More and more Polish citizens are seeking firearms training, as concerns about security and regional instability rise.

DW visited a shooting range in Luban, in southwestern Poland, where civilians learn how to handle firearms safely — one of the steps involved in the process of obtaining a firearms license.

Polish police data shows that the number of firearm permits has increased significantly in recent years, with thousands now issued annually. Indeed, more than 400,000 permits are now in circulation. The total number of firearms in Poland has surpassed 1 million for the first time.

This rise began after Russia's full-scale invasion in Ukraine in 2022 — an event that reshaped perceptions of security in the region.

Analysts say the trend reflects both a desire to be prepared and growing anxiety in society.