Coterminus SGC & FAC application affect timelines?

[BlueJuice]

Morning guys,

My first real questions here after joining the forums. I'm currently looking into getting my FAC for hunting deer (most likely .308) but will likely end up getting a SGC at the same time to shoot clays with the wife (who has done a few clay days and showing some keen interest), and also as its something that is more accessible due to proximity to local clubs etc.

I appreciate that a FAC can take 12 months to have a decision made on it, and an SGC can be a bit quicker. If I apply for a SGC at the same time (coterminus) would this potentially extend the wait time on the SGC side of things or would it still be treated as two different applications that are independently reviewed?

I'm keen to get the ball rolling with the applications, and i don't foresee any issues on the SGC side, but can anyone offer advice on whether its worth getting things like DSC1, landowner permissions, club memberships etc in place before submitting an FAC or is it acceptable to get the application in and make sure this is all squared away prior to the interview taking place?

Thanks all

 

[nun_hunter]

I'd say that it's likely the SGC will be delayed and issued with the FAC but as long as you know others with a SGC who you shoot with then it's much easier to use a shotgun under supervision with someone else.

I'd 100% recommend getting the FAC application in asap and while you're waiting to hear from the FLD you can gather as many of the other bits you'll need, such as permission, safe DSC1 if you want it and generally get any experience and knowledge you can prior to the interview.

 

[BlueJuice]

I'd say that it's likely the SGC will be delayed and issued with the FAC but as long as you know others with a SGC who you shoot with then it's much easier to use a shotgun under supervision with someone else.

I'd 100% recommend getting the FAC application in asap and while you're waiting to hear from the FLD you can gather as many of the other bits you'll need, such as permission, safe DSC1 if you want it and generally get any experience and knowledge you can prior to the interview.

Ideal, thanks for the info. it does mention that the SGS and FAC will expire at the same time so that makes sense. Almost worth just doing the two seperately so at least i can shoot some clays whilst im waiting i suppose.

Actually had a good look through the application process today and whilst it looks relatively straightforward i've got a few questions that perhaps someone could shed some light on.

1. I have an SP30 (speeding ticket) from around 10 years ago, obviously well gone off my license but there is a question asking about 'all convictions'. As it was so ong ago i've no idea of the date, and to be honest cant remember if it was 2013 or 2014. Nothing appears when i check my driving license online. Is this a case of getting the date from the police force that fined me or any other ways anyone can suggest?

2. When listing firearms im applying for, would 30 cal be acceptable to put under calibre? Essentially its a toss up between 6.5 and .308 ill be going for, not much in it so would be good to keep options open to see if there's any good deals when I come to purchase. Otherwise i could list them both but feel its unlikely to be approved as they are so close in calibre.

3. Do sound moderators require a separate line or can i just put 'Rifle and moderator' under the type field?

4. Typically what volumes of ammunition are people being approved for 6.5 / 308 for hunting purposes?

 

[bigtone]

I have a "failure to comply with road traffic signal " from 1986 and no way l remember the exact date.I put a generic day/month down and put dates are approximate.

 

[jfr_1991]

Ideal, thanks for the info. it does mention that the SGS and FAC will expire at the same time so that makes sense. Almost worth just doing the two seperately so at least i can shoot some clays whilst im waiting i suppose.

Actually had a good look through the application process today and whilst it looks relatively straightforward i've got a few questions that perhaps someone could shed some light on.

1. I have an SP30 (speeding ticket) from around 10 years ago, obviously well gone off my license but there is a question asking about 'all convictions'. As it was so ong ago i've no idea of the date, and to be honest cant remember if it was 2013 or 2014. Nothing appears when i check my driving license online. Is this a case of getting the date from the police force that fined me or any other ways anyone can suggest?

I’m sure I didn’t bother to list my SP30 when I applied for my renewal as it was over 5 years ago and off my license. Though someone else on here may be able to offer better guidance on that one.

2. When listing firearms im applying for, would 30 cal be acceptable to put under calibre? Essentially its a toss up between 6.5 and .308 ill be going for, not much in it so would be good to keep options open to see if there's any good deals when I come to purchase. Otherwise i could list them both but feel its unlikely to be approved as they are so close in calibre.

List the cartridges which you are applying for, not the calibres. 30 cal could be anything from .308 to .300 win mag to 300H&H. They like you to be specific.

3. Do sound moderators require a separate line or can i just put 'Rifle and moderator' under the type field?

I applied for this as a separate item/line on the form.

4. Typically what volumes of ammunition are people being approved for 6.5 / 308 for hunting purposes?

I was told by my FO that I should apply for 160 rounds for any centre fire rifles and 600 for any rim fires. That was the guidance of Bedfordshire police anyway.

I hope this helps. Good luck.

 

[fixedwheel]

The downloadable form and notes are at:

Firearms application forms

Firearms application form, the form to vary a firearm certificate and guidance notes.

www.gov.uk

Section 15, I take it that your SP30 was a fixed penalty notice, which is covered in the last sentence.

 

[BlueJuice]

The downloadable form and notes are at:

Firearms application forms

Firearms application form, the form to vary a firearm certificate and guidance notes.

www.gov.uk

Section 15, I take it that your SP30 was a fixed penalty notice, which is covered in the last sentence.

View attachment 399199

Yeah happy with disclosing it all, the question was more about needing an exact date for a 10 year old speeding conviction when it’s been wiped off my license. I think I’ll just put in the notes it’s an approx date and explain why

 

[Heym SR20]

308 win is a very good all round cartridge. I read the other day in being described as the labrador of cartridges - easy to shoot and pretty damn good at most jobs. (I would say the 243 is the cocker / springer spaniel - pretty damn good at everything other than retrieving a large goose from an ebbing tide - but will have a damn good go and probably succeed).

22rf is a must as well. At very least a very good training rifle and cheap to run. The 17hmr does though shoot a non toxic bullet and probably better on longer range vermin. More expensive to run though.

Choice of reference also important and you want individuals who are of good character and who know you well.

Provide good justification - a supporting letter is very helpful. And show good evidence that you have the correct attitude to be granted an FAC.

 

[SimpleSimon]

Morning guys,

My first real questions here after joining the forums. I'm currently looking into getting my FAC for hunting deer (most likely .308) but will likely end up getting a SGC at the same time to shoot clays with the wife (who has done a few clay days and showing some keen interest), and also as its something that is more accessible due to proximity to local clubs etc.

I appreciate that a FAC can take 12 months to have a decision made on it, and an SGC can be a bit quicker. If I apply for a SGC at the same time (coterminus) would this potentially extend the wait time on the SGC side of things or would it still be treated as two different applications that are independently reviewed?

I'm keen to get the ball rolling with the applications, and i don't foresee any issues on the SGC side, but can anyone offer advice on whether its worth getting things like DSC1, landowner permissions, club memberships etc in place before submitting an FAC or is it acceptable to get the application in and make sure this is all squared away prior to the interview taking place?

Thanks all

Your certificates will be issued together so that that expire together... the clue is in the name "coterminous"

You must be specific in the chamberings you want to apply for. If you think it will cause a problem, some forces will allow you to put down several on the understanding that you will only actually acquire one. To be honest, 6.5 (I'm assuming you mean Creedmoor? Again, you'll need to specify which 6.5 cartridge you want on your application) and 308 are not all that similar, both can certainly do things the other won't so it's worth applying for both. Moderators need to be listed individually and specifically, they count as an independent item. It's also worth applying for more than one rifle so that you'll have a "slot" available in future that you can use for a free 1/1 variation if you want something different.

There is no point in applying until you have a club membership and/or permission and/or proof of booking paid stalks. They are what constitutes your good reason and without at least one of them your application will be rejected. DSC1 is not mandatory, but it's well worth doing anyway, certainly if you're completely new to it.

With ammo, jusy ask for the amount that will be sensible for you. If you live 100 miles from the nearest gun shop you could ask for a bit more. Likewise, you mentioned club membership, if you're doing range work you'll get through more and potentially want to keep a couple of different types in stock to cover target use and live quarry.

 

[BlueJuice]

308 win is a very good all round cartridge. I read the other day in being described as the labrador of cartridges - easy to shoot and pretty damn good at most jobs. (I would say the 243 is the cocker / springer spaniel - pretty damn good at everything other than retrieving a large goose from an ebbing tide - but will have a damn good go and probably succeed).

22rf is a must as well. At very least a very good training rifle and cheap to run. The 17hmr does though shoot a non toxic bullet and probably better on longer range vermin. More expensive to run though.

Choice of reference also important and you want individuals who are of good character and who know you well.

Provide good justification - a supporting letter is very helpful. And show good evidence that you have the correct attitude to be granted an FAC.

Thanks mate, appreciate the reply. Is there an opportunity to provide a cover letter as part of the application or is this done separately?

Your certificates will be issued together so that that expire together... the clue is in the name "coterminous"

You must be specific in the chamberings you want to apply for. If you think it will cause a problem, some forces will allow you to put down several on the understanding that you will only actually acquire one. To be honest, 6.5 (I'm assuming you mean Creedmoor? Again, you'll need to specify which 6.5 cartridge you want on your application) and 308 are not all that similar, both can certainly do things the other won't so it's worth applying for both. Moderators need to be listed individually and specifically, they count as an independent item. It's also worth applying for more than one rifle so that you'll have a "slot" available in future that you can use for a free 1/1 variation if you want something different.

There is no point in applying until you have a club membership and/or permission and/or proof of booking paid stalks. They are what constitutes your good reason and without at least one of them your application will be rejected. DSC1 is not mandatory, but it's well worth doing anyway, certainly if you're completely new to it.

With ammo, jusy ask for the amount that will be sensible for you. If you live 100 miles from the nearest gun shop you could ask for a bit more. Likewise, you mentioned club membership, if you're doing range work you'll get through more and potentially want to keep a couple of different types in stock to cover target use and live quarry.

Im leaning towards applying for both as you've suggested. Im sure ill only end up buying one but could potentially provide a little flexibility.

 

[Heym SR20]

Thanks mate, appreciate the reply. Is there an opportunity to provide a cover letter as part of the application or is this done separately?

Im leaning towards applying for both as you've suggested. Im sure ill only end up buying one but could potentially provide a little flexibility.

Cover letter - there is space on the application form, but also it does say add further if needs be.

Letters of permission, appropriate qualifications etc all help.

 

[f17ant]

Rifles & Mods listed separately

List the mod as a actual firearm and specify the calibre

Speeding ticket from 10 years ago put a rough date in I did the same for a speeding ticket 15 years ago and they didn’t mention even mention it

I would definitely sign up to a gun club so you have a reason for the SGC & FAC

I would do the DC1 as many forces will ask for it if you plan to stalk (this is where I get shot down by some members here )

Great if you get everything in before you apply if not you can always apply for a variation

What force you with ?

 

[BlueJuice]

Rifles & Mods listed separately

List the mod as a actual firearm and specify the calibre

Speeding ticket from 10 years ago put a rough date in I did the same for a speeding ticket 15 years ago and they didn’t mention even mention it

I would definitely sign up to a gun club so you have a reason for the SGC & FAC

I would do the DC1 as many forces will ask for it if you plan to stalk (this is where I get shot down by some members here )

Great if you get everything in before you apply if not you can always apply for a variation

What force you with ?

Thanks mate that’s helpful, I’m with Avon and Somerset. Should at least be able to get a DSC1 and guided stalks booked before I submit,.

By applying for a variation do you mean I can update the application whilst it’s in progress? For example if I get landowners permissions in place in 6 months time I can retrospectively add it on?

 

[f17ant]

Thanks mate that’s helpful, I’m with Avon and Somerset. Should at least be able to get a DSC1 and guided stalks booked before I submit,.

By applying for a variation do you mean I can update the application whilst it’s in progress? For example if I get landowners permissions in place in 6 months time I can retrospectively add it on?

You can only apply for variation once you have a license but my force did call me before the home visit and we had a chat so if you get your permission and DSC1 before your call you can always tell your officer and when he or she comes to the home visit present your evidence