The Firearms Law Handbook (Paperback, 8th Revised edition)

Reviews

"My review" by Phillip T. - 20 May 2020

AN IMPORTANT HANDBOOK FOR THOSE INVOLVED IN ALL ASPECTS OF FIREARMS AND GUN LAW: NOW IN AN EIGHTH EDITION FROM WILDY An appreciation by Elizabeth Taylor of Richmond Green Chambers and Phillip Taylor MBE, Head of Chambers, Reviews Editor, “The Barrister”, and Mediator This handbook and its subject-matter remain a popular work from Wildy, Simmonds and Hill Publishing. The authors, Laura Saunsbury and Nick Doherty, give the reader substantial details on all aspects of the law relating to the use of firearms in Britain for the 2020s in just 300 pages. We consider that those who enforce and apply the law will find this title of invaluable assistance in their work. It was originally published under the title “Gun Law” in 1999 by the late Godfrey Sandys-Winsch, and was first published, re-named as “The British Firearms Law Handbook” in 2011. It is now known as “The Firearms Law Handbook”. It’s clear that the eighth edition will be of great assistance to those who handle and sells guns, both commercially and for sport, as approaches change in the 21st century. We think that readers will find everything they need to know here contained on one volume. Although the subjects covered can be complex, we found that the title has been written in an approachable style which will be understood by all those with an interest in the subject. The classification of firearms is covered in detail, as are the many different circumstances in which authority to possess firearms and ammunition can, and should, be granted. This book will assist those who engage in all types of shooting. For instance, those who run shooting clubs and clay grounds; collectors; registered firearms dealers; and those who require the authority of the Secretary of State to possess prohibited weapons. The rules governing shooting by young persons are considered, together with the various exemptions available where a certificate is not required. Since the seventh edition of this work appeared in 2011 there have been significant changes to firearms legislation with more reforms to follow. The new laws are covered in full, including key changes in the Policing and Crime Act 2017 including new definitions of ‘firearm’; ‘component part’; ‘deactivated weapon’ and ‘antique firearm’. The handbook is “concerned with the law as it stands today” say the authors which means 2020 onwards. We consider that Saunsbury and Doherty’s handbook reviews all relevant case law authorities from the higher courts regarding firearms since 2011 and it also deals with the likely effects on the United Kingdom now that Britain has left the European Union. We also found the police policy on the licensing of firearms well covered, in addition to the process of application and appeal to the Crown Court. Applications to lift a ‘firearms prohibition’ are additionally considered. The publication date of this paperback eighth edition is cited as at 1st August 2019.