Blog Banner SVG

Don't Let Paperwork Slow You Down

Register Your Business Online in Just 7 days

Blog Banner
HomeBlogTrademark Class 13: Firearms, Ammunition & Explosives
Intellectual PropertyTrademark

Trademark Class 13: Firearms, Ammunition & Explosives

Joel Dsouza
Updated:
19 min read

Trademark Class 13 applies to firearms, pistols, rifles, revolvers, ammunition, explosives, fireworks, and related weapon components. Businesses distribute these items through licensed defense suppliers and security agencies. Some also supply shooting sports retailers, industrial contractors, and government-approved channels. These products serve defense, law enforcement, sporting, and industrial sectors.

India’s firearms and explosives industry is tightly regulated and highly competitive. Trademark registration protects your brand identity and builds trust with distributors and clients. It allows businesses to expand across regions while staying compliant with arms, ammunition, and explosives licensing laws.

Well-known global and Indian brands, such as Glock, Beretta, Remington, and Ordnance Factory products, register their names and logos under Class 13.

This guide explains how Trademark Class 13 provides legal protection. It also strengthens brand recognition for firearms, ammunition, and explosive products in India.

What is Trademark Class 13 in India?

Trademark Class 13 is a goods category under the Nice Classification. It is:

  • Administered internationally by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)
  • Applicable to firearms, pistols, rifles, revolvers, ammunition, explosives, fireworks, and related weapon accessories
  • Used for products intended for defense, law enforcement, sporting, and industrial markets
  • Regulated in India under the Trade Marks Act, 1999
  • Enforced by the Indian Trademark Registry based on the nature and intended use of the goods

This classification protects firearms, ammunition, and explosive brands under the correct trademark category.

Note: Fireworks and pyrotechnic articles fall under Class 13; however, consumer fireworks may face objections depending on their composition and regulatory controls.

The Indian Trademark Registry evaluates Class 13 applications based on the nature and intended use of the products. It does not consider factors such as caliber, quantity, or packaging style. This approach creates a clear distinction between firearms, ammunition, explosives, and other products covered under different trademark classes.

In short, trademark registration under Class 13 is important because it:

  • Prevents imitation and counterfeiting of firearm, ammunition, and explosive brands
  • Builds trust with distributors, retailers, defense organizations, and clients
  • Confirms legal ownership and strengthens enforcement rights
  • Controls unauthorized use and limits brand misuse
  • Enables secure licensing, distribution, and interstate market expansion (subject to applicable arms and explosives licensing laws)
  • Creates a valuable, long-term brand asset

Note: Trademark registration under Class 13 protects your brand identity but does not grant permission to manufacture, sell, or distribute firearms, ammunition, or explosives. Businesses must comply with all applicable licenses, permits, and regulations under the Arms Act, 1959, Explosives Act, 1884, and relevant state authorities.

Who Should Register Under Trademark Class 13?

You should register your brand under Class 13 if your business falls into the following categories:

  • Firearm manufacturers: Protect brand names for pistols, rifles, revolvers, and other firearms.
  • Ammunition producers: Secure trademarks for bullets, cartridges, shells, and related ammunition.
  • Explosive and pyrotechnic manufacturers: Safeguard brands for industrial explosives, blasting materials, and fireworks.
  • Defense and tactical equipment brands: Register trademarks for weapon accessories, scopes, silencers, and safety devices.
  • Importers and exporters of firearms and explosives: Protect trademarks for products imported into or exported from India.
  • Private label weapon manufacturers: Secure trademarks for firearms, ammunition, or explosives produced for licensed retailers, shooting clubs, or exclusive collaborations.
  • Weapons marketers and brand licensors: Register trademarks for licensing, franchising, co-branding, or brand extensions of firearms, ammunition, or explosives.
  • Suppliers and distributors of weapons: Protect trademarks used in the promotion and sale of firearms, ammunition, and explosives to licensed retailers, defense agencies, or security organizations.
  • Sporting and industrial explosives brands: Register trademarks for products used in shooting sports, mining, construction, or other industrial applications.

Leading global and Indian brands, such as Sig Sauer, Taurus, FN Herstal, and Ishapore Rifles, register their trademarks under Class 13. They protect their product names, logos, and designs for firearms, ammunition, explosives, and related accessories.

What are the Goods Covered Under Trademark Class 13?

Trademark Class 13 protects firearms, ammunition, explosives, and related weapon accessories. These products are sold through licensed defense suppliers, security agencies, sporting retailers, industrial contractors, and government-authorized channels. 

The table below shows the key categories and examples of goods covered under Class 13 in India:

CategoryExamples of Goods Covered
FirearmsPistols, rifles, revolvers, shotguns, muskets, air guns
AmmunitionDrilling explosives, controlled blasting devices, mining, or construction explosives
ExplosivesIndustrial explosives, blasting materials, detonators, blasting caps
Pyrotechnics & FireworksFirecrackers, sparklers, theatrical pyrotechnics, safety fireworks
Weapon AccessoriesScopes, silencers, gun mounts, stocks, magazines, holsters
Tactical & Defense Equipmentcombat training weapons
Sporting Firearms & AccessoriesAir rifles, paintball guns, shooting range targets, gun safes
Industrial Explosives EquipmentDrilling explosives, controlled blasting devices, mining or construction explosives
Import & Export Firearms & AmmunitionLicensed firearms, ammunition, and explosives imported into or exported from India
Private Label Firearms & AmmunitionFirearms, ammunition, or explosives manufactured for shooting clubs, retailers, or exclusive collaborations
Suppliers & Distributors of Firearms & AmmunitionBusinesses supplying firearms, ammunition, or explosives to licensed distributors, defense organizations, or security agencies

Which Products are Excluded from Trademark Class 13?

Some related products are classified under other trademark classes and are not covered under Class 13. These include:

  • Non-lethal weapons and self-defense devices: Stun guns, tasers, pepper spray, and batons are excluded. These items are generally classified under Class 9 (Electronic devices and safety apparatus) or Class 10 (Medical and safety instruments).
  • Protective gear and safety equipment: Helmets, body armor, shields, and fire suppression devices are not included in Class 13. They fall under Class 9 (Protective Equipment, Safety Devices) or Class 10 (Safety and Medical Devices).
  • Toy, replica, and training weapons: Airsoft guns, paintball markers, non-functional replicas, and shooting range targets are excluded. These products are classified under Class 28 (Games and toys).
  • Sporting equipment unrelated to firearms: Archery equipment and hunting accessories are not part of Class 13. They fall under Class 28 (Sports equipment and accessories).
  • Industrial explosives and chemicals: Laboratory explosives, controlled blasting agents, and industrial chemicals are excluded. They are classified under Class 1 (Chemicals for industrial purposes).
  • Pyrotechnics for entertainment: Decorative fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnics are not included in Class 13. They belong to Class 4 (Industrial oils and fuels) for some pyrotechnic fuels or Class 9/28, depending on the classification for consumer fireworks.

Tip: Use RegisterKaro’s Trademark Class Search Tool to ensure correct classification. Accurate classification reduces objections, prevents rejection, and ensures a smooth trademark registration process.

Note: Class 13 trademarks cover brand identity, logos, and product designs. Non-lethal weapons, safety devices, fire suppression equipment, unrelated sporting equipment, and industrial chemicals not intended as weapons fall under other classes.

How to Register a Trademark Under Class 13 in India?

To register a trademark under Class 13 in India, follow a clear, step-by-step process. You may file as “proposed to be used” if your firearms, ammunition, or explosives are not yet launched, or as “already in use” if they are already available in the market.

Follow these steps for smooth Class 13 trademark registration in India:

Check whether your brand name, logo, or product already exists under Class 13. This helps avoid conflicts, objections, or rejection later.

Use the official IP India trademark database or seek professional assistance for a detailed search.

Tip: Use RegisterKaro’s trademark name availability check tool to quickly verify availability for firearms, ammunition, explosives, and related accessories.

2. Select the Right Goods Description

  • Clearly list all products you want to protect, such as pistols, rifles, revolvers, ammunition, explosives, pyrotechnics, or weapon accessories.
  • Accurate descriptions reduce objections and strengthen legal protection.

3. File the Trademark Application (Form TM-A)

trademark form tm a sample
  • Apply online through the IP India Trademark Portal or offline at the Trademark Registry.
  • Include your brand name, logo (if any), detailed product descriptions, and applicant details.

Pay the applicable filing fee, usually ₹4,500 for individuals, startups, or MSMEs, and ₹9,000 for companies.

4. Examination by the Trademark Office

  • The Trademark Registrar examines your application for errors, similarities, or legal issues.
  • If required, the Office issues an Examination Report requesting clarification or corrections.
  • Respond within the specified timeline to avoid delays.

5. Publication in the Trademark Journal

  • Once the Trademark Office accepts your application, it publishes your trademark in the Trademark Journal.
  • This allows the public to file objections, usually within four months.

6. Registration and Issuance of Certificate

The process typically takes 12–18 months.

A trademark is valid for 10 years, and trademark renewal can be done indefinitely to maintain continuous protection.

Secure Your Brand Today: Protect your firearms, ammunition, explosives, and related products with a Class 13 trademark. RegisterKaro has assisted thousands of Indian businesses with trademark registration across regulated industries, including defense, manufacturing, and industrial sectors.

Let us guide you through every step for a fast, accurate, and hassle-free registration process. Contact RegisterKaro today!

Firearms, ammunition, explosives, and related products often overlap with other trademark classes. Multiple filing in related classes alongside Class 13 ensures full protection for all connected products, accessories, and services.

The table below highlights trademark classes commonly associated with Class 13:

Related ClassGoods / Services CoveredWhy It Relates to Class 13
Class 6 Metal components for firearms, gun barrels, weapon mounts, ammunition casingsProtects parts and components of firearms
Class 9Tactical safety equipment, protective body armor, and medical emergency kitsCovers electronic or digital tools related to firearms
Class 10Tactical safety equipment, protective body armor, medical emergency kitsCovers safety and defense equipment used with firearms
Class 11Pyrotechnic signaling devices, flares, and industrial explosivesIncludes safety or signaling devices not classified as weapons
Class 35Wholesale, import, distribution, or retail services for firearms, ammunition, and explosivesProtects commercial services related to Class 13 products
Class 39 Transportation, storage, and delivery of firearms, ammunition, and explosivesCovers logistics and supply chain services for Class 13 goods
Class 41 Training, education, and shooting range servicesProtects firearm training and safety courses
Class 42 Research, testing, and technical services for firearms and explosivesCovers R&D, inspection, and quality testing services

Filing these related classes with Class 13 ensures complete protection for all products, accessories, and services.

For example, a firearms company may register:

  • Firearms, ammunition, and explosives under Class 13
  • Gun components and metal parts under Class 6
  • Retail and distribution services under Class 35
  • Firearm safety training under Class 41

This multi-class filing strategy ensures that a single brand is safeguarded across products, accessories, and services. It creates a cohesive legal shield that prevents competitors from using similar marks in related areas. 

Common Mistakes When Filing Under Class 13 and How to Avoid Them

Trademark registration under Class 13 can be tricky, and mistakes may delay approval or reduce brand protection. Frequent pitfalls include:

  • Wrong Class Selection: Ensure firearms, ammunition, explosives, and related accessories are filed under Class 13. Do not misfile parts (Class 6), electronic firearm devices (Class 9), protective equipment (Class 10), or firearm training services (Class 41).
  • Vague Descriptions: Terms like “guns” or “ammo” are too general. Use precise descriptions such as “bolt-action rifles,” “handgun cartridges,” “industrial detonators,” or “firearm safety systems.”
  • Skipping Multi-Class Filings: Many brands offer related products or services. Filing only in Class 13 may leave components or training programs unprotected. Consider Class 6, Class 9, Class 35 (sales and distribution), and Class 41 (education and training) to cover all areas.
  • Generic or Weak Names: Names like “Top Gun” or “Super Ammo” are hard to defend. Distinctive names like “Iron Falcon” or “RapidStrike” strengthen your rights and reduce disputes.
  • No Prior Search: Failing to check existing trademarks can lead to conflicts or rejection. Always review existing brand names, logos, and product designs before filing.
  • Ignoring Legal Compliance: A trademark does not replace licensing for firearms, explosives, or safety equipment. Brands must follow Indian laws and obtain the required permits. Registration protects the brand identity, not the legality of operations.

Avoiding these mistakes ensures robust protection for firearms, ammunition, explosives, and related accessories. RegisterKaro helps businesses through each step, from search to final registration, making the process smoother and more reliable. Secure your Class 13 brand today by filling out the form.


Frequently Asked Questions

Trademark Class 13 in India protects firearms, ammunition, explosives, and weapon-related products. It covers guns, rifles, pistols, ammunition, and explosives used for sporting, defense, or commercial purposes. Registering under Class 13 ensures exclusive brand ownership, prevents imitation, strengthens market credibility, and secures intellectual property rights in India’s highly regulated weapons industry.

Related Posts

bot

Featured In