Dot the i's and cross the t's

In the third instalment of his series on stalking, Charles Smith-Jones talks about applying for a firearms certificate

- Charles Smith-Jones

Last month we looked at deciding what the best rifle calibre will be for you, an essential decision as you can go no further towards obtaining a firearms certificate (FAC) without being able to say what you want. Unlike a shotgun certificate, which allows you to purchase any Section 2 firearm (see information box) when you produce it in the gunshop, you must specify the type and calibre of stalking rifle when you apply for the FAC and can only purchase what is stipulated. Once you have made up your mind, there is no going back without a variation application.

Applying for a FAC is a straightforward procedure, so there is no need to be concerned. You need to satisfy the police licensing authority that you are a fit person to possess firearms. Before you go any further, however, it ’s worth getting your storage arrangements for rifle and ammunition organised, as the grant of an FAC will be subject to keeping them safe from unauthorised hands. You will be expected to keep the rifle separate from the ammunition, and also to disable it (for example, by storing the bolt separately) in case it falls into the wrong hands. One of the easiest ways to do this is to use an approved steel gun cabinet – most rifle owners opt for one with an internal locking compartment, secured with a different key from that for the main cabinet door, to keep the bolt and ammunition in.