FACING CHALLENGES HEAD-ON

The UK firearms trade has always been adept at weathering storms, but recent developments suggest we’re heading into choppier waters. A new Labour government, openly sceptical about the hunting and shooting community, has brought with it some unsettling policy proposals. Promises to ban trail hunting and push for full cost recovery on firearms licensing are already causing ripples in the industry. If implemented, these measures could increase costs for licence holders, making it less appealing for your potential customers to get a licence.

Adding to the pressure, Gloucestershire Constabulary has recently announced it is pausing all new firearm and shotgun licence applications, citing “unexpected resourcing issues.” This decision has sparked frustration across the industry, with many calling it a serious blow to those who lawfully participate in shooting sports. The British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC) has branded the move “outrageous and unlawful,” demanding the force fulfil its statutory obligations. The Gun Trade Association (GTA) has also voiced its concerns, highlighting the significant impact this decision could have on trade and urging immediate action to reverse it.

To add to the trade’s challenges, the announcement of an amnesty for specific Turkish-made, top-venting blank-firing firearms (TVBFs) in early 2025 will undoubtedly impact businesses that sell them. The National Crime Agency (NCA) has identified four models – Retay, Ekol, Ceonic ISSC, and Blow – as being highly convertible into live-firing weapons. Although these devices are legally sold in the UK to individuals over 18, their misuse by criminals has brought them under scrutiny. Retailers who stock these models face the logistical and financial strain of managing customer concerns and lost sales.

However, while this amnesty creates short-term challenges for the trade, public safety must take precedence over profits. The firearms community has always been committed to responsible ownership and supporting measures that reduce criminal misuse. This situation highlights the need for constructive dialogue between the trade, law enforcement, and policymakers to ensure that such measures are implemented fairly and with minimal disruption to lawful businesses.

Have a great trading month.

ROB SMITH editor, Gun Trade Insider