Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned enthusiast, being a conscientious and responsible shooter means always staying up-to-date with UK air gun laws. However, navigating the intricate landscape of airgun rules and regulations can be difficult, especially due to the variations in legislation across different regions.

In this guide, our aim is to simplify the complex world of airgun laws (UK) including what kinds of rifles and pistols are permitted and who can legally buy and use them. We’ll also explain where, when and what you can shoot, and how regulations differ in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Read on to learn everything you need to know about airguns and the law.

Is It Legal to Have an Airgun in the UK?

UK airgun laws are relatively straightforward, although there are specific conditions. The fundamental requirement is that you must be at least 18 years old to purchase, hire or own an airgun or ammunition.

Anyone over 18 can use an airgun. For under-18s, restrictions vary depending on age. Under-14s can only use an airgun when closely supervised by someone aged 21 or over, or at an approved target shooting club or gallery. Individuals aged 14 to 18 can use an airgun unsupervised, but only on private premises with the occupier’s consent.

Another important airgun law (UK) is that all air weapons and silencers must be sold face to face by a registered firearms dealer, such as The Wolfman. If buying online, the person paying for the airgun must be present to sign for the parcel and show proof of ID.

There are also specific restrictions on muzzle energy (power) of airguns, which vary throughout the UK.

Airgun Law – England and Wales

In England and Wales, all air pistols and rifles producing over 0.737ft/lbs (1J) of muzzle energy are considered firearms, and are regulated by airgun laws. Those under this limit are deemed airsoft guns.

You can buy and use air pistols up to 6ft/lbs of power and air rifles up to 12ft/lbs of power without a licence. If you want to own or use a rifle over 12ft/lbs of power, you will need a firearms certificate, which you can obtain through your local council. Air pistols exceeding 6ft/lbs of power are illegal and cannot be licensed.

Airgun Law – Scotland and Northern Ireland

In Scotland and Northern Ireland, all air pistols and air rifles generating more than 1J (0.737ft/lbs) of power require a licence. However, there may be some exceptions, such as if you’re a member of an air weapon club and only use a gun while at the club.

You will need to apply to the police if you wish to obtain an air weapon certificate or firearm certificate. You’ll also need a permit to bring an airgun into Scotland or Northern Ireland from another part of the UK.

Where Can I Legally Shoot an Airgun (UK)?

According to air gun laws (UK), you can only shoot an air weapon on private land and with explicit permission from the landowner.

This could be your own property, such as your back garden, or land leased by an individual or a shooting club. If you rent your home or own a leasehold property, you will need permission from the landlord and/or the property management company.

Even on your own land, it’s an offence to fire an airgun within 50 feet of the centre of a public road if this action might injure, interrupt, or aggrieve a road user.

You must also ensure that your pellets stay within the property boundary. When target shooting, it’s important to use an effective backstop to ensure your pellets won’t stray onto your neighbour’s land.

What Can I Legally Shoot with an Airgun (UK)?

Air guns, in UK law, can be used for a variety of pursuits such as target shooting, pest control and hunting small ground game.

You cannot have an airgun with the intent to endanger human life, or to damage or destroy property. Also, shooting or killing a pet animal, either intentionally or recklessly, is illegal.

If using your airgun to hunt live quarry, you can only shoot permitted species. In most of the UK, this includes:

• Brown rats
• Rabbits
• Grey squirrels
• Stoats
• Feral pigeons
• Magpies
• Carrion crows

However, the list of permitted species varies by area, so make sure to research local restrictions first.

Additionally, causing unnecessary suffering to any animal is prohibited under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. We recommend using a high-powered air rifle to maximise your chances of making a quick, clean and humane kill. See our guide to the best air rifles for pest control.

Storing, Transporting and Handling Your Airgun

According to air gun law (UK), you must also store, transport and handle your weapon responsibly.

When it comes to transportation, airguns must be carried in a securely fastened gun case that prevents the rifle or pistol from being fired. Under-18s are not permitted to carry or transport airguns unless accompanied by someone over 21 years.

When storing your air weapon, you must take reasonable precautions to ensure under-18s cannot access it, e.g. by locking it out of sight. When using your airgun, you must keep it under close supervision and should never leave it unattended.

It’s an offence to use your airgun recklessly, so that you may endanger life or risk property damage. Consequently, you must always handle your weapon with care. It’s also illegal to have an airgun in a public place without lawful authority or reasonable excuse (e.g. you are on your way to a target shooting club).

Visit The Wolfman: The UK’s One-Stop Shop for Airguns and Accessories

Understanding and adhering to UK airgun rules and regulations is the first step towards responsible and enjoyable shooting. As you keep these laws in mind, don’t forget to visit The Wolfman: the UK’s one-stop shop for high-quality air guns and shooting essentials.

Whether you’re looking to start a new hobby, enhance your shooting skills or manage pests effectively, visit our online store today. Our fantastic range of air rifles, air pistols, ammunition and accessories caters to everyone, from beginners to seasoned shooters alike.

Order from The Wolfman today for free delivery across the UK. If you have any queries regarding our products or site, contact us – our knowledgeable team will be happy to help.