
Loading for other people
This is a code of practice for those who load for others, and If followed, will contribute to a safe and responsible future for the sport.
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Home » Firearms » Young people » Possession of firearms, shotguns, airguns and ammunition by under-18s
 | Under 18 | Under 15 | Under 14 |
Purchase or hire any firearm (including shotguns and air weapons) or ammunition | No | No | No |
Possess a Section 1 firearm and ammunition | Yes (if in possession of a certificate or 17 and in accordance with 11a) | Yes (if in possession of a certificate) | No (see exceptions 1, 2Â and 3 below) |
Receive a Section 1 firearm and ammunition as a gift | Yes (if a certificate holder) | Yes (if a certificate holder) | No |
Possess assembled shotgun and ammunition | Yes | No (see exceptions 1, 4Â and 5 below) | No (see exceptions 1, 4Â and 5 below) |
Receive a shotgun as a gift | Yes | No | No |
Possess an air weapon | No (see exceptions 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6 below) | No (see exceptions 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6 below) | No (see exceptions 1, 2, 3 and 4 below) |
Receive an air weapon as a gift | No | No | No |
Possess an air weapon in a public place | No (see exceptions 1, 2, 3 and 4 below) | No (see exceptions 1, 2, 3 and 4 below) | No (see exceptions 1, 2, 3 and below) |
Possess an air weapon on private premises with consent | Yes | Yes | No |
Exceptions:
Got a question? Email us on firearms@basc.org.uk or call 01244 573 010.
© BASC February 2023
This is a code of practice for those who load for others, and If followed, will contribute to a safe and responsible future for the sport.
Information on the use of handguns for humane dispatch in Scotland, England and Wales, including legislation and licence applications.
Information on the definition of a crossbow, legislation around sale and hire of crossbows plus possession by those under the age of 18.