⚖️ Regulations and Safety Guidelines

Important Notice

YSHOOT promotes only the safe and sporting use of its products.
While French law does not explicitly classify slingshots as weapons, our models are powerful and precise, comparable to bows.
Users are therefore advised to handle them responsibly and to follow all applicable safety rules.

1. Legal Framework

The current regulation in France does not specifically include slingshots within the category of weapons.
However, since YSHOOT slingshots are capable of high performance, it is wise to take a few precautions and to be aware of existing weapon regulations — particularly those related to Category D.

We refer below to the official definition of Category D weapons, because some authorities might mistakenly consider a slingshot as belonging to this classification.

In any case, YSHOOT insists on responsible, peaceful, and safe use of all its products.
Remember: any object may be considered a weapon by destination depending on circumstances — it is every user’s responsibility to avoid such situations.

2. Slingshot as a Sports Device

A slingshot is, above all, a sports instrument, comparable to an archery bow.
This definition allows its lawful transport, provided that you can justify being on your way to or from a training or competition venue.

Please note:

A YSHOOT slingshot is a powerful precision tool, sometimes used for hunting in countries where such practice is authorized.
These products are not toys and can be dangerous if misused.
Hunting with a slingshot is strictly prohibited in France — unfortunately, that’s the law.

3. Category D Weapons (Free Acquisition and Possession)

Verified on October 26, 2018 – Directorate of Legal and Administrative Information (Prime Minister’s Office)

Weapons classified as Category D may be purchased and possessed freely, with some restrictions — particularly regarding sales to minors.

Examples of Category D Weapons

Objects likely to endanger public safety (e.g. concealed weapons, daggers, batons, hypodermic projectors, etc.)
Certain incapacitating or tear gas sprays (max. 100 ml)
Some electric shock contact devices (e.g. stun batons, electric knuckles — excluding Taser guns)
Historical and collectible weapons designed before January 1900 (unless classified otherwise for safety reasons)
Replicas of pre-1900 weapons that can only fire ammunition without metallic cases
Post-1900 historical weapons listed by the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Defense
Air-powered weapons and launchers (paintball markers, air rifles, etc.) propelling non-pyrotechnic projectiles with 2–20 joules of muzzle energy
Blank, gas, or signal firearms that cannot be modified for other projectiles
Black powder ammunition for collectible firearms
Deactivated military equipment (pre-1946 or post-1946) neutralized according to ministerial regulations

4. Who Can Own a Category D Weapon?

To purchase a Category D weapon (including its components or ammunition), you must be over 18 years old.

Since August 2018, some items formerly listed as Category D have been reclassified as Category C and now require a declaration.
Transitional provisions allow time to regularize ownership of such items.

5. Carrying and Transporting

It is forbidden to carry or transport (for example, in a vehicle or on your person) a Category D weapon without a legitimate reason.

In case of a police check (body search, bag or vehicle inspection), you must be able to justify your reason — which will be assessed by the authorities or, if needed, by a judge.

A legitimate reason is evaluated based on:

the place (public event, public area, etc.),
the circumstances, and
the context of the situation.

⚠️ Claiming self-defense is not considered a legitimate reason.

6. Sanctions

Carrying or transporting a Category D weapon without legitimate reason is punishable by:

a heavy fine, and
a prison sentence.

7. Responsible Practice

YSHOOT invites all users to:

use slingshots solely for sporting or recreational purposes,
train in safe and authorized environments,
store equipment responsibly, away from children,
and always respect the law and others’ safety.

🛡️ Reminder

A YSHOOT slingshot is a precision sporting instrument, not a weapon.
Use it responsibly — safety, respect, and skill are at the heart of YSHOOT’s philosophy.