UNDERSTANDING DEACTIVATION

Gun Trade Insider spoke to David Miles, proof master at the London Proof House, to clarify the deactivation process, the regulatory backdrop and the implications for dealers, collectors and the general public.

THE PROOF HOUSE’S ROLE

Contrary to some assumptions, the London Proof House does not carry out deactivation work itself. “Anybody can send a firearm to us that they’ve attempted to deactivate, typically registered firearms dealers,” explained Miles. “We check that it’s been physically deactivated in accordance with UK law. If it meets all the criteria, we apply deactivation stamps and issue a certificate.”

Once issued, a deactivation certificate renders the item legally no longer a firearm. It can then be sold or possessed without a firearms certificate, offering a route to legal ownership for non-licence holders.

EVOLVING STANDARDS AND WHY THEY MATTER

The process and legal framework surrounding deactivation have changed significantly over time. “Over the last 40 years, the legal standards for deactivation have become stricter,” said Miles. This trend is largely a response to attempts, albeit extremely rare, to reverse the deactivation process. In particular, imported blank firers or previously deactivated firearms that were improperly modified have contributed to tougher requirements.

“Today, UK deactivation requirements are governed by two main standards: the 2018 EU-derived regulations and earlier 2010 UK specifications. ‘The 2018 rules remain in place and must be met for a deactivated firearm to be legally sold or transferred,’ Miles said.

CHECKING THIRD-PARTY DEACTIVATIONS

When a firearm arrives at the Proof House, it undergoes a rigorous inspection. “The inspection is both visual and involves physical measurements. For instance, we check that slots have been cut in the chamber, the breech face is milled at an angle, the barrel is plugged and welded, and the firing pin hole sealed. We also check that key components, like the bolt and magazine, can’t be removed.”

Each firearm is inspected twice. The first stage certifies internal modifications, while the second checks that the weapon cannot be disassembled. Only then is the certificate issued. “Turnaround is usually under a week,” said Miles.

A GROWING AREA OF INTEREST

While not a new service, deactivation has grown in relevance over recent years. “We’ve seen increased demand, particularly from the Ministry of Defence,” said Miles. “We’ve travelled to military sites across the UK inspecting artillery, howitzers and even machine guns mounted on tanks to ensure compliance.”

For the trade, however, the trend is also driven by civilian factors. “Some people want to retain heirloom firearms, such as their grandfather’s shotgun, but have no interest in keeping them live. Deactivation allows these guns to be displayed at home, legally.”

Media influences also play a role. “When a high-profile film or TV series features specific firearms, we often see increased demand for those guns in deactivated form.”

MARKET IMPLICATIONS AND COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITIES

Outside collector demand, deactivation can offer practical commercial advantages. “Retailers sometimes struggle to sell older firearms that are no longer proofed for modern ammunition or are in poor condition,” explained Miles. “Once deactivated and certified, these guns can be sold to a broader audience. A £300 boxlock might be difficult to sell live but, as a deactivated piece, it could appeal to a non-licence holder for display or collecting purposes.”

Given that the number of people in the UK without a firearm certificate vastly exceeds those with one, this opens up a new and legitimate revenue stream for gun shops.

COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS

While most RFDs are well informed, there is occasional confusion among the public.

“Some individuals still own firearms deactivated to pre-2018 or earlier standards and may unknowingly try to sell them, not realising they don’t comply with current law,” warned Miles. “It’s often entirely innocent.”

Trade bodies such as the Gun Trade Association play a key role in disseminating regulatory updates. But reaching the wider public, especially non-certificate holders, remains a challenge.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR DEACTIVATION STANDARDS?

Significant changes to deactivation regulations are unlikely in the immediate future, according to Miles. “These things tend to evolve slowly, typically over decades. But there is always the possibility of future updates.”

One area that may trigger further interest is the Home Office’s ongoing review of obsolete calibres. “When certain calibres are removed from the obsolete list, the firearms that use them suddenly require a licence. In those cases, owners may choose to deactivate the gun instead. That’s another scenario where we see a spike in demand.”

FINAL THOUGHTS

For UK firearms dealers, deactivation remains a vital and increasingly relevant aspect of the trade. Whether for resale to the public, retention of historical pieces, or clearance of old inventory, understanding the process, and the role of the London Proof House, is essential.

As Miles concluded, “Our role is to ensure these firearms are safely and lawfully deactivated and to provide the certification that allows them to be legally held or s old without a firearms licence. It’s not just about compliance; it’s about preserving history, safely.”