r/canadaguns • u/GeneralMastodon9994 • Mar 11 '26

Application / Regulation advice Cons to having a PAL in Canada?

Hey everyone, I am considering getting the PAL license (restricted and non-restricted), and I wanted to ask if there are any cons to being a PAL holder in Canada?

Is it true that the government can pose you as a suspect if anything happens in the area where you live (firearm related) or just in general is it true that the government keeps an eye on you as a PAL holder?

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u/h3IIfir3pho3nix N E R F G U N S Mar 11 '26

If you have a PAL then your name is run in a daily CPIC check for criminal records (which is a good thing honestly). Other than that there's no extra scrutiny, you're not automatically considered a suspect in crimes or anything.

Having your PAL is definitely worth it. Aside from having general safety and awareness training, it's the only way to legally own guns in Canada. Sports shooting is a lot of fun!