Some weapons require special authorisation. Which category requires this authorisation?

• A. Handguns
• B. Shotguns
• C. Air pistols
• D. Certain air weapons and high powered rifles

Answer: (D)

The key idea is that certain weapons are restricted to the point that you must have explicit authorization from the police to possess them. High powered rifles are inherently dangerous, so owning one requires a Firearms Certificate with checks, conditions, and secure storage. Some air weapons can also be treated as firearms if their power is above a specified threshold, bringing them under the same level of control and requiring special authorization. In contrast, while handguns, shotguns, and standard air pistols are regulated under licensing rules, they do not automatically fall into this “special authorization” category unless specific power or exemption conditions apply. Therefore, the category that truly requires this extra authorization is certain air weapons and high powered rifles.