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Buying a gun in the UK is not like adding a gadget to your online basket — it's a careful, regulated purchase that blends sport, tradition and safety. You’ll find stricter rules here than in many other countries, so the sellers you deal with are usually experienced and cautious. Think of buying a firearm more like commissioning a classic car than grabbing a pair of trainers: paperwork, inspections and responsible ownership matter.
Before hunting down the best price or the most tempting deal, make sure you know which categories of guns are commonly available in the UK and which fit your intended use. Each type comes from different sellers and has a different price range.
Shotguns are popular for clay shooting and game. Barrel lengths commonly range from 24 to 32 inches, and over/under and side-by-side models dominate the market. Good mid-range sporting shotguns often weigh between 6 and 8 lb and are sold by specialist gunmakers and licensed gunshops.
Rifles for deer stalking, pest control and target shooting vary a lot. Rim-fire trainers (like .22 calibre) are lighter, usually under 7 lb, and cheaper to run. Centre-fire hunting rifles have stronger actions and heavier barrels; expect to compare price, accuracy and recoil. Barrel lengths commonly sit around 20 to 26 inches.
Air rifles are hugely popular for target practice and vermin control. Pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) rifles from UK makers are well regarded. They’re often measured by muzzle energy in foot-pounds and can be used without the same licensing as firearms in certain cases — though there are rules, so always check. Airguns tend to be lighter, with barrel lengths near 18 to 22 inches.
Muzzle-loading firearms, historic replicas and certain antiques are a niche but accessible market. Dealers that specialise in historical arms or reenactment gear often stock these and can advise on legal classification and safe ownership.
Brands matter — they influence quality, resale value and after-sales support. Whether you’re after a beginner-friendly rifle or a high-end shotgun, the maker is often the first thing enthusiasts look at.
Webley & Scott are long-standing British makers known for sporting shotguns and air pistols. Their heritage models can hold value well and are often sold through authorised dealers and specialist shops.
Daystate is a leading name in premium PCP air rifles. If you want cutting-edge airgun tech, they’re a common recommendation; dealers authorised by the manufacturer often offer the best warranties and technical advice.
BSA and Air Arms are trusted for solid, reliable air rifles. Both have strong dealer networks across the UK, and you’ll often find competitive prices from specialist airgun retailers and large licensed stores.
German and continental brands like Anschutz and Weihrauch are sought after for target rifles and precision shooting. You’ll typically buy these through specialist target rifle suppliers or experienced gunshops rather than general sporting stores.
You’ll find guns and accessories sold through three main channels in the UK: local licensed gunshops, specialist online dealers and authorised brand dealers. Each has its pros and cons for price, service and convenience.
Local shops are often the best place to start, especially if you want hands-on advice and a chance to handle different models. These retailers verify documentation, discuss safe storage requirements and can arrange transfers to your firearm certificate holder. Prices may be slightly higher than pure online outlets, but the support helps many buyers sleep easier.
Online stores that specialise in firearms, airguns or shooting equipment often have large stock and competitive prices. They’ll usually require proof of licensing before completing a sale. For accessories and spare parts, online dealers frequently offer the widest selection and best deals.
Buying through a manufacturer’s authorised dealer or directly from a maker can give extra reassurance about warranty and service. High-end makers often keep limited stock at specialist shops, so price comparisons between dealers matter more than ever.
Price tags alone don’t tell the full story. When comparing stores, think like an accountant: add up the total cost, not just the headline number. That means considering extras, ancillaries and long-term running costs.
Add in the cost of required accessories — a decent scope, mounts, a sling or a case can add dozens or even hundreds of pounds to the bill. Also include the price of initial ammunition, a gun safe (more on that below), sighting-in sessions and any club or instructor fees. When you do the math, a cheaper sticker price can vanish fast.
Some shops run packages that include optics and mounts, which can be a better deal than buying each item separately. Seasonal sales — often late autumn or early spring for shooting gear — can knock a useful slice off the bill, but stock can be limited so act fast if you see a genuine bargain.
Accessories are where many buyers are surprised. A basic optic for a hunting rifle might cost from a moderate price up to several hundred pounds for premium glass. Don’t forget secure storage: a medium safe that’s about 48 inches tall and 20 inches wide is a common choice for a couple of long guns and can weigh 150 lb or more when loaded with gear.
Scopes are often measured by magnification and objective size. A 3–9x scope with a 40 mm objective is a classic all-rounder. Budget optics are fine for casual target practice, but if you want consistent accuracy at longer ranges, investing in better glass pays off.
Ammo costs add up. Rim-fire .22 rounds are the cheapest to shoot, making them ideal for practice. Centre-fire calibres vary widely; hunting-grade cartridges can cost several pounds each, so factor in how often you'll shoot when estimating your annual budget.
Shopping online is convenient and often cheaper, but in-person shopping gives tactile experience and direct advice. Which is right for you depends on confidence, experience and how much trial you want before buying.
Online dealers often carry wider ranges and run better discounts. If you know exactly what you want and have confirmed its fit — perhaps after testing similar models at a club — an online purchase can be a great way to save. Most reputable online shops will require licensing checks and can advise on the necessary paperwork.
In a shop you can feel the weight in your hands, check the balance and get instant answers to practical questions about fit and recoil. For many shooters, especially beginners, handling a gun first is essential before committing to a purchase.
Feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone. Here are practical tips to make the process simpler and safer.
Clubs and ranges are goldmines for advice and often offer taster sessions where you can try different guns under supervision. Many clubs also run led purchase schemes or can recommend trusted local dealers and gunsmiths.
Renting a firearm for a day at a range is like test-driving a car on the road it was built for. It helps you decide whether a 12-gauge shotgun or a 20-gauge feels better in your hands, or whether a certain rifle’s recoil is something you can handle comfortably.
Buying isn’t just the initial outlay. Consider storage, maintenance, ammo and insurance. A budget that includes ongoing costs prevents surprises and helps you enjoy shooting for years.
Proper maintenance and secure storage protect you, your family and your investment. Most experienced gun owners treat maintenance as part of routine ownership rather than a chore.
Most owners keep firearms in a dedicated gun safe fixed to the floor. A common safe size for a couple of long guns is around 48 inches tall, 20 inches wide and 18 inches deep. Choose a safe that meets recognised security standards and is heavy or bolt-down capable — a solid safe can weigh 200 lb or more depending on construction.
Regular cleaning after use keeps your firearm reliable. Use correct solvents and lubricants specified for the make and model. For major servicing, rely on a qualified gunsmith; they’ll handle headspace checks, action work and any repairs that need specialist tools.
Reputation matters. A good dealer will ask about your licence, offer written receipts, provide clear warranty terms and advise on fit and suitability. If a deal feels rushed or a shop won’t verify paperwork, walk away — a responsible seller should make checks part of the process.
Be cautious of sellers who pressure you to buy quickly, won’t discuss legal requirements, or offer unusually low prices without proof of provenance. Remember: if a deal looks too good to be true, it often is. Always ask for serial numbers and paperwork with second-hand purchases.
Comparison websites and forums can help you find current prices and popular deals, but use them as a starting point. Cross-check stock availability with authorised dealers, and always confirm warranty and service terms with the seller directly before completing a purchase.
There’s often some room to negotiate, especially on accessories or package deals. Ask politely and be prepared to walk away — respectful bargaining rarely hurts, but aggressive haggling might damage trust with a dealer you’ll rely on for service.
Buying a gun in the UK is a thoughtful process that rewards preparation. Decide on the type of firearm you want, learn about reputable brands, compare total costs across authorised dealers and online specialists, and always prioritise safety and legal compliance. With the right research — and the help of clubs, experienced shooters and trusted dealers — you’ll find a firearm that fits your needs and budget without unpleasant surprises.
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