r/canadaguns • u/Spread-Hour • Apr 04 '26
Application / Regulation advice Policy question regarding 'antique' status on firearms.
Why do antique models of firearms (m1861 springfield rifle and colt m1861 navy for example) made before 1898 qualify as 'antique', while the exact same models produced in 1899 or later qualify as non restricted and restricted firearms? Sorry if this sounds dumb, but I dont understand the logic here. I would understand if they weren't muzzleloaders, which load, shoot, and preform nearly the same as every other type (flint/wheel/match/serpentine-lock), but unlike the rest, cant be antique while being repros. why?
(P.S this is a repost of my post from r/canadianlaw)
13
Upvotes
1
u/SonOfJaak Apr 04 '26
It's because the US has a Customs law that specifies any guns from 1898 or older as antiques. The government wanted to keep things streamlined for cross border trade.
You have to remember that the government know nothing about firearms.