Gun dealers—what you need to know...

Air pistols

Gun dealers often stock air pistols, although they don't contain any explosive substance—the discharged pellet is forced out by a coiled spring or compressed gas.

Antiques

Antique guns are now big business for collectors and specialist gun dealers. Because of their age, some antique weapons are exempt from gun laws.

Auctions

Gun auctions take place across the UK—many are now online. The same laws and restrictions apply as to other gun dealers.

Bore

The bore, or gauge, is the internal diameter of a gun's barrel. Game hunters usually use smooth bore shotguns, which are less accurate but spread shot across a wider area.

Calibre

The calibre refers to the size of the ammunition in a gun. Gun dealers stock a variety of calibre shotguns—the most common is known as a 12-gauge.

Certificates

Before you can buy firearms from gun dealers you'll need a Fire Arm Certificate (FAC) or a Shotgun Certificate—you can apply for either at your local police station. Every gun you own must be registered on the certificate.

To get a Fire Arm or Shotgun Certificate you must demonstrate "good reason" for owning the weapon. For example, if it's for target shooting you must belong to an approved club.

Clay pigeon shooting

A sport where you fire at flying disc-like targets made of clay, known as clay pigeons. They're fired from sprung traps at different speeds and trajectories to mimic the movement of real game.

Firearms

Firearms are barrelled weapons. In the UK only certain types of firearm—rifles or certain handguns—can be sold by gun dealers.

Gun dealers

Gun dealers buying and selling guns must be registered under the 1968 Firearms Act . When looking locally or online for gun dealers, always ask for proof of registration for their premises.

Weapons sold by gun dealers in the UK must have a proof mark which certifies they are safe for use. Only air guns are exempt.

Gunsmiths

Gunsmiths build and repair weapons, as well as often trading as gun dealers.

Pistols

Modern pistols sold by gun dealers are fitted with safety catches to prevent them going off accidentally. Some catches can only be deactivated with a special key.

Shotguns

Shotguns are bought from gun dealers and are mostly used by farmers and gamekeepers to control pests such as foxes and rats, and must be locked away when not in use. They use a type of cartridge called a shell, which can also be obtained from gun dealers.

Target shooting

Target shooting, with rifles or handguns, takes place at approved target shooting clubs, and is subject to strict rules and regulations.