After firing my .410 shotgun a few times, with cartridges supplied by the dealer, the barrel split.
David Frost
FAQs about shotgun certificates
Shotgun certificate FAQs answered 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…
Firearms licensing problems: is there anything you can do about them? Yes, says David Frost
It’s seldom I have anything encouraging to write about firearms licensing and this is no exception. Some folk are having to wait six months and more to get certificates granted…
Alcohol, guns and the law
We’re asked whether we abuse alcohol when we apply for a shotgun certificate or firearms licence. I was reading this and I started thinking about drinking alcohol and guns. All…
Firearms law: an update
Nothing stands still in firearms licensing, and there have been changes in firearms law that will affect readers. Unusually, most are good. Medical records and firearms law The Home Office…
How to compensate for heat mirage when rifle shooting
We’re in the throes of a heatwave at the moment so it’s timely to offer some advice on dealing with the heat mirage that occurs when rifle shooting. Heat mirage…
What’s the law on carrying a knife for hunting?
My son and his friend recently returned home with some un-paunched rabbits. When I asked him why he said they were concerned about carrying a knife in case they were…
Clayshooting at home: can I set up clay shooting on my own property?
Can you set up clay pigeon shooting on your own property?
At what age can I apply for a shotgun certificate?
One of the commonest questions I get through Sporting Gun is from youngsters wanting to know what the minimum age is for getting a shotgun certificate.
What are the legal calibres for foxes and rabbits?
After many years shotgun shooting my partner and I have been looking into culling foxes and rabbits by rifle at the various farms where we shoot.
Applying for a shotgun certificate: here’s what you should expect
With around 40 pieces of legislation governing the ownership and use of guns, applying for a shotgun certificate is not as simple as all that.The rules for Northern Ireland are…
Can I have a gun cabinet in a static caravan?
Is there any way you are allowed to have a gun cabinet in a static caravan?
Trespassing law: how should you deal with trespassers?
Trespassing law Q: I have a question about trespassing law. We were out pigeon shooting when we were confronted by three trespassers. They refused to leave when asked and were…
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.
What you need to know about the new 2021 general licences for England
The new 2021 general licences for England came into effect from 1 January and are valid for this calendar year. They were announced by Defra in November after the withdrawal…
Black powder licences … what you need to know
Thinking about using black powder? You’ll need a licence from the local police and a reason for using it. Having a gun proofed for black powder should be enough. Of…
Some questions about snap caps
Q: I am new to shooting and I keep hearing the term ‘snap caps’. What are they? A: Snap caps protect your gun by relieving the stress on your firing…
Deactivated guns – just how has the law changed?
Q: I have a number of deactivated guns that I am told that I will now have to register. Does this mean I need to get a firearm or shotgun…
Why the Home Office consultation on firearms licensing is a muddle
Firearms licensing has never been satisfactory, but it became an even bigger mess in April 2016 when the Home Office introduced new medical requirements. These were agreed between the Home…
My shotgun certificate renewal has been refused!
The police have refused to renew my shotgun certificate on the grounds that I pose a threat to public safety or the peace, citing my domestic circumstances, and the fact…