Navigating the world of airgun purchases can be complex, especially with stringent regulations and shipping restrictions. At Vector Air, we're here to simplify this process for you. This guide is designed to help you understand the steps and requirements for purchasing airguns, including air rifles, air pistols, silencers, barrels, plenums, or other pressure parts from our store. Note that this guide applies primarily to Vector Air but is likely similar to most Registered Firearm Dealers (RFDs) selling online.
Important Notice for the Purchase and Delivery of Airguns, Pressure Components of Airguns, and Moderators
Effective Compliance with the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006 (VCRA): Sections 31 and 32
Under the provisions of Sections 31 and 32 of the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006, which were enacted through "The Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006 (Commencement No 3) Order 2007: firearms measures," specific regulations now apply to air weapons, their Pressure-Bearing component parts, and certain accessories.
Key Points to Note:
Restricted Items:
Airguns: All airguns are classified as restricted items.
Pressure-Bearing Parts of Airguns: This includes barrels, cylinders, reservoirs, and pistons.
Functional Moderators (Silencers/Suppressors): Moderators that reduce the sound of discharge are also classified as restricted items.
Definition and Registration:
Component Parts: While the VCRA does not explicitly define "component parts," the Home Office interprets this to include pressure-bearing parts such as barrels, cylinders, reservoirs, and pistons.
Accessories: Only moderators (silencers) require registration by dealers.
Legal Requirements for Transfer:
In-Person Transfer: It is an offence under the VCRA to transfer these restricted items through standard postal systems or to the end customer directly without the presence of both the buyer and either the seller or a representative of the seller.
Representatives of the Seller: This can be:
An employee of the seller who is a registered firearms dealer (RFD).
Another RFD authorized by the seller.
An employee of the authorized RFD.
Collection and Delivery Options:
Collection from Store: Customers are encouraged to collect their restricted items directly from the store where purchased.
Transfer to Another RFD: Items can be transferred to a local RFD for collection, though the receiving RFD may charge a fee for this service.
Home Delivery: We offer home delivery through our in-house team to some areas of the UK. However, please note that this service has location restrictions and incurs higher costs due to the need for dedicated transport, making it more expensive than a standard RFD transfer.
Pre-requisites Before Shopping
Before diving into our product range, ensure you have the following:
Email Address: You must have an email address and know how to use it. This is crucial due to protection systems introduced in 2021 for "card-not-present" transactions. this means we are unable to take orders over the phone. If you don’t have one, we recommend creating a Google Gmail account. If this is too much, you will be better coming to visit us in-store
PayPal Account: Especially if your debit/credit card is with Barclays, Santander, Nationwide, or NatWest. These banks may block transactions from gun trade retailers, but PayPal marks us as trusted. You can also access PayPal Credit to finance your purchase. - Create a Paypal Personal Account
Vector Air Account: Create an account on our website. This will help you track orders, access customer benefits, and streamline warranty claims. whilst not essential, we recommend doing it
Shipping Restrictions (IMPORTANT)
Collecting from Store
If you plan to collect your purchase from our store, you can start browsing our website for products immediately. Just select collect form store at the checkout in the delivery options box
Home Delivery
If you want home delivery, there are some governmental restrictions to consider:
England and Wales: Check if we can deliver to your home address by viewing our delivery map.
Green Section: If you're in this area, you can choose "Home Delivery of Restricted Goods (Airgun & Silencer)" at checkout.
Red Section: If you're in this area, you'll need to select "Delivery to Local Gun Shop (RFD) for Airguns, Silencers and Paintball Markers."
Scotland: Different procedures apply; as Scotland uses a register system, you need an Air Gun Licence before purchasing and all guns need to be transferred to a Scottish RFD for you to collect
Finding Your Local RFD (For Red Zone Customers)
If you need to use an RFD for delivery:
Google "Gun Shops Near Me" or use this link.
Contact the local RFDs to ask if they can accept an airgun transfer from us. Be prepared to adhere to their terms and conditions.
Shopping for Products
Once you have your prerequisites sorted:
Browse our website and add your desired items to your basket.
When ready to checkout, click the menu button, then the cart button.
Read the important terms at the top of the page then scroll down to see your basket before clicking Checkout
Checkout Process
The checkout will ask you for important information such as your First and Last name (Mr is not a first name) use a mobile number where possible so you can receive tracking information.
Details: Fill in your details accurately. This is a legally binding transaction, and incorrect details can void the sale.
Shipping Address: If using an RFD, enter their details here.
Billing Address: Enter your home address.
Delivery Method:
Collect in-store: Best choice if you can visit us.
Home Delivery of Restricted Goods (Airgun & Silencer): For doorstep delivery.
Delivery to Local Gun Shop (RFD): If home delivery is not available in your area.
Non-Restricted Items Only (Does not include Airguns or Silencers): This option is for items like scopes or accessories that are not restricted delivery. If you choose this for airguns or silencers you will be charged more for your delivery to an RFD
Important: The clue is in the names guys, read them or be disappointed
Payment
You can pay via card or PayPal. Remember, if your card is with Barclays, Santander, Nationwide, or NatWest, you may face issues.
For orders over £250, you might need to confirm the transaction with your bank.
Final Steps
Once payment is made, send us your ID if needed and keep an eye on your emails for any communication from us regarding your order.
By following these steps, you can smoothly navigate the process of purchasing airguns and related items from Vector Air.
Happy shopping!
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