Home Office amnesty for banned Bruni top or side-venting blank firing pistols

Five top- or side-venting blank firers manufactured in Italy by Bruni have been classed as readily convertible firearms and are now illegal to own. 

The Home Office confirmed that the decision, taken last September, applies to five top- or side-venting blank firers that can be converted to fire live ammunition. Possession of any of these these pistols is now unlawful.

However, an amnesty from prosecution is in place for current owners. Anyone who has one of the affected models can hand it in to a police station without facing prosecution, provided this is done before 27 February.

The models covered by the ban are:

• 8mm Model 92 blank firing self-loading pistol
• 8mm New Police blank firing self-loading pistol
• 8mm Model 96 blank firing self-loading pistol
• 8mm Model ‘GAP’ blank firing self-loading pistol
• .380R (9mmK) ME Ranger single-action blank-firing revolver

After the amnesty period ends, possession of any of these firearms could lead to prosecution. Conviction may carry a prison sentence.

The Home Office has made clear that owners who surrender a banned blank firer before 27 February will not be prosecuted for unlawful possession. Firearms can be handed in at a police station, and this can be done anonymously if the owner prefers.

BASC is advising anyone who believes they may own one of the listed models to act promptly. Members are also encouraged to share this information with others who may be affected, particularly where blank firers have been bought for collection, training or display purposes.

If you are a BASC member and are in doubt about the status of a blank firer, contact BASC’s firearms team for advice on 01244 573010. You will be asked to send a picture of the pistol so that best advice can be given.