r/canadaguns • u/ExtremeCommercial821 • Apr 24 '26

Buy recommendations First Time Card Holder

I'm sure this is a tale as old as time, but I recently got my non-restricted and I've noticed 2 things;

1) Buying guns seem simple yet Googling local stores shows mostly the same stock and not a lot of "charm"

2) Prices are insane

I'm in Toronto; what are the best methods people use to buy from the community? Are there legendary go-to forums for private sales? Or are there hidden gem shops? Or gun shows where I can find cool stuff and meet enthusiastic people?

And, what are this groups opinions on the best first firearms for a newbie? I'm a big fan of brake-barrel shotguns, bolt-action, anything vintage and a good semi-auto.

Thanks everyone!

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u/Iokua_CDN Apr 24 '26

  1. So I use a website to compare prices on  every gun I buy. Right now I'm using Almostprohibited.ca, I think there are a few more out there though. Most places have free shipping on guns since they cost so much. It's helped me out a few times especially for finding little deals and flash sales.

  2. I've really enjoyed some of the old Surplus sites like Intersurplus places that bring in a bunch of old sporting guns from Europe. Prices are really cheap, tons of good shotguns and bolt actions from them. I bought a nice double barrel shotgun from them, but I see a ton of over under shotguns too. Tons of vintage guns there. 

As for recommendations,  a cheap break action from Intersurplus can set you back 300-400 and you can use it for all sorts of clay shooting. Or get a nice little budget pump action like the Maverick  88.

As for bolt actions,  I love a CZ bolt action. The 60 alpha is cheap but good. Otherwise, Howa is a good brand for a budget gun too. Or you can grab a cheap vintage one from Intersurplus. Their 3006 guns are likely  the cheapest ammo ones there.

As for 22lr rifles, I think everyone should own one. I have a cheap bolt action and I love it, but many folks prefer semi auto and go with  a ruger 10/22.  Either one is fun and can easily become your most shot gun, especially  with 22lr ammo being so cheap.

The old Sks has gone up in price quite a bit, but they are still cool, really durable  and dependable rifles for a decent price. Tons of history in them. I still recommend one.

And other than that? I've had a ton of fun with a 357 lever action. Prices vary a lot. Good marlins are expensive. Rossi and Citadel and Turkish made lever actions are cheaper, around 1k, but can sometimes have issues. I bought a cheap Citadel,  and other than some early issues that i fixed, the gun has been solid for me, and a lot of fun.