Canadian Firearms Laws

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1. Pointing an unloaded firearm at another person is a criminal offense in Canada.

Explanation

From the Criminal Code of Canada:

87. (1) Every person commits an offence who, without lawful excuse, points a firearm at another person, whether the firearm is loaded or unloaded.
Marginal note:Punishment

(2) Every person who commits an offence under subsection (1)
(a) is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years; or
(b) is guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction.

http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/C-46/page-42.html?term=pointing+points#s-87.

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About This Quiz
Canadian Firearms Laws - Quiz

This is a random set of questions a firearms user in Canada may expect to face when maneuvering through the various regulation and laws governing firearms use. Whether... see moreyou are an experienced firearms user or new, try this test and see how you fare.
Note: this test is not individually tracked and your participation is anonymous. In the name field you can put whatever you want. This test is not administered by the government or any lobby group.
This test is freely provided but please do not re-distribute as the information and questions may be subject to change. see less

2. A police officer may seize a firearm if the individual in possession of the firearm does not have a valid license and any required registration available for inspection. 

Explanation

From the Criminal Code of Canada: http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/C-46/page-55.html#h-47

117.03 (1) Despite section 117.02, a peace officer who finds
(a) a person in possession of a firearm who fails, on demand, to produce, for inspection by the peace officer, an authorization or a licence under which the person may lawfully possess the firearm and, in the case of a prohibited firearm or a restricted firearm, a registration certificate for it, or
(b) a person in possession of a prohibited weapon, a restricted weapon, a prohibited device or any prohibited ammunition who fails, on demand, to produce, for inspection by the peace officer, an authorization or a licence under which the person may lawfully possess it,
may seize the firearm, prohibited weapon, restricted weapon, prohibited device or prohibited ammunition unless its possession by the person in the circumstances in which it is found is authorized by any provision of this Part, or the person is under the direct and immediate supervision of another person who may lawfully possess it.

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3. Lever action rifles and other firearms from the cowboy era do not require a license to own in Canada.

Explanation

In Canada, lever action rifles and other firearms from the cowboy era do require a license to own. The possession and acquisition of firearms in Canada is regulated by the Firearms Act, which requires individuals to obtain a license in order to possess and acquire firearms, including lever action rifles and other firearms from the cowboy era. Therefore, the statement that lever action rifles and other firearms from the cowboy era do not require a license to own in Canada is false.

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4. A license is required for individuals to purchase ammunition in Canada.

Explanation

Vendors of ammunition are required to ask for a valid firearms license before selling to an individual. No one under the age of 18 may purchase ammunition.

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5. A suppressor (sometimes known as a 'silencer') is illegal in Canada.

Explanation

Fun fact: suppressors are actually mandated in some countries to deal with sound complaints.

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6. Fully automatic firearms are prohibited in Canada.

Explanation

Since 1976 fully automatic firearms have been prohibited in Canada except in use by military or law enforcement or by special prohibited licenses for those in the arms industry or TV/motion picture industry. Those who owned certain prohibited firearms have grandfathered licenses permitting them to own, trade or sell prohibited firearms but may not put them in use.

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7. Law enforcement and military personnel do not require firearms licenses for their firearms they own themselves.

Explanation

Both police and military must acquire the same licenses private individuals require in order to possess and purchase firearms for their own private use. When on duty, police and military use firearms owned by their institutions.

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8. All black powder firearms are exempt from the licensing and registration requirements of the Firearms Act. 

Explanation

Most black powder firearms manufactured before 1898 are considered Antiques and exempt. As well, any wheel lock, flintlock, or matchlock long guns regardless of date of manufacture are considered antiques and exempt (handguns excluded).

Excepting the above, black powder firearm manufactured after 1898 are not considered Antiques and fall under licensing and/or registration requirements.

Any shotgun that will fire 12-gauge center-fire cartridges may not be considered Antique regardless of age of manufacture.

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9. There is no limit on the number of magazines a licensed individual may possess for a particular firearm.

Explanation

This statement is true because there is no specific limit on the number of magazines that a licensed individual may possess for a particular firearm. The number of magazines a person can have is not regulated by law in most jurisdictions. However, it is important to note that some states or countries may have their own regulations regarding magazine capacity, so it is always advisable to check local laws and regulations.

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10. Which of these is the closest definition of a non-restricted firearm in Canada?

Explanation

not-available-via-ai

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11. A multi-barreled gun that fires when the operator manually turns a crank (sometimes called a Gatling gun) is defined as a prohibited firearm.

Explanation

A Gatling gun fires more than one round per revolution of the crank. Any firearm that fires more than a single projectile when actuated is prohibited for civilian use in Canada. Reproductions and historical versions exist in collections and in museums in Canada.

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12. Bullet-resistant jackets are mandated for use at approved ranges where center-fire ammunition is employed.

Explanation

Bullet-resistant jackets are not mandated for use at approved ranges where center-fire ammunition is employed. The use of bullet-resistant jackets is typically optional and left to the discretion of the individuals using the range.

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13. What is the name of the government body in charge of licensing firearms in Canada?

Explanation

The Canadian Firearms Program is administered by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police / Gendarmes Royal Canada (RCMP / GRC) with the responsibility to license individuals and identify and authorize firearms in Canada. For more information visit: http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/cfp-pcaf/index-eng.htm

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14. A working handgun manufactured  prior to 1898 is under what classification?

Explanation

A working handgun manufactured prior to 1898 is classified as an antique. This classification is based on the age of the firearm, as it predates the cutoff date set by the law. Antique firearms are typically exempt from certain restrictions and regulations that apply to modern firearms.

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15. Only ammunition marketed as target rounds can be fired at an approved range.

Explanation

What ammunition is permitted to be fired at a range is up to the individual's range rules.

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16. Laser targeting systems (devices that emit a focused beam of light to aid in the acquisition of a target) are illegal in Canada.

Explanation

Laser targeting systems are not illegal in Canada. While there are regulations and restrictions on the use of lasers, including restrictions on laser pointers, laser targeting systems themselves are not illegal. These systems are commonly used in various industries, including military, law enforcement, and even recreational activities like laser tag. However, it is important to use them responsibly and in accordance with the law to avoid any potential harm or misuse.

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17. Air guns are exempt from firearms licensing in Canada.

Explanation

Air guns with both a high muzzle velocity (greater than 152.4 metres or 500 feet per second) and a high muzzle energy (greater than 5.7 joules or 4.2 foot-pounds) as defined by the manufacturer are considered firearms in Canada and are covered by the Firearms Act and may be defined as either non-restricted, restricted or prohibited and may also be subject to municipal bylaws and provincial regulations.

For more information read: http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/cfp-pcaf/fs-fd/air_gun-arme_air-eng.htm

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18. What does semi-automatic mean?

Explanation

Semi-automatic means that every time the trigger is pulled, it will fire once until pulled again after which it will automatically eject the spent cartridge and chamber the next one. It can then be fired again.

Fully-automatic firearms will eject and chamber as long as the trigger is pulled and held. Machineguns, submachineguns and any gun that fires a 'burst' (firing a certain number of rounds per pull) are considered full-automatic.

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19. It is illegal to import ammunition from the United States.

Explanation

There is no general prohibition on importing ammunition or firearms from the United States. However, exporting such materials from the United States falls under the U.S. State Department regulations and laws.

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20. United States residents must be licensed in Canada in order to transport firearms between Alaska and the continuous lower 48 states.

Explanation

U.S. residents do not require licenses to transport firearms if transiting through Canada. However, they must declare their firearms and must store them legally during transport. Such a declaration is considered legal ownership and authorization to transport within a term of 60 days. For more information consult: "Importing a Firearm or Weapon Into Canada": http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/pub/bsf5044-eng.html#P014

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21. The repealed long gun registry (Bill C-19) in Canada means that firearms do not have to be registered in Canada (except in Quebec).

Explanation

Bill C-19 affected non-restricted long guns only. Prior to Bill C-19, restricted and prohibited firearms were already registered and continue to be registered.

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22. A handgun owner with a legal restricted license must inform the Canadian Firearms Program if they are transporting their handgun anywhere from its place of storage.

Explanation

Restricted firearms owners must receive an Authorization to Transport from the Canadian Firearms Program in order to transport their firearms to and from any location. They may receive blanket authorization to a place they regularly transport their firearms to such as their target range, gunsmith or to the border. Any place not covered under such authorization must receive a short term authorization, for example moving a residence or to a postal outlet or to a gun show.

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23. A non-restricted firearm (ex. a pump-action shotgun or bolt-action rifle) can be transported openly. For example, slung over the shoulder but unloaded.

Explanation

The Firearms Act specifies only that a non-restricted firearm must be unloaded in transport.

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24. Which if the following is closest to the proper procedure when transferring ownership of a Restricted firearm in Canada?

Explanation

The proper procedure for transferring ownership of a Restricted firearm in Canada involves the seller initiating the transfer by contacting the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) and providing all necessary information, including the firearm's details and the buyer's license number, address, and date of birth. The buyer then contacts the CFP to verify their personal information and accept the transfer. The CFP verifies the information of both parties and sends a confirmation letter to the buyer. The seller obtains an Authorization to Transfer to transport the firearm to a post office for shipping, and the CFP mails a new registration to the new owner.

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25. Targets with a discernible human silhouette (head and torso) are illegal in Canada for private individuals (non-law enforcement and military personnel).

Explanation

There is no law governing targets but individual ranges may make their own rules on what targets are allowable on their premises.

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26. The Possession and Acquisition License is a valid official proof of age in all Provinces.

Explanation

The Possession and Acquisition License (PAL) is a valid official proof of age in all provinces. This means that if someone possesses a PAL, they can use it as a form of identification to prove their age in any province in Canada. This is important for activities such as purchasing alcohol or entering establishments with age restrictions. Therefore, the statement "The Possession and Acquisition License is a valid official proof of age in all Provinces" is true.

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27. In Canadian law a magazine for a semi-automatic handgun is limited to what number of rounds for which the magazine was designed?

Explanation

In Canadian law, the magazine capacity for a semi-automatic handgun is limited to the number of rounds for which the magazine was designed. Therefore, the correct answer is 10, indicating that the magazine for a semi-automatic handgun in Canada can hold a maximum of 10 rounds.

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28. In Canada, does a person need to have a firearms license always in order to operate a firearm?

Explanation

An unlicensed individual may operate a firearm when under the direct supervision of another individual who has the correct license for that class of firearm. Also, individuals serving as law enforcement or military are not required to have licenses but are trained and authorized in their roles.

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29. A replica of a gun, i.e. a device manufactured to resemble a firearm that does not substantially differ from the appearance of an existing firearm in color or shape including some 'Airsoft' pellet guns), is illegal to acquire in Canada. 

Explanation

Individuals may keep any replicas that they owned on December 1, 1998. A licence is not required to possess a replica firearm, and it does not have to be registered. However, individuals cannot acquire, make or import a replica firearm unless they are a firearms instructor or a licensed armourer in the TV/motion picture industry. For more information read: http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/cfp-pcaf/fs-fd/replica-replique-eng.htm

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30. The M-1 Garand semi-automatic rifle with 8 round clip is a non-restricted firearm.

Explanation

The M-1 Garand is exempted in law from the 5-round semi-automatic limitation because of its unique clip.

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31. Bayonets that are sometimes sold with military surplus firearms cannot be legally mounted on the firearm except in display.

Explanation

There is no law governing whether a bayonet can or cannot be mounted on a firearm.

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32. In Canada, it is illegal to load a smaller calibre round into a magazine made for a larger calibre.  ex. Loading a .223 into a magazine designed and manufactured for a .50 calibre magazine.  ex. Loading a 9mm into a .40 calibre magazine.

Explanation

The correct answer is that there is no law that disallows loading a smaller calibre round into a magazine made for a larger calibre. This means that it is legal to do so, as long as it does not exceed the legal limit for a semi-automatic firearm.

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33. If a licensed owner passes away his or her heirs can immediately take possession of the deceased owner's firearms but may not use them until or unless they possess a valid license.

Explanation

An executor may temporarily possess the firearms even if they themselves do not have a license until the inheritors of the firearms can legally take possession of those firearms by acquiring a valid license.

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34. A properly licensed owner may not lend a restricted firearm to another licensed owner but must officially transfer the firearm by informing the Canadian Firearms Program.

Explanation

Restricted firearms can be lent between two individual who have a Restricted Possession and Acquisition License without informing the Canadian Firearms Program.

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35. A licensed firearms owner transporting firearms by vehicle in Canada must inform a police officer that they are in possession of firearms if they are stopped by a police officer. 

Explanation

In Canada, police officers must have a valid reason in order to stop an individual. There is no obligation under the law to volunteer unasked information.

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36. It is illegal to carry handguns in Canada by a private individual (not law enforcement, military or security worker)?

Explanation

Individuals may apply for what is called an Authorization to Carry (ATC) which may be granted in cases where the individual has an expectation of a direct threat to their life or those around them. However, as the RCMP does not release information on how many are granted and it is illegal for those who have them to reveal their status, it is unknown how many Canadians have ATCs. It is generally assumed that ATCs are very rare.

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37. Which of the following are considered conditions of non-displayed safe storage for restricted firearms in Canada? (Check all that apply)

Explanation

Guidelines for safe storage of firearms can be found in the RCMP fact sheet:
http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/cfp-pcaf/fs-fd/storage-entreposage-eng.htm

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38. A belt fed and tripod mounted  firearm is prohibited for civilian use in Canada. 

Explanation

Models of tripod-mounted and belt-fed firearms that are semi-automatic are legal.

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39. When transporting a restricted firearm (handgun or long arm that has been classified as restricted) which of the following is closest to the legal definition of safe transportation?

Explanation

The correct answer is the firearm is unloaded, locked with a device to prevent firing and locked inside an opaque container that cannot easily be broken into. This option provides the highest level of security and ensures that the firearm cannot be accessed or used by unauthorized individuals. The combination of being unloaded, locked, and stored in a secure container minimizes the risk of accidents or theft during transportation. The requirement for the container to be opaque and difficult to break into further enhances the safety measures.

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40. When transporting a non-restricted long arm (rifle or shotgun) which of the following is closest to the legal definition of safe transportation?

Explanation

Non-restricted firearms need only be unloaded to be safely transported. For more guidelines read the RCMP fact sheet: Storing, Transporting and Displaying Firearms http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/cfp-pcaf/fs-fd/storage-entreposage-eng.htm

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41. The Canadian Firearms Safety Course contains the following elements:

Explanation

The Canadian Firearms Safety Course includes an in-classroom lecture by an approved instructor, where students are taught about various aspects of firearms safety. This is followed by a demonstration and hands-on practice of all actions related to firearms by the students. The course also covers discussions on the evolution and composition of firearms technology, providing students with a deeper understanding of the subject. Additionally, information on legal storage and transportation of firearms is provided, along with an explanation of the responsibilities of firearms owners and users. This comprehensive course aims to educate individuals on all aspects of firearms safety and responsible ownership.

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42. Which of the following are requirements as part of the adult application for a restricted or non-restricted firearms license?

Explanation

The correct answer includes the requirements for an adult application for a restricted or non-restricted firearms license. These requirements include a current photo with a signature of reference, a submission fee, names and contact information of two references, the name and contact information of a spouse or individual with whom the applicant has been in a relationship in the past six months, and proof of the successful completion of the Canadian Firearms Safety Program for the class of license being applied for.

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43. Which of the following ammunition types or calibers are illegal to fire or possess in Canada by private individuals (non-law enforcement and military personnel)?

Explanation

Prohibited ammunition is defined in the Criminal Code of Canada under "Regulations Prescribing Certain Firearms and other Weapons, Components and Parts of Weapons, Accessories, Cartridge Magazines, Ammunition and Projectiles as Prohibited or Restricted" http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/SOR-98-462/FullText.html There is no specific prohibition on certain calibres.

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44. Match the firearms below to the legal classification.
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45. Under Canadian firearms law, which of the following conditions must be met for an individual to legally transport a restricted firearm within the country?

Explanation

To legally transport a restricted firearm in Canada, the firearm must be unloaded, stored in a locked case, equipped with a trigger lock, and the individual must have a valid Authorization to Transport (ATT). All of these conditions are essential to comply with Canadian firearms laws.

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46. A firearms owner in Canada must always have what documents with them when transporting a restricted firearm?

Explanation

When transporting a restricted firearm in Canada, a firearms owner must always have their Possession and Acquisition License (PAL), which is a license that allows them to possess and acquire firearms. They also need to have the registration for each restricted firearm, as it is a requirement to register restricted firearms in Canada. Additionally, they must have an Authorization to Transport (ATT), which is a document that specifies the purpose and destination of the firearm transport. These documents are necessary to ensure that the firearms owner is legally allowed to transport the restricted firearm and that it is being transported for a valid reason.

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47. In Canada a removable magazine for a manual-action firearm (ex. pump, lever, bolt) has the following limits for rounds:

Explanation

In Canada, the correct answer is "None" because removable magazines for manual-action firearms are illegal unless they are fused to the receiver and cannot be removed. This means that firearms with removable magazines are not permitted, and the magazine must be permanently attached to the firearm. Therefore, the correct answer is "None" as there are no limits on rounds for a removable magazine in Canada.

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48. Which of the following is not a firearms classification in Canada? (check all that apply)

Explanation

The correct answer is Non-prohibited, Professional, Law enforcement / military only, Collected. These classifications are not recognized in Canada's firearms classification system. Non-prohibited refers to firearms that are not classified as prohibited, while Professional, Law enforcement / military only, and Collected are not official classifications for firearms in Canada.

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49. Which of the following do not require the presence of a licensed individual to operate in Canada?

Explanation

A crossbow or bow

A slingshot

An Airsoft (plastic pellet firing) gun (if conditions are met)

A paintball marker

These items are typically exempt from the licensing requirements under Canadian laws governing firearms and weapons, given they meet specific conditions related to their operation and functionality.

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50. Which of the following is true of the prohibited classification of firearms?

Explanation

Prohibited licenses cover a myriad of different types of firearms that are generally not available to private citizens in Canada. These may also cover fully automatic, converted to automatic or other firearms that cannot be acquired normally. Grandfathered prohibited licenses are broken down into several sub-classes that cover individually prohibited types of firearms.

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Pointing an unloaded firearm at another person is a criminal offense...
A police officer may seize a firearm if the individual in possession...
Lever action rifles and other firearms from the cowboy era do not...
A license is required for individuals to purchase ammunition in...
A suppressor (sometimes known as a 'silencer') is illegal in...
Fully automatic firearms are prohibited in Canada.
Law enforcement and military personnel do not require firearms...
All black powder firearms are exempt from the licensing and...
There is no limit on the number of magazines a licensed individual may...
Which of these is the closest definition of a non-restricted firearm...
A multi-barreled gun that fires when the operator manually turns a...
Bullet-resistant jackets are mandated for use at approved ranges where...
What is the name of the government body in charge of licensing...
A working handgun manufactured  prior to 1898 is under what...
Only ammunition marketed as target rounds can be fired at an approved...
Laser targeting systems (devices that emit a focused beam of light to...
Air guns are exempt from firearms licensing in Canada.
What does semi-automatic mean?
It is illegal to import ammunition from the United States.
United States residents must be licensed in Canada in order to...
The repealed long gun registry (Bill C-19) in Canada means that...
A handgun owner with a legal restricted license must inform the...
A non-restricted firearm (ex. a pump-action shotgun or bolt-action...
Which if the following is closest to the proper procedure when...
Targets with a discernible human silhouette (head and torso) are...
The Possession and Acquisition License is a valid official proof of...
In Canadian law a magazine for a semi-automatic handgun is limited to...
In Canada, does a person need to have a firearms license always in...
A replica of a gun, i.e. a device manufactured to resemble a firearm...
The M-1 Garand semi-automatic rifle with 8 round clip is a...
Bayonets that are sometimes sold with military surplus firearms cannot...
In Canada, it is illegal to load a smaller calibre round into a...
If a licensed owner passes away his or her heirs can immediately take...
A properly licensed owner may not lend a restricted firearm to another...
A licensed firearms owner transporting firearms by vehicle in Canada...
It is illegal to carry handguns in Canada by a private individual (not...
Which of the following are considered conditions of non-displayed safe...
A belt fed and tripod mounted  firearm is prohibited for civilian...
When transporting a restricted firearm (handgun or long arm that has...
When transporting a non-restricted long arm (rifle or shotgun) which...
The Canadian Firearms Safety Course contains the following elements:
Which of the following are requirements as part of the adult...
Which of the following ammunition types or calibers are illegal to...
Match the firearms below to the legal classification.
Under Canadian firearms law, which of the following conditions must be...
A firearms owner in Canada must always have what documents with them...
In Canada a removable magazine for a manual-action firearm (ex. pump,...
Which of the following is not a firearms classification in Canada?...
Which of the following do not require the presence of a licensed...
Which of the following is true of the prohibited classification of...
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