Firearms are durable and modular goods, which circulate in both civilian and state possession. Firearms can also easily be disassembled and re-assembled, can lie dormant for years before being misused, and are frequently smuggled and trafficked across international borders. Without accountability throughout the lifecycle of a firearm, or an accurate understanding of the firearms in circulation within a jurisdiction, other crucial elements of WAM such as marking, tracing and profiling, stockpile management and the collection and destruction of firearms are swiflty undermined. Understanding these challenges, Arquebus maintains that a crucial tool for sustained and expansive progress in minimising the impact of SALW misuse upon human security is an effective national firearms registry.

Arquebus CEO Paul James was interviewed by Evan Davis on the BBC Radio 4 Programme, PM, providing his insight on the tragic fatal shooting of 9-year old Olivia Pratt Korbel in Liverpool. Paul discusses several areas of the investigation as the police attempt to identify the gunman and use the ballistics forensics to support the investigation.