Yes, crossbows are legal in Norway under strict conditions. The Våpenforskriften (Weapons Regulation) permits ownership for hunting and sport, requiring a firearms license. Hunters must complete mandatory courses, while sport shooters need club affiliation. Recent 2026 amendments tightened storage rules, mandating locked safes.
Key Regulations for Crossbows in Norway
- Hunting Authorization: Crossbows may only be used for hunting with a valid jaktkort (hunting license) issued by local fylkesmannen (county governors). Species-specific permits apply, and bolt velocity must not exceed 150 m/s.
- Sport Shooting Compliance: Clubs registered with the Norges Skytterforbund (Norwegian Shooting Federation) may authorize crossbow use. Members must store equipment in compliance with Politiets våpenregister (Police Weapons Registry) standards.
- Storage and Transport: Crossbows must be transported unloaded in locked cases. Residential storage requires a steel cabinet bolted to a wall, per 2026 amendments to §10 of the Weapons Regulation.