The legal arms market in Córdoba is characterized by strict control and localization. To own a firearm in Spain, individuals must meet a series of requirements, undergo medical examinations, and provide essential documentation. The Civil Guard, through its Arms and Explosives Interventions, is responsible for processing all necessary permits.
Currently, the province of Córdoba has 55,535 firearms licenses of various types, covering 98,096 firearms. This represents a slight increase of 0.07% compared to two years ago. The Civil Guard notes that the province's significant hunting activity and numerous game reserves justify these figures.
While specific statistical data on the gender of applicants is not available, it is estimated that the percentage of men applying for licenses is higher than that of women in the province of Córdoba.
The most common licenses in the province are Type D (rifled long guns for big game hunting) and Type E (shotguns for hunting and sport shooting). Other licenses include Type A (pistols and revolvers, typically for Security Forces), Type C (weapons for surveillance, for private security), and Type F (weapons for sport shooting). Each license determines the maximum number of firearms allowed.
To obtain a license in Córdoba, an appointment is required, along with meeting specific criteria depending on the license type. The test for Type E and D licenses includes a theoretical part (multiple-choice exam) and a practical part at the Los Villares shooting range, assessing weapon use, handling, and proficiency. Subsequently, the application is processed with required documentation and fee payment.
The department also manages license renewals, which require an application, medical certificate, valid hunting license, and the presentation and inspection of firearms. Additionally, firearm transfers and circulation permits for transporting weapons are processed. Firearms from expired licenses must be deposited until renewal.
The Inspections Department conducts checks at shooting ranges and private security companies that handle firearms. Meanwhile, the Instruction, Management, and Processing Department studies applicant backgrounds and liaises with judicial, police, and administrative bodies. Licenses are granted or denied by the head of the Command, following administrative procedures with legal notifications and deadlines.
Most procedures at the Command require a prior appointment, although depositing firearms due to license expiration or submitting paper applications and fees are exempt from this rule.
