✕
Install on your iOS device:
Tap then "Add to Home Screen"

  • SUPPORTING RESPONSIBLE SHOOTING | Call us today:  07586 194458

SUPPORTING
RESPONSIBLE
SHOOTING
MORE ABOUT US AND WHAT WE DO //


Our Bespoke
Service…

FirearmsLicensing.net was created to bring clarity, consistency, and expert support to the UK’s complex and often frustrating firearms licensing system.

Certificate Holders and applicants have faced confusing processes, long delays, inconsistent treatment, and a general lack of transparency.

This site was built to address those issues head-on.

Whether you’re applying for the first time, dealing with a renewal, or facing a dispute with the Police, we aim to give you the tools, knowledge, and support to navigate the process with confidence.

Our goal is to make sure shooters are properly informed, better prepared, and not left feeling powerless in the face of a system that too often lacks accountability.

We offer a number of membership options but are always conscious that the issues experienced are often wide and varied. If the options don’t fit your needs please use the “contact us” function of the website by following this link and we’ll be happy to help.

Expert Insights and Practical Guidance
With contributions from Chris Downs and other respected authorities in firearms law, our library of expert content helps you understand your rights and responsibilities. From avoiding common mistakes to challenging unfair decisions, our guides are designed to support you in securing—and keeping—your certificate with confidence.

Tailored Advice from Professionals
Got a specific question? Our members-only Q&A service connects you directly with experienced experts. Whether you need clarity on a legal issue, guidance on dealing with your licensing department, or practical advice on your circumstances, we’re here to help with precise, personalised answers.

Valuable Perks for Members
Membership comes with more than just peace of mind. Enjoy a digital ID card and unlock access to exclusive savings, partner offers, and special events—all curated with the UK shooting community in mind.


Creator
History…

Chris Downs is a nationally recognised authority in UK firearms licensing, with over 25 years of experience in both frontline policing and strategic leadership.

As a senior leader in both Tactical Firearms Operations and Firearms Licensing, Chris has overseen critical incidents, shaped national policy, and trained enforcement professionals across the country. His unique blend of operational depth and regulatory insight positions him at the forefront of responsible firearms governance.

As Firearms Licensing Manager for the Metropolitan Police, Chris oversaw 30,000 certificate holders, 80 Home Office clubs, and 170 registered dealers, while also contributing to national policy development.

He later served as a Subject Matter Expert at the College of Policing, leading improvements in licensing through training, tools, and national guidance.

A qualified Police Trainer, Chris specialises in training needs analysis, curriculum design, scenario-based learning, and both in-person and online assessment.

Chris’ career spans specialist operations, strategic policing projects, tactical firearms command, and the reform of licensing frameworks, making him one of the most credible voices in one of Britain’s most complex policing sectors.

He has acquired extensive experience in:

Firearms Licensing

  • Commended for leading work with UK Athletics ensuring greater awareness and accountability when utilising Firearms in this area of sport
  • Commended for leading Judicial Review which enabled the inclusion of sensitive material into the Firearms Licensing Court Process
  • Author of Firearms Enquiry Officer (FEO) Course & the first to deliver this package
  • Created single FEO enquiry form to address serious inconsistencies across the UK
  • Worked with British Shooting Sports Council members to deliver a “Range Day” experience to improve FEO understanding of shooting disciplines
  • Devised new online portal to apply for artificial target exemptions under 11(6) Firearms Act and accompanying guidance for Police.
  • Worked with all stakeholders to promote awareness of and improve response to Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) in this area.

Firearms Command

  • Firearms Command – Leading Armed Response to the highest threat criminal and terror incidents in the most challenging areas of the Capital.
  • Testing and Exercising – Stress testing the Police response to the most complex armed incidents including the creation of an AI immersive command exercise.
  • International Liaison – Lead joint exercising between UK Police and Homeland Security Investigations to develop strategic relationships and share best practice around armed policing interventions.


Expert
Articles…

Knowledge is Power

Looking for clarity in this area is like searching for a needle in these haystacks:

  • Acts of Parliament
  • Statutory Instruments & Guidance
  • Home Office Guidance
  • Police Authorised Professional Practice (APP)

Our Expert Articles are tailored to cover the main aspects of firearms licensing, put them in clear language and in particular focus on those that cause the majority of issues for the public.

Smart search

The aim of this site is to provide the most complete resource in existence and put the expert in your pocket 24/7.

A critical part of ensuring this resource remains user friendly is the smart search function. This interprets the question(s) you ask and draws your attention to those most relevant sources of information.

Critically – This is not “Artificial Intelligence” as such (Yet!).

Read this free article on the subject of AI and it’s limitations by following this link.

BUT… this is a completely new development to this area so please remember to use the “contact us” function if your search enquiry doesn’t take you to the answer you are looking for.

We are constantly striving to improve and rely on your feedback to fuel this process.

View Articles

Scroll, Post, Consequences

 Scroll, Post, Consequences 2560 1440 Chris Downs

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.

Accurate Applications

 Accurate Applications 2560 2432 Vicky Downs

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.

Speaking Up, Staying Safe

 Speaking Up, Staying Safe 2560 1602 Chris Downs

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.

Good Reason – Calibre

 Good Reason – Calibre 1707 2560 Vicky Downs

Explores calibre considerations in firearms licensing. The often-seen Police focus on calibre risks hitting the target but missing the point.


Members
Questions…

Think you know Forums? This one is different!

Typically a question on a forum receives 30% responses saying “yes”, 30% saying “no” and 40% criticising the poster. The end result is that no one is any clearer.

Answers from Experts

This strictly moderated forum enables specific questions to be put to our panel of experts. It ensures the answers provided are clear and referenced against existing law and guidance.

Play your part in building the resource

All previous questions from other members are visible and identified themes help drive the creation of new resources.


Membership
ID Card…

Exclusive Member Benefits

As part of your subscription, you’ll receive a personalised digital membership card that shows you belong to the newest online Shooting Community and shows your Firearms Licensing Team that you are serious about your shooting.

Coming soon…..

Your card will give you access to an incredible range of discounts across the UK. From high street favourites to trusted online brands, your card unlocks savings at retailers – including major national chains and independent local businesses.

Whether you’re shopping for essentials or planning something special, your membership card will be your key to instant savings across virtually every area of everyday life.

It’s our way of saying thank you – and ensuring that your subscription pays for itself many times over.


The
Team…

Creator // Former Tactical Firearms Commander

Chris Downs

Director // Membership Coordinator

Victoria Downs

Administrative Assistant

Laura Osborne
Technology Consultant

James Bernhard


Recent
Articles…

Criminal Records Office (ACRO)

 Criminal Records Office (ACRO) 2465 2560 Chris Downs

A free ACRO Subject Access Request lets applicants see exactly what’s held about them on the PNC, helping ensure accuracy, transparency, and fairness before submitting a firearms licensing application

Scroll, Post, Consequences

 Scroll, Post, Consequences 2560 1440 Chris Downs

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.

Behind the Numbers 2

 Behind the Numbers 2 2560 1708 Chris Downs

Confusing stats and little accountability. Firearms licensing deserves better data and the public deserves the truth behind the numbers.

Backlogs & BCH

 Backlogs & BCH 1536 1024 Chris Downs

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.

Drug Tests

 Drug Tests 2560 1707 Chris Downs

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.

Living Overseas

 Living Overseas 2560 1920 Chris Downs

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

Temporary Permits

 Temporary Permits 1536 1024 Chris Downs

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

When the Police Knock

 When the Police Knock 2560 1707 Chris Downs

Police at your door? Stay calm. This guide explains your rights, what to expect, and how to protect your certificate

Top-Venting, Top Priority

 Top-Venting, Top Priority 1386 988 Chris Downs

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.

Speaking Up, Staying Safe

 Speaking Up, Staying Safe 2560 1602 Chris Downs

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.

Behind the Numbers

 Behind the Numbers 2560 1708 Chris Downs

Confusing stats and little accountability. Firearms licensing deserves better data—and the public deserves the truth behind the numbers.

Shotguns aren’t the problem

 Shotguns aren’t the problem 2560 1707 Chris Downs

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.


Don’t Take
Our Word for it…

I wanted some advice regarding historic health matters and how this would affect my FAC & SGC renewal.

I spoke to Chris and was so glad I did. He was extremely knowledgeable about the legislation, but on top of that, very reassuring.

He’s very compassionate and clearly loves what he does.

The offer of help and advice at any point is worth its weight in gold.

M F - Lancashire

Chris has provided invaluable advice and support in my efforts to obtain a new firearms license after my previous one had lapsed several years ago.

He has deep knowledge and understanding of the law and how to navigate the firearm licensing process.

I urge anyone who has questions about obtaining a license or needs advice to reach out to Chris.

T T - Surrey

Thanks for your time today and the clarity that you gave me around the application process.

I think that what you are doing is really relevant and important for our community

J D - Middlesex

We live in a world where so few people take pride in their work. That’s definitely not an accusation that can be thrown at you!

T. S. - Northamptonshire

The support I received from the team was phenomenal. The timescales were realistic and met above and beyond my initial expectations.

J. G. - Leicestershire

Thank you for being so straightforward!!!

A. T. - Hampshire

Super professional. Super Supportive. Written in a way that will really help the community. 5 mins reading and I’d found the answer

E. L. - Norfolk

There is a desperate need for this site. Very specific knowledge and understanding of a very complicated and nuanced area. The ease of accessing what you require and having it presented in an understandable manner is possibly one of the sites strongest point.

A. M. - Essex

This app provides clear and concise advice from someone who has worked within the system for many years and what’s more? It’s a written in a clear and straightforward style that makes it easy to comprehend. I can’t recommend firearmslicensing.net highly enough.

P. M. - Suffolk

I’m so glad I’ve finally found this resource. I’ve tried reading the government guidance and like a lot of those documents, the number of linguistic somersaults and contradictions leave one totally confused. I’ve now got an expert in my pocket 24/7.

M. S. - Sussex
Quick Links

Home
About us
Articles
Contact

Accounts

Account Register
Account Login
Privacy Policy
Terms of Sales

© Minerva Hub Ltd trading as Firearms Licensing | All rights reserved | No part of this site may be reproduced, distributed or transmitted | Company no. 16393202 | Site by Bernhard Media ltd.
Back to top