Gun Deals

Summary of the law relating to the purchase, possession and use of shot guns by juveniles.

Under 15 years

It is an offence to make a gift of a shot gun or ammunition to children under 15 years old. Children under 15 years may not have an assembled gun with them except:
• In the case of shot guns, providing they have a valid shot gun certificate, they may use a shot gun under the direction and supervision of someone of or over 21 years of age.
• When the gun is in a securely fastened gun cover so that it cannot be fired.

Aged 15 - 17 years
A person between 15 and 17 years old may be given or lent a gun with ammunition but may not buy them.

Aged 17 Years or Over
A person of 17 years or more may purchase a shot gun and ammunition with a valid shot gun certificate.

Remember, a shot gun certificate is required at any age unless:
• Shooting with the occupier of land and using their gun in their presence or
• Shooting at a police approved clay shoot

There is no minimum age for the issue of a shot gun certificate. A shot gun certificate shall be granted unless the applicant:
• Is prohibited from possessing a gun under the Firearms Acts
• Is a danger to the public safety or to the peace
• Does not have good reason for possessing, purchasing or acquiring a weapon.

(Use for sporting competition or pest control both constitute "good reason").