[1] As of 2013[update] Russian citizens over 18 years of age can obtain a firearms license after attending gun-safety classes and passing a federal test and background check.
Initially, purchases are limited to long smooth-bore firearms and pneumatic weapons with a muzzle energy of up to 25 joules (18 ft⋅lbf).
The only exception to this federal law are commemoration pistols, which have special engravings, and these can only be gifted by government officials for acts of heroism.
These engraved pistols may use live ammunition and are allowed to be concealed carried, and used for the purposes of self-defense, provided the recipient is 21 years of age or older, and possess a valid firearms permit.
[3][4] In the wake of the Kazan school shooting various proposals for tighter gun control were voiced[5][6][7][8] and a bill drafted earlier and submitted in December 2020 is to be considered by the State Duma in May 2021.