It is sobering to think how it was not so long ago. I grew up in North London, and before 1968 the only thing you needed to own a shotgun with a barrel over 18 inches long, was proof you were over 17.
In 1968 we got the first restriction, the shotgun certificate, issued with no need to prove anything other than possession. It was the first "get to to know you" phase.
Then started the "need to have" trip, mandatory enrolment in target clubs, mandatory proof of a hunting land permission, etc.
It is obvious that the conditions favor those with enough income to have a permission, and it excludes the less wealthy who can only shoot occasionally. There is no public land hunting in the UK, so the permission costs money.
It is also interesting that crime has increased despite the legislation.
The UK has used its influence in the EU to push for similar European wide legislation since the early 90s. Something easy to do in a situation were no one has any constituationally guaranteed rights. The person in charge of Europarliament firearms matters is an English lady.
So beware! It can happen anywhere.
Last edited by Shotgunlover; 09/28/13 03:56 AM.
