starter's pistol

[mike5]

Hi

 

I am working with a amateur dramatic society and we are hoping to use a starter's pistol. Does anybody know the safety regulations and guidelines as to using them?

 

Thanks

[Tom]

As a starting point have a look at this:

HSE Entertainment Info Sheet No.20 - Management of firearms and other

weapons in productions

[mike5]

Thanks for that.

[Floydey]

Extract from aforementioned paper - "Firearms Acts (particularly FA 1968) - it is an offence for any person to have in their possession a firearm, shotgun or ammunition without holding a valid firearm or shotgun certificate or certificate of registration and complying with its terms and conditions"

 

" Firearm(s) includes not only those weapons which are controlled by the Firearms Acts but also includes those that discharge explosive gases (blanks), pellets by compressed gasses (air pistols/rifles), starting pistols, or any form of projectile including shotgun pellets, bullets, musket balls"

 

So - if I understand this correctly, you require a Firearm Certificate for a starting pistol

 

Or am I barking up the wrong tree?

[Farrell]

I believe that piece of legislation only applies to pistols which are capable of firing live rounds.

 

 

As far as I am aware you have to treat blank firers as you would a normal weapon, and have an acting armourer in the show, but do not require a firearms license. If in any doubt speak to your local firearms Police Officer (which I would reccomend you notify if you are going to use it in a show, as well as the venue staff)

 

 Also it is worth noting that starting pistols are now come in flourescent colours due to the changes in regulations, however replica looking weapons are available that fire blanks from various suppliers if you have proof that you belong to a theatre group.

 

I hope my research is of some help.

[Jivemaster]

Get your local police firearms specialist liason officer onside! then things become more likely. Get the official words in writing from them.

[jonathanhill]

Get your local police firearms specialist liason officer onside! then things become more likely. Get the official words in writing from them.

 

They are likely to recommend a lockable gun cabinet in a locked room as safe storage, but I know of companies that use a lockable cash box that is secured in a lockable room. Police specialists and local authority officers are the people to ask.