Shotguns and Legal Requirements

Disclaimer

The following information is presented by H.E.C Showman limited in good faith. It is our interpretation of certain aspects of the legislation covering licensing of shotguns within England and Wales but should not be taken as a complete or definitive statement of the law. If you are in any doubt you should refer to a solicitor specializing in firearms law, or the Firearms Licensing officer of your local Police force. Northern Ireland, Scotland and other locations such as the Isle of Man and Channel Islands are not covered by the following information. Specialist help should be sought for any queries in these areas.

It is a condition of the issue of a firearm certificate that the firearms and shotguns to which the certificate relates must be stored securely at all times (except in certain circumstances) so as to prevent, so far as reasonably practicable, access to the shotguns by unauthorized persons. Shotgun ammunition is not covered by this condition but it is sensible to store it safely. It is of paramount importance that shotguns are always stored and used in a safe manner.

Whether in the field or clay pigeon shooting, it cannot be stressed highly enough how important it is to always be aware that you are in possession of a lethal weapon. Security requirement for shotguns are quite stringent. The Police will inspect shotgun(s) and advise you on their requirements. The law says you must secure your shotguns from theft. Usually this means you will be required to lock them in a steel cabinet of Police-approved design and quality, built to BS7558:1992. A shotgun certificate holder may have as many shotguns as he/she wishes, providing they can secure them to the satisfaction of the Police.

All shotguns held must be entered on the Shotgun certificate and the Police informed of any new purchase or disposal. A SGC holder can borrow a shotgun from another SGC holder for 72 hours without having to inform the Police.

The firearms act 1968 defines a shot gun within the meaning of the Act, that is to say a smooth-bore gun (not being an air gun) which:

(i) has a barrel not less than 24 inches in length and does not have any barrel with a bore exceeding 2 inches in diameter;
(ii) either has no magazine or has a non-detachable magazine incapable of holding more than two cartridges; and
(iii) is not a revolver gun.

To buy, sell or possess a 'Section 2' shotgun you are required to hold a valid Shotgun Certificate. You can view the form at www.met.police.uk/firearms_licensing/documents/shotgun_certificate_form_103.pdf. This can be applied for through you local constabulary.

There are many factors that require consideration when storing your shot gun safely and legally. Our Shotgun safety information will offer a guide but undoubtedly, it is best to seek advise from your local Police firearms officer.