Popular Shotguns, Rifles and Black Power Pistols in the UK

Popular Legal Firearms in the UK: Rifles, Shotguns, and Black Powder Pistols

The United Kingdom has some of the strictest firearm laws in the world, and for good reason — ensuring public safety while still allowing responsible ownership of firearms for purposes like target shooting, hunting, and sporting activities. While certain firearms, such as fully automatic machine guns and military-style rifles, are prohibited, there is still a wide range of legal firearms available to UK gun owners. This article will explore some of the most popular and widely used legal firearms in the UK, including rifles, shotguns, and black powder pistols.

Legal Rifles in the UK

Rifles are a popular choice for target shooting and hunting in the UK. The most commonly owned rifles are bolt-action and semi-automatic models, with .22 calibre and larger calibres being particularly popular for various purposes. To own a rifle in the UK, individuals must possess a Firearm Certificate (FAC), which is issued after a thorough background check and a valid reason for ownership (e.g., sport, hunting, or target shooting).

1. CZ 455 (.22 Rimfire Rifle)

One of the most popular choices for target shooters, particularly in the smallbore category, is the CZ 455. This bolt-action rifle is widely praised for its accuracy, reliability, and build quality. It’s ideal for precision shooting and small-game hunting. The CZ 455 offers a modular design with interchangeable barrels, making it highly adaptable for various shooting disciplines.

  • Caliber: .22 LR
  • Type: Bolt-action
  • Popular Uses: Target shooting, small-game hunting

2. Browning X-Bolt (Centrefire Bolt-Action Rifle)

For hunters and precision target shooters, the Browning X-Bolt is a popular choice. Known for its sleek design, high-quality craftsmanship, and smooth action, the X-Bolt is used for larger game hunting as well as long-range precision shooting. It is available in a variety of calibres, including .308 Winchester, .223 Remington, and more, giving shooters plenty of options depending on their needs.

  • Caliber: Various (e.g., .308 Winchester, .223 Remington)
  • Type: Bolt-action
  • Popular Uses: Big game hunting, precision target shooting

3. Tikka T3x (Bolt-Action Rifle)

The Tikka T3x is another bolt-action rifle that’s widely used for hunting and competitive shooting. Known for its accuracy and rugged build, the Tikka T3x is available in a wide range of calibres, from small-game calibres like .223 Remington to larger calibres such as .338 Lapua Magnum. This rifle is particularly popular among hunters who appreciate precision and reliability.

  • Caliber: Various (e.g., .308 Winchester, .243 Winchester)
  • Type: Bolt-action
  • Popular Uses: Hunting, target shooting

Popular Legal Shotguns in the UK

Shotguns are one of the most common types of firearms owned in the UK, largely due to their use in hunting, clay pigeon shooting, and other sporting activities. Like rifles, shotguns require a Shotgun Certificate (SGC), which is obtained through a background check and a valid reason for ownership.

1. Browning Auto-5 (Semi-Automatic Shotgun)

The Browning Auto-5 is one of the most iconic semi-automatic shotguns ever made. Known for its reliable cycling mechanism and smooth recoil operation, the Auto-5 is a favourite among clay shooters and hunters alike. It’s available in a variety of gauges, including 12-gauge and 20-gauge, and is often used in competitions such as trap shooting and skeet shooting.

  • Gauge: 12, 20
  • Type: Semi-automatic
  • Popular Uses: Clay pigeon shooting, game hunting

2. Beretta 686 (Over-and-Under Shotgun)

The Beretta 686 is one of the most renowned over-and-under shotguns used in competitive clay shooting. It is highly respected for its accuracy, balance, and craftsmanship. Many competitive shooters prefer the 686 for its consistency and lightweight design. The 686 is available in several gauges, with the 12-gauge being the most popular for sporting use.

  • Gauge: 12, 20
  • Type: Over-and-under
  • Popular Uses: Clay pigeon shooting, game hunting

3. Mossberg 500 (Pump-Action Shotgun)

The Mossberg 500 is a widely respected pump-action shotgun that is known for its versatility and reliability. It’s used in a variety of settings, from hunting small and large game to home defence. The 500 is popular due to its affordability, easy maintenance, and rugged design. It is available in different gauges, including 12-gauge and 20-gauge, and is often used in tactical and sporting contexts.

  • Gauge: 12, 20
  • Type: Pump-action
  • Popular Uses: Hunting, home defence, sporting use

Shotgun Magazine Restrictions

It’s important to note that shotguns in the UK are subject to specific legal restrictions, particularly when it comes to their magazine capacity. Under UK law:

  • Shotgun Certificate (SGC) holders are limited to shotguns with a two-round magazine capacity. This includes pump-action and semi-automatic shotguns. This restriction ensures that shotguns are used for appropriate sporting and hunting purposes.
  • Shotguns that hold more than two rounds in the magazine require a Firearm Certificate (FAC), and they must be used for more specific, lawful purposes such as pest control or certain shooting competitions.

This distinction between shotgun certificates and firearm certificates is crucial, as it reflects the government’s intention to maintain tight control over firearms ownership while still allowing for responsible use in approved contexts.

Legal Black Powder Pistols in the UK

Black powder firearms, including pistols, have seen a resurgence in popularity, especially among collectors, historical reenactors, and those interested in vintage shooting sports. These firearms are classified as antiques or replica firearms in the UK, but they are still subject to regulations. Black powder pistols can be owned with a Firearm Certificate (FAC), and there are strict guidelines regarding the safe storage and use of these weapons.

1. Pedersoli 1851 Navy Revolver (Black Powder Revolver)

The Pedersoli 1851 Navy Revolver is a popular choice for enthusiasts of historical firearms. Based on the classic Colt Navy revolver, this black powder revolver features a brass frame and a six-shot cylinder. It is revered for its accuracy and historical significance, making it a favourite among collectors and competitive shooters who enjoy historical shooting events.

  • Caliber: .44
  • Type: Revolver
  • Popular Uses: Historical reenactments, target shooting, collecting

2. Traditions Kentucky Pistol (Black Powder Pistol)

The Traditions Kentucky Pistol is a muzzle-loading black powder pistol that is inspired by 18th-century designs. It’s a popular model for those interested in traditional shooting techniques, as well as those who enjoy the historical aspect of black powder shooting. This pistol is easy to handle and is typically used in muzzle-loading competitions and historical reenactments.

  • Caliber: .45
  • Type: Muzzleloader
  • Popular Uses: Historical reenactments, target shooting, collecting

3. Uberti 1858 Remington New Army (Black Powder Revolver)

The Uberti 1858 Remington New Army is a well-known black powder revolver. This model was a favorite of Civil War soldiers and has been meticulously recreated by Uberti to reflect the original designs. The revolver is popular for both target shooting and its historical value. It’s one of the most widely used black powder pistols among collectors and enthusiasts.

  • Caliber: .44
  • Type: Revolver
  • Popular Uses: Target shooting, historical reenactments, collecting

Conclusion

In the UK, firearm ownership is highly regulated, but there is still a diverse range of legal firearms that enthusiasts can enjoy. Popular legal rifles, shotguns, and black powder pistols allow for a variety of sporting and recreational activities, from target shooting and hunting to historical reenactments. Each firearm type offers its unique set of advantages, whether it’s the precision and reliability of rifles like the CZ 455 or the versatility of shotguns like the Browning Auto-5. For those interested in the historical aspect of shooting sports, black powder pistols like the Pedersoli 1851 Navy Revolver provide a link to the past.

If you’re considering adding a rifle, shotgun, or black powder pistol to your collection, make sure to follow the UK’s strict licensing requirements and always ensure safe storage and use.