I've searched around for information on your firearms laws but I've been getting mixed answers.
1) Generally, how long does it take to acquire a firearms license?
2) What is the maximum number of rounds you can have in a firearm?
3) Are semi-automatic rifles/pump action shotguns legal, and how do you possess one?
4) What is the highest caliber allowed?
5) Are you allowed to carry any type of weapon in public? (not talking about firearms obviously).
6) Do the laws differ in other parts of the UK?
Thanks.
Here you go:
1) Generally, how long does it take to acquire a firearms license? - an application for a Fire-Arms License takes on average 8-10 weeks for grant or renewal but can take nearly 12 months in some force areas, it lasts for 5 years.
2) What is the maximum number of rounds you can have in a firearm? This depends on what you are licensed for, standard shotgun certificate covers you for a 2+1 semi auto as maximum, the mag size is down to what you can buy, so CZ rimfire is 10 shot mag and a .22lr is as bigger drum mag as you get. centrefire is only single shot so normally 5 shot maximum. Your license on grant will tell you your maximum you can hold and purchase at any one time.
3) Are semi-automatic rifles/pump action shotguns legal, and how do you possess one? No semi- automatic rifles are not allowed except for .22lr & .22WMR. Yes shotguns are allowed as semi-auto but restricted to 2+1, also pump action shotguns are allowed also 2+1, .22lr pump action is also allowed but uncommon.
4) What is the highest caliber allowed? The highest is the highest you can justifie, we do have long range 50bmg ranges over here and clubs .
5) Are you allowed to carry any type of weapon in public? (not talking about firearms obviously). No, nothing at all. you must justifie why you have anything on you if stopped and searched etc.
6) Do the laws differ in other parts of the UK? No we are the same across the country.
Hope this helps guys,
ATB
Matt