A recent report by the Cour des Comptes examines the circulation of firearms in France, revealing that between 6 to 8 million firearms are privately owned. This statistic underscores the significant challenges in regulating civilian arms, as many gun owners have legally acquired their weapons, contributing to an annual legal sales figure of over half a million firearms. This insight into civilian firearm ownership raises concerns about public safety and demand for stricter control measures.

The report notes that the control and regulation of civilian firearms only began to gain political momentum after the 2015 terrorist attacks, which sparked the 'Weapons Plan' aimed at combating illegal arms trafficking and enhancing oversight of legal gun ownership. The government acknowledges the complex landscape involving collectors, hunters, sports shooters, private security firms, and gunsmiths, all of whom are part of the growing gun culture in France. This expansion of firearm ownership poses ongoing challenges for law enforcement and public policy.

As the number of firearms increases, the report emphasizes the need for improved regulation and monitoring of civilian gun ownership to prevent potential abuses and ensure public safety. While there have been strides made in oversight, the findings indicate that without comprehensive measures and sustained political commitment, the risks associated with firearm proliferation will continue to pose threats to society, highlighting an urgent need for dialogue around responsible gun ownership and regulatory frameworks in France.