Introduction
For hunters in the UK, finding a reliable firearm retailer is essential when purchasing rifles, scopes, ammunition, and accessories. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or just starting, choosing the right dealer ensures quality products, expert advice, and compliance with UK firearm laws.
From specialist gun shops to online firearms dealers, the UK has a range of trusted retailers that cater to hunting and shooting enthusiasts. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the top UK firearm retailers, including R. Macleod & Son, a well-known name in the industry.
Understanding Firearm Retail in the UK
UK Firearm Laws and Buying Regulations
Before purchasing a hunting rifle, it's important to understand UK firearm laws. Unlike in some countries, buying a firearm in the UK requires:
✔️ A valid Firearm Certificate (FAC) or Shotgun Certificate (SGC).
✔️ Proof of secure gun storage and compliance with legal requirements.
✔️ A background check and approval from your local police firearms department.
Why Choosing the Right Firearm Retailer Matters
Buying from a licensed and reputable firearms dealer ensures:
- Compliance with UK firearm laws.
- Access to expert advice on choosing the right rifle for hunting.
- After-sales support, including servicing, repairs, and upgrades.
Now, let’s look at some of the best firearm retailers in the UK.
1. R. Macleod & Son – A Trusted Name in UK Firearms
About R. Macleod & Son
📍 Location: Tain, Scotland
🔹 Specialties: Rifles, optics, reloading equipment, and shooting accessories.
R. Macleod & Son is one of the UK’s leading firearms retailers, known for its extensive range of hunting rifles, premium optics, and reloading supplies. Whether you’re looking for a high-end stalking rifle or the latest rifle scopes and binoculars, they have an impressive selection for hunters.
Why Choose R. Macleod & Son?
✅ Stockists of top hunting brands like Blaser, Sako, Tikka, and Sauer.
✅ A leading UK dealer for Zeiss, Swarovski, and Schmidt & Bender optics.
✅ Expert guidance on rifles, scopes, and hunting gear.
✅ Exceptional customer service and support.
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for premium hunting optics, R. Macleod & Son is a go-to retailer in the UK.
2. William Evans – Premium Sporting Guns & Rifles
📍 Location: London & Bisley
🔹 Specialties: Shotguns, rifles, and custom gun fitting.
Established in 1883, William Evans is a renowned British gunmaker and retailer specializing in bespoke shotguns, stalking rifles, and hunting accessories. They offer both new and pre-owned firearms, making them an excellent choice for serious hunters and collectors.
Why Choose William Evans?
✅ High-quality custom-fitted shotguns and rifles.
✅ Stockists of premium brands like Rigby, Beretta, and Browning.
✅ Traditional gun-making craftsmanship with modern firearm expertise.
Ideal for: Hunters looking for traditional craftsmanship and high-end firearms.
3. Sportsman Gun Centre – One of the Largest UK Gun Dealers
📍 Locations: Exeter, Dorset, Newport
🔹 Specialties: Rifles, shotguns, optics, and ammunition.
Sportsman Gun Centre (SGC) is one of the UK’s largest firearm retailers, offering a huge selection of rifles, shotguns, and shooting accessories. They cater to hunters, competitive shooters, and pest controllers, making them a one-stop shop for all shooting needs.
Why Choose Sportsman Gun Centre?
✅ Competitive pricing on hunting rifles, scopes, and ammunition.
✅ Large stock of Tikka, CZ, Howa, and Sako rifles.
✅ Online shopping with nationwide delivery (where permitted by law).
Ideal for: Hunters looking for a wide selection at great prices.
4. McAvoy Guns – A Family-Run Firearms Business
📍 Location: Wigan, Lancashire
🔹 Specialties: Hunting rifles, air rifles, and accessories.
McAvoy Guns is a well-respected, family-run firearms dealer offering a vast selection of hunting and shooting equipment. Whether you're after a deer-stalking rifle or night vision optics, they provide expert advice and quality products.
Why Choose McAvoy Guns?
✅ Stockists of Ruger, Browning, Remington, and Weihrauch rifles.
✅ A wide range of night vision and thermal imaging scopes.
✅ Excellent customer service and personalized support.
Ideal for: Hunters who need specialist advice and high-quality hunting gear.
5. Ivythorn Sporting – Specialists in Rifles & Hunting Equipment
📍 Location: Somerset
🔹 Specialties: Hunting rifles, optics, and reloading supplies.
Ivythorn Sporting is a specialist rifle and optics retailer catering to serious hunters. They offer a carefully curated range of hunting rifles, long-range scopes, and precision shooting equipment.
Why Choose Ivythorn Sporting?
✅ Extensive knowledge of ballistics, long-range shooting, and hunting.
✅ Stockists of Sako, Tikka, and Bergara rifles.
✅ Personalized service with expert recommendations.
Ideal for: Experienced hunters looking for high-end rifles and long-range shooting gear.
What to Consider When Choosing a UK Firearm Retailer
1. Legal Compliance
- Always buy from a licensed firearms dealer to ensure compliance with UK laws.
2. Product Range
- Choose a retailer with a wide selection of rifles, scopes, and ammunition.
3. Expert Advice
- A good retailer provides guidance on rifle selection, ballistics, and optics.
4. After-Sales Support
- Consider retailers offering repairs, servicing, and reloading supplies.
5. Online vs. In-Store Shopping
- Some retailers offer online ordering with collection or delivery options.
Conclusion
Finding a reliable UK firearm retailer is essential for responsible and legal gun ownership. Whether you need a stalking rifle, premium optics, or reloading supplies, choosing the right dealer ensures you get expert advice, quality products, and long-term support.
Top Recommendations:
🔹 R. Macleod & Son – Best for premium hunting optics & rifles.
🔹 William Evans – Ideal for traditional, high-end firearms.
🔹 Sportsman Gun Centre – Great for affordable rifles and accessories.
🔹 McAvoy Guns – Best for specialist hunting equipment & thermal optics.
🔹 Ivythorn Sporting – Perfect for precision shooting and long-range hunting.
Looking for a Hunting Rifle?
If you're in the market for a new hunting rifle or premium optics, check out R. Macleod & Son for expert advice and top-tier shooting equipment.
FAQs
1. Do I need a license to buy a hunting rifle in the UK?
Yes, you need a Firearm Certificate (FAC) to purchase a hunting rifle legally.
2. Can I buy a firearm online in the UK?
You can order online from licensed dealers, but collection or delivery must comply with UK firearms regulations.
3. What’s the best rifle brand for UK hunting?
Popular brands include Sako, Tikka, Blaser, and Sauer for deer stalking and game shooting.
4. Do UK firearm retailers offer rifle servicing?
Yes, many retailers like R. Macleod & Son offer servicing, repairs, and scope fitting.
5. Where can I find premium hunting optics in the UK?
R. Macleod & Son is a leading UK dealer for Zeiss, Swarovski, and Schmidt & Bender scopes.
