For an analysis of the whys and wherefores of this Act, see Clayton Cramer's Fear and Loathing in Whitehall: Bolshevism and The Firearms Act of 1920.
Be it enacted by the King's most Excellent Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Lords Spiritual and Temporal, and Commons, in this present Parliament assembled, and by the authority of the same, as follows:
produce for inspection the register so required to be kept as
aforesaid:
Provided that, in each case where a
written authority is required by this subsection, such authority
shall be produced on demand.
The expression "firearm" means any lethal firearm or other weapon of any description from which any shot, bullet, or other missile can be discharged, or any part thereof, and the expression "ammunition" means ammunition for any such firearms, and includes grenades, bombs, and other similar missiles, whether such missiles are capable of use with a firearm or not, and ingredients and components thereof:
Provided that a smooth bore shot-gun or air-gun or air-rifle (other than air-guns and air-rifles of a type declared by rules made by the a Secretary of State under this Act to be specially dangerous) and ammunition therefor shall not in Great Britain be deemed to be a firearm and ammunition for the purpose of the provisions of this Act other than those relating to the removal of firearms and ammunition from one place to another or for export:The expression "offence under this Act" includes any act, omission, or other thing which is punishable under this Act:
The expression "gun licence" means a licence to use or carry a gun granted under the Gun Licence Act, 1870, and any reference to a gun licence shall include a reference to a licence or certificate to kill game taken out under the law with respect to such a licence or certificate:
The expression "police district" means any district for which there is a separate police force, and the expression "the chief officer of police" has the meaning assigned to it by the Police Act, 1890, and with respect to the City of London means the Commissioner of the City Police.
SCHEDULES
FIRST SCHEDULE
Fees for Firearm Certificates
Where the applicant is not the holder of a certificate in force at the time of the application -
Where the applicant is the holder of a certificate in force at the time of the application and is applying for the renewal of the certificate - 2s 6d
SECOND SCHEDULE
Particulars to be entered in Book by Firearms Dealers.