Try going into a local gun shop. You need one that sells full bore rifle and not just shotguns and airguns. As the proprietor if he has any contacts for shooting clubs and explain what you would like to do.

With a military rifle you are better being a member of a club with a longer range (300m) or access to one. Not many clubs have that type of facility so you would more likely be looking for a club that has access to longer ranges on occasion.

The government are currently bringing in legislation where civilians can not shoot on a military range unless they have passed certain safety courses (just another way for the government to chip away at shooters). If you are anywhere near Bisley the NRA would be ideal but that all depends on your location (not ideal for shooters located in the north-west like me!).

I am a member of a shooting club and have an old 1915 SMLE Mk3* which I bought after retouching an old damaged military photograph of my granddad. At the time I looked at info on the Lee Enfield on the web and was surprised to find that a trained infantryman would be expected to be able to fire 15 rounds per minute!

I only have use of 45 and 100m ranges but still enjoy shooting it.

So in summery:
Join a shooting club with facilities suitable for that type of firearm. Tell the club what you want to do and you will soon see if it is the right club. If they show enthusiasm then you have probably found the correct club – if not, don’t be put off. Just find another club. When you have found the right club I am sure you will be welcomed.

You will need to serve a probationary period of three or six months after which you may join the club. After this time you may apply for your license but will need adequate security. Your club members or gun shop will help you out on this.

If at all possible, join a military rifle shooters club or association as this is classed as a further good reason to apply for a firearms certificate.

When applying for a licence, if you decide on a .303 then apply for a .303, a 7.92, a .22 etc. This will give you more options when it comes to the time of your purchase. This will also allow you to apply for a variation on the certificate without charge when, after 12 months, you decide you want a 7.62 (or similar). If you have a slot for a certain firearm but then decide you want a different one that you don’t, you can have the slot changed free of charge – but if you want an additional firearm adding it will cost you money. Remember your certificate runs for five years.

Then look for a gun that suits your needs. Always look around first and don’t just buy the first gun you see – especially for an old military rifle – research the rifle on the web. Try and find the specific model you want as it is a lot of messing around selling it to buy another as you will have to apply for a variation on your certificate even if your new gun is of the same calibre!

Good luck and don’t be put off by the initial hassle.

Regards

Mick