Make sure your firearm is legal

Licensing

Most airguns do not require to be licensed. For an air rifle that is more powerful than 12 ft lb, (16.25J) you must have a firearm certificate, obtainable from your local police force.

Although airguns, with very few exceptions (as outlined above), are not required to be kept on a firearm certificate, they are still classed as firearms and fall under the control of the firearms legislation.

Anyone who wants a firearms licence for sport must first be a regular member of a club and be active in competitions.

If you are not sure whether you need a certificate for your airgun, contact your local police.

Scottish Police Firearms Licensing Departments:

Page updated: Thursday, March 26, 2009