Gun Safety

Gun Safety

www.diffcal.co.uk

I have been having a lot of conversations with customers in the shop recently about gun safety and storage, hence a little article below for you.

Every airgun shooter considers themselves responsible and able to be safe when handling a gun, be it a rifle or pistol. We are all aware of the damage that even our U.K. standard 'low power' air guns can cause. BASC gives great advice on gun safety, most of which is common sense.

The following information may be of use to some new to the sport and is intended to highlight some of the legislation in the U.K.

The 'golden rules' are:

1. Always know where the muzzle of your air rifle is pointing and NEVER point it in an unsafe direction.
2. The safe conduct of air rifle shooting must meet the standards described in this code, show respect for the countryside, due regard to health and safety and consideration for others.
3. Before you shoot, make sure that a safe backstop is present to capture the pellet.
4. Consider live quarry; do not shoot beyond the bounds of your ability. Do not take chance shots.
5. REMEMBER – ignorance of the law is no excuse. If in doubt, always ask.

Most airgunners will follow these and be safe. (Obviously accidents can and do happen).

In 2011 a new law was introduced to stop under 18s having access to airguns. This was due to the following statistics (which until looking into I didn't realise were so high!)

1. In 2009/10 there were 1,317 incidents where an air weapon was obtained without permission. There was one death and 67 serious injuries caused by air weapons.

Ouch!

The legislation is essentially to keep your airguns away from children unless supervised by an adult (although there are provisions for 14+ younger shooters to be on their own in certain circumstances). It is the storage when not in use that is important. Those of us with children will know how they like to show off in front of their friends with 'toys' and we must remember that even low powered air pistols/bb guns can cause serious injuries.

I have to note here that there are some under 18s I would trust with a gun more so than some adults. We get a lot of very responsible young shooters in the shop asking sensible questions and it is great to see responsible attitudes towards shooting being taken by parents and clubs.


How to keep your weapon safe:

• store your airgun out of sight and separately from pellets
• use a robust, lockable cupboard and keep the keys separate and secure
• always store your airgun inside a house rather than in an out building, such as a garden shed
• never store a cocked or loaded airgun
• when using your airgun, keep it under close supervision and never leave it unattended

The law essentially means if an under 18 gains unauthorised access to an airgun it is the adult that will be prosecuted.

The offence has been introduced to Parliament with a Commencement Order enforceable under Section 46 of the Crime and Security Act 2010. The new offence comes into force on 10 February 2011. Individuals will face a fine of up to £1000.
Common sense should prevail..... Watch the video below!