
The best of both worlds?
FAC-rated air rifles offer versatility in a wide range of shooting situations, but UK shooters have been slow to catch on.
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Everything you need to know about shotgun, rifle and airgun ammunition.
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Responding to the sentencing of Nicholas Prosper and the subsequent statement by the Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper, BASC has released the following response:
“First and foremost, every life lost is a tragedy. No one, whether within the shooting community or beyond, underestimates the profound pain and loss caused by the illegal use of firearms resulting in deaths. The goal should always be to prevent harm wherever possible.
“BASC works for a licensing system that protects public safety and has consistently advocated for a more efficient and effective licensing process. It is not in the interests of those who shoot for the wrong people to have guns.
“It is important that the full facts are known and understood, and that no solution is decided upon as a knee jerk reaction to horrific killings. BASC would urge ministers to examine the failings of the existing system that has 43 different licensing authorities, all with differing interpretations of the law and guidance.
“They should consider establishing a national body for firearms licensing and a robust system for ensuring that any buyer is legitimate and properly authorised to purchase the firearm in question.
“BASC fully supported the National Crime Agency’s recent campaign to combat the faking of firearms certificates.
“We remain committed to collaborating with law enforcement agencies and policymakers to ensure the system is robust and effective, ensuring that firearms are possessed only by those who meet the rigorous standards set by law. We are ready to explore any measures put forward by the police or the government.”
FAC-rated air rifles offer versatility in a wide range of shooting situations, but UK shooters have been slow to catch on.
Read our explanation of the HSE’s proposals on restrictions for lead ammunition in more detail, plus BASC’s position on each.
From outreach work with schools, to generating cross-party support in parliament, BASC’s bird box project continues to go from strength-to-strength.
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© 2025 British Association for Shooting and Conservation. Registered Office: Marford Mill, Rossett, Wrexham, LL12 0HL – Registered Society No: 28488R. BASC is a trading name of the British Association for Shooting and Conservation Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under firm reference number 311937.
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