Circular 004/2025: Firearms Act 2023
Published 1 May 2025
Applies to England, Scotland and Wales
© Crown copyright 2025
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Commencement of the Firearms Act 2023 which amends legislation relating to miniature rifle ranges and introduces a new offence relating to the possession of component parts of ammunition with intent to manufacture illegally.
1. This circular sets out details of the Firearms Act 2023 which will commence on 1 May 2025, and introduce amendments to the Firearms Act 1968, specifically:
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Section 1 of the Firearms Act 2023 amends section 11(4) of the Firearms Act 1968 making it a requirement that the operator of a miniature rifle range must be in possession of a firearm certificate.
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Section 1 of the Firearms Act 2023 amends section 23(2)(b) of the Firearms Act 1968 defining the type of rifle which may be used on a miniature rifle range so that the exemption is limited to .22 rimfire firearms.
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Section 2 of the Firearms Act 2023 makes it an offence to possess the component parts of ammunition with the intent to assemble ammunition without authorisation.
2. Firearms legislation extends to England, Wales and Scotland, with the exception of the regulation of air weapons in Scotland, which is devolved.
Sources of further guidance: