In the Netherlands, including Rijswijk, the possession of weapons is strictly regulated under the Weapons and Ammunition Act. This act determines which weapons are prohibited and under what conditions legal possession is possible.
Types of Weapons
According to the act, weapons are divided into four categories:
- Category I - Prohibited weapons: for example, stilettos, butterfly knives and brass knuckles
- Category II - Prohibited firearms: such as automatic weapons, explosives and grenades
- Category III - Weapons requiring a permit: such as hunting rifles and handguns
- Category IV - Freely accessible weapons: such as crossbows, swords and alarm pistols
Penalties
- Category I weapons: up to 4 years' imprisonment
- Category II weapons: up to 8 years' imprisonment
- Category III without permit: up to 4 years' imprisonment
- Increased penalties for possession of multiple weapons or ammunition
Replicas and Toy Weapons
Airsoft guns and fake pistols fall under the act if they are not clearly recognizable as fake. Carrying them in public spaces in Rijswijk is punishable, even if it is a replica.
Knives in Rijswijk
Possession of a regular pocket knife or kitchen knife is permitted, but carrying it in public without a valid reason is prohibited. Prohibited knives such as butterfly knives and stilettos may not be possessed at all.
Application for Weapon Permit
For hunters and sport shooters in Rijswijk, a permit is possible. Strict requirements apply for this:
- Minimum 1 year membership of a recognized shooting club
- No criminal record
- Reliability check by the police
- Safe storage in an approved weapon safe
Contact and Assistance in Rijswijk
For legal questions about weapon possession, you can go to the Rijswijk Legal Desk. Cases are handled by the District Court of The Hague, under which Rijswijk falls.
Frequently Asked Questions about Weapon Possession
Am I allowed to carry a pocket knife in Rijswijk?
You may possess a pocket knife, but carrying it in public without a valid reason (such as work) is not permitted. The police may ask for an explanation and confiscate the knife if in doubt.
How do I apply for a weapon permit?
First become a member of a recognized club for one year, submit an application to the police, undergo a reliability investigation and ensure safe storage. This process can take several months.
Are airsoft guns legal in Rijswijk?
Only if they are clearly recognizable as fake, for example with an orange tip. Otherwise, they fall under the Weapons and Ammunition Act and possession or carrying is punishable.
What are the consequences of illegal weapon possession?
Penalties range from 4 years for category I weapons to 8 years for category II weapons. Without a permit for category III can also result in 4 years. Multiple weapons lead to harsher penalties.
Am I allowed to possess a sword or crossbow?
Yes, these fall under category IV and are freely available. However, carrying them in public can cause problems if the police suspects a threat. Check with local authorities for exceptions.