Airgun Focus Group formed to address future regulatory risk

Group formation and leadership

A new initiative has been launched to monitor and respond to potential future regulation affecting the UK airgun sector.

The Airgun Focus Group, led by Air Arms managing director Claire West, brings together key figures from across the trade and wider shooting community, with Stephen Jolly, chief executive of the Gun Trade Association (GTA), acting as secretary. It includes representation from the GTA alongside industry figures including David Bontoft of Hull (Weihrauch’s airgun importer), as well as subject matter expert Terry Doe.

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Background to the group’s formation

A number of the group’s members are known to have engaged directly with the Home Office on airgun matters for decades, addressing issues such as anti-tamper regulations and the proposed lead ammunition ban, much of it conducted without public visibility. The formal launch as a group reflects growing awareness within the sector that regulatory pressure seen in other areas, such as knives, crossbows and proposals surrounding Section 1 and Section 2 firearms licensing, could, in time, extend to airguns.

Claire West said: “It is a pleasure and a privilege to work alongside our industry experts as part of this new initiative. The formation of the Airgun Focus Group represents a vital step forward for the airgun industry. By coordinating our efforts and speaking collectively, we are better placed to protect the sport, support responsible ownership and drive positive change. The group creates a formal space for collaboration across the sector, allowing us to identify challenges early, share expertise and engage with policymakers in a more constructive and informed way. It’s an opportunity to strengthen our industry’s voice at a time when clarity, unity, and proactive engagement have never been more important.”

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Research and evidence base

The group’s primary objective is to take a proactive approach, commissioning research and building an evidence base to inform future engagement with policymakers. Research support is expected to involve Tim Cooper, who has previously contributed to industry-wide data and analysis on behalf of the GTA.

Stephen Jolly commented: “With so much happening in the legislative and regulatory space, it seems prudent for the airgun industry to consider its future and how it manages itself.”

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Aims and objectives

By establishing a coordinated platform at an early stage, the Airgun Focus Group aims to ensure the sector is better prepared to respond to any future consultation or legislative proposals, rather than reacting after policy direction has already been set.

Dave Barnham, technical editor of Airgun World, welcomed the official formation of the group, saying it gives airgunners greater security and clarity in knowing that key figures in the trade are working hard behind the scenes to protect the sport.