Good practice guide for buying a firearm or shotgun online from an RFD
02-Feb-2026
Chris Cooper
This is a clear, step-by-step guide based on good practices for purchasing a firearm or shotgun legally in the UK. It focuses on scenarios where the buyer and seller are in different locations, involving two licensed sellers to handle the transfer compliantly. Remember, all UK firearm purchases must follow strict laws, requiring a valid firearm or shotgun certificate. This process ensures safe, regulated transfers while notifying authorities.
Background & key principles
This guide outlines the recommended process for remote purchases, where the item is shipped from one seller to another for collection.
It emphasises verification, record-keeping, and police notifications to comply with UK firearms regulations.
Always consult official sources like the Home Office or your local police for the latest rules; non-compliance can lead to serious penalties.
Note this applies to licensed firearms and shotguns; lower-powered (Sub 12-Foot) airguns do not have these restrictions.
How the purchase process works
The process involves the Purchaser, the original Seller, who lists and sells the item, and a nominated 2nd Seller, who handles the final handover.
Here's the flow broken down into simple, 4 stage process with numbered steps.
A. Process for the purchaser
1. Post off your certificate
The purchaser posts their certificate to the Seller. This should be sent via recorded delivery.
B. Process for the seller
1. Verify the purchaser's certificate
Seller must physically check the purchaser's firearm or shotgun certificate before proceeding with the sale. This confirms the buyer is legally authorised.
2. Update certificate
After verification, Seller records the necessary details on the certificate (e.g., item description) and returns it to the purchaser. This should be sent via recorded delivery.
3. Notify authorities
Within seven days of the sale, Seller must inform the Chief Officer of Police who issued the purchaser's certificate. The notification includes a full description of the firearm or shotgun.
Using the platform go to Action > Sell, and select the generate Form 11 options. This will send the police your Form 11. Record in the notes that this item has been forwarded to the 2nd Seller for collection. Read more
4. Payment and nomination
The purchaser pays Seller and nominates 2nd Seller—a licensed seller in a convenient location (often remote from Seller) for collecting the item.
5. Shipping the item
Seller arranges secure shipment of the firearm or shotgun to 2nd Seller and updates their own register with the transaction details.
6. Register entry
Seller's register entry should note: "Sold to [Purchaser's Name], Certificate No. [Number], and forwarded to 2nd Seller for collection.”
If you completed step 3, then this transaction is registered in the register.
C. Process for the 2nd Seller
1. Receipt and notification
Upon receiving the item, 2nd Seller updates their register within 24 hours and contacts the purchaser to arrange pickup.
Using the platform, go to Armoury > add, to record the information about the item in your armoury. Read more
2. Register update
Within 24 hours of the handover, 2nd Seller records the transfer in the "Out" section of their register.
Using the platform, go to Armoury item, then go to Action > Sell, to record the information about the item in your armoury.
D. Process for the purchaser
1. Final handover
The purchaser visits 2nd Seller, presents their updated certificate, and takes possession of the item as per the certificate's instructions.
2. Notify authorities
Within seven days of taking possession, the purchaser must notify the Chief Officer of Police who issued their certificate about the transfer.
Using the platform, go to Armoury > add, to record the information about the item in your armoury.
Then go to Action > Buy, and select the generate Form 11 options. This will send the police your Form 11 to record the information about the item in your armoury.
This structured approach minimises risks and ensures all parties maintain accurate records.
Important legal context
UK firearms laws are strict: You need a Firearm Certificate (FAC) for rifles and ammunition or a Shotgun Certificate (SGC) for shotguns. Sales must involve licensed sellers to verify and transfer items legally.
Remote sales require shipping between sellers - direct shipping to buyers is prohibited for controlled firearms.
Police notifications are mandatory to track ownership and prevent misuse.
Failure to follow these steps can result in certificate revocation, fines, or prosecution. Always verify sellers' licenses and item details independently.
Summary
This guide provides:
A step-by-step process for safe, legal firearm purchases involving two sellers for remote transfers.
Emphasis on certificate checks, police notifications, and register updates within strict timelines.
Compliance with UK laws to protect all parties and maintain traceability.
A clearer alternative to traditional guides, focusing on practicality without jargon.
For personalised advice, contact your local firearms licensing team. Always prioritise safety and legality.
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