Italians are seeing a change in the winds to both firearm laws toward carry and ownership, as well as greater interest culturally.
Italy is known for its excellent craftsmanship, with a number of famous firearms manufacturers calling the country its home, including Benelli, Beretta, Chiappa Firearms and Perazzi.
Yet, Italians have no fundamental right to bear arms at a time of turmoil and increasing debate about ordinary people being able to own guns for self-defense. Italy has three licenses enabling people to buy firearms for: hunting, sporting, or concealed carry, which is only available for those who can prove a “demonstrated need” (such as working as a security guard or at-risk profession.)
The election of Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini signals a change in attitude among Italians. Salvini has been pictured holding firearms in publicity.
Currently the government is supporting a “legitimate defense”bill—a “castle doctrine” style law that would protect gun owners from liability when they defend themselves in their own homes.
Last year, a study pointed to fears about crime as being a factor in the growing interest of Italians in having firearms for self-protection. Responding to the survey, Salvina noted: “A new law giving decent people the right to legitimate defense in their own homes is one of our priorities.”
The study revealed that more Italians are owning firearms as gun permits rose 14 percent in 2017 to 1.3 million gun permits compared to the previous year
