Firearms & Shotgun Regimes compared
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Chris Downs
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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.