UK Shooting & Firearm Ownership Explained!

Published on March 8, 2017
Duration: 6:45

Firearm ownership in the UK is complex, requiring specific licenses like the Shotgun Certificate (SGC) for limited-capacity shotguns or the Firearm Certificate (FAC) for rifles and higher-capacity firearms. Semi-automatic rifles are restricted to .22 rimfire, while centerfire rifles use straight-pull actions. Special exemptions exist for black powder firearms, allowing ownership of standard-length revolvers.

Quick Summary

The UK has two main firearm licenses: the Shotgun Certificate (SGC) for 2+1 capacity shotguns, and the Firearm Certificate (FAC) for rifles and higher-capacity firearms. Semi-automatic rifles are limited to .22 rimfire, while centerfire rifles use straight-pull actions. Black powder firearms have exemptions allowing standard-length revolvers.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to UK Shooting
  2. 00:37Licensing: SGC vs. FAC
  3. 02:34Long Barrel Pistols (LBP)
  4. 03:58Rifle Restrictions & Straight-Pull Actions
  5. 05:15Black Powder & Revolvers

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main firearm licenses in the UK?

The UK has two primary licenses: the Shotgun Certificate (SGC) for shotguns limited to a 2+1 capacity, and the Firearm Certificate (FAC) which is 'may issue' and requires justification for each specific firearm, including rifles and higher-capacity shotguns.

Are semi-automatic rifles legal in the UK?

Semi-automatic rifles are restricted to .22 rimfire calibers in the UK. For centerfire calibers, shooters must use 'straight-pull' bolt action rifles, which require manual cycling for each shot.

How do UK laws define a legal pistol?

Short handguns are generally banned. To be legal, a 'pistol' must have a minimum 12-inch barrel and a 24-inch overall length, often achieved with a permanent wrist extension, classifying it as a rifle under UK law.

Are there any exemptions for firearm ownership in the UK?

Yes, black powder (cap and ball) firearms are exempt from the length requirements of modern firearms, allowing UK shooters to own standard-length revolvers, including modern models modified for black powder.

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