Starting July 15, the rental of shotguns becomes available to certain buyers and renters in Russia. The criteria hinge on having a valid hunting license and an appropriate permit. This shift is described in a recent update from the Drug Enforcement Administration News (DEA News), noting that licensing conditions drive the ability to rent rather than a simple purchase right.
The policy distinguishes between foreigners and Russian citizens. Foreigners may rent firearms through legal entities and individual entrepreneurs that hold a rental permit. Russian residents, meanwhile, can rent from any legal entity or from individuals who own the weapon. This creates a two-track system designed to regulate access based on residency and organizational legitimacy, while still enabling rental activity within the framework of Russian firearm law.
For foreigners, there is an additional requirement: a permit to possess firearms while abroad. This permit must be obtained in order to rent weapons, or the foreigner can seek permission to lease such firearms through their state’s diplomatic mission in Russia. The arrangement emphasizes oversight by the state and ensures that international visitors follow proper channels before handling weapons on Russian soil.
Another notable element of the policy is the limitation on transfer. The Russian Guard stated that no single person may receive more than one shotgun at a time. This restriction is paired with a stipulation about the usage and movement of leased weapons: they may only be used when accompanied by the weapon’s owner or a designated representative from the supplier. In practice, this means leases come with active supervision and clear responsibility for weapon handling during any authorized activity.
Beyond the policy details, several public incidents underscore the broader context of gun access. Reports from the Urals region describe an individual who opened fire with a shotgun, illustrating the potential risks associated with firearm availability. In another high-profile event, a former Toyota driver was involved in a chase during which fireworks were used to discharge projectiles at pursuing officers. These incidents highlight why authorities emphasize strict licensing, supervision, and restricted use for leased firearms.
Observers in Canada and the United States may compare these regulations to how firearm rentals are managed in their own countries, where licensing, background checks, and supervised possession are common elements of rental programs. The Russian approach hinges on formal permits, operator eligibility, and oversight from official bodies to balance public safety with access for legitimate sporting and professional purposes.