Why is it illegal to own a gun in the UK?

Concerns have been raised over the availability of illegal firearms. Members of the public may own sporting rifles and shotguns, subject to licensing. However, handguns have been banned in Great Britain for most purposes since the Dunblane school massacre in 1996.

Does Canada allow firearms?

Firearms are federally regulated in Canada. The federal 1977 Criminal Law Amendment Act, as amended, prohibits automatic weapons and sawed-off shotguns and rifles. Hunting rifles and shotguns are neither restricted nor prohibited, but it is illegal to possess them without a firearms acquisitions certificate.

How strict are UK gun laws compared to other countries?

The law in the UK is much more restrictive than countries such as the USA and far stricter than the minimum requirements required by the European Firearms Directive. However, the rest of Britain is yet less restrictive than the gun laws in Northern Ireland.

Is it legal to own a rifle in the UK?

According to UK law, a ‘rifle’ is defined as a firearm with a barrel which is longer than 30cm (12 in) and a length longer than 60cm (24 in) that does not fall under the classification of a long-barrelled revolver or a pistol. Single-shot, bolt-action, lever-action and revolver rifles are legal in the UK, given you have a licence for it.

How many shotguns can you own in the UK?

According to UK law, there is no actual limit on the number of gun or the total amount of ammunition that a Shotgun Certificate (SGC) holder can possess at any one time. You must be aware though, that each shotgun must be recorded on the certificates.

What is the legal size of a pistol in the UK?

Pistols and Handgun Laws in the UK UK law defines a ‘pistol’ as a firearm with a barrel shorter than 30 cm (12 in) or a total length of less than 60 cm (24 in). In terms of a pistol, only muzzle-loading pistols are legal.