Smart Search
Our mission is to create the most comprehensive firearms licensing resource available—putting expert knowledge in your pocket, 24/7.
At the heart of this platform is our smart search tool, designed to interpret your questions and guide you to the most relevant and accurate information with ease.
This is a groundbreaking innovation in the firearms licensing space, and we’re continually refining it. If your search doesn’t lead you to the answer you need, please don’t hesitate to use the Contact Us form found via this link.
Your feedback plays a vital role in helping us improve and evolve this service.
Getting the Best Results
To improve your search results, try using key terms rather than full questions. For example, search “Temporary permit” instead of “In what circumstances can I have a temporary permit?”
Firearms licensing topics often overlap across multiple areas. If you’re unsure which result best answers your question, click through and use the Article Quick Navigation to explore.
Try alternative phrasing too—like “gun safe”, “firearms cabinet”, or “Security standard BS7558”—to see different results.
And if you’re still stuck, browse by topic using the Categories function.
What makes a firearm, legally speaking? From barrels to bolts, this guide cuts through jargon…
The UK is phasing out lead ammunition by 2029. With a 3-year transition ahead, shooters must adapt to new rules. Here’s what this shift means for the future of UK shooting.
Section 1, 2, or 5? If it launches a projectile and isn’t exempt, it’s likely a firearm under UK law. This quick guide decodes classifications, certificates, and common issues—from shotguns to blank firers
Guest Author, Barrister Conor Monighan explains how UK firearms law is shaped by statutes, case law, and guidance—offering certificate holders and professionals a clear path through licensing’s legal layers.
A firearms certificate holder must promptly notify police of any permanent address change. Residency determines force jurisdiction. Failing to notify can result in warnings, revocation, or prosecution.
This guide explains how borrowing firearms works under UK law—covering club use, guest shooting, clay grounds, and private lending arrangements
A quick read to summarise the recently announced Home Office position on sound moderators.
Ammunition requests aren’t about stockpiles—they’re about proportionality, purpose, and practice. Understand your use, back it with evidence, and challenge arbitrary limits with confidence.
Post-Keyham, shotgun refusals surged across England & Wales, exposing deep inconsistencies in licensing decisions. Regional disparities suggest customer experience now depends more on postcode than policy.
Voluntarily surrendered your guns and left waiting? You’re not alone. With 8,500+ holders in limbo, this guide outlines risks, timelines, and clear steps to take control, seek answers, and move your case forward
The UK’s firearms licensing system is complex but vital—balancing public safety with lawful shooting. This guide helps you navigate with clarity, confidence, and legal insight.
Confusing stats and little accountability. Firearms licensing deserves better data and the public deserves the truth behind the numbers.
Guest Author, Barrister Conor Monighan tells us how to avoid refusals and rejection —get your application right first time. Disclose fully, seek guidance, and understand the consequences of false or reckless statements.
The service you receive from the Police is critical to the uninterrupted enjoyment of your…
Provides an overview of how firearms certificate holders can navigate the renewal process, particularly in…
Matt’s application was wrongly rejected under a non-existent policy. Our advocacy overturned it—restoring his shooting rights five years sooner than the force demanded
Want to add, change, or remove something on your firearm certificate? This guide breaks down the variation process—from one-for-one swaps to challenging conditions—so you can make informed, confident decisions
The rate of UK Shotgun Certificate revocations has risen sharply post-Keyham, driven by updated guidance…
The BSSC unites UK shooting groups to advocate for fair, evidence-based firearms policy, working with government and international bodies to protect lawful shooting while promoting public safety.
This article outlines key principles for firearm security and their importance. Statutory Guidance to Police…
FEOs now assess safe firearm handling as a key part of licensing. This guide helps applicants demonstrate competence & prepare for interviews, with practical advice, examples, & strategies to meet police expectations.
This article outlines the common issues that can place a Firearm Certificate at risk and…
Temporary Permits were intended to bridge short gaps not excuse systemic delays. Yet thousands are left in limbo, unable to renew or purchase, and expected to pay for secure storage. When the system stalls, fairness shouldn’t be the first casualty
Good reason is a fundamental concept. This article explains the general principles, highlights the potential issues and summarises the applicable law and guidance to address issues which might be experienced.
When policy blocked the path and support failed, expert advocacy restored fairness and a responsible shooter’s rights.
This article provides detailed guidance on completing the UK firearms application form (Form 201), emphasising…
A critical look at UK shotgun licensing history and why aligning it with firearm laws could harm public safety, disrupt ownership, and misdirect reform efforts. Stakeholders are urged to engage.
How a 1995 shift in shotgun certificate durations created renewal bottlenecks—and why your service today might depend on what year you fall into the cycle.
Delays in firearm certificate grants are frustratingly common—but not always inevitable. Here’s what’s causing the hold-ups, and how you can improve your chances of a timely outcome.
When Charles’s application was wrongly marked incomplete, our partner support stepped in. We challenged, restored his original submission, saved him £110, avoided delays, and ensured his shooting rights progressed.
Explores calibre considerations in firearms licensing. The often-seen Police focus on calibre risks hitting the target but missing the point.
The 2023 firearms consultation revealed public concern over police entry powers and licensing changes. Despite opposition, the government plans reforms focused on public safety, training, and regulatory alignment.
Confusing stats and little accountability. Firearms licensing deserves better data—and the public deserves the truth behind the numbers.
Suitability is now central to firearms licensing—but many certificate holders remain unsure what it really means. This guide breaks it down and explains how new police guidance could affect your application.
Your go-to guide for UK firearms licensing—key laws, guidance, and security standards all in one place to support informed, responsible ownership.
Voluntary Surrender: a misunderstood crossroads. Many Certificate Holders are stuck in Limbo. Know the risks, assert your choices, and get secure expert support.
Police can seize firearms using a range of legal powers—but not all seizures are equal. This guide explains when, how, and why seizures happen—and what you can do about it.
AI nearly shelved this project—until it taught me something important. Tools are helpful, but judgment matters. Here’s why trust, nuance, and real expertise still lead the way.
This article offers a clear overview of how UK firearms law defines ammunition, including its…
Police at your door? Stay calm. This guide explains your rights, what to expect, and how to protect your certificate
Alcohol and firearms: even modest drinking can trigger concern. Understand how medical notes are interpreted, clarify records early, and avoid delays or refusals. Accuracy matters—your certificate may depend on it
Delays across Beds, Cambs & Herts mean early, accurate applications are vital. We’re working with police but your rights matter. Use code BCH50off to join us, better understand the rules and safeguard your shooting.
If we could redesign firearms licensing from scratch, what would it look like? This bold rethink proposes a digital, consistent, and safety-focused system—leaving behind the legacy patchwork for a smarter future.
Mental health challenges don’t make you unfit to hold a certificate. Honesty builds trust, and seeking help shows strength. You deserve dignity, clarity, and support – every step of the way.
Social media checks in firearms licensing are discretionary, not routine. Responsible online behaviour protects your certificate – think of your online activity as your digital front door: keep them secure and sensible.
Conditions on firearm certificates must be necessary, proportionate, and safety-focused. This guide explains your rights, responsibilities, and what to expect when conditions go beyond the standard.
The future of shooting lies with young people, yet the law remains complex and daunting. This guide demystifies legal barriers and highlights practical routes into safe, supervised participation.
Lived abroad? Declare early and prepare well. Foreign nationals may need overseas background and medical records to support UK firearms applications. Delays and refusals are avoidable – clarity and timing are key
Post-Keyham, firearms refusals surged across England & Wales, exposing deep inconsistencies in licensing decisions. Regional disparities suggest customer experience now depends more on postcode than policy.
You can cancel a firearm or shotgun certificate application at any time. This won’t count as a refusal and entitles you to a refund—just be sure the decision is informed, not pressured
Guest Author Audiologist Carl Weldon discusses hearing loss and shooting. He identifies how this can occur, the science behind it and highlights preventative measures and treatment options.
Home visits demand honesty, composure, and awareness of household risks—trust and thorough assessment are central as Statutory Guidance reshapes the evaluation process.
Guest Author Daryn Hufton-Rees explores the complexities of UK firearms medical proformas, uncovering inconsistent licensing practices, GP challenges, and the pivotal role of third-party providers like MedCert.
This document sets out the facts. From legal obligations to procedural safeguards, it explains how drug testing is conducted, what’s expected, and how individual rights can be upheld.
Robert’s shotgun certificate application was lost for 18 months. Our advocacy located it, secured progress, and restored his confidence. Proving persistence and fairness can overcome administrative failings.
When Ahmed faced silence after a forced surrender, our Essentials guidance equipped him to escalate complaints, challenge poor practice, and support his friend with confidence.
Crossbows are currently subject to minimal control, but Airbows are a new development. This guide explains the laws, a recent case, and why owners should stay alert to potential licensing changes ahead.
Guidance for lawful shooters on how to handle encounters with police in the field—covering preparation, communication, officer expectations, and how to stay calm, safe, and professional during any stop or check
Subject Access Requests let you access police-held personal data—spot errors, understand decisions, and challenge unfair treatment. A smart, strategic tool for certificate holders navigating firearms licensing
This article explains the significant rise in refusals of firearms certificate (FAC and SGC) applications…
New forensic findings have led to a 2026 amnesty for five Bruni blank-firing pistols, now classified as prohibited weapons. This update explains the legal shift, enforcement risks, and what owners must do to comply.
Firearms Certificate revocations have risen sharply post-Keyham, driven by updated guidance. We examine the source of this data, legal framework, trends and highlight inconsistency.
Know your rights when police request firearm surrender: ask key questions, insist on ethical conduct, and understand your legal protections before making any decision.
A concise guide to the Statutory Guidance on Firearms Licensing—covering checks, suitability, medical evidence, and key police duties to ensure fair, consistent licensing decisions
This article provides a detailed comparison of Firearms Certificates (FAC) and Shotgun Certificates (SGC) under…
Who can hold a firearms certificate, who can’t, and who doesn’t need one? This guide also explains when certificates can be revoked, and the duties of both certificate holders and police.
Get the facts behind shooting insurance in today’s risk-driven world. From public liability to legal cover—here’s what you should know before signing anything. Caveat emptor: know your cover, or pay the price
When Sean’s certificates were revoked without clear grounds, expert advocacy restored his rights within two months—proving that fairness can be won when police overreach
A review of police land checks in firearms licensing, highlighting inconsistencies, limited value, and lack of training—arguing for a more evidence-based, risk-led approach aligned with guidance and case law.
Guest Author, Barrister Conor Monighan writes on the subject of revocation and refusal. Act fast, seek expert advice, and understand your options. Remember time limits are tight!
We do our best to keep this information as up-to-date and comprehensive as possible. However, if you notice something we’ve missed or have suggestions for topics you’d like us to cover in more detail, we’d love to hear from you. Please use the form to share your ideas or feedback – your input helps us improve and better serve your needs.
