The Law
The following legal requirements may seem a little complex, but in reality they are generally straightforward. In our experience the Firearms Licensing sections of local police forces and the HSE are helpful and efficient. The Guns
To own an original muzzle loading gun requires no licence as it is classed as an antique. However, should you wish to shoot your original muzzle loading shotgun, it will require to be held on a shotgun certificate.
Applications for shotgun certificates may be obtained through your local police force. Many police forces now hold their application forms on line.
It should be noted that replica muzzle loading shotguns may only be owned when held on a shotgun certificate whether they are used or not.
A condition of the shotgun licence is that guns are stored securely. This generally means that they are stored in an approved gun safe. Black Powder
Surprisingly black powder, unlike modern nitro powders, is classed as an explosive and as such requires an explosive certificate (form COER 3). This is obtainable free of charge from your local police force and requires an application form to be filled in. There is a limit on the amount of black powder that may be stored by an individual, but this is sufficient for the muzzle loading shooter. Recently there has been a requirement to store black powder in plastic containers within a lockable partitioned wooden box – these wooden boxes are easily obtained from black powder suppliers. Alternatively they may be manufactured to design specifications obtainable from the firearms section of your local police force. HSE
There is also an additional requirement of the HSE (Health & Safety Executive) to have a Recipient Competent Authority Transfer Document (RCA) to allow transport of black powder. This is obtainable free of charge from the HSE on receipt of a valid copy of the explosive licence. Insurance
Although not a legal requirement, it is responsible and sensible to join a shooting association that offers both personal and third party liability insurance against accidents from shooting sports. Associations such as the MLAGB, CPSA and BASC all offer this type of cover as part of the membership package. These notes are our perception on Muzzle loading and the UK firearms law in general. The Lakenheath Muzzle Loaders would always advocate and strongly advise that you seek advice and confirmation of the firearms law from your area firearms officer prior to any purchase or attempted purchase of a muzzle loader, any loading powder and the loading component parts. |
