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I lived in Paris for some time in the late 80s early 90s. At the time you could buy (don't know about carry) a pistolet a grenaille, semi autos were available, they shot small birdshot. Lethal, sometimes, at close range. I'm pretty sure there were no restrictions on the purchase.

Actual tear gas (lacrymogene) was not legally available, but there was a pretty effective substitute. I had no interest at the time, so I don't know if it was pepper spray or something else. I did catch a faceful (standing near the wrong people) once or twice, and it was terrible stuff.

Have things changed that much?