beginer

[grantellissheffield]

ok i was thinking of applying for my fac. i already have my shotgun cert would it be a totally new application i need to do ? the land is already been cleared for fac cos the farmer has a .22 rifle but does not use it.

i want be able to get the crows down the bottom end of the fields they are very weary and as soon as they see you they are off and there is no cover to be honest. i would also like a rifle i can use for rabbits and maybe the odd fox so what would you suggest ? i was thinking of finding a gun club to get some practice on one first before i try live animals as i have only ever used shotgun and pre charged air rifles before..

[bedwards1966]

The application for a FAC is very similar to a SGC, you just need 2 referees instead of one countersignature.

It might be a sensible idea to renew your SGC at the same time, you then make both certificates 'co-terminus', which saves money in the long run.

 

What sort of range do you plan to be shooting at? A .22lr is a great tool for up to about 80 yards, but it's getting pushed to the limit at 100 yards. It's very quiet in operation and the ammunition is very cheap.

A .17 HMR is a good tool for longer distance work, it's quite capable to 150 yards or further. It's a bit noisy, which sometimes scares the quarry - though personally I find that with crows anything sets them off.

Both calibres are a good starting point and are quite capable on crows and rabbits, but aren't really suitable for foxes. Some police forces will allow a .17 HMR for foxes, but not many. Even if you are allowed to use on on foxes, your best limiting the range to 100 yards, and headshots.

For the foxes your probably best with a .22 hornet (centre-fire) upwards, depending on the ranges you intend to shoot at.

The land may already be passed, but you don't know what it's passed for - it might only be passed for say a .22RF, if you applied for a larger rifle it would need passing for that calibre. It's not usually a problem though, but you need to find out.