Owning/ Buying a RIF

Owning and Buying a Realistic Imitation Firearm (RIF) in the UK:

In the United Kingdom, the purchase and ownership of airsoft guns that realistically resemble real firearms (Realistic Imitation Firearms or RIFs) are subject to specific regulations outlined in the Violent Crime Reduction Act (VCRA) 2006. These regulations aim to balance the enjoyment of airsoft with public safety. This article details the current rules and requirements for owning and buying a RIF in the UK.

Understanding the Terminology:

• Realistic Imitation Firearm (RIF): An airsoft gun that is designed to have a realistic appearance to a real firearm.

• Non-Realistic Imitation Firearm (Non-RIF): An airsoft gun that is at least 51% brightly coloured (typically in a single, non-military colour like bright blue, green, or orange). These are generally easier to purchase.

The Key Restriction: The “Defence” Requirement

The primary restriction on buying a RIF is the requirement to have a valid “defence” under the VCRA 2006. This means you must demonstrate that you are a legitimate airsoft skirmisher. The most common way to establish a defence is through membership in a UKARA (United Kingdom Airsoft Retailers Association) registered airsoft site.

How to Establish a UKARA Defence;

1. Regularly Skirmish at a Registered Site: You need to actively participate in airsoft skirmishes at a UKARA registered site for a minimum period, typically three times within a period of no less than two months.

     2. Site Membership: You will usually need to become a member of the UKARA registered site you regularly attend.

     3. UKARA Registration: Once you meet the site’s requirements for regular participation, the site can add your details to the UKARA database. This database is used by registered retailers to verify that a buyer has a valid defence.

    4. UKARA Number: You will be issued a unique UKARA number that you can then provide to registered airsoft retailers when purchasing a RIF.

Buying a RIF with a Valid UKARA Defence:

• Provide Your UKARA Number: When purchasing a RIF from a registered retailer (either online or in-store), you will need to provide your valid UKARA number.

• Retailer Verification: The retailer will check your UKARA number against the database to confirm your eligibility to purchase a RIF.

• Proof of Age: You will still need to prove that you are over 18 years of age to purchase any airsoft gun, including RIFs.

Alternatives to UKARA Membership (Less Common):

While UKARA membership is the most common and straightforward way to establish a defence, other less frequent defences may be considered by retailers, such as:

• Membership of a properly organised and insured airsoft club/society (not necessarily UKARA registered). You may need to provide evidence of regular participation and the club’s credentials.

• Being a re-enactor who uses RIFs as part of historical re-enactments. You would likely need to provide evidence of your involvement with a recognised re-enactment group.

• Being involved in film or theatre productions requiring the use of RIFs. Evidence of your role in such productions would be necessary.

Important Considerations for RIF Ownership:

• Age Limit: You must be 18 years or older to purchase and own any airsoft gun, including RIFs.

• Safe Storage: RIFs should be stored safely and securely when not in use, out of sight and reach of unauthorised individuals, especially children.

• Transportation: When transporting a RIF, it must be carried in a manner that does not cause alarm to the public. This typically means keeping it in a case or bag. It is illegal to carry RIFs in public places without a valid reason (e.g., travelling directly to or from an airsoft site).

• Public Display: Never brandish or display a RIF in public. This can cause alarm and potentially lead to police intervention. Remember, to the untrained eye, a RIF can look identical to a real firearm.

• Modifications: Be cautious about modifications to RIFs that could potentially make them capable of firing live ammunition or increasing their power beyond legal limits. Such modifications are illegal and dangerous.

• Selling or Transferring a RIF: When selling or transferring a RIF, you have a responsibility to ensure the recipient has a valid defence and is over 18 years of age. Selling to someone without a valid defence is illegal. Registered retailers will typically handle these transactions and verify the buyer’s eligibility. Private sales can be more complex, and it’s crucial to ensure you are complying with the law.

• Non-RIFs: If you do not have a valid defence, you can still purchase and own Non-RIFs (the brightly coloured airsoft guns). There are generally fewer restrictions on their purchase, although you still need to be over 18.

In Summary:

Owning and buying a RIF in the UK requires a valid “defence,” with regular participation at a UKARA registered airsoft site being the most common way to meet this requirement. Understanding and adhering to the regulations outlined in the VCRA 2006 is crucial for all airsoft enthusiasts. Always purchase RIFs from reputable retailers who will verify your eligibility. Responsible ownership and use are paramount to ensuring the continued enjoyment and safety of airsoft in the UK. If you are unsure about any aspect of the law, it is always best to seek advice from a registered airsoft retailer or relevant legal authority.