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Can someone explain to me how a variation works, when I recieve my fac, hopefully in the next week, god willing what do I actually do..

On the fac there will be a .22 bolt I want to get rid of and add a .223, please excuse me im clueless , can you still shoot while applying for a variation and Is it free, and does it take long to turn around, doing the routine search for info, leaves me blank.....regards.

A ‘one for one’ variation is free of charge, (any additional slot is £26.00) you do, however need to sell the old one, inform your FEO (sending off your cert with the variation form) that you have sold it.

The Certificate should come back with the new calibre on it (don’t forget the ammunition allowance)

You then purchase the replacement firearm and write a letter to your FEO to tell him that you have it.

The time taken varies from area to area.

My best time was two years ago, return of post. My longest wait, four weeks, some however, have waited months.

I would recommend, when you next feel the need to change, that you spend the £26.00 and apply for a couple of slots (which you don't have to fill immediately) which will give you the scope to buy new before you sell the old, thus, no break in shooting.

As far as I know, you can shoot within your county however do not travel outside without your FAC.

I am pretty sure last time I said that on this forum I was told I was wrong however it is what our FEO tells us when we send our FACs in for variations.

Thanks both , it makes sense now, just a little worried on the turn around, think when I join my second club ill phone the FLO and ask him, I guarantee it wont be quick, never had such luck tongueout

christel wrote:As far as I know, you can shoot within your county however do not travel outside without your FAC.

I am pretty sure last time I said that on this forum I was told I was wrong however it is what our FEO tells us when we send our FACs in for variations.

One day last year myself and my shooting mate crashed the car,Firearms officers were sent to the scene,after all details etc were sorted etc we spoke of such things such as out of areas etc, we were told that the police database was nationwide and they saw no problem if people were shooting out of area while their FAC was in for variations,How correct that is I`ve no idea,,just saying what we were told

The length of time is a postcode lottery but if the .223 is just for target shooting and you're a full member of a club that has facilities to shoot it, then it shouldn't take too long. If its for live quarry it may take longer.

My best time was 'while i waited' and worst has been 3 weeks, so nothing really.

Good luck

My FAC arrived back yesterday from a 1:1 - exactly one week from posting to return from Beds and Herts. Remember you can loose your slot if you do not apply for a 1:1 within 7 days of disposal of a firearm so get your FAC back to licensing ASAP.

Thanks all, makes sense, my biggest worry was being able to shoot while the variation was being sorted out, the slot I will change will just be a 1v1 and I made sure I put something on the certificate that I wouldnt use or buy......regards .