Airguns: Animal Welfare

The possession and use of air weapons is subject to statutory controls and regulation to guard against misuse, including attacks on animals, and to ensure safe handling. The controls on air weapons sit alongside other legislation relating to deliberate attempts to kill, injure or inflict harm on wildlife, or to cause suffering to animals.

In England and Wales, higher powered air rifles can only be held lawfully on a firearm certificate and higher-powered air pistols are prohibited. Lower powered air weapons are subject to controls relating to possession and use. A guide to air weapons, published on gov.uk, explains these controls, including advice on safe handling, recognising that irresponsible or misuse of air weapons can result in serious injuries or death. The guide also explains the restrictions that apply to the shooting of air weapons where this can cause danger or injury to others, damage to property or injury or death wild animals, birds or pets.