The British Shooting Sports Council (BSSC) serves as the united voice of the UK’s licensed shooting and collecting community, representing 15 major organisations. As an umbrella body, it engages closely with government, the Home Office, and international partners to advocate for fair, evidence-based policy on firearms regulation.
Amid mounting challenges—including proposed new police powers and licensing reform—the BSSC emphasises calm, coordinated advocacy to protect lawful shooting while maintaining public safety.
With a mission rooted in trust, patience, and constructive dialogue, the BSSC works to ensure that the contributions of over half a million certificate holders and a £3bn industry are recognised and respected.
This guide explains what certificate holders should do if police request the voluntary surrender of firearms.
It outlines key questions to ask, ethical standards expected of officers, legal rights during the process, and how to respond calmly and confidently—whether you choose to comply or not.
It also details what must happen if revocation or seizure occurs, and offers support for those in this position
This article summarises the key themes, findings, and government responses from the consultation.
While much attention has centred on proposed police entry powers and closer alignment of Section 1 and 2 licensing regimes, the results also reveal wider patterns in public perception, professional concerns, and political direction—all of which may shape future legislation.
Look out for more detailed reviews of the key proposals
(Coming Soon).
The rate of UK Firearms Certificate revocations has risen sharply post-Keyham, driven by updated guidance and regional inconsistencies, sparking concern over fairness and consistency.
This article uncovers the source of this data, the legal framework, analyses trends and highlights inconsistency.

The rate of UK Shotgun Certificate revocations has risen sharply post-Keyham, driven by updated guidance and regional inconsistencies, sparking concern over fairness and consistency.
This article uncovers the source of this data, the legal framework, analyses trends and highlights inconsistency.

Explores the often-overlooked subject of demonstrating “good reason” for ammunition holdings under UK firearms licensing rules.
It explains how certificate holders must justify not only firearm ownership but also the quantity of ammunition.
It highlights the pitfalls of arbitrary limits imposed by some police forces.