The law governing firearms, particularly airguns and replica weapons, is complex and sometimes difficult to understand. The Scottish Government believes that the law is overdue for reform.
In the wrong hands, airguns can be extremely dangerous weapons. They cause injury, damage and death. Airguns accounted for 51 per cent of all offences involving guns in 2009-10.
The Scottish Government aims to raise awareness, discourage irresponsible use, and help people to think carefully about how they can safely handle guns.
If you have a weapon like an airgun that is no longer needed, there is an option to hand in to the police who can dispose of it safely.
New legislation: The Home Office has released a Circular which advises recipients of the commencement on 10 February 2011 of section 46 of the Crime and Security Act 2010, which relates to the safe-keeping of air weapons.