Health Policy. 2025 Sep 26;162:105450. doi: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2025.105450. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Nonpowdered firearms are commonly used in recreation but their projectiles can cause serious injuries. Understanding how nonpowdered firearms are governed is essential for injury prevention.
OBJECTIVE: We aimed to describe legislative, regulatory, and prevention strategies that govern nonpowdered firearms in Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) countries.
METHODS: We searched multiple academic databases and grey literature for information on nonpowdered firearm governance. Data were extracted and grouped into themes: weapon definitions, licensure, age restrictions, permitted locations for use, storage and transport, sale and transfer, imitation firearms, import/export, manufacturing, advertising, and monitoring systems. We conducted a comparative analysis of legislative frameworks, regulatory standards, and enforcement strategies.
RESULTS: Our findings revealed that 31 OECD countries (84%) have documented governance of nonpowdered firearms. Definitions for what constitutes a nonpowdered firearm varied based on the projectile mechanism (air, spring) and specific muzzle energy/velocity. In 61% of countries, licensure and age restrictions were mandatory. Regulations on use locations, storage, sale, and transfer were found in 26-32% of countries. Monitoring systems for production, sale, or possession existed in 13 countries. Injury surveillance systems were not readily identified.
CONCLUSIONS: While commonalities exist nonpowdered firearm governance, substantial heterogeneity and gaps remain in legislation. This becomes problematic when governance approaches lack a foundation in clinical or physical evidence, limiting effective injury prevention. Evidence-informed definitions and methods to assess injury potential are essential for improving surveillance and guiding regulation. Strategies such as age and marketing restrictions, licensure, and safety equipment (eye protection) should be grounded in science. International guidance can support coherent, adaptable approaches across jurisdictions.
PMID:41045603 | DOI:10.1016/j.healthpol.2025.105450
