How Do I Get Into Shooting?

If you have never shot before then it would be best to find out whether rifle shooting is really for you before you spend lots of money. Look on the web (particularly the NRA web site) to find your nearest club. All clubs are different and you may end up joining several but it's important to find one you like. Get to know a club before forking out for membership fees; if you want to find out more about shooting without commitment then all good clubs will welcome you, show you around and happily answer your questions.

L-plates are not normally required, but in this case we are not so sure.......

Shooting is a sport that is controlled in law and while you don't necessarily need to worry about all of the legal regulations at first, if you want to shoot it is important that you are a member of a club. This will cover you from a legal perspective but it will also ensure that you are given proper safety instruction and all the support you need to make a balanced decision on the sport. If you have a clean past and good references then it should be easy enough to get probationary membership to a Home Office-approved club.

Basic kit, including a rifle, can usually be provided by clubs but you may prefer to purchase some of the less expensive items from specialist shops or classifieds. If you want to buy your own rifle then you are in for a bit of a wait. You first need to be a full member of an approved club, having spent a minimum probationary period. Then you will need to apply for a licence (known as a Firearms Certificate or FAC). For more details on the process talk to your local police or to your club or visit the Met Police web site.