Air weapons

Air weapons are not licensed in England and Wales, but have restrictions on their sale.

Air guns, air rifles and air pistols are exempt from the certification requirement if they are not of a type declared ‘specially dangerous’ by legislation.

An air weapon will be deemed to be ‘specially dangerous’ if the following applies:

• Air pistol: The missile discharged from the muzzle has a kinetic energy in excess of 6 foot lbs. An air pistol that exceeds this limit is a prohibited firearm and cannot be licensed.
• Air rifle: The missile discharged from the muzzle has a kinetic energy in excess of 12 foot lbs. Any air rifles which exceed this limit must be held on a firearms licence.

It is illegal to sell an air rifle or ammunition to a person under 18 years of age.

How to apply for a firearms licence

Find out more about applying for a firearms certificate for a ‘specially dangerous’ air weapon.

Fees

View firearms certificate and permit fees.