The Auction houses have a special license to handle them often for export. A special collector's permit can be obtained here for handguns but they have to be pre 1918 and not in 9mm. calibre and cannot be used to fire live ammo. However, if the handgun is in what is classed as an obsolete calibre such as say 8mm. French Lebel pistol or 2.7 Kolibre Auto or .44 Russian then there is no restriction as to ownership or purchase so long as it is not used. Technically in that case a 5 year old can go buy it and play with it but can't buy any sort of air pistol until aged 18. As say it's all very confusing. Lagopus.....
