Vectis Shooting Log

Section 1 vs Section 2 Shotguns: What You Need to Know

Shotgun Shooting 8 February 2026 7 min read By Ashley Marshall

Section 1 or Section 2? The difference comes down to magazine capacity. Learn when you need an FAC vs SGC, and why it matters legally.

Section 1 vs Section 2 Shotguns: What You Need to Know

Quick Answer

Section 1 and Section 2 shotguns, though often physically identical, are distinguished solely by their magazine capacity under UK law. Section 2 shotguns, requiring a Shotgun Certificate, are limited to a maximum of two cartridges in the magazine plus one in the chamber, whereas Section 1 shotguns, requiring a more stringent Firearm Certificate, exceed this capacity.

If you're new to UK firearms law, the distinction between "Section 1" and "Section 2" shotguns can seem baffling. They can be physically identical firearms. Same gauge. Same barrel length. Same manufacturer. Yet one requires a Shotgun Certificate (SGC) with no questions asked, while the other requires a Firearm Certificate (FAC) with strict "good reason" scrutiny.

The difference comes down to one thing: magazine capacity. And if you get it wrong, you're committing a firearms offence.

Here is what you need to know.

The Legal Definition

Under the Firearms Act 1968 (as amended):

Section 2 Shotguns (Shotgun Certificate)

A Section 2 shotgun is a smooth-bore gun with a barrel longer than 24 inches (61cm) and an overall length exceeding 40 inches (102cm), and which:

In practical terms: a standard over-under, side-by-side, or pump/semi-auto shotgun that holds a maximum of 2 in the magazine + 1 in the chamber = 3 shots total.

These shotguns are licensed under a Shotgun Certificate (SGC), which does not require "good reason." If you meet the basic safety and security requirements (no criminal record, proper storage), the police must grant you an SGC.

Section 1 Shotguns (Firearm Certificate)

A Section 1 shotgun is any shotgun that does not meet the Section 2 definition. This includes:

Section 1 shotguns are licensed under a Firearm Certificate (FAC), which requires you to demonstrate a specific "good reason" for possessing that particular firearm. The police have discretion to refuse.

Why Would You Need a Section 1 Shotgun?

Most clay shooters and game shooters never need more than three rounds. So why bother with the extra paperwork and scrutiny of an FAC?

1. Practical Shotgun (UKPSA)

Practical Shotgun is a dynamic shooting sport where speed and multiple targets make a 3-shot limit impractical. Competitors use semi-automatic or pump-action shotguns with extended magazine tubes (typically 8-10 rounds) or detachable box magazines.

If you want to compete in Practical Shotgun, you need a Section 1 shotgun on your FAC, with "Practical Shotgun Competition" listed as your good reason. You'll also need to be a member of a Home Office Approved club that runs UKPSA events.

2. High-Volume Pest Control

If you're controlling large numbers of pigeons, corvids, or rabbits on farmland, reloading after every two shots slows you down. A Section 1 semi-auto with a 5 or 8-round capacity allows you to engage multiple fast-moving targets without breaking your position.

Gamekeepers and professional pest controllers often hold Section 1 shotguns for this reason. Your good reason would be "vermin control" or "pigeon control," and you'd need written permission from the landowner confirming you have the shooting rights.

3. Collectors and Historic Firearms

Some older or imported shotguns (e.g., military shotguns, certain American models) may have magazine capacities exceeding two rounds or detachable magazines. Even if you never intend to load more than three rounds, the capability to do so makes it a Section 1 firearm.

Magazine Restrictions and "Crimping"

If you own a shotgun with a magazine tube capable of holding more than two cartridges, you can convert it to Section 2 status by having the magazine permanently restricted (often called "crimped" or "plugged").

This involves a gunsmith inserting a fixed dowel or rivet inside the magazine tube to physically prevent more than two cartridges from being loaded. The restriction must be permanent - simply inserting a removable wooden dowel is not sufficient under the law.

Once restricted, the shotgun can be transferred to your SGC. If you later remove the restriction, it reverts to Section 1 status, and you'd need an FAC to possess it legally.

Buying and Transferring

The process differs significantly:

Section 2 (SGC)

Section 1 (FAC)

Section 1 is slower and more bureaucratic, but it ensures that high-capacity shotguns are only held by people with legitimate reasons.

Storage and Security

Both Section 1 and Section 2 shotguns must be stored in an approved gun cabinet. The same cabinet can hold both, but they are listed on different certificates. If you hold both an SGC and an FAC, you'll have two certificates, and your cabinet must meet the FAC standard (which is generally more robust).

Traveling and Transport

Transporting Section 1 shotguns follows the same rules as any FAC firearm: you must have "good reason" for having it with you. Traveling to a club shoot, a competition, or a pest control appointment are all valid. Traveling with a Section 2 shotgun is slightly more relaxed - your SGC itself is your authority to possess the shotgun, though you must still transport it securely and have a reasonable explanation if stopped.

Common Misconceptions

"A semi-auto is always Section 1."

False. A semi-auto shotgun with a fixed 2-shot magazine (or restricted to 2 rounds) is Section 2. It's the capacity, not the action type, that matters.

"Removing the magazine turns it into Section 2."

False. The law looks at the capability of the magazine, not whether it's currently attached. If the shotgun is capable of accepting a high-capacity magazine, it's Section 1.

"I can just plug the mag tube myself."

Risky. Unless the plug is permanent and installed by a competent gunsmith who provides a certificate, the police may not accept it. Always get professional work done and documented.

Vectis Angle: Why Logging Matters for Section 1 Shotguns

Section 1 shotguns, particularly semi-autos, run hot. If you're putting 200 rounds through your Benelli M2 on a pigeon day, you need to track your round count for maintenance.

Vectis Shooting Log makes this easy. You can track round counts per firearm, set maintenance reminders, and keep a record of each outing - dates, locations, and results. It's ammunition compliance and maintenance tracking in one.

Final Word

The distinction between Section 1 and Section 2 shotguns is purely technical, but the legal consequences of getting it wrong are serious. If you possess a high-capacity shotgun without the correct authority on your FAC, you're committing a criminal offence, even if you didn't realise it.

If you're unsure about your shotgun's status, speak to a Registered Firearms Dealer or contact your local firearms licensing department. It's better to ask than to assume.

Related Knowledge Centre answers

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Section 1 and Section 2 shotguns?

The distinction between Section 1 and Section 2 shotguns is determined solely by magazine capacity. Section 2 shotguns hold no more than two cartridges in the magazine, allowing a total capacity of three rounds when one is chambered. These require a standard Shotgun Certificate (SGC) with no specific good reason needed. Section 1 shotguns have magazine capacity exceeding two rounds—typically detachable magazines holding 5-10 rounds—and require a Firearms Certificate (FAC) under Section 1 of the Firearms Act 1968. You must demonstrate good reason for possessing Section 1 shotguns, just as with rifles. Importantly, two physically identical shotguns can fall under different sections simply based on whether a magazine extension is fitted.

Do I need good reason to own a section 1 shotgun licence?

A section 1 shotgun licence (technically an FAC with shotguns listed) requires demonstrating good reason identical to rifles. Suitable good reason typically includes competitive disciplines like practical shotgun which specifically require extended magazine capacity, or certain forms of pest control where rapid follow-up shots are necessary. You must explain why a Section 2 shotgun is inadequate for your purpose. Police scrutinise Section 1 shotgun applications carefully as the extended capacity has obvious tactical implications. Simply wanting extra capacity is insufficient—you need genuine, demonstrable need through competition participation or land management requirements. Club membership in disciplines requiring Section 1 shotguns, such as UKPSA or IPSC practical shotgun, provides the strongest good reason foundation.

Can I convert my Section 2 shotgun to Section 1?

Converting a Section 2 shotgun to Section 1 specification by fitting a magazine extension is legal only if you first obtain an FAC covering that specific shotgun with appropriate good reason. Fitting a magazine extension before obtaining the variation is a serious criminal offence. The process involves applying for an FAC variation adding your shotgun (by make, model, and serial number) with demonstrated good reason for Section 1 capacity. Once approved, you can legally fit the magazine extension. The shotgun then transfers from your SGC to your FAC—it cannot be listed on both simultaneously. If you subsequently remove the extension, you must notify your licensing department to transfer it back to Section 2 status. Many practical shotgun competitors maintain their shotguns permanently in Section 1 configuration for competition use.

What are the security requirements for Section 1 shotguns compared to Section 2?

Section 1 shotguns require substantially higher security standards than Section 2. Section 2 shotguns need only 'reasonable precautions' preventing unauthorised access—typically a lockable cabinet, cupboard, or even room in some circumstances, though not necessarily meeting British Standard specifications. Section 1 shotguns, being on your FAC, must be stored in a gun cabinet meeting BS7558/92 or equivalent, securely fixed to structural walls, in a concealed location. They're subject to the same security requirements as your rifles. This security difference represents significant additional cost—a suitable BS7558 cabinet costs £150-£500, whereas Section 2 storage solutions can be much cheaper. The enhanced security requirement reflects the greater concern about shotguns with tactical magazine capacity falling into wrong hands.

Can I use my Section 2 shotgun for practical shotgun competitions?

Most practical shotgun competitions including UKPSA and IPSC practical shotgun require Section 1 shotguns due to stage designs involving multiple targets requiring more than three rounds. While you might initially participate in some club-level events using a Section 2 gun, you'll be disadvantaged by mandatory reloading and ultimately unable to compete effectively. Some disciplines like clay shooting and traditional game shooting operate entirely with Section 2 guns and will never require extended magazine capacity. Before investing in practical shotgun equipment, verify your competition discipline's requirements. If planning serious practical shotgun participation, apply for an FAC covering Section 1 shotgun from the outset, using club membership and discipline requirements as your good reason. Attempting to compete at restricted capacity becomes frustrating quickly.

What happens if I'm caught with a Section 1 shotgun without an FAC?

Possessing a Section 1 shotgun without appropriate FAC authority is a serious criminal offence under Section 1 of the Firearms Act 1968, carrying a maximum penalty of five years imprisonment and unlimited fines. Courts treat shotgun magazine capacity violations seriously as they represent deliberate circumvention of licensing controls. Your SGC will be revoked, and any FAC you hold will likely be revoked as well, as the offence demonstrates you cannot be trusted to comply with firearms law. You'll face difficulty ever obtaining certificates again. Even innocent errors—such as fitting a magazine extension without realising it created a Section 1 firearm—can result in prosecution, though intent affects sentencing. If you discover you've inadvertently created this situation, seek immediate legal advice before police involvement.

How much does it cost to add Section 1 shotguns to my certificate?

Adding Section 1 shotguns to your certificate involves several costs. If you don't already hold an FAC, the initial certificate costs £88 for five years, plus approximately £20 per shotgun you wish to add. If you already have an FAC, variations to add each shotgun cost £20. You'll need a gun cabinet meeting BS7558/92 if you don't already have suitable storage, costing £150-£500 depending on capacity and quality. The shotgun itself varies enormously—basic pump-action Section 1 shotguns start around £300-£400, while competition-ready semi-automatics with extended magazines run £800-£2,000+. Magazine extensions for existing shotguns cost £50-£150. Budget £600-£1,000 minimum for FAC application, cabinet, and basic shotgun if starting from scratch, or £400-£600 if adding to existing FAC arrangements.

Are semi-automatic shotguns always Section 1?

Semi-automatic shotguns are not automatically Section 1—classification depends entirely on magazine capacity. A semi-automatic shotgun with a fixed or non-detachable magazine holding two cartridges is Section 2, requiring only an SGC. Many semi-automatic shotguns sold for clay shooting or game shooting are deliberately configured as Section 2 with magazine limiters preventing more than two rounds in the magazine. These function identically to pump-action Section 2 shotguns from a legal perspective. However, if the semi-automatic has a detachable magazine exceeding two-round capacity, or if magazine extensions create capacity beyond two rounds, it becomes Section 1 requiring FAC authority. Always verify the specific configuration and magazine capacity, not just the action type, when determining legal classification and certificate requirements.

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