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How the Police should assess evidence

How the Police should assess evidence 2560 1706 Chris Downs

This article explains the significant rise in refusals of firearms certificate (FAC and SGC) applications since 2019/20, particularly for renewals. It attributes this change to the Keyham shooting and the introduction of Statutory Guidance. The piece offers practical advice to applicants on how to prepare for FEO interviews—by reflecting on past incidents and presenting evidence of rehabilitation, stability, and good character.

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Security

Security 2560 2560 Vicky Downs

This article outlines key principles for firearm security and their importance. Statutory Guidance to Police is clear that certificates should not be granted if security arrangements are inadequate. It highlights common misinterpretations by licensing authorities, stressing the difference between mandatory and advisory security measures.

It references key areas of The Firearms Security Manual and provides practical recommendations including; cabinet placement, key security, transportation considerations, and strategies to mitigate theft risks.

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Law – Persons

Law – Persons 2560 1707 Vicky Downs

This article provides an overview of UK firearms law under the Firearms Act 1968, highlighting eligibility and restrictions for possessing firearms and ammunition.

Within the text it:

  • defines “prohibited persons” based on criminal convictions
  • explains exemptions for possession without a certificate,
  • outlines police authority regarding searches, seizures, and revocations.
  • clarifies the requirements for obtaining firearm and shotgun certificates, emphasizing police assessments of fitness, public safety, and “good reason.”
  • discusses statutory guidance on home visits and the criteria for revocation of certificates.

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Safe Hands, Sound Judgement

Safe Hands, Sound Judgement 2560 1707 Chris Downs

This article provides a practical guide to demonstrating competence in firearms handling, particularly in the context of UK Firearms Licensing. It highlights how Firearms Enquiry Officers (FEOs) increasingly assess applicants’ ability to use firearms safely, a factor that has been overlooked but is now central to licensing decisions.

Key points include:

  • The link between Competence and Public Safety
  • Ways to demonstrate competence
  • Common FEO questions

It advises applicants to prepare thoroughly for FEO interviews, ensuring they can confidently answer questions and provide evidence of safe firearm handling.

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Suitability – The New Focus

Suitability – The New Focus 1440 2560 Chris Downs

Provides a concise overview of suitability assessments in UK firearms licensing, emphasizing the evolving role of Firearms Enquiry Officers (FEOs). It traces the origins of national training for FEOs back to a 1993 HMIC inspection and the post-Dunblane Inquiry (1997), highlighting how suitability has properly become the central consideration in licensing decisions.

Key points include:

  • New FEO guidance:
  • Definition of suitability:
  • Factors affecting suitability:
  • Security
  • Home environment
  • Competency
  • Criminality
  • Medical considerations

The document warns that Police Forces may overcorrect after years of minimal guidance, leading to potentially excessive scrutiny.

It serves as a practical reference for Certificate Holders preparing for stricter assessments.

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Firearms & Shotgun Regimes compared

Firearms & Shotgun Regimes compared 2560 1537 Chris Downs

This article provides a detailed comparison of Firearms Certificates (FAC) and Shotgun Certificates (SGC) under UK law, highlighting key differences in requirements, restrictions, and police assessments. It explains how the SGC regime was introduced in 1968 as a less stringent form of control compared to the FAC, but recent trends show police forces tightening their stance on renewals.

Key points include:

  • Legal wording differences
  • Good reason requirement
  • Ownership and conditions
  • Increasing Police scrutiny

The document also discusses potential future alignment of the two regimes and advises SGC Holders to prepare for more intrusive scrutiny.

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The Medical Proforma

The Medical Proforma 2560 1707 Chris Downs

Guest Author Daryn Hufton-Rees outlines the role of medical proformas in UK firearms licensing, explaining their historical development and current challenges.

It highlights three types of GP responses: supportive, high-charging, and refusing, with alternative options for applicants struggling with excessive fees or refusals to engage.

Key issues raised include inconsistent licensing practices, ambiguous proforma wording, security concerns, and uncertainty surrounding the admissibility of these documents in UK Courts.

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The Application Process

The Application Process 1920 1280 Chris Downs

This article provides detailed guidance on completing the UK firearms application form (Form 201), emphasising accuracy and transparency. It highlights the importance of avoiding false statements, ensuring all sections are completed correctly to prevent rejection.

This article has been updated following changes to application form and Statutory Guidance which were implemented in August 2025.

Key points include:

  • Medical declarations
  • Disclosure of offences
  • Firearms and shotgun details
  • Security arrangements
  • New guidance for referees

The article also discusses online vs. paper applications, stressing the need for preparation.
It serves as a practical reference for applicants navigating the process.

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The Bulge – Timing is everything!

The Bulge – Timing is everything! 2560 1705 Chris Downs

This article provides an overview of how the change to Shotgun Certificate duration in 1995 still impacts on Police demand today and can result in you experiencing a substantially poorer service as a result.

It provides some suggestions and consideration as to why it might be in your best interests to work with your Force to shift the timing of your renewal.

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Voluntary Surrender – offered or considering

Voluntary Surrender – offered or considering 2304 1536 James Bernhard

This piece provides an in-depth analysis of Voluntary Surrender (VS) in firearms licensing.

This is a process where certificate holders either proactively surrender their firearms or are encouraged by police to do so.

An estimated 8,500 – 10,500 Certificate Holders are currently under Voluntary Surrender (VS) while they await a Police decision.

The document explains the implications for certificate holders, including potential delays in firearm return, loss of appeal rights, and interactions with police officers who may lack firearms licensing expertise.

It emphasizes the importance of understanding one’s rights, seeking professional advice, and making informed decisions when offered VS.

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