A blank firing pistol (or generally a blank firing weapon) is understood to be a weapon that visually resembles a firearm but does not fire solid projectiles. A differentiation between the two forms is only possible if you know what details to pay attention to. Generally, blank firing pistols and revolvers are used for self-defense. (Alternatively, for example, in sports for the starting shot) However, in certain situations, it can also be advantageous to simply draw attention to yourself - without the need for defense. This brings us to the justification for signal weapons, which can be helpful in every household.
Despite the fact that blank firing weapons do not shoot projectiles: a weapon is a weapon. And if you want to own, maintain, and care for such a weapon, there are various legal requirements that you must comply with. At this point, you should learn what these are specifically - and how versatile the topic of blank firing weapons is.
With few exceptions, handling any kind of weapon and ammunition is only permitted if you are of legal age. This also applies if you want to acquire and own signal or blank firing models. If you also want to carry these weapons in public, another requirement must be met: the small weapons permit. For blank firing weapons, it applies: each of your weapons must be specifically approved by the PTB - the “PTB” logo in a circle will be on the weapon. PTB stands for “Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt” (Federal Institute of Physics and Technology).
In addition to these basic requirements, there are also various other considerations. For example, you must ensure and prove proper and legal storage: no one may even touch your signal or blank firing weapons with a fingertip unless they are authorized to do so, meaning they must be at least 18 years old. Further regulations apply to the transport from point A to point B: your weapons must be transported in a closed container, the ammunition must be kept separate from the weapon, and you must not be able to access the weapon itself during transport. The legal basis states: the weapon must be stored in a closed container. If you take it abroad, different permits may be required depending on the country. And: not all weapons that are allowed in Germany are also allowed in other European countries! Here, independent research is required, as each weapon type is subject to different legal regulations in each country. This also applies to blank firing weapons and signal devices.
Blank firing devices are primarily used for self-defense and use a magazine to hold cartridges. These are often filled with CS gas; alternatively, there are also blank or salute cartridges or models with pepper. When the trigger is pulled, a firing pin or striker hits the primer of the cartridge, just like with a firearm. This primer acts as an initiator, which in turn is responsible for the explosion and thus the bang. In order for the (additional) gas to escape, the cartridges burst open at the front and clear the way.
Even though the desired effect is usually achieved through noise and gas (for example, to scare off an attacker or incapacitate them), you should not underestimate blank firing weapons: they are still weapons that can cause serious injuries or even death if handled improperly or carelessly.
Signal devices are based on a different purpose: they only somewhat resemble a classic handgun but are legally classified as weapons. Their somewhat abstract form makes it easier for you to identify them as signal devices (for example, by their large, foldable barrels or unusually rounded grips). Their area of use is to attract attention - without the need to defend oneself. When the trigger is pulled, light signals in various colors (and calibers) are fired. These can (especially from the military sector) have different meanings. Established codes allow you to distinguish between opponents and allies in a battle, and on a distressed ship, you can communicate your location. They are also used in the private sports sector: the famous
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