Firearms advice

Whether you are new to owning a firearm, or want more practical advice we’ve got you covered.

Firearms advice

Find out everything you need to know below. Whether you are new to owning a firearm, or want more specific advice, we’ve got you covered.

Essential information

Make sure you stay on the right side of the law by following our specialist firearms advice.

Firearms licensing

Whether you require information on firearms law or advice regarding a
certificate application, we have all the information you need.

Police involvement in shooting

Explaining the role of the police in shooting, including information on rights of entry and firearms seizure.

Firearms use


Guidance on issues such as additional conditions on a firearms certificate and the legalities of borrowing guns.

Shooting agreements and consents

Read about shooting agreements, permissions and consents, including links to download template documents.

Firearms security


Comprehensive information on firearms security, including advice on travelling with guns and firearms in rented homes.

General advice

Medical verification with Shootcert

ShootCert is BASC’s preferred provider for all third-party medical verifications and offers a discount to BASC members.

Young people and firearms

Important information on the use of airguns, rifles and shotguns by children and young people, including borrowing guns.

Imitation and antiques firearms

Everything you need to know about imitation firearms and antique guns, including the laws around possession and use.

Knives

Our guide to carrying knives for use in the field, choosing the right knife for you and prohibited weapons.

Crossbows

Explaining the definition of a crossbow, laws around sale and hire of crossbows, plus possession by those under the age of 18.

Explosives

Find information on the possession of explosives, including storage and black powder best practice.

Pyrodex reclassification

Important information for users of Pyrodex

Improve your skills

Latest firearms news

A shotgun

Message to the minister

19 November 2025

We share a letter sent by a BASC member to the Policing Minister on plans to consult on moving Section 2 certification (shotguns) to Section 1 (mostly rifles).

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