Yes, batons are legal in Chile for self-defense under strict conditions, but their possession and use are regulated by the Ley de Control de Armas y Explosivos (Decreto Supremo N° 594/2016) and supervised by the Subsecretaría de Prevención del Delito. Civilian ownership requires a valid permit, issued only for “legitimate defense” purposes, with mandatory background checks and justification of need. Recent 2026 amendments tighten issuance criteria, banning batons with concealed blade designs or exceeding 30 cm in length.
Key Regulations for Baton in Chile
- Permit Requirement: Civilian possession mandates a Permiso de Porte de Arma Menor (PPAM), renewable annually, with proof of training and no criminal record. Police background checks are mandatory.
- Design Restrictions: Only straight, non-extendable batons under 30 cm are permitted; collapsible or disguised models (e.g., kubotans) are prohibited under Artículo 3° of DS 594/2016.
- Use Limitations: Batons may only be carried for self-defense; brandishing in public without imminent threat constitutes illegal threat (Artículo 296 del Código Penal). Unauthorized use in altercations risks criminal liability.