Eric Salop
Elite Member
Eric I though that guns were almost not available to the public and most hunters shot air guns.
It's not got quite that bad, although many with no interest in shooting would prefer that.
Firearms and rifle ammunition are tightly controlled and regulated. Anyone without a criminal record and can show a good reason for owning (target shooting, hunting deer, fox and rabbit control - not personal defense and no handguns) can apply for a license from the local police authority and they will grant one if they are satisfied with the mental state of the individual and the security of the storage facilities. Our medical records are now also being coded so that doctors are aware of any individual with a shotgun or firearms certificate and will inform police of issues, such as depression.
In England we can own an air rifle/pistol without any of the above, hence the reason many shoot air rifles, although they must not produce more than 12ft lbs of energy for a rifle, or 6 ft lbs for a pistol.
From next year everyone living in or travelling to Scotland will need a licence to have even an air rifle in their possession and all the hassle that goes with the paperwork. So pleased I live in England, I feel sorry for those north of the border.
Criminals tend not to get too concerned about any of the above restrictions.

