Firearm classes in Canada: Non-restricted vs restricted
Canada sorts firearms into three legal classes that decide which licence you need. What's in each class, the barrel-length rules, and why classifications change.
Laws and safe handling
The rules every Canadian firearm owner is bound by - storage, transport, firearm classes, ammunition, and what to do when something goes wrong - explained in plain language, with the official source linked on every page.
Are automatic or semi-automatic guns legal in Canada?
Automatic firearms are prohibited in Canada - no licence makes them legal to acquire. Semi-automatics are legal by class and model. The rules, plainly.
Magazine capacity limits in Canada: The 5 and 10 round rules
Canada caps centre-fire semi-auto rifle magazines at 5 rounds and handgun magazines at 10. The design-based rule, pinning, rimfire exceptions, penalties.
Ammunition laws in Canada: Calibres, types, buying, storage
No calibre is banned in Canada - prohibited ammo is about type: tracer, incendiary, armour-piercing. Buying with a PAL, storage limits, cartridge basics.
Is reloading ammo legal in Canada? DIY ammunition rules
Yes - reloading ammo for personal use is legal in Canada, no licence needed, presses unregulated. Component storage rules and the one hard no: selling.
Can you carry a gun for self-defence in Canada? Real rules
Canada issues no carry permits for protection against people. What the law actually allows: wilderness ATCs, bear defence, home storage rules, and bear spray.
Do BB guns, pellet rifles or airsoft need a PAL in Canada?
Airguns over 500 fps and 5.7 joules are firearms needing a PAL; below both thresholds, no licence. Where BB guns, airsoft, paintball and PCP rifles land.
Muzzleloaders, antiques and crossbows: What needs a PAL?
Reproduction black-powder guns need a PAL; genuine antiques are exempt; most crossbows need no licence at all. Where Canada draws each line, in plain terms.
Firearm storage laws in Canada: The rules in plain language
How to legally store non-restricted and restricted firearms in Canada: locking devices, containers, ammunition rules, remote-area exceptions, penalties.
Transporting firearms in Canada: Vehicle, air and ATT rules
How to legally transport firearms in Canada: unloaded always, vehicle and unattended-car rules for non-restricted, locked-case and ATT requirements for restricted.
Bringing a gun to Canada: Import rules when you're licensed
Licences in two countries don't waive anything - each firearm's Canadian classification decides. Import steps for movers, visitors, returning residents.
Lost or stolen firearm in Canada: What to do, step by step
Report a lost or stolen gun right away - to local police and the CFP at 1-800-731-4000. It's a legal duty under s. 105 of the Criminal Code. Full checklist.
Official legal sources
Our guides orient you; these are the authorities:
- Firearms Act and its regulations (Justice Laws)
- Criminal Code, Part III - offences and firearm classes
- RCMP Canadian Firearms Program - licensing, classification, and the 1-800-731-4000 information line
- Natural Resources Canada - ammunition and propellant storage under the Explosives Act
New to all of this? The rules make more sense with the licensing context - start with how to get a PAL or browse all licensing guides.