased + carry restricted
AuthorityNational statute
Before you buy or sell
- 1 J threshold means even a low-power plinker is a firearm under Irish law.
The rules in detail
Classification
Threshold-based
Any airgun exceeding 1 joule muzzle energy is a 'firearm' under the Firearms Act 1925 (as amended 2006).
Age rule
18+
18+ for a firearm certificate. Under-18s cannot possess airguns above 1 J.
Possession
Variable
Firearm certificate from An Garda Síochána required for any meaningful airgun.
Transfer / sale
Variable
Same process as conventional firearms — Garda authorisation and dealer registration.
Transport
Cased + carry restricted
Cased and unloaded; secure storage at home (gun safe required).
Authority
National statute
National statute; Garda divisions administer.
Hunting with an airgun
Limited airgun hunting; small game and pest control with appropriate certificate.
Deer
Unresolved / not addressed
—
Turkey
Unresolved / not addressed
—
Small game
Unresolved / not addressed
—
Predators
Unresolved / not addressed
—
Other big game
Unresolved / not addressed
—
Import & travel
Local & import notes
Visitor procedure
Non-residents aged 16+ can obtain a 1-year certificate but must apply at least 6 weeks before arrival. Penalties for unlicensed possession reach 5 years' imprisonment.
This is a plain-language summary compiled from primary statutes and official guidance, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules vary, so verify the current rules with the relevant authority before buying, selling, or hunting.