Advertisement
If you have a new account but are having problems posting or verifying your account, please email us on hello@boards.ie for help. Thanks :)

Shooting Forum - Firearms licencing information


Hello all! Please ensure that you are posting a new thread or question in the appropriate forum. The Feedback forum is overwhelmed with questions that are having to be moved elsewhere. If you need help to verify your account contact hello@boards.ie
Hi all! We have been experiencing an issue on site where threads have been missing the latest postings. The platform host Vanilla are working on this issue. A workaround that has been used by some is to navigate back from 1 to 10+ pages to re-sync the thread and this will then show the latest posts. Thanks, Mike.
Hi there,
There is an issue with role permissions that is being worked on at the moment.
If you are having trouble with access or permissions on regional forums please post here to get access: https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058365403/you-do-not-have-permission-for-that#latest

Pistol shooting on the cheap? Dublin based

  • 01-12-2018 4:42pm
    #1
    Zxthinger
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,113 ✭✭✭


    Thinking of getting into pistol shooting but how to do it on the cheap or at least test the water on the cheap.

    I'm in south Dublin so that means perhaps hilltop is my closest but is there anywhere that's significantly cheaper (even if means a bit of a drive)

    Are there clubs that have 'club guns' where a chap can try a few gun types for feel and ease of use?

    Also is there a minimum attendance required in order to maintain the validity of a licence.

    Finally I'd like to shoot cowbow style 6 shooter style revolvers (I think) etc etc is there anywhere that is into this styl of shooting.

    If anyone has any guidance or advice than thanks. I know it's a busy time of the year but I'd still love to hear your thoughts.


«1

Comments

  • #2
    freddieot
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,003 ✭✭✭freddieot


    You can't do Cowboy action shooting in Ireland. However I know they do it up North.


  • #3
    tac foley
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,500 ✭✭✭tac foley


    Shooting ANYTHING at all is never going to be an economy sport, like darts. Just prepare yourself to spend a good deal of money from the off, and take it from there.


  • #4
    Gorgeousgeorge
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,042 ✭✭✭Gorgeousgeorge


    Yeah any type of shooting is a dirty expensive past time. Courtlough do pistol shooting. My local range harbour house also do it. 1st year membership is around the 300+ mark and they do have club rifles and pistols available for beginners to try out. But for this you have to be a member i believe.


  • #5
    Zxthinger
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,113 ✭✭✭Zxthinger


    Ye I know it's going cost money but if there was places that offers better value.

    So cowboy shooting is out but surly revolvers are still an option..


  • #6
    Gorgeousgeorge
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,042 ✭✭✭Gorgeousgeorge


    Zxthinger wrote: »
    Ye I know it's going cost money but if there was places that offers better value.

    So cowboy shooting is out but surly revolvers are still an option..

    Yeah 5 shot in .22lr.


  • Advertisement
  • #7
    badaj0z
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 471 ✭✭badaj0z


    Zxthinger wrote: »



    Also is there a minimum attendance required in order to maintain the validity of a licence.

    .

    Not the sort of question that is likely to endear you to any of the clubs you may want to join.


  • #8
    Hack12
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 243 ✭✭Hack12


    Only option on the "cheap" is range days. Clubs are generally conservative of letting people use pistols/revolvers on a range day due to the nature of the firearm but you can ask. Best bet is Hilltop, Courtlough and Harbour House.

    Max calibre you can shoot in Ireland is .22 and max magazine/cylinder capacity is 5 rounds.


  • #9
    Zxthinger
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,113 ✭✭✭Zxthinger


    badaj0z wrote: »
    Not the sort of question that is likely to endear you to any of the clubs you may want to join.

    Well if I had to shot once a week then the midlands range (for example) would be a complete no no.

    It's a question that's perfectly ok to ask.


  • #10
    Gorgeousgeorge
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,042 ✭✭✭Gorgeousgeorge


    Zxthinger wrote: »
    Well if I had to shot once a week then the midlands range (for example) would be a complete no no.

    It's a question that's perfectly ok to ask.

    It sure is. Join a club be it midlands harbour house etc.. Iv seen the 5 shot revolver for sale in harbour house by one of the in house dealers.

    As we will all agree its a good social outlet and tbh Iv a pistol and have only shot it in 2 comps in the last year as the inter county and leinster league take up most of my time and finances


  • #11
    BattleCorp
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 11,789 ✭✭✭✭BattleCorp


    Zxthinger wrote: »
    Well if I had to shot once a week then the midlands range (for example) would be a complete no no.

    It's a question that's perfectly ok to ask.


    You don't have to shoot once a week. There is nothing set in stone regarding minimum range attendance.

    That said, you'd probably want to go about once every month or two.


  • Advertisement
  • #12
    tac foley
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,500 ✭✭✭tac foley


    BattleCorp wrote: »
    You don't have to shoot once a week. There is nothing set in stone regarding minimum range attendance.

    That said, you'd probably want to go about once every month or two.


    If only to justify the expense... I know that I'm VERY lucky - every week I can shoot every day outdoors, and two evenings at our indoor range. Because I'm old, my fee is reduced, and because I'm an RCO my fee is reduced again and because I'm a veteran, my fee is reduced yet again. We have yet to get to the point where they pay me to go shooting, but it's not far off... :)



    We also get 10% club discount from our three local gun stores, too.


  • #13
    BattleCorp
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 11,789 ✭✭✭✭BattleCorp


    tac foley wrote: »
    If only to justify the expense... I know that I'm VERY lucky - every week I can shoot every day outdoors, and two evenings at our indoor range. Because I'm old, my fee is reduced, and because I'm an RCO my fee is reduced again and because I'm a veteran, my fee is reduced yet again. We have yet to get to the point where they pay me to go shooting, but it's not far off... :)



    We also get 10% club discount from our three local gun stores, too.

    I'm flat out working and studying at the moment so time to get to the range is my issue. Roll on next Summer where I can happily be broke again from buying ammo.


  • #14
    Rosahane
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,443 ✭✭✭Rosahane


    BattleCorp wrote: »
    You don't have to shoot once a week. There is nothing set in stone regarding minimum range attendance.

    That said, you'd probably want to go about once every month or two.

    I seem to remember a requirement to attend the range a minimum of ten times per year. I know the Super is entitled to ask for attendance records upon renewal.


  • #15
    BattleCorp
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 11,789 ✭✭✭✭BattleCorp


    Rosahane wrote: »
    I seem to remember a requirement to attend the range a minimum of ten times per year. I know the Super is entitled to ask for attendance records upon renewal.

    Yes, the Super can ask for range attendance but where in the legislation does it say that you have to attend the range a minimum of 10 times? Or any number of times for that matter?

    So if a Super says 'you only visited the range three times last year, I'm taking away your licence', he is making up the law. That's my thinking anyway.

    It's not written in legislation as far as I'm aware. I'd be happy to be corrected on that but I don't think I'm wrong.


  • #16
    tac foley
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,500 ✭✭✭tac foley


    As I understand it, Jim, the 'justification for ownership' of any firearm is that you actually USE it. I guess that 'using' it once a year is 'use', in law, but it's hardly in the spirit of the thing, is it?
    In the UK we log each of our guns each time we use them on the range, as well as ourselves, in the range log book, so that they can be examined, if necessary, by the firearms issuing authorities. I only have nineteen guns, and I shoot a lot, although, for obvious reasons some get shot a lot more than others do. So my 'good reason' for ownership is visible in my record. However, there HAVE been cases where, for lack of range attendance, people have been asked to either go shooting more often, or risk having their FAC revoked for lack of use.


  • #17
    Gorgeousgeorge
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,042 ✭✭✭Gorgeousgeorge


    tac foley wrote: »
    As I understand it, Jim, the 'justification for ownership' of any firearm is that you actually USE it. I guess that 'using' it once a year is 'use', in law, but it's hardly in the spirit of the thing, is it?
    In the UK we log each of our guns each time we use them on the range, as well as ourselves, in the range log book, so that they can be examined, if necessary, by the firearms issuing authorities. I only have nineteen guns, and I shoot a lot, although, for obvious reasons some get shot a lot more than others do. So my 'good reason' for ownership is visible in my record. However, there HAVE been cases where, for lack of range attendance, people have been asked to either go shooting more often, or risk having their FAC revoked for lack of use.

    Do you have an sgc and an fac? Think that system is excellent. One licence fill the box


  • #18
    tac foley
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,500 ✭✭✭tac foley


    Gorgeousgeorge wrote: »
    Do you have an sgc and an fac? Think that system is excellent. One licence fill the box


    Nope, just a FAC. I don't do shotgunning per se. However, come the New Year I'm going to apply for a SGC so that I can start shooting smoothbored muskets and historical stuff like that. Here you can shoot a single ball - like a .65cal flintlock musket [replica or real] on a SGC so long as the barrel is more than 24" long. Great fun up to 50m...

    Better yet - with an SGC there is no limit to the number of smoothbore guns you can have - literally.


  • #19
    jb88
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 475 ✭✭jb88


    If there was a requirement for mandatory range attendance then even that can be abused with lads just turning up to swipe a fob. Having seen it first hand, and its a farce.

    If pistol is your requirement get one and use it in competition, that should be the only justification for having one.
    Show competition entries and results when you go for renewal. Otherwise choose something else

    And when you no longer shoot it in competition get rid of it, easily 2500 - 3000 .22 Pistols in Ireland. It would be great to see 10% of that number turning up to shoot a club or national competition, but its a dream.

    Easily over 150 pistols in my Club with about half that competing with them every year, I at least try and do 4 comps per year which is very easy.

    Too many lads with Pistols gathering dust in safes in Ireland and when time comes and the government wants rid of them, top of their excuse list will be "Why do you need it", you dont compete.


  • #20
    Witcher
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 15,638 ✭✭✭✭Witcher


    Some people don't want to compete, your desire to compete doesn't give you more right to one than them. That's moronic reasoning. Next only people that are good with them would be getting one.

    There was an 80+ year old man in my club, went up once a week to shoot two boxes with a friend...didn't compete. Taking his gun off him are you? Ridiculous.


  • #21
    Gorgeousgeorge
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,042 ✭✭✭Gorgeousgeorge


    tac foley wrote: »
    Nope, just a FAC. I don't do shotgunning per se. However, come the New Year I'm going to apply for a SGC so that I can start shooting smoothbored muskets and historical stuff like that. Here you can shoot a single ball - like a .65cal flintlock musket [replica or real] on a SGC so long as the barrel is more than 24" long. Great fun up to 50m...

    Better yet - with an SGC there is no limit to the number of smoothbore guns you can have - literally.

    Very very cool. I know a few lads from shooting in wales that have 20+ shotguns. As long as they can prove they can store them securly they are fine. Great system


  • Advertisement
  • #22
    Grizzly 45
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 15,077 ✭✭✭✭Grizzly 45


    Rosahane wrote: »
    I seem to remember a requirement to attend the range a minimum of ten times per year. I know the Super is entitled to ask for attendance records upon renewal.

    Errr No. There is no "mandatory attendance" requirement in law here.It's not like that for the majority of shooters there is a club on every street corner or parish.

    In fact,it could be very well argued that this whole "club membership" thing is illegal under EU human rights law.EUCHR actively states it is prohibited from forcing or coercing, by any means individuals to join any religion, organisation, party or other to gain privileges denied to society in general. [Again, thanks to Herr Hitler and Co.]

    "If you want to keep someone away from your house, Just fire the shotgun through the door."

    Vice President [and former lawyer] Joe Biden Field& Stream Magazine interview Feb 2013 "



  • #23
    riffmongous
    Moderators, Society & Culture Moderators Posts: 12,812 Mod ✭✭✭✭riffmongous


    Im going to suggest a radical option, if you want to test the waters take your next holiday in Vienna or Budapest and spend an afternoon at a range shooting pistols for maybe 50-100 quid depending on how much you want to shoot


  • #24
    jb88
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 475 ✭✭jb88


    Strider wrote: »
    Some people don't want to compete, your desire to compete doesn't give you more right to one than them. That's moronic reasoning. Next only people that are good with them would be getting one.

    There was an 80+ year old man in my club, went up once a week to shoot two boxes with a friend...didn't compete. Taking his gun off him are you? Ridiculous.

    I think there is a section on the FCA1 where you need to state the reason for use, I guarantee most people put target shooting down as the reason for use when they apply to licence a pistol.

    Going to a range and just firing off a couple of boxes of rounds, because they want to, isnt put on their application otherwise, whats the justification for having one, and remember its the Gardai who ask these questions.

    If its right or wrong in someones eyes isnt relevant. Its the justification for use and if your not using the firearm for the reason you applied on your application for having one, well why should you have it?

    and wo betide anyone who hasnt had this asked of them when applying for a licence for a firearm, because speaking personally its happened to me many a time.
    "If your not competing whats your justification for having a pistol?" Application declined.


  • #25
    ZiabR
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,575 ✭✭✭ZiabR


    tac foley wrote: »
    Shooting ANYTHING at all is never going to be an economy sport, like darts. Just prepare yourself to spend a good deal of money from the off, and take it from there.

    I would tend to agree with this. I shoot sporting clay and it is not a cheap sport. When I compare my sport to my Uncle in the UK, we really do get ripped off in Ireland. That being said, I love the sport and have no intention of stopping but it most certainly is not cheap.

    Pistol licences are difficult to get at the moment.

    Good luck OP.


  • #26
    Witcher
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 15,638 ✭✭✭✭Witcher


    jb88 wrote: »
    I think there is a section on the FCA1 where you need to state the reason for use, I guarantee most people put target shooting down as the reason for use when they apply to licence a pistol.

    Going to a range and just firing off a couple of boxes of rounds, because they want to, isnt put on their application otherwise, whats the justification for having one, and remember its the Gardai who ask these questions.

    If its right or wrong in someones eyes isnt relevant. Its the justification for use and if your not using the firearm for the reason you applied on your application for having one, well why should you have it?

    and wo betide anyone who hasnt had this asked of them when applying for a licence for a firearm, because speaking personally its happened to me many a time.
    "If your not competing whats your justification for having a pistol?" Application declined.

    Firing off a couple of boxes IS target shooting. You're talking through your arse now. Target shooting=/= competing.


  • #27
    The pigeon man
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 473 ✭✭The pigeon man


    jb88 wrote: »
    I think there is a section on the FCA1 where you need to state the reason for use, I guarantee most people put target shooting down as the reason for use when they apply to licence a pistol.

    Going to a range and just firing off a couple of boxes of rounds, because they want to, isnt put on their application otherwise, whats the justification for having one, and remember its the Gardai who ask these questions.

    If its right or wrong in someones eyes isnt relevant. Its the justification for use and if your not using the firearm for the reason you applied on your application for having one, well why should you have it?

    and wo betide anyone who hasnt had this asked of them when applying for a licence for a firearm, because speaking personally its happened to me many a time.
    "If your not competing whats your justification for having a pistol?" Application declined.

    I'm trying to follow your logic. You are of the belief that if you put down target shooting as a good reason for a firearm and then use this firearm to fire a few boxes of ammo at a target, at a range you are somehow not using your firearm for the purpose it's licensed for?

    If you put down target shooting you don't have to compete in a competition you can shoot for your own enjoyment.

    The same goes if you put down clay pigeon shooting as a good reason. You have the same justification to licence that firearm as someone who shoots in competitions, even if you only shoot for birds.

    I think you mean if you put down competition shooting for a good reason for a firearm you can't just shoot the odd target for fun. But then again I wouldn't put this down. Just use the generic term target shooting


  • #28
    Grizzly 45
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 15,077 ✭✭✭✭Grizzly 45


    "Target shooting" does not equate "Participating actively in competitions to fulfil license conditions".
    It means exactly what it says.

    If you go up and shoot a box of shells at a bit of paper,once or twice a year or a clay pigeon,or whatever alt targets your range allows, you have fulfilled your part of the conditions of the license to the letter.IF you put a generic "target shooting" reason.

    It is an assumption on the insurer's part that target shooting means you are shooting competitions.

    "If you want to keep someone away from your house, Just fire the shotgun through the door."

    Vice President [and former lawyer] Joe Biden Field& Stream Magazine interview Feb 2013 "



  • #29
    Witcher
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 15,638 ✭✭✭✭Witcher


    Smell of elitism creeping in a bit...'I compete'...would ya ever F off:pac:

    Won national competitions all over the country myself so I've nothing against competing but holding it over other people who don't is cringe worthy stuff.


  • #30
    solarwinds
    Registered Users Posts: 535 ✭✭✭solarwinds


    By that definition so i'm fully entitled to set up my bit of paper in a field and belt away as its not target shooting.
    Thats the best one i've heard in a while.
    In my last application for a .22 i explained to the super it was for target shooting and vermin, i told him i dont enter competions i just like to do it for my own sake. No issue made of it and licence granted.


  • Advertisement
  • #31
    rugerfanatic
    Closed Accounts Posts: 58 ✭✭rugerfanatic


    JB88,GRPAI who from prev discussions only organise shooting comps now on FCP and are members of SC. I wonder if ye'll push for mandatory comp participation rather than a range membership with attendence being the valid reason for continuation of licencing?


  • #32
    BattleCorp
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 11,789 ✭✭✭✭BattleCorp


    ZiabR wrote: »
    Pistol licences are difficult to get at the moment.


    Not trying to be awkward but where are you getting the idea that pistol licences are difficult to get at the moment?

    They are no more difficult to licence than any other firearm.

    Once you have your legitimate reason (target shooting), you can prove you are a member of a range that caters for pistols and that you are someone the Gardaí wouldn't view as being a danger to the public, then it's no different than licencing any other firearm.


  • #33
    jb88
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 475 ✭✭jb88


    rugerfanatic wrote: »
    JB88,GRPAI who from prev discussions only organise shooting comps now on FCP and are members of SC. I wonder if ye'll push for mandatory comp participation rather than a range membership with attendence being the valid reason for continuation of licencing?

    Too much wrong with that statement above.

    I will push for nothing, I represent myself and no one else.

    Personally I dont believe you should have any pistol licence unless you are competing, whats the requirement for it otherwise? Perhaps you can enlighten me?


  • #34
    jb88
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 475 ✭✭jb88


    Grizzly 45 wrote: »
    "Target shooting" does not equate "Participating actively in competitions to fulfil license conditions".
    It means exactly what it says.

    If you go up and shoot a box of shells at a bit of paper,once or twice a year or a clay pigeon,or whatever alt targets your range allows, you have fulfilled your part of the conditions of the license to the letter.IF you put a generic "target shooting" reason.

    It is an assumption on the insurer's part that target shooting means you are shooting competitions.

    The assumption is correct until the Gardai ask when you are renewing your pistol licence, they asked me can you prove that you used your pistol for target shooting and producing records of competitions entered was required in my case on a number of occassions.

    When the clampdown comes as it has in the past, range attendance and shooting at a few targets with your pistol wont cut it.

    The Gardai ask for proof, on printed paper and competitions entered be it club or at a national level are what is required to secure your continued enjoyment.

    CLAY Shooting is not Pistol shooting which is what this current discussion is about


  • #35
    rugerfanatic
    Closed Accounts Posts: 58 ✭✭rugerfanatic


    jb88 wrote: »
    Too much wrong with that statement above.

    I will push for nothing, I represent myself and no one else.

    Personally I dont believe you should have any pistol licence unless you are competing, whats the requirement for it otherwise? Perhaps you can enlighten me?

    There is 2 facts and one question.

    I didn't ask what you'd push for. I asked what GPRAI might push for.

    You got asked for proof of conpetitions. Or did you offer same?

    You believe no comps no licence. Legislations says "good reason". Range membership is a good reason. Anthing more just leaves it open ended as to what"s acceptable. As said above if I compete Gardai could say internatiinal level is only acceptable level.

    Associations such as GRPAI want everyone competing. More dosh in their kitty.

    In 2008 the Gardai tried to use the comp entry condition and the then FCP got that stopped. Seems all that good work may soon be undone.

    Think about it this way. The lads with pistols and not competing don't for a lot of reasons BUT they pay range memberships. Without their membership money will you have a range?


  • #36
    BattleCorp
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 11,789 ✭✭✭✭BattleCorp


    rugerfanatic wrote: »
    In 2008 the Gardai tried to use the comp entry condition and the then FCP got that stopped. Seems all that good work may soon be undone.

    Why?

    Are the authorities or some organisation campaigning to have 'target shooting' replaced with 'competition target shooting' as your reason for needing a firearm?


  • Advertisement
  • #37
    1874
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,404 ✭✭✭1874


    Could be that some clubs might look at things with a suspicious eye, if a new person turns up, wants to shoot the bare minimum, its pistol and they express an interest in this solely, have not participated in other shooting and are not known to the club or anyone in it, regardless of whats allowed, a club, and Ive heard it said Gardai will view that a certain way if thats your first application.


  • #38
    rugerfanatic
    Closed Accounts Posts: 58 ✭✭rugerfanatic


    BattleCorp wrote: »
    Why?

    Are the authorities or some organisation campaigning to have 'target shooting' replaced with 'competition target shooting' as your reason for needing a firearm?

    I'm not on FCP or privy to anything it discusses behind closed doors. As we all know shooting groups on FCP often decide what"s best for our sport often without the blessing or knowledge of those they claim to represent as it suits "someones" money making scam!


  • #39
    Grizzly 45
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 15,077 ✭✭✭✭Grizzly 45


    jb88 wrote: »
    The assumption is correct until the Gardai ask when you are renewing your pistol licence, they asked me can you prove that you used your pistol for target shooting and producing records of competitions entered was required in my case on a number of occassions.

    When the clampdown comes as it has in the past, range attendance and shooting at a few targets with your pistol wont cut it.

    The Gardai ask for proof, on printed paper and competitions entered be it club or at a national level are what is required to secure your continued enjoyment.

    CLAY Shooting is not Pistol shooting which is what this current discussion is about

    That's because you didn't stand up for yourself and told them that the only REQUIREMENT under law is to prove you are a member of an authorised range and that you ATTEND it[not specified in law either how many times a year THERE IS NOTHING IN THE LAW!! that says you must shoot competitions. There is an assumption on your and their parts that target shooting equals competitions. There is no definition either of what a "competition" is.i can compete against myself in shooting,by either having a higher or lower score within a half hour.

    So when this clampdown comes,if ever.You , me and everyone else will be back in court challenging them, and winning on them exceeding their authority under the law. As the act is silent on the point of competitions.So the act will require reworking and Dail time, and civil servants missing their tea breaks having to rewrite legislation...Do you think that's likely??

    [Deep inhale] People! I'll say this again, again and again.YOU as a shooter have to be on par and up to them on the law relating to firearms.You have to know what they can ask for legally and what you must provide, and where they are over the line in the legislation, and be prepared to step on their coppers boots to tell them politely to get back. This is a clear case of it. Yes they can certainly ask for range attendance no problem and welcome to it. Your scores and what you shot...Feck off!! What next? You didn't score well enough and haven't won anything??? Sorry unless I woke up again in the German Democratic Republic....Not going to happen.

    "If you want to keep someone away from your house, Just fire the shotgun through the door."

    Vice President [and former lawyer] Joe Biden Field& Stream Magazine interview Feb 2013 "



  • #40
    1874
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,404 ✭✭✭1874


    Grizzly 45 wrote: »
    That's because you didn't stand up for yourself and told them that the only REQUIREMENT under law is to prove you are a member of an authorised range and that you ATTEND it[not specified in law either how many times a year THERE IS NOTHING IN THE LAW!! that says you must shoot competitions. There is an assumption on your and their parts that target shooting equals competitions. There is no definition either of what a "competition" is.i can compete against myself in shooting,by either having a higher or lower score within a half hour.

    So when this clampdown comes,if ever.You , me and everyone else will be back in court challenging them, and winning on them exceeding their authority under the law. As the act is silent on the point of competitions.So the act will require reworking and Dail time, and civil servants missing their tea breaks having to rewrite legislation...Do you think that's likely??

    [Deep inhale] People! I'll say this again, again and again.YOU as a shooter have to be on par and up to them on the law relating to firearms.You have to know what they can ask for legally and what you must provide, and where they are over the line in the legislation, and be prepared to step on their coppers boots to tell them politely to get back. This is a clear case of it. Yes they can certainly ask for range attendance no problem and welcome to it. Your scores and what you shot...Feck off!! What next? You didn't score well enough and haven't won anything??? Sorry unless I woke up again in the German Democratic Republic....Not going to happen.


    What is/are the law/laws? be no harm to brush up on them.
    I used to brush up on the Tenancy Act, along the way I realised they can tweak and change things as suits them, in practice, a lot that goes on there in practice isn't even covered in the act (ie like councils imposing their own standards not covered in the act).


  • #41
    solarwinds
    Registered Users Posts: 535 ✭✭✭solarwinds


    Jaysus you know there was a time in this country when shooting was an enjoyable past time and thats not a rose tinted view.
    But now with all the made up laws, some of our own crowd doing us in the back and giving these hair brained schemes to the gaurds in the first place to impose on us.
    Shooting is getting to be a bit too much like work, only worse now when you have people who are only too happy to comply with every not legal request and requirement rather than challenge for fear of rocking the boat and losing what I have. All this serves to do is to give weight to these requests so they can be imposed on us all.
    I dont enter competitions now, but in the future that may change I dont know, but I would like the option available to me.


  • Advertisement
  • #42
    1874
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,404 ✭✭✭1874


    solarwinds wrote: »
    Jaysus you know there was a time in this country when shooting was an enjoyable past time and thats not a rose tinted view.
    But now with all the made up laws, some of our own crowd doing us in the back and giving these hair brained schemes to the gaurds in the first place to impose on us.
    Shooting is getting to be a bit too much like work, only worse now when you have people who are only too happy to comply with every not legal request and requirement rather than challenge for fear of rocking the boat and losing what I have. All this serves to do is to give weight to these requests so they can be imposed on us all.
    I dont enter competitions now, but in the future that may change I dont know, but I would like the option available to me.


    Thats why Id like the to know more about shooting than shooting, specifically deferring to anyones knowledge here to find out what are the relevant laws so I can look them up and know what the law says are the limits, rather than take any individual (person in some position of authority) word for things.
    Id also like to know more about whats going on in the shooting community, but I never really did know and even from reading here I lost track of who was doing what to who and the reasons it was speculated why. SC?


  • #43
    NASRPC
    Registered Users Posts: 262 ✭✭NASRPC


    To answer the Ops original question

    There is no such thing as "pistol shooting on the cheap" - it's pretty much the same for everyone.

    Most clubs have
    • A Joining fee (so all members contribute the same investment)
    • A Membership fee (Varies - but not a huge difference from club to club)
    • An Attendance fee (not sure if anyone still does this - most have just built it into the membership fee)

    If it is a sport you want to take up - or want to find out if it is a sport you want to take up - then see what clubs are near you - arrange to go visit them and talk to them and see what they have to offer you.

    As for the secondary discussion on licensing.

    Pistols are different - they can only be licensed for Target Shooting - so you must be a member of a Target Shooting Club - before you apply for a license.

    Shotguns and Rifles can be licensed for Vermin Control, Hunting and/or Target Shooting - so may or may not require membership of a club, depending on what you wanted the license for.

    It is not required, by law, that people take part in competitions - for any firearms license or any shooting sport.

    The vast majority of people who hold a license - for shotgun, rifle or pistol - do not compete.

    People need to learn to be safe on a range and learn how to shoot.
    When they get their own license - they need to learn to shoot and maintain that firearm

    In essence they get their license to practice.

    In the fullness of time - some of them may develop the confidence to - or the curiosity to - take part in a club match.

    If they like it there are loads of competitive opportunities in club, inter-club, national & International competition - here in Ireland. (No shortage of people to help them if they ask how)

    But for many - they are not competitive - they are quite happy to continue to practice when it suits them.

    Remember they are still competing - just against themselves.

    NASRPC


  • #44
    Grizzly 45
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 15,077 ✭✭✭✭Grizzly 45


    1874 wrote: »
    What is/are the law/laws? be no harm to brush up on them.
    I used to brush up on the Tenancy Act, along the way I realised they can tweak and change things as suits them, in practice, a lot that goes on there in practice isn't even covered in the act (ie like councils imposing their own standards not covered in the act).

    Ok, this will be a post that will be added to, as our laws are all over the shop on this one.Even in the Road traffic act ASFIK.
    So here goes. From the foundation of the state to present day

    1924 Firearms temporary provisions act [rescinded]
    1925 Firearms temporary, continuous act [rescinded]
    1925 Firearms act
    1964 Firearms act
    1964[?] Firearms proof act I]Never implimented[/I
    1971 Firearms act [with Temporary custody order in 1972]
    1990 Firearms and offensive weapons act[Silencers,nite vision,lasers,certain types of knives]
    1993 EU Acquisition of weapons and ammo regulations
    1998 Firearms[tempoary provisions] act
    2000 Firearms cert to non-residents act
    2006 Criminal Justice act.
    2017 EU regulations amending Council Directive 91/477/EEC on control of the acquisition and possession of weapons

    Hunting
    Wildlife act 1976/2004[?]

    Reloading and Ammo
    Explosive act 1875[?]
    Manufacturing of explosive and munitions act 2000*


    *Proably not the correct title, however there is a specific act dealing with manufacturing ammo on a commercial level, which is applied to home reloading.

    "If you want to keep someone away from your house, Just fire the shotgun through the door."

    Vice President [and former lawyer] Joe Biden Field& Stream Magazine interview Feb 2013 "



  • #45
    Scalachi
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 270 ✭✭Scalachi


    @Rufgerfanatic - Can I please clarify a few points for you :)

    JB88 is not a part of the GRPAI and does not comment on behalf of the GRPAI, his opinions and views are his own.

    The GRPAI are NOT part of the Sports Coalition, and I expect will NEVER be :)

    The GRPAI have been invited to participate on the FCP, and will gladly do so.

    The GRPAI will NOT be pushing for mandatory competitions any any level, we known that the vast majority of most club members have no interest in target shooting, but we do organise and facilitate target shooting competitions, at club, national and international level, but as we are a not for profit organisation, we don't really push the money end of it that much and certainly will never try to make it mandatory.


  • #46
    rugerfanatic
    Closed Accounts Posts: 58 ✭✭rugerfanatic


    Sorry. My mistake. Mixed ye up with nasrpc.

    Thanks for clarification.


  • #47
    Motorfuel
    Registered Users Posts: 3 ✭Motorfuel


    Scalachi wrote: »
    @Rufgerfanatic - Can I please clarify a few points for you :)

    JB88 is not a part of the GRPAI and does not comment on behalf of the GRPAI, his opinions and views are his own.

    The GRPAI are NOT part of the Sports Coalition, and I expect will NEVER be :)

    The GRPAI have been invited to participate on the FCP, and will gladly do so.

    The GRPAI will NOT be pushing for mandatory competitions any any level, we known that the vast majority of most club members have no interest in target shooting, but we do organise and facilitate target shooting competitions, at club, national and international level, but as we are a not for profit organisation, we don't really push the money end of it that much and certainly will never try to make it mandatory.

    What does the FCP do now? How often do they meet? What powers do they have? Who is represented on the FCP? What is their goal/purpous?

    Also, who is pushing for mandatory payment for competiing?


  • #48
    Zxthinger
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,113 ✭✭✭Zxthinger


    For a simple OP it's turned into a mess..
    To be honest some of the posters, (their-comments) are the type that might put a fellow off pistol shooting..
    I'm not going to name any names but I'd be stupid to allow such posts upset me or taint my views of the other chaps Who partake in this PAST-TIME..


  • #49
    Motorfuel
    Registered Users Posts: 3 ✭Motorfuel


    Sorry to buck the trend, I only have good things to say about shooting in Ireland right now. There is a great atmosphere in clubs across the country. Lots of competitions if that’s your thing and Ireland are current Gallery Rifle World Champions. If you can show you have a legitimate reason to have a rifle or pistol the Guards provide the license. That system protects us all from someone getting a license for the wrong reason and spoiling it for the rest of us. People that shoot in Ireland should stick together to protect and grow our sport. We should show the public we are together, sensible and descent people. Personally I am enjoying shooting game now and lots of target shooting starting again in January.


  • #50
    NASRPC
    Registered Users Posts: 262 ✭✭NASRPC


    For any of you that would like to
    • try your hand at target shooting,
    • learn how to compete in some of our sports,
    • actually compete in some of our sports
    • or maybe even represent your country

    NASRPC and its member clubs have plenty of opportunities to do so throughout the year

    Some highlights can be found in this post on the Target Shooting Forum "Coming up in 2019"

    We hope it helps.

    NASRPC


  • #51
    tac foley
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,500 ✭✭✭tac foley


    Motorfuel wrote: »
    Sorry to buck the trend, I only have good things to say about shooting in Ireland right now. There is a great atmosphere in clubs across the country. Lots of competitions if that’s your thing and Ireland are current Gallery Rifle World Champions. If you can show you have a legitimate reason to have a rifle or pistol the Guards provide the license. That system protects us all from someone getting a license for the wrong reason and spoiling it for the rest of us. People that shoot in Ireland should stick together to protect and grow our sport. We should show the public we are together, sensible and descent people. Personally I am enjoying shooting game now and lots of target shooting starting again in January.


    Living in a country where the GB national squad pistol shooters have their handguns delivered to them by a police-escorted security van on the ONE range where they are permitted to shoot them in total privacy, I can only express my jealousy that not only can you still HAVE a .22 handgun in Ireland, but that the sport appears to be flourishing.


  • Advertisement
Advertisement