fac

[jld56 0]

Thinking of applying for a fac but just wondering how difficult they are to obtain. At the moment have an air rifle for shooting the rabbits but could get a lot more with a rifle. have about 9 acres of land of my own and permission to shoot on ajoining farmers land and nursery land. Trouble is i've never shot anything but an air rifle and dont know anyone who shoots. Have read a few threads about needing experience and mentors etc.Would i be wasting my time in applying or what is the best course of action to take. Any info greatly appreciated.

[IanB 0]

What area are you from jld...

[scotrat 2]

Thinking of applying for a fac but just wondering how difficult they are to obtain. At the moment have an air rifle for shooting the rabbits but could get a lot more with a rifle. have about 9 acres of land of my own and permission to shoot on ajoining farmers land and nursery land. Trouble is i've never shot anything but an air rifle and dont know anyone who shoots. Have read a few threads about needing experience and mentors etc.Would i be wasting my time in applying or what is the best course of action to take. Any info greatly appreciated.

If you are applying for the .22 rimfire it is not too dificult in my area but as Ian has suggested it all depends on your FAC officer.All you need to do is convince them that you are aware of the risks involved with a rifle and you are safety aware.As for 9 acres I don't know it would be worth getting written permission from your neighbour.

Remember that during the interview they will through silly questions at you like "You are walking along with the rimfire and see a wood pigeon on a branch of a tree""Do you shoot it?" and the obvious answer is NO as you never fire a firearm into the air because there is nothing to stop the bullet.My novice friend answered "yes I would shoot the woody" he never got his FAC due to lack of experience and was asked to look for a mentor.He now has his FAC.

All you need to think can is I see where the bullet is going to go if I miss.If the answer is you don't know you don't fire.Another 1 is you should always be shooting into a safe suitable soft backstop,if going over a fence the rifle should be unloaded think along those lines and the interview and decision should be OK.

A bit long winded but I could go on for ages.It might be worth joining a local gun club.

[jld56 0]

I live near Whitchurch, Shropshire. Anyone willing to let me go out with them to pick up a bit of experience. Always willing to learn and chuck in a few quid for the ammo.