FAQ
Basic Safety Course
Do I need hearing and eye protection?
What type of ammunition do I need?
How much ammunition do I need to bring?
What’s the best type of clothing to wear?
What other equipment will I need?
How long does the course last?
Do I need to be a member of the UKPSA or Border Guns to take the course?
Do I need a Shotgun Certificate or Firearms Certificate to take the course?
What is a Section 21 declaration?
Can I use my camera to take pictures and video?
How much does the course cost?
Do I need hearing and eye protection?
Yes. Hearing and eye protection MUST be worn at all times when shooting is taking place. You may also want to wear some form of head protection, such as a baseball cap, although this is not mandatory.
What type of gun do I need?
Firearms Act, Section 1 high-capacity (10-round) shotgun, either pump action or semi-automatic, in preferably 12 or 20 gauge. You can also use a Section 2, 3-shot pump or semi-auto in 12 or 20 gauge. A shotgun license only will restrict you to a Section 2 (3-shot) shotgun for the course.
What type of ammunition do I need?
Felt wad only at Border Guns. Birdshot in any size from 5 to 9 (the larger the number, the smaller the shot), and whatever size your gun will cycle, 28, 30 & 32 gram cartridges are popular. 28 gram 7s are a typical clay round and some of the heavier plates, especially at a distance will benefit from a 32 gram 5 or 6 to ensure they fall.
How much ammunition do I need to bring?
400 to 500 rounds, birdshot, felt wad only .
What’s the best type of clothing to wear?
Most of the course is outdoors so be prepared for the wet. Waterproof jacket & trousers are advisable, as are sturdy boots. However, if you want to wear trainers you can, but obviously they might get wet & muddy. You may want to have a warm jumper or fleece in the car just in case it gets cold. Cotton trousers are better than jeans, as they dry out quicker and aren’t as heavy when wet. No camo clothing please! This includes both military DPM and hunting styles such as RealTree ®.
What other equipment will I need?
A cartridge belt with either elastic or leather loops; a belt with pull-out clips such as the Prodec type; or “stripper clips” (four or six-round capacity). A gun slip is advisable, though not necessary, and a “safety flag” to show that the chamber of the gun is clear. Another tip is to bring some gloves, preferably leather or rubber-coated workman’s type, as you will be re-setting steel plates covered in lead.
Will there be food available?
The course fee includes lunch. Tea and coffee are available through the day, but it always helps to carry something to snack on. There are also toilet facilities on site.
How long does the course last?
Course length is 2 days (Sat/Sun), on site each day for a 9:00am prompt start.
Do I need to be a member of the UKPSA or Border Guns to take the course?
No, you do not need to be a member of either to take the course.
Do I need a Shotgun Certificate or Firearms Certificate to take the course?
If you are not a holder of a Firearms or Shotgun Ceretificate and still wish to take the course we have a Section 2 pump-action shotgun which can be used for the duration of the course. A Section 21 Firearms Act 1968 declaration will need to be signed on the first day of the course.
What is a Section 21 declaration?
S21 of the Firearms Act 1968 states:
Can I use my camera to take pictures and video?
Yes, but you must seek permission from the instructors and other students before doing so.
How much does the course cost?
£50 for part 1 and £30 for part 2. payment up front guarantees a place (maximum 6 per course). Cheques should be made payable to Border Guns PSG or Bank transfer to
Martin Davies
Sort Code: 20 20 20
Account Number: 40096792