Which would be your choice in the 12-bore vs 16 bore conversation? Ask some people why they use a 16-bore and they say they “stumbled across one by chance” but now wouldn’t use anything else. Here’s what our debates think … 16-bores are for rural hipsters says Ben Samuelson A…
Gun ownership
Gun ownership comes with many responsibilities.
You need to ensure that your shotgun/firearms certificate is up to date and that your gun is kept securely, according to the law.
You need to be fully aware of the shooting safety rules and follow the all-important shooting etiquette.
Make sure that your gun is safe for use by maintaining it well.
Gun laws change from time to time as new ruling is brought in and you need to be sure you are up to date with what is happening.
If you’re a novice, we have advice on buying your first gun, whether new or second-hand and making sure your gun mount is its best.
Read our articles here which cover the important aspects of gun ownerships, from how to buy a gun, how to apply for your shotgun licence and firearms certificate, the best way to keep your gun secure and the legalities.
Travelling with your guns – here’s what you need to know
What you need to know about travelling with guns If you are travelling by plane… First thing to do is check what the individual airline’s policy is on firearms as some companies do not allow any firearms on the plane. Local policies at the destination may also come into effect.…
What was Rangoon gun oil? Is it still around today?
In a lot of old shooting books it says you should clean gun barrels with Rangoon oil. What was it, and who made it? These days you never hear it mentioned. Why?
How can my firearms cabinet be opened lawfully?
What arrangements should I make for the orderly disposal of my firearms after my death, and how can my firearms cabinet be opened lawfully?
How to measure your length of pull
Q: How important is length of pull of a stock on a rifle? It makes a difference on my shotguns in handling, so will it do the same with my rifle? A: That’s a good question. We all know that with a shotgun handling, fit and balance make an enormous…
When I am out shooting should I always carry my certificate with me?
Is it law that we should carry our shotgun/firearm certificates with us every time we go out with the gun?
Will I lose my shotgun certificate because I’ve had a formal police caution?
Shotgun licence: Two weeks ago I was arrested and given a formal caution for an offence I did not commit.
Moving house and your gun certificates – what you need to know
It is a criminal offence not to obey the conditions on your firearm or shotgun certificate. One of which particularly concerns moving house. Condition 3 on every firearm and shotgun certificate says: “The holder of this certificate must, without undue delay, inform the chief officer of police by whom the…
This is what you should know about shotgun barrels
What length shotgun barrels should I buy? I wish I had a pound for every time a newcomer to shooting has asked me that question. The answer is that it depends on a few variables and the wrong gun length could have significant implications on your success. Is height and…
Should I buy a Nikko shotgun? Are they any good?
I have seen a Nikko shotgun for sale at a reasonable price. It looks good, but I have never heard of the make.
Are children allowed to use rifles?
Children using rifles – is it legal? Q. I am planning a fun day for the village on my farm, where I have a range that is suitable for .22 rimfires. Can I allow young people to use the range provided that they have their parents’ permission and are under…
What to AVOID when buying a gun (and what to look out for)
Advice on what you shouldn't do when buying a gun
6 ways to LOSE your shotgun and firearms certificates. (And how to avoid that happening.)
1. Have an acrimonious split from a partner According to Peter Glenser, QC and chairman of The British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC), more people are losing shotgun certificates or firearms certificates during divorce proceedings than under any other circumstances. The loss often follows an untrue allegation from a…
How can I restore the shine to my gun?
Before going anywhere near oil, you need to establish how the stock was finished in the factory, advises Mike George
How to choose the wood for your gun stock
When deciding to re-stock a gun with a new piece of walnut, a lot of thought needs to be applied before gun stock (known in the gun trade as a blank) is chosen and any wood gets cut. As with many aspects of gunmaking and repair, a little knowledge can…
How many shotgun cartridges in a slab?
Is it true the performance of cartridges is reduced when they get cold? If so, how can this characteristic be overcome in frosty weather?
7 of the best gun cabinets
Remember all gun cabinets and gun safes must conform to the British standard, have secure locks and be fixed to a secure structure. Contact your local police firearms department if you have a query on where to fit your gun cabinet or safe. The police prefer a gun cabinet to…
Gun lending rules
Q: When a person lends a shotgun to a non-certificate holder on a private shoot, must the gun be on their certificate? Loans of shotguns and gun lending on private premises is now regulated by the Policing and Crime Act 2017. Section 130 of the act merely states: “A person…
Is a wooden or synthetic rifle stock best?
I am considering changing the old .22 Hornet rifle I use for fox control with a modern .22/250, but am undecided as to whether to go for a wood stock or one made from a synthetic material. What do you think?
FAQs about shotgun certificate applications
Q. How much does a shotgun certificate cost and how long does it run for? A. A certificate is valid for five years, after which it must be renewed if you wish to continue to possess shotguns. A new certificate costs £79.50 and renewal is £49. Q. How old do…