Is It Legally Possible to Own an Old M16 in the UK?

Gun ownership in the United Kingdom (UK) is tightly regulated and often requires specific permissions and paperwork. One such firearm that raises questions about legality is the M16, a highly recognizable and powerful weapon. Is it possible to legally own an old M16 in the UK? The answer, much like many legal questions, comes with a few caveats.

What Are the Legal Requirements?

The process of owning an old M16 in the UK is a complex one, involving multiple steps and considerations. The first step is to obtain a firearms certificate (FC), which is necessary to legally own any type of firearm in the UK. However, owning an M16 requires a bit more due to its status as a modern assault rifle.

Proof House Deactivation Certificate

One legal route to owning an old M16 in the UK is through proof house. A proof house is a facility where weapons undergo a process of deactivation, making them safe for civilian ownership. The deactivation process involves modifying the weapon to remove its ability to fire, among other mechanical changes. Once deactivated, the weapon can be legally owned in the UK. However, the owner must obtain a proof house deactivation certificate from a recognized authority.

Adaptation to Straight Pull

Another path to owning an old M16 is through adaptation. Modern M16s are typically semi-automatic or fully automatic, but civilian ownership of fully automatic weapons in the UK is extremely limited. Therefore, many collectors and enthusiasts adapt their M16s to straight pull before seeking permission to own them. Straight pull M16s are semi-automatic only, which is more in line with UK regulations.

What Dealers Handle Such Weapons?

Only a handful of dealers in the UK are authorized to handle such weapons. These dealers typically specialize in rare and historical firearms. They can assist in the deactivation and legalization process of M16s. It's essential to ensure that the dealer is licensed and authorized to deal with such weapons, as this can significantly affect the legality of the ownership.

Collectors and Show Displays

There is also a vibrant community of collectors and shooters in the UK. Some collectors own M16s purely for display purposes, showcasing them at firearms shows and other events. These individuals can display their weapons but should always adhere to strict safety and legal guidelines.

Important Considerations

It's crucial to note that owning an old M16 in the UK is not without its challenges. The process can be time-consuming and requires adherence to strict legal and safety guidelines. Additionally, some of these weapons may be subject to stricter controls due to their nature as modern assault rifles.

Conclusion

In summary, it is possible to legally own an old M16 in the UK, but the process is complex and requires specific certificates, modifications, and interactions with authorized dealers. Whether through proof house deactivation, adaptation to straight pull, or ownership by collectors, the journey to legally owning an M16 involves navigating the intricate web of UK gun laws.

Stay informed and adhere to the legal and safety guidelines to ensure a smooth and compliant process.

For further reading on UK gun laws and legal firearms, visit the official UK government website.

Keywords: M16, Old firearms, UK gun laws