The Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003 and Violent Crime Reduction Act2006 changed the law in relation to the possession of air weapons.

1. It is illegal for anyone to possess an air weapon (loaded or not) in a public place without lawful authority or reasonable excuse.

2. Subject to certain exemptions, it is illegal for a person under the age of 18 to have with him an air weapon or ammunition for an air weapon.

Exemptions:

a) Whilst under the supervision of a person of or over the age of 21 years.

b) As a member of a rifle club or miniature rifle club approved by the Secretary of State whilst engaged as such a member in connection with target shooting.

c) At a shooting gallery (e.g. on a fairground) where the only firearms used are either air weapons or miniature rifles not exceeding .23 inch calibre.

d) A person of or over the age of 14 years on private premises with the consent of the occupier.

3. It is an offence:

a) To make a gift of an air weapon or ammunition for an air weapon to a person under the age of 18.

b) To part with possession of an air weapon or ammunition for an air weapon to a person under the age of 18 except under the exemptions previously mentioned.

c) For a person of any age on private premises with the consent of the occupier to fire an air weapon beyond the boundary of the premises and for a person 21 or over, supervising young persons, to permit them to do so.