As the demand for firearms medical reports increases, so too has the emergence of misleading operators looking to exploit the system. Alarmingly, some websites and companies are now falsely claiming to be “BASC approved” or “BASC recommended” – even though no such relationship exists. These misleading claims are not only unethical but potentially dangerous. Only…
Chris Garrett, medical doctor and founder of ShootCert Ltd, says it’s time to dispel the myths and adopt a common sense approach.Dr Chris Garrett was recently asked to write an article on this subject for the National Gamekeeper’s Organisation, quarterly magazine, Keeping the Balance. Chris, our Medical Director and Founder of ShootCert Ltd, has long…
Shooting sports—particularly clay pigeon shooting—offer far more than just the thrill of hitting a target. Whether you’re an experienced gun owner or just starting out, shooting clays with friends and joining a local shooting club can have lasting benefits for your mental health, physical wellbeing, and social life. Boosting Mental and Emotional Health Spending time…
Understanding Your Rights and the Role of GP Practices When Applying for a Firearms Medical Certificate When applying for a firearms or shotgun certificate through ShootCert, we request a copy of your full medical notes directly from your GP practice. This is known as a Subject Access Request (SAR)—a legal mechanism under the UK General…
At ShootCert, we take medical verification seriously. That’s why we work to ensure that all medical notes used in our assessments are as reliable, accurate, and trustworthy as possible—not just for the peace of mind of applicants, but also to uphold the standards expected by UK firearms licensing authorities. One of the most important steps…
At ShootCert, we believe that being part of a supportive shooting community is essential for every shooter – whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience. One of the best ways to connect with that community is by joining the Clay Pigeon Shooting Association (CPSA). The CPSA is the national governing body for…
ShootCert, a trusted provider of firearms medical certification in the UK, offers a Renewal Reminder Service to assist licence holders in managing their shotgun or firearm certificate renewals. This free service is designed to help applicants apply for their medical certificate at the optimal time, ensuring a smooth renewal process. Why Timing Matters in Firearms…
Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or new to the world of fieldsports, joining a recognised shooting organisation can offer a wealth of advantages. One of the most respected bodies in the UK is the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC), which works tirelessly to protect the rights of shooting enthusiasts while promoting safety, sustainability,…
If you’re applying for a firearms or shotgun licence—whether it’s your first time or a renewal—you’ll need to provide medical information as part of your application. But how far back should those medical notes go? And why does it matter? At ShootCert, we’re often asked this question, so let’s clear up the confusion and explain…
We wanted to make our clients and the wider shooting community aware that the Home Office has published a new Circular outlining the Firearms (Variation of Fees) Order 2025. This update confirms changes to the statutory fees charged for firearms licensing in England and Wales, and comes into effect on 5 February 2025. You can…