Firearm certificate

Good reason

A shotgun certificate gives the holder the right to buy pretty much whatever shotgun they like, but it’s different for firearms.

Although every British resident has a right to a firearms certificate, you need a good reason to own each firearm you want to use.

Each one must be specified on your certificate, along with a sound moderator, if required, and the amount and type of ammunition that can be purchased and stored. If you are planning on acquiring a new firearm, then you need to apply to the police to vary the certificate. Your certificate usually specifies what each firearm may be used for. The police can revoke your certificate at any time if they think there is no longer good reason for you to possess the firearms on it. You’ll need to fill in the FAC application form, plus arrange for two independent referees to sign it. Supply a passport-style photo, and enclose your cheque for £88.

Two referees

Two independent referees are needed, who must reside in Great Britain, be of good character, and have known you for at least two years. They can be of any profession (except a registered firearms dealer or police employee) provided they are not a family member. They will, however, need to know you very well to be able to answer the police’s detailed questions about you. Good friends of the family make ideal referees.

Police checks

Getting a firearm certificate involves more police checks and conditions than for a shotgun. It differs in that you must show the Police you have a good reason to own and use a firearm; that you are fit to be entrusted with one; and can use one safely without becoming a danger to public safety or to the peace. As with a shotgun certificate, you will need to complete a medical form, signed by your GP or other doctor. Police will also look at your domestic background and family circumstances; and investigating known associations with other people with criminal records or who are thought to be involved in crime. Anyone deemed of intemperate habits or of unsound mind may have their application refused and any drug or drink-related convictions will also be taken into account.

Unlike for a shotgun certificate, you are required to provide evidence to the police that you have suitable land for the type of gun you want; that the quarry (if not targets) is present on that land; and that you have permission to shoot that quarry with that gun from the landowner. The police may inspect the land you want to shoot on to ensure it’s safe, though you don’t have to give details of every place you want to shoot – if you provide details of lots and lots of land, the police often spend weeks checking each individual plot.

Open certificate

Most commonly with a beginner who has been granted a firearms certificate, there will be a restriction on where the firearm(s) may be used. Home Office guidance issued in 2002 allows such restrictions to be lifted “once the certificate holder has demonstrated competence. There is no set time for this and each case should be considered on its individual merits.”

This means that once the police are happy with your level of competence with a specific firearm, you can shoot wherever you like. Typically this takes three years, and many firearms licensing departments allow it to be done by phone, or in some cases, letter – and it doesn’t count as a variation.

Target shooting

If you’re applying for the grant or renewal of an FAC and any gun on it is solely for target shooting, you need to show that you are a full member of at least one Home Office-approved club. Many clubs permit newcomers probationary memberships, during which you must go to the club and shoot under supervision regularly for three months before being allowed to join as a full member. This directory contains many clubs that cater for newcomers – see the key on page 3 for those that do!