Will an airsoft gun get through UK customs?

Question

I want to buy another airsoft gun, I got my current one from a UK retailer so I didn't have to worry about it coming from abroad.
But, I'm looking to buy an Ares AR25-M110 SASS, the cheapest I found from a UK retailer is about £420, plus delivery. I found one on Red Wolf Airsoft, link; http://www.redwolfairsoft.com/redwolf/airsoft/ProductDetail?prodID=26288 for £331 including delivery.

I will be UKARA registered before I order from anywhere, and am over 18, so can legally purchase one, but if I ordered one, would it get through to me, or be seized and destroyed as it came into the UK?

I read somewhere that I'd need proof of UKARA, ID/age, give details of the site I regularly play at, get them to confirm I regularly play there and that they are UKARA registered. Is any of this correct?

Would also like to know if you have bought from Red Wolf Airsoft before and had delivered to the UK.
If it won't pass customs, can you recommend a UK retailer where I can purchase the same gun.
Thanks a lot!

Answer 1

As detailed as Cunny's answer is it's also wrong! ;P





It's fine to import once you can prove that you have a defence to the VCRA. Being UKARA registered means you've proven that defence. Have refwolf put your UKARA number on the parcel, that might suffice, otherwise they'll contact you for proof of your eligibility before releasing the gun to you. Give them the details of your site membership and bob's your auntie!...



That said, after import duty (about 4% of gun +shipping), VAT (20% of gun + shipping + duty) and handling fees (about £25 depending on courier), that gun could come to £420-430 to import... Of course it's not 100% guaranteed that it'll have duties charged (unless they ship with TNT)- import tax is a very hit or miss affair....

Answer 2

Red Wolf Airsoft Uk

Answer 3

This Site Might Help You.



RE:

Will an airsoft gun get through UK customs?

I want to buy another airsoft gun, I got my current one from a UK retailer so I didn't have to worry about it coming from abroad.

But, I'm looking to buy an Ares AR25-M110 SASS, the cheapest I found from a UK retailer is about £420, plus delivery. I found one on Red Wolf Airsoft, link;...

Answer 4

I wouldn't bother, if they find it you will be in big trouble as it will be classed an a replica gun and you can't take one of these on a plane. Uk airports x ray suitacses so it probably will be found, its not worth the risk.

Answer 5

it should be ok so long as it is clearly labelled saying exactly what is inside and proof that you are entitled to be in possession of the weapon i.e. UKARA if you email the sender and ask them to put your details on the Package they should and hopefully it will get through customs. good luck mate

Answer 6

Nope! Once my brother had one of them toy guns, that don't make a noise or shoot - but it was consficated at customs.

You could also try, ask the company if they can send in a copy of a gun licence for you, and make sure it has no ammo with it.

Answer 7

No - it will be confiscated - and you may be charged with an offence.