Getting Started

Starting target shooting in the UK is genuinely straightforward. This guide covers the legal requirements, the pathway to full membership and a Firearms Certificate, and what to expect in your first year.

The quick answer

You can try shooting today with no prior experience, no equipment, and no licence. Book a Give it a Go session, come along, and shoot air rifles under supervision. Club provides everything. If you enjoy it, then begin the membership and certificate process.

Legal requirements

Air rifles and air pistols (under power limits): No Firearms Certificate required in England and Wales for air rifles under 12 ft/lbs and air pistols under 6 ft/lbs. (Scottish shooters require an Air Weapon Certificate for all air rifles.) Must be 18 or over to purchase; under-18s can shoot at any age under supervision at an approved range. This means you can start with air rifle or pistol at club sessions immediately, with no personal certificate needed.

Handguns: Most handguns are prohibited in England, Scotland, and Wales following the 1997 Firearms (Amendment) Act. Target shooters use air pistols (no certificate needed within the power limits) or long-barrelled pistols and revolvers in .22LR (Section 1 certificate required). Our air pistol programme is excellent for pistol enthusiasts.

.22LR and other section 1 firearms: .22LR rifles, air rifles over the power limits, and all centrefire rifles require a Section 1 Firearms Certificate. Apply through your local police constabulary. Cost: £88 for a five-year certificate (grant or renewal), £90 for renewal. Clubs facilitate this process — most well-prepared applications are approved.

The pathway from beginner to licensed shooter

Step 1 — Try it (day one). Book a Give it a Go session or taster session. Shoot air rifles and pistols under supervision. No equipment needed, no commitment. Decide if shooting is for you.

Step 2 — Join as a probationary member (month one to three). Join the club as a probationary member. Attend regularly — minimum attendance records are required for Firearms Certificate applications. Learn safety, technique, and range protocols. Shoot club air rifles and .22LR under supervision.

Step 3 — Apply for your Firearms Certificate (month three to six). After the probationary period (typically three months minimum), apply for your Section 1 certificate through your local police. The club provides supporting documentation. Install a secure cabinet at home. Undergo the home visit and background checks.

Step 4 — Become a full member and purchase equipment. Once the certificate is granted, become a full member. Purchase your own .22LR rifle and equipment — or continue using club rifles. Start competing in club competitions, postal leagues, and open events.

Costs

Starting costs (year one):

• Give it a Go programme (three sessions): £50
• Club membership (adult full): £240 per year
• Firearms Certificate (five years): £88
• Gun cabinet: £80–£200

Total year one without equipment: approximately £458–£578.

Equipment (optional, after certificate):

• .22LR target rifle (used): £800–£1,500
• Shooting jacket and accessories: £150–£400
• Spotting scope: £150–£500
• Ammunition (per year): £200–£400

Many shooters use club equipment for their first year or longer while saving for purchases. Used equipment offers excellent value. Experienced members can advise on what to buy and where.

Reduced rates available: Junior (under-18) membership £120/year; university student £60/year.

The Firearms Certificate process

What you will need:

1. Club membership with a record of regular attendance (typically three months minimum)
2. Good reason — target shooting at a Home Office approved club qualifies
3. Secure storage — an approved gun cabinet bolted to wall or floor (£80–£200)
4. Clean record — no relevant criminal convictions or mental health concerns
5. Two character references (not family, known you for two or more years)
6. GP consent — a medical records check for relevant concerns
7. Application fee — £88 for a five-year certificate

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Applying too early before you have sufficient club attendance
• Not having the gun cabinet installed before the home visit
• Requesting too many rifles or calibres on a first application (start with two .22LR)
• Using family members as references (not allowed)

Pinhoe TSC provides full support: club documentation, guidance on the application, advice on secure storage, and help with any issues that arise. Most well-prepared applications are successful.

Typical timeline: Submit application → background checks (weeks one to four) → GP records reviewed → home visit (weeks four to eight) → final checks and approval (weeks eight to twelve) → certificate issued. Timelines vary by constabulary; some are faster, some slower.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get a Firearms Certificate with a criminal record? It depends on the offence and how long ago it occurred. Serious or recent offences will likely result in refusal. Minor offences from many years ago may not. Police assess each case individually. Honesty on the application is essential.

What if I rent my home or live in a flat? You can still obtain a certificate. The gun cabinet must be securely installed (you may need landlord permission to drill into walls). Many shooters successfully obtain certificates while renting.

Do I need my own rifle to join? No. Most clubs, including Pinhoe TSC, have club rifles available for members to use. Many shooters use club equipment for their first year or longer. Purchase when you are ready and know what you want.

I have never shot before. Will I be any good? Everyone starts as a beginner. Target shooting rewards practice and technique over natural talent. With regular practice and coaching, most people make good progress. The sport is suitable for all ages and abilities.

How often should I practise? For steady improvement, aim for at least weekly practice. The club is open Monday to Friday evenings with different discipline nights. More frequent practice accelerates progress significantly.