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While private sales occur, established UK militaria dealers are safer as they ensure all stock meets the latest legal specifications.
Revolvers deactivated to older standards (e.g., 1995 or 1988) can still be legally owned if you already have them, but they cannot be sold, gifted, or transferred to another person unless they are re-deactivated to the current standard.
A deactivated revolver is a real firearm that has been rendered permanently incapable of discharging any shot, bullet, or other missile. To be legal in the UK, the deactivation must be carried out by a professional and certified by one of the two (London or Birmingham). The Legal Framework: EU/UK Standards buy deactivated revolver uk
The revolver itself will have a small "crossed swords" or similar stamp from the Proof House.
Owning a deactivated revolver is legal for adults over 18, but carrying one in public is a serious offense. Under the , it is illegal to possess an "imitation firearm" (which includes deactivated guns) in a public place without a reasonable excuse. To the public and police, these items look identical to live weapons; always transport them in a locked case and keep them out of sight at home. Where to Shop While private sales occur, established UK militaria dealers
When looking to purchase a deactivated revolver, follow these steps to ensure you stay within the law:
Since 2021, if you acquire a deactivated firearm, you are technically required to notify the Home Office of the transfer, though this generally applies to items deactivated after certain dates. Ownership and Public Display To be legal in the UK, the deactivation
The most critical thing to understand is the standard. As of 2016, and updated in 2018 and 2019, all deactivated firearms must meet a specific high standard of deactivation to be legally sold or transferred.