This article explains the classification of firearms under UK law, outlining the distinctions between Section 1 firearms, Section 2 shotguns, and Section 5 prohibited weapons.
It highlights key legal definitions, including criteria for air weapons, exemptions for antique and deactivated firearms, and recent issues surrounding blank-firing guns. It also clarifies what can legally be possessed without a certificate and emphasizes the complexities of current legislation.
This article outlines the common issues that can place a Firearm Certificate at risk and discusses whether Certificate Holders are held to a higher standard due to public safety concerns.
It considers; breaches of conditions, domestic disputes, criminal charges, and neighbour disputes.
It suggests practical guidance to avoid escalation and safeguard your shooting.
Subject Access Requests (SARs) allow individuals to access personal data held about them under UK GDPR—especially useful in firearms licensing disputes. Requests can be made in writing or verbally, and police must usually respond within one month. SARs can uncover how your data is used, spot errors, or support informal challenges. But they must be used carefully, as excessive or unfounded requests can be refused.
The article explains the process of varying elements of a Firearms Certificate in the UK, covering statutory provisions from the Firearms Act 1968. It outlines different types of variations—one-for-one exchanges, adding firearms/ammunition, and altering certificate conditions.
It also details application methods and considerations, including legal precedents and Home Office guidelines. The document highlights key arguments and evidence that Certificate Holders may need when requesting condition changes.
This is a complex area which has overlaps with articles on “Land Checks” and “Conditions”.
This article addresses delays in the processing of firearms certificate grants, highlighting how factors like COVID-related backlogs, the Keyham tragedy, and the introduction of statutory GP requirements have slowed the system. It explains that while the NPCC suggests a 4-month timeline for “non-complex” grants, this varies widely across forces. The piece offers practical steps applicants can take to streamline their application and suggests escalating if necessary.
Outlines the mandatory and additional conditions that can be attached to a UK Shotgun (SGC) and Firearms Certificate (FAC), detailing their legal basis under the Firearms Act 1968 and Firearms Rules 1998.
It explains the principles governing the imposition of conditions, emphasizing proportionality, necessity, and public safety.
Additionally, it addresses the limits of appealing conditions and also highlights police authority to require a certificate for amendments and the consequences of failing to comply
This article outlines the evolving approach to home visit assessments for firearms licensing. It explains how the process has become more structured and detailed under statutory guidance and updated professional practices. This is particularly relevant in light of the update to Statutory Guidance in August 2025.
The assessment now covers various factors, including security, criminal and medical history, and the home environment. It emphasizes the importance of trust, honesty, and maintaining composure during interactions with Firearms Enquiry Officers (FEOs).
Overall, it aims to prepare applicants for a more comprehensive review process while maintaining fairness and professionalism.









