Firearms laws in the United Kingdom are among the strictest in the world. Unlike in countries like the United States, gun ownership is not a right but a privilege granted under specific and carefully regulated conditions. This blog post will provide a detailed overview of which guns are legal in the UK, how gun laws compare to those in Canada, and what firearms are used by UK police and the elite Special Air Service (SAS).
What Guns Are Legal in the UK?
In the UK, legal ownership of firearms is tightly regulated under the Firearms Act 1968 and its subsequent amendments, including key reforms after tragic mass shootings in Hungerford (1987) and Dunblane (1996).
Types of Legal Firearms:
- Shotguns: Allowed with a shotgun certificate (SGC); must not hold more than three rounds (including one in the chamber).
- Bolt-action rifles: Permitted for sport shooting, hunting, and pest control with a firearm certificate (FAC).
- Air rifles: Legal if under 12 ft-lbs muzzle energy; anything stronger requires licensing.
- Muzzle-loading black powder guns: Often used by collectors and historical reenactors.
Prohibited Firearms:
- Handguns: Effectively banned since 1997.
- Automatic and most semi-automatic rifles: Illegal for civilian ownership.
- Pepper spray and stun guns: Also prohibited and classified as firearms.
To obtain a legal firearm, applicants must undergo extensive background checks, including criminal records, mental health assessments, home visits, and secure storage inspections. A legitimate reason for ownership—such as sport, work, or pest control—is required.
Are Guns Legal in Canada?
Canada’s firearms laws are more permissive than the UK’s but still maintain robust controls. There are three main classifications:
- Non-restricted: Most hunting rifles and shotguns.
- Restricted: Handguns and semi-automatic rifles with short barrels.
- Prohibited: Fully automatic weapons and certain handguns.
Canadians must complete safety training, pass background checks, and obtain licenses. While gun ownership is more common than in the UK, the process is far more regulated than in the United States.
What Guns Do UK Police Use?
Most UK police officers are not armed as standard. However, specialized units such as Armed Response Vehicles (ARVs) and counter-terrorism squads carry firearms.
Common Firearms Used by UK Police:
- Glock 17: Standard issue sidearm for many armed officers.
- Heckler & Koch MP5: Compact submachine gun for urban operations.
- G36C: Occasionally used for counter-terrorism.
- Taser X2/X26: Less-lethal option issued to a wider range of officers.
Officers in armed units receive rigorous and ongoing training, with policies focusing on minimum necessary force and strict accountability.
What Guns Do the SAS Use?
The Special Air Service (SAS) is the UK’s elite special forces unit and has access to a wide array of advanced weaponry. Their arsenal is tailored for versatility, stealth, and firepower in various mission environments.
Common SAS Weapons:
- L119A2: Carbine variant of the C8 rifle, customized for UKSF use.
- SIG Sauer P226: Standard sidearm.
- Heckler & Koch MP5: Still favored for CQB (close-quarter battle).
- HK417: Semi-automatic marksman rifle for long-range engagement.
- Shotguns: Breaching operations use pump-action or semi-auto shotguns.
- Sniper rifles: Including the Accuracy International L115A3.
The SAS often modifies their weapons with advanced optics, suppressors, and custom components suited for high-stakes missions.
Conclusion
Gun ownership in the UK is a privilege regulated by one of the most thorough licensing systems in the world. From the types of guns civilians may own, to the elite weaponry used by police and special forces, every aspect is tightly controlled for public safety. Compared to Canada, the UK remains one of the strictest countries on firearms, reflecting a cultural and legal framework that prioritizes cautious, need-based ownership.
Stay informed and responsible – visit fineguns.eu for more updates on global firearms laws and usage.