Yes, crossbows are legal in Austria but strictly regulated under the Waffengesetz (Weapons Act) and Schießwesen-Gesetz (Shooting Sports Act), with compliance monitored by the Bundesministerium für Inneres (BMI) and Landespolizeidirektionen. Hunters and sport shooters may possess them with valid permits, while self-defense use is prohibited. Recent 2026 amendments tighten background checks for crossbow ownership.
Key Regulations for Crossbows in Austria
- Permit Requirements: A Waffenbesitzkarte (WBK) is mandatory for crossbow ownership, issued only to individuals with a legitimate purpose (e.g., hunting, sport shooting) after a background check by local police authorities.
- Age and Training: Applicants must be at least 18 years old and provide proof of completed firearms/shooting training from an approved Schießsportverband (shooting sports association).
- Storage and Transport: Crossbows must be stored in a locked safe, and transport requires unloaded status with ammunition separate, per Waffengesetz §13. Violations risk permit revocation and criminal liability.
Crossbows classified as Kategorie C weapons require periodic permit renewals, with local Bezirkshauptmannschaften verifying compliance. Hunters must hold a valid Jagdschein (hunting license) and adhere to regional game laws. Sport shooters face additional restrictions under Schießwesen-Gesetz, including range membership mandates. Non-compliance may result in administrative fines up to €7,260 or imprisonment under §58 of the Weapons Act.