The part of the VCRA that pertains to Airsoft replicas is essentially a piece of legislation designed to prevent RIFs (realistic imitation firearms) from being purchased by irresponsible people who might use them to intimidate members of the public. A few specific defences and exceptions (valid reasons for purchasing RIFs) were added to the act to prevent legitimate hobbyists like us from being unfairly restricted. This defence was an agreement between the Airsoft community (represented by the Association of British Airsoft, now disbanded) and the government. The arrangement is subject to ongoing monitoring by the Home Office. The Home Secretary is able to withdraw or modify the arrangement without consulting parliament.
What is the VCRA and the skirmishers defence?
The part of the VCRA that pertains to Airsoft replicas is essentially a piece of legislation designed to prevent RIFs (realistic imitation firearms) from being purchased by irresponsible people who might use them to intimidate members of the public. A few specific defences and exceptions (valid reasons for purchasing RIFs) were added to the act to prevent…