Yes, crossbows are legal in Turkey but classified as firearms under the 2022 Law on Firearms and Ammunition, requiring permits. Civilian ownership is permitted for hunting and sport, subject to strict licensing by local Emniyet Müdürlükleri (Provincial Police Directorates). Recent 2026 amendments tightened storage and transport rules, mandating biometric verification for permit renewals.
Key Regulations for Crossbows in Turkey
- Permit Requirement: Ownership mandates a Firearms Possession Permit (Ateşli Silah Bulundurma Belgesi) issued by provincial police, with crossbows treated identically to firearms under Article 4 of the 2022 law.
- Storage & Transport: Crossbows must be stored in locked safes with ammunition separate; transport requires prior notification to authorities and a Taşıma Belgesi (Transport Permit) for intercity movement.
- Hunting Restrictions: Use is limited to licensed hunting zones during designated seasons; crossbows are prohibited in urban areas and for big-game hunting per the Tarım ve Orman Bakanlığı (Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry) regulations.