Introduction
Across England and Wales, Section 1 shotguns are a normal, lawful part of shooting, pest control, gamekeeping and practical disciplines. They are authorised routinely by most police forces where the applicant demonstrates good reason and meets the expected security standards.
However, in recent months a number of certificate holders and applicants in West Mercia have reported difficulties obtaining authorisation for Section 1 shotguns.
Some have been told that:
- Section 1 shotguns are “not normally authorised”,
- A Section 2 shotgun is “sufficient”, or
- An applicant must demonstrate an “exceptional need”.
These positions do not reflect the Firearms Act, the Home Office Guide, or the Statutory Guidance to Chief Officers. West Mercia have now confirmed that they will review any decisions where applicants feel aggrieved, and this article explains how to do that effectively.
Email Template
To support applicants, FirearmsLicensing.net has produced:
- A Template Review Letter that anyone can use when asking West Mercia to reconsider a decision
- A Position Statement setting out the correct legal and guidance framework
The template is free for anyone to use but the position statement is for our membership only and accessible with any of our membership offers which start at £12 for a whole year’s access and benefits.
Why this matters?
Section 1 shotguns are a normal part of lawful shooting and land management.
The licensing system must remain:
- Fair
- Transparent
- Evidence‑based
- Consistent with national guidance
Where applicants encounter decisions that appear to apply a higher threshold than the law requires, it is entirely appropriate to request a review.
Our aim is simple:
To support responsible certificate holders in navigating the system confidently, lawfully and with the correct information.
West Mercia’s Email address is – firearmslicensing.cjsd.hq@westmercia.pnn.police.uk
Or you can use the online form found here –
Template Email
Template Letter – Request for Review of Section 1 Shotgun Decision
(For public use – suitable for any applicant in West Mercia)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Certificate Number – if applicable]
[Date]
Firearms Licensing Unit
West Mercia Police
Dear Sir or Madam,
Re: Request for Review of Decision Relating to Section 1 Shotgun
I am writing to request a review of the recent decision concerning my application/renewal/variation* for a Section 1 shotgun. I understand that West Mercia Police have invited applicants who feel aggrieved by such decisions to seek a review, and I am grateful for the opportunity to do so.
I remain fully cooperative and willing to provide any further reasonable information required.
1. Basis for requesting a review
I am concerned that the decision may not fully reflect the statutory framework set out in:
- The Firearms Act 1968,
- The Home Office Guide on Firearms Licensing Law, and
- The Statutory Guidance to Chief Officers.
These documents make clear that:
- The legal test for authorising a Section 1 shotgun is good reason,
- Blanket policies are not permitted, and
- All decisions must be made on a case‑by‑case basis, considering the specific firearm, purpose and circumstances.
I respectfully request that my application be reconsidered in light of these principles.
2. My stated good reason
My application sets out a clear, evidenced and continuing good reason for the Section 1 shotgun, namely;
[Insert your intended use here and why this is supported by a Sec 1 shotgun – e.g., pest control requiring rapid follow‑up shots,]
This is a recognised, lawful purpose and is consistent with national practice across England and Wales.
3. Security arrangements
My security arrangements meet or exceed the standards set out in the Home Office Guide and Statutory Guidance.
4. Crime and risk considerations
National crime data shows no evidence that legally‑held Section 1 shotguns are used in crime with any measurable frequency. Shotgun offences overwhelmingly involve illicit or shortened shotguns, not firearms held on certificate.
Crime data provides no evidence base for treating Section 1 shotguns as requiring a higher threshold of justification.
5. Right of appeal
If, following review, the decision is maintained, I would be grateful for:
- A clear written explanation of the reasons for refusal, and
- Confirmation of my statutory right of appeal under the Firearms Act 1968.
This ensures transparency and allows me to consider my next steps appropriately.
Closing
I appreciate your time and consideration. My intention is simply to comply with the law, meet the statutory tests, and continue my shooting activities safely and responsibly. I remain fully willing to provide any further information required.
Yours faithfully,
[Your Name]
