When did the total ban on guns begin?

China banned guns completely, starting with 1996.

Large-scale collection of guns from governments, enterprises and security organizations, and only a few government armed departments are allowed to hold guns. Second, non-hunting professionals should not hold more than two guns. This is mainly to take care of minority hunting ethnic groups, especially northern hunting ethnic groups, and allow them to hold more guns. Third, holding a gun requires a gun license.

After entering the 1990s, China gradually banned guns and confiscated the guns of all ordinary citizens. And in 1996, the strictest gun control measures were promulgated, and guns were banned by the whole people, and it was clearly stipulated that party and government officials were not allowed to carry guns. It is a crime to carry guns illegally, and only a few herdsmen in pastoral areas are allowed to carry shotguns.

Extended data:

In order to strengthen gun management, maintain public order and ensure public safety, the Law of People's Republic of China (PRC) on Gun Management is formulated. This Law is applicable to the control of guns in People's Republic of China (PRC). If the State Council and the Central Military Commission (CMC) have other regulations on the management of guns equipped by the China People's Liberation Army, the Chinese People's Armed Police Force and the militia, the relevant regulations shall prevail.

The state strictly controls guns. It is forbidden for any unit or individual to illegally hold, manufacture (including modification and assembly), trade, transport, lease or lend guns. The state severely punishes illegal and criminal acts that violate gun control. All units and individuals have the obligation to report violations of gun control. The state protects prosecutors and rewards meritorious persons who report crimes against gun control.

References:

Law of People's Republic of China (PRC) Municipality on the Control of Online Firearms (Decree No.72 of the President)