How hard is it to get a firearms license in England?

Question

I would probably want to get hold of a pistol (either 9mm or .45) and a .308 rifle with scope (Rem 700). What is the process?

Answer 1

Well, I'm no expert, considering I live in the US, but I'm pretty sure only the tamest of hunting firearms are allowed in the UK. Other than that, they have VERY strict gun control. Even most police officers don't carry guns...

That doesn't stop criminals from packing automatics, but hey, what can ya do?

Answer 2

As far as I know the only handguns available are weird .22 target pistols with rods stuck onto them so they are longer than 26 inches.  And antique guns in odd calibers that will be difficult to find ammo for.    

I don't know the licencing procedure off the top of my head but I think it just involves loads of paperwork and several background checks.  Getting a rifle a shotgun is easiest and getting a cetrefire rifle is more complicated.

Answer 3

Your not going to get a pistol. Every form of gun that can be held with one hand including revolvers are banned. A rifle it would be very hard. You can't say your going to use it for hunting as hunting has been outlawed, self-defense in that police state is a crime, so you have no good reason so your screwed.

Answer 4

The Government has decided that its subjects do not need to defend themselves. The Subjects approved this. Therefore no handguns permitted.

None.

The UK Olympic pistol team trains in another country.

Medea expresses the United Kingdom view.

Answer 5

Handguns are banned in the United Kingdom, and it's very difficult to get a license for rifles.

Why would you want to own a gun anyway? There isn't a gun culture in the UK, most people really don't like guns, don't want guns and don't need guns.