[Stoat]

Though it would still be perfectly legal to own and use airsoft guns as we do now, there would be no new equipment and the hobby would effectively be slowly choked to death.

So, as I understand it,

• REAL guns, particularly handguns, are not exactly legal for at-home use and particularly not to be carried on one's person for self-defense in the UK (although it seems that a criminal can get one if he wants to)
• Airsoft guns will be made illegal as well, although current owners will be 'grandfathered' in.
• Toy guns, which oftentimes look quite similar to Airsoft guns, are ENCOURAGED by the Government (Teachers' Union objections notwithstanding) for use by children.

(scratching head with perplexed expression on face)

[Mac1]

real guns (except handguns) can be used anywhere where it would be legal to use them including defense at home IF it was proportionate to the threat, but you can’t own handguns except for muzzleloaders and antiques, unless you deal in them abroad say, or you are a vet requiring them for humane destruction of animals. You can’t carry a gun for defence with some exceptions: probably current and former govt employees in Northern Ireland who have PPW licences. Correct regarding the other 2 points.

[Mac1]

This should be informative regarding laws concerning private firearms ownership in the UK today (official as it gets IMO) given that its produced for the London Metropolitan Police themselves:

http://www.met.police.uk/firearms-enquiries/

You may read things such as the govt praising the shooting sports: its BS - if anything, things are becoming more restrictive for those already in the sport and they’re making it harder & harder to start.