Many Young Shots have their own guns but some are put off by the apparent difficulty of getting a shotgun certificate. Actually, it needn't be that difficult, provided you know the law, and, most importantly of all, know how to shoot safely. You will be questioned by a police licensing officer but if you are well prepared this need not be too daunting. Tom Bushby describes his experience and gives some advice . . .

'From the age of five I have been involved with some kind of field sport and have for a long time wanted my own shotgun certificate. So, as a Christmas present, I was given the money and the application form. For me this was a kind of dream come true and here my aim is to tell you how I went about obtaining my licence.

As you should know, a shotgun can kill. pointed in the wrong direction or misused it will be very dangerous. That is why the most important aspect of obtaining your shotgun certificate is safety. I spent a year practising my gun safety - this made sure that my handling was faultless.

Secondly you have to know the codes of practice for shooting. I got leaflets from BASC and picked some up at shows. These were all kept in a box file so the firearms officer could see that I had been reading safety manuals and studying the codes of practice. This then helped me when the officer asked me a series of questions. The two main ones were: What do you want a shotgun for? and How far do pellets from a shotgun cartridge travel? (The answer is: always allow about 400 yards and you will be safe).

Thirdly remember that licences can be revoked for any offence, so always keep on the right side of the law and be safe!

Not sure what you can and can't shoot or when? Click here to get the definitive quarry and season guide!