What is a long barrel pistol and is it legal in the UK?

A long barrel pistol (LBP) is a pistol-calibre firearm modified to meet UK legal requirements following the 1997 handgun ban. To be legal, an LBP must have a barrel at least 12 inches (30cm) long and an overall length of at least 24 inches (60cm). These dimensions place LBPs outside the definition of prohibited handguns under Section 5 of the Firearms Act 1968. LBPs can be held on a Section 1 Firearms Certificate like rifles. The extended barrel is often fitted with a muzzle weight or counterbalance, and many designs include a long rod or brace extending from the rear to meet the length requirement. Popular models include conversions of Glock, CZ, and 1911 pattern pistols. LBPs are completely legal across Great Britain (England, Scotland, Wales) when held on a valid FAC.

Can I buy a long barrel pistol for self-defence in the UK?

No. Self-defence is not an acceptable reason for holding any firearm in the UK, including long barrel pistols. Your FAC application must specify legitimate sporting purposes: target shooting at approved ranges (UKPSA, IPSC, NRA disciplines), or vermin/pest control if the firearm is suitable and you have appropriate land access. Police assess each application's validity. Most UK LBP owners shoot practical pistol competitions (UKPSA, IPSC) or precision target disciplines. You cannot legally keep an LBP for home defence, personal protection, or security purposes. Firearms held for prohibited reasons will result in certificate revocation, confiscation of firearms, and potential criminal prosecution. If you want an LBP, join a Home Office approved shooting club and demonstrate regular participation in pistol-calibre competitions or training.

What calibres are available for long barrel pistols in the UK?

Long barrel pistols in the UK are available in most common pistol calibres, though ammunition availability and cost influence popularity. The most common UK LBP calibres are 9mm Luger/Parabellum (cheapest ammunition, widely available), .22 LR (rimfire, excellent for training and practice), .40 S&W (moderate recoil, good for competition), and .45 ACP (popular in 1911-style LBPs). Less common but legal calibres include .38 Super, 10mm Auto, and .357 SIG. Your FAC specifies each calibre individually – you cannot buy ammunition for calibres not listed on your certificate. Most UK practical shooting competitors start with 9mm LBPs due to ammunition economy. Ammunition must be purchased and stored according to your FAC conditions (typically limited quantities requiring secure storage separate from firearms).

Do I need to join a shooting club to own a long barrel pistol in the UK?

Yes, in practice. While technically not a legal requirement, police require you to demonstrate 'good reason' for holding an LBP, and regular club membership with documented participation is the standard way to prove this. Most firearms licensing officers expect you to join a Home Office approved pistol shooting club and complete a probationary period (typically three to six months) before they'll grant an LBP on your FAC. During probation, you'll shoot club or borrowed pistols under supervision, proving your competence and commitment. Clubs provide you with a letter confirming membership and participation, which accompanies your FAC application. Accepted disciplines include UKPSA, IPSC, BDMP (Black Powder), and target pistol shooting at approved ranges. Without genuine, regular participation, your application will likely be refused or existing certificates varied to remove pistols.

How much does a long barrel pistol cost in the UK?

UK long barrel pistol prices vary considerably depending on quality and manufacturer. Budget Eastern European conversions (Czech or Turkish) start around £500-800. Mid-range LBPs from established brands (CZ, Tanfoglio, Glock conversions) cost £800-1500. Premium US-made or custom LBPs (STI, Staccato, custom 1911s) range from £1500-3500 or more. Add costs for holsters (£50-150), magazines (£25-60 each), ammunition (9mm: £18-25 per 50 rounds), and ongoing club membership (£100-300 annually). Expect to budget at least £1000-1500 for a complete LBP setup including pistol, accessories, FAC variation fee (£88), and initial ammunition. Second-hand LBPs offer savings but ensure they meet current legal dimensions – early conversions sometimes fall short of regulations. Buy from reputable UK firearms dealers who guarantee legal compliance.

Can I transport a long barrel pistol in my car in the UK?

Yes, but only in specific circumstances and with strict security measures. You can transport your LBP directly between your secure home storage and an approved shooting venue, or to/from a gunsmith. The LBP must be in a locked case, unloaded, with ammunition stored separately in another locked container. Never leave an LBP unattended in a vehicle – this is a major security breach that can result in certificate revocation. If you must briefly leave your vehicle during transit, ensure cases are locked, concealed in the boot, and the vehicle is secured in an attended car park. You cannot stop for social visits, shopping, or other activities while transporting firearms. Plan your route and timing to minimise stops. Many UK practical shooters use hard plastic or aluminium pistol cases with quality padlocks or combination locks.

What are the common mistakes UK shooters make with long barrel pistol applications?

The biggest mistake is applying for an LBP without prior club membership and participation. Police will refuse applications lacking credible good reason. Many applicants also underestimate probation periods – expect 3-6 months of regular shooting before clubs support your application. Requesting too many pistols or calibres on a first application often triggers refusal; start with one 9mm LBP and expand later. Failing to demonstrate secure storage that meets FAC requirements is another common error – your cabinet must accommodate LBP length (24+ inches). Some applicants don't realise LBPs must comply with all standard FAC security, transport, and usage conditions. Choosing non-compliant pistols (barrel or overall length just short of legal minimums) causes problems. Always buy from reputable UK dealers who guarantee dimensional compliance and provide supporting documentation for your firearms licensing officer.

Can I shoot a long barrel pistol on private land in the UK?

Technically yes, but practical and legal constraints make it difficult. You must have written landowner permission, a safe backstop meeting firearms safety standards, and your FAC must list the land as an approved shooting location. Most firearms licensing officers are extremely cautious about granting private land permissions for pistol-calibre firearms due to shorter effective ranges and greater ricochet risks compared to rifles. The vast majority of UK LBP shooting occurs at Home Office approved ranges with proper safety infrastructure. If you have substantial private land with excellent natural backstops, you can apply to add it to your FAC, but expect thorough police inspection and potentially refusal. For practical purposes, plan to shoot your LBP exclusively at club ranges. This also satisfies the 'good reason' requirement by demonstrating regular participation in recognised shooting sports.

Long Barrel Pistols UK: Complete Legal Guide for FAC Holders

Quick Answer

Long barrel pistols are legal in the UK for firearms certificate holders, providing a way to own and shoot pistol calibre firearms for sporting purposes since the 1997 handgun ban. To be legal under Section 1 of the Firearms Act 1968, they must have a barrel at least 30cm long and an overall length of at least 60cm.

# Long Barrel Pistols in the UK: Complete Legal Guide Since the 1997 Firearms Acts effectively banned short-barrelled handguns in Great Britain, long barrel pistols (LBPs) have become the only legal way for firearms certificate holders to own and shoot pistol-calibre firearms for sporting purposes. Whether you're interested in practical shooting disciplines or simply want to understand the law, this guide covers everything you need to know about long barrel pistol ownership in the UK. ## What is a Long Barrel Pistol? A long barrel pistol is a handgun modified to meet specific dimensional requirements that exempt it from the handgun ban. To be legal under Section 1 of the Firearms Act 1968, a pistol must meet **two critical criteria**: - **Barrel length:** Minimum 30cm (approximately 12 inches) - **Overall length:** Minimum 60cm (approximately 24 inches) These dimensions are measured with any detachable magazine removed. The extended barrel and overall length mean LBPs cannot be easily concealed, which is the fundamental legal distinction that allows them to be held on a firearms certificate. Most LBPs achieve the required overall length through a combination of extended barrel and a permanently attached "arm brace" or extended rear section, often made from steel rod or bar stock. ## Historical Context: The 1997 Handgun Ban Following the Dunblane tragedy in 1996, the UK government introduced two pieces of legislation - the Firearms (Amendment) Act 1997 and the Firearms (Amendment) (No. 2) Act 1997. These Acts effectively banned the private ownership of handguns in Great Britain, with very limited exceptions. Long barrel pistols emerged as a legal workaround, allowing target shooters to continue using pistol-calibre firearms within the bounds of the new legislation. While they handle differently from traditional pistols due to their extended dimensions, they've become popular in several competitive shooting disciplines. **Note:** Different rules apply in Northern Ireland, where conventional handguns remain legal for licensed owners. ## Section 1 Firearms Certificate Requirements Long barrel pistols are classified as Section 1 firearms, meaning you need a firearms certificate (FAC) to own one. The application process is identical to applying for any other Section 1 firearm. ### Good Reason You must demonstrate "good reason" to possess an LBP. Acceptable reasons typically include: **Target Shooting** - Membership of a Home Office approved club (probationary or full) - Regular participation in approved pistol disciplines - Gallery rifle shooting - Practical shooting (UK Practical Shooting Association) - Western Long Barrel Pistol Club (WLBPC) disciplines **Vermin Control** - Generally difficult to justify for LBPs due to their impractical handling characteristics - Rarely granted by most police forces ### Club Membership Requirements For target shooting, you'll need to join an approved club and complete a probationary period (typically three to six months). During probation, you'll attend regular shoots and demonstrate safe handling and competence. Your club secretary will provide written confirmation of your membership and shooting activity, which you'll submit with your FAC application. ## Security Requirements LBPs must be stored to the same standard as all Section 1 firearms: - **Approved gun cabinet** meeting BS7558 standard or equivalent - **Securely fixed** to a wall (typically into masonry) - **Separate locked ammunition storage** (a separately locked internal ammunition compartment, or a separate locked container) - **Keys kept secure** and separate from the cabinet Your Firearms Enquiry Officer (FEO) will inspect your security arrangements before granting or renewing your certificate. ## Popular Calibres and Models Long barrel pistols are available in various calibres, depending on the discipline and manufacturer: ### Common Calibres - **.22 Long Rifle** - Most affordable, ideal for beginners, low recoil, gallery rifle competitions - **9mm Parabellum** - Popular for practical shooting, widely available ammunition - **.38 Special / .357 Magnum** - Traditional revolver calibres, Western-style shooting - **.45 ACP** - Large bore option, available but less common - **10mm Auto** - Growing in popularity for practical shooting ### Manufacturers and Conversions - **GSG 1911** - Popular .22 LR semi-automatic, affordable entry point - **Ruger 10/22** - Often converted to pistol configuration with LBP modifications - **Revolver conversions** - Various manufacturers offer Ruger and other revolvers converted to LBP specification - **AR-15 style pistols** - Semi-automatic rifles configured as LBPs, typically in .22 LR or 9mm - **Custom builds** - Many gunsmiths offer bespoke LBP conversions from various platforms ## Shooting Disciplines for LBPs ### Gallery Rifle Gallery Rifle is a traditional British target shooting discipline using .22 LR pistol-calibre firearms at 25 yards. Competitions follow strict rules regarding stance, position, and equipment. Events include: - Precision stages (slow fire) - Timed stages - Speed events - Team competitions ### UK Practical Shooting Association (UKPSA) UKPSA runs practical pistol competitions adapted for UK law. Courses of fire involve multiple targets, movement, and timed stages, emphasising speed and accuracy. Competition divisions accommodate various LBP types: - Standard division (basic LBPs) - Classic division (traditional designs) - Production division (factory specifications) ### Western Long Barrel Pistol Club (WLBPC) Western-style shooting disciplines using revolver-type LBPs in calibres like .38 Special and .357 Magnum. Events often incorporate Old West themes and single-action shooting techniques. ### Service Pistol Historical military pistol competitions using LBP versions of classic service pistols like the 1911 pattern in .45 ACP. ## Application Process 1. **Join an approved club** - Contact local clubs running pistol disciplines 2. **Complete probation** - Attend regular shoots (usually 6-12 visits over 3-6 months) 3. **Apply for FAC** - Submit application with club secretary's letter, references, medical consent 4. **Home visit** - FEO inspects security arrangements and interviews you 5. **Grant or refusal** - Decision typically within 8-12 weeks (though delays are common) 6. **Variation** - Add specific LBP make, model, and calibre to your certificate 7. **Purchase** - Buy your LBP from a registered firearms dealer (RFD) ## Ammunition Limits Your firearms certificate will specify maximum quantities for each calibre: - **.22 LR** - Typically 500-1,000 rounds - **Centrefire pistol calibres** - Usually 200-500 rounds You can apply to increase limits if you demonstrate regular high-volume shooting (competitions, intensive training). ## Transportation and Use - **Transport** - LBPs must be transported out of sight, unloaded, separately from ammunition - **Use** - Only shoot on approved ranges or land with landowner's written permission - **Never loaded in public** - It's an offence to have a loaded firearm in a public place - **Club visits** - Most practical; home ranges rare without significant land ## Costs to Consider **Initial Setup** - Club membership: £50-150 per year - FAC application: £88 (new grant, England & Wales) - Gun cabinet: £100-300 - Installation: £50-150 (if professional fitting required) **Ongoing** - LBP purchase: £300-1,500+ depending on model - Ammunition: £10-50 per hundred rounds (calibre dependent) - Range fees: £5-20 per visit (often included in membership) - Certificate renewal: £62 every five years ## Common Misconceptions **"LBPs are just like normal pistols"** The extended dimensions significantly change handling characteristics. They're front-heavy, awkward to holster, and require adapted shooting techniques. **"You can use an LBP for self-defence"** Absolutely not. Self-defence is not a valid reason for FAC grant in the UK. Using any firearm for self-defence would likely result in prosecution, certificate revocation, and criminal charges. **"The arm brace is optional"** No - the permanently attached extension bringing overall length to 60cm is a legal requirement. Removing or modifying it makes the pistol illegal. **"Any club will do"** Your club must be Home Office approved and run appropriate disciplines for the LBP type you want. Check approval status before committing. ## Record Keeping While not legally required for target shooting, good practice includes: - **Shooting diary** - Record range visits, rounds fired, disciplines practiced - **Ammunition records** - Track purchases and consumption - **Competition results** - Evidence of active participation These records support certificate renewal applications and variation requests (adding firearms or increasing ammunition limits). ## Renewal and Variations **Renewals** - Every five years - Similar process to initial grant - Demonstrate continued good reason - Updated security inspection **Variations** - Adding new LBPs - Changing calibres - Increasing ammunition limits - Fee: £20 per variation (England & Wales) ## Using Vectis for LBP Record Keeping Vectis Shooting Log is designed specifically for UK certificate holders, including LBP shooters: - **Digital shooting log** - Record every range visit, rounds fired, scores - **Ammunition tracking** - Monitor stock levels, purchases, consumption - **Certificate management** - Store scanned FAC, renewal reminders, variation history - **Club records** - Track membership details, attendance, competition results - **Reports** - Generate evidence for renewals and variations All your LBP records in one place, accessible anywhere, with data exports for FEO visits or certificate applications. ## Conclusion Long barrel pistols offer UK shooters the opportunity to participate in pistol-calibre disciplines despite the 1997 handgun ban. While they require the same FAC process as rifles and present unique handling challenges, they're a legal and increasingly popular option for target shooters. Success with LBPs requires joining the right club, committing to regular practice, and understanding the specific legal requirements. With proper security, responsible ownership, and active participation in approved disciplines, long barrel pistols can be a rewarding addition to any UK shooter's collection. **Ready to start your LBP journey?** Join an approved club, complete your probation, and ensure your records are in order with Vectis Shooting Log - the complete compliance and record-keeping solution for UK firearms certificate holders.

Long Barrel Pistols in the UK: Complete Legal Guide