When it comes to air-powered shooting sports in the UK, it’s essential to understand the distinctions between airguns and airsoft. Both sports involve air-powered devices, but each has unique legal requirements for purchasing, ownership, and use. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know about airguns and airsoft in the UK, including regulations on calibres, energy limits, and replica requirements under the Violent Crime Reduction Act (VCRA).

Airguns: High-Power, Purpose-Built Tools

What Are Airguns? Airguns, which can be air rifles or air pistols, are defined as air-powered guns that shoot projectiles over 1 Joule of energy. They are typically available in calibres such as 4.5mm, 5.5mm, or 6.35mm. Paintball guns can also fall into this category, though some models are under the 1 Joule limit, allowing them to be posted via postal services.

Typical Uses for Airguns Airguns are often used for target shooting or pest control (where permitted), making them useful tools for specific sports or professional purposes. There is a growing market for replica airguns that resemble real firearms. Under UK law, these replicas are treated the same as regular airguns.

UK Regulations on Purchasing and Owning Airguns

1. Energy and Licensing Requirements

   • Sub-16 Joule Air Rifles: Air rifles with power levels under 16 Joules (and air pistols under 8 Joules) do not require a license. However, purchasers must be over 18, and airguns cannot be posted directly to private addresses. Instead, they must be collected from an RFD (Registered Firearms Dealer), which can include gun shops, gunsmiths, or licensed shooting clubs.

   • Firearm Certificate (FAC) Airguns: Any air rifle over 16 Joules requires a Firearm Certificate, issued only with a specific, approved use case. Applying for an FAC involves strict criteria and approval by the local police department.

2. Restrictions on Delivery and Ownership

   • No Postal Delivery: Airguns cannot be posted directly to private addresses. Buyers must collect them from an RFD, or arrange delivery by a private courier affiliated with an RFD.

   • Age and Background Restrictions: Buyers and owners must be over 18. Convicted criminals, particularly those with violent crime records, cannot own or use airguns in the UK.

   • Colour and Replica Restrictions: Unlike airsoft guns, airguns do not need to be brightly coloured or “two-toned.” However, other restrictions may apply, especially when it comes to replicas.

Airsoft: Simulated Combat and Competitive Sport Replicas

What is Airsoft? Airsoft guns are another category of air-powered devices, firing 6mm circular projectiles through a smooth barrel. These guns are typically used for simulated combat sports, not for pest control or target shooting, and prioritize fun and high-intensity, team-based scenarios over extreme accuracy.

UK Regulations on Purchasing and Owning Airsoft Guns

1. Energy and Fire Rate Requirements

   • Energy Limit: Airsoft guns must always remain under 2 Joules of energy. Full-automatic airsoft guns, however, need to be below 1 Joule.

   • No Firearm License Required: Unlike certain high-powered airguns, airsoft guns do not require a firearm certificate. Instead, they follow different legal rules under the VCRA.

2. Colour and Replica Restrictions Under the VCRA

   • Two-Tone Requirement for Non-Exempt Buyers: Airsoft guns must be 50% painted in bright, non-military colours if the buyer does not have an exemption under the VCRA. This is commonly referred to as “two-toning.” Once a gun is two-toned, it is non-returnable.

   • Exemptions for Realistic Imitations: If a buyer has a legal “defence,” such as a UKARA (United Kingdom Airsoft Retailers Association) membership, a re-enactor’s license, or authorization for film/TV use, they can purchase an airsoft gun in realistic colours without the need for two-toning.

3. Delivery Options

   • Unlike airguns, airsoft guns can be posted directly to private addresses, with fewer delivery restrictions.

Summary: Key Differences Between Airguns and Airsoft in the UK

Understanding these distinctions helps ensure responsible and lawful use, purchase, and ownership of airguns and airsoft guns in the UK. Whether you're into target shooting, pest control, or high-energy simulated sports, knowing the specific legal requirements for each type of device will keep you on the right side of the law while enjoying your sport safely.

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