Shooting at the 2012 London Olympics required special UK government dispensation due to post-Dunblane handgun laws, making it legally unique among Olympic host nations.
Key Facts
- Venue
- Royal Artillery Barracks, Woolwich
- Number of events
- 15
- Athletes competing
- 390
- Competition dates
- 28 July – 6 August 2012
- Original planned venue
- National Shooting Centre, Bisley, Surrey
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
The shooting competitions were originally planned for the National Shooting Centre in Bisley, Surrey, but the IOC raised concerns about its distance from London. Additionally, UK law had banned certain handguns following the 1996 Dunblane Massacre, meaning pistols used in the 25m and 50m events were legally prohibited in England, Scotland, and Wales.
Shooting competitions at the 2012 Summer Olympics took place from 28 July to 6 August at the Royal Artillery Barracks in Woolwich, London. Fifteen events were contested with 390 athletes participating, mirroring the same event programme used at the 2008 Games.
The UK Government granted special legal dispensation and the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games met required security criteria to permit the handgun events to proceed. The Royal Artillery Barracks served as a workable substitute venue within the designated River Zone, resolving both the logistical and legal obstacles.
Result
at Royal Artillery Barracks, Woolwich, London