Canada vs Poland: Gun Laws Comparison - Need Help

[u/Straight-Touch-111]

Stribog SP9A3 9x19mm

My WBP JACK AK

All my guns

Me and my wife :)

Shooting some Kevlar

Some friends DMR

PWS MK114

PWS MK114

Cleaning job in the shed

Shotgun action

Canik TTI Combat

TL;DR: Working on a YouTube video about gun laws in Poland vs Canada — looking for input from Canadian gun owners. Any insights appreciated!

Hi everyone,

I’m currently working on a YouTube video for my channel Nexos, where I want to compare firearm laws and gun ownership between Poland and Canada.

I’ve just come back from Canada and had the chance to talk with some family and friends, so I already have a general idea of how things work here. That said, I’d really like to hear directly from people who actually live in Canada and are part of the firearms community — to make this material as accurate, reliable, and fair as possible.

The goal of this video is not to mock or criticize either country. I strongly believe that gun owners and shooters around the world should support each other rather than argue. Recently, I’ve often seen Poland being referred to as the “Texas of Europe,” which made me even more interested in doing a deeper, fact-based comparison.

This will be the first episode in a series where I compare different countries — starting with Canada and Poland, since I’m both Polish and Canadian 🙂 I want to take a closer look at “my two countries” and present it in an interesting way for both Poles and international viewers.

Below, I’ve prepared a list of questions I’d love to get answers to. If any of you are willing to take a few minutes to respond — to all or even just some of them — I’d really appreciate it.

Additionally, in the comments, I’ll include answers to the same questions from the Polish perspective, so you can see how things work in a country that guards NATO’s eastern border.

I’ve also added a few photos of my firearms and shooting activities to give you a bit of a feel for what the shooting scene looks like in Poland.

Questions (Canada perspective)

1. Is it legal to own firearms in Canada? If so, under what conditions?
2. How long does it take to obtain a firearms licence?
3. Are medical, psychological, or background checks required during the licensing process?
4. Is the firearms licence granted as a strict administrative decision, or is there discretionary judgment involved?
5. Once you have a licence, how many firearms can you own?
6. What does the firearm purchasing process look like?
7. How must firearms and ammunition be stored?
8. Is it legal to carry firearms on your person?
9. What are the rules for transporting firearms (e.g., to a shooting range)?
10. What types of firearms are legal to own, and which are prohibited?
11. Are there any restrictions on firearm accessories, attachments, or modifications?
12. Are there any clothing or gear restrictions (e.g., camouflage, tactical gear)?
13. Are there magazine capacity limits?
14. Where are you allowed to shoot?
15. Are any types of shooting activities restricted (e.g., dynamic shooting, tactical drills)?
16. A difficult topic: self-defense with a firearm — is it legal?
17. How does Canadian society generally perceive firearms and gun ownership?
18. Approximately how many firearms and firearm owners are there in Canada?

[u/Straight-Touch-111]

Polish perspective

1. Is it legal to own firearms in Poland? If so, under what conditions?
Yes, it is legal to own firearms in Poland, but only with a licence issued by the Police (specifically the Voivodeship Police Headquarters).
To obtain one, you generally need to be at least 21 years old (with some exceptions from age 18 for sport shooting or hunting), have a clean criminal record, and be mentally fit.
Licences are issued strictly “for a purpose,” and there are multiple categories such as: sport shooting, collecting, hunting, personal protection, protection of persons and property, training, historical reenactment, and commemorative purposes.
You must demonstrate a “valid reason” for each category. For example, in sport shooting, membership in a shooting club is considered a valid reason.

1. How long does it take to obtain a firearms licence?
   It depends on the category, but generally the process takes between 2 and 6 months. In practice, around 2–3 months is quite common if everything goes smoothly, but more complex cases may take longer.

2. Are medical, psychological, and background checks required?
   Yes. You must pass medical and psychological examinations, including certification from both a psychologist and a psychiatrist.
   The Police also conduct a background check for criminal history. Additionally, there is a so-called “environmental interview,” where local police officers may verify your situation and surroundings.
   These exams are typically done once at the licensing stage.

3. Is the licence administrative or discretionary?
   It depends on the type of licence.
   For categories like sport shooting or collecting, the process is essentially administrative — if you meet all requirements, pass exams, and are not considered a threat, the licence should be granted.
   However, for personal protection, the decision is highly discretionary. You must prove a “real, constant, and direct threat to life or health,” and whether that standard is met depends on the authority.
   In practice, civilians are denied this type of licence in the vast majority of cases (around 99%). Some exceptions exist for uniformed services under newer regulations.

4. How many firearms can you own?
   When applying for a licence, you must also specify how many firearms you intend to own.
   The number granted depends on the local authority, but in practice, reasonable requests are often approved.
   If you exceed your limit, you can apply to increase it later, and such requests are usually granted without major issues.

5. What does the purchasing process look like?
   After receiving your licence, you are issued individual purchase permits (one per firearm).
   You go to a gun shop, select a firearm that matches your licence category, provide the permit, complete the purchase, and take the firearm with you.
   You then have 5 days to register it with the Police. This can be done in person or by mail.
   Firearms are recorded in an official owner’s booklet, which lists all your registered guns.

6. How must firearms and ammunition be stored?
   Firearms must be stored unloaded in a certified safe meeting at least S1 standard (PN-EN 14450).
   Both firearms and ammunition must be stored in the safe. Ammunition can be kept together with firearms, and loaded magazines are allowed.
   There is no requirement for additional locking devices like trigger locks.
   Firearms cannot be stored casually (e.g., in drawers or closets). However, you can take them out of the safe for cleaning, dry fire practice, or inspection.

7. Can you carry firearms?
   It depends on the licence category.
   You can carry firearms for purposes such as sport, training, or personal protection. Hunters can carry firearms while hunting.
   There is no open carry — firearms must be concealed.
   Polish law distinguishes between “carrying” (a loaded firearm, e.g., with a magazine inserted) and “transporting” (unloaded, with no ammunition in the firearm).
   For example, collector firearms cannot be carried — only transported (meaning the firearm is unloaded and ammunition is stored separately).

8. How does transportation work?
   Firearms must be unloaded and transported in a case or bag.
   They must remain under constant supervision of the authorized person.
   You cannot leave firearms unattended in a vehicle — even briefly. If needed, you must either take them with you or leave them under supervision of another licensed person.

9. What firearms are allowed?
   Most firearms available on the civilian market are legal, except fully automatic weapons.
   Semi-automatic firearms are widely available, including AR-15s, AK variants, DMR-style rifles, and pistols of various calibers.
   There are some restrictions depending on licence type (e.g., sport shooting may have caliber limits), but collector licences are more flexible.
   Ammunition cannot contain particularly dangerous elements such as explosive or chemical payloads.

10. Accessories and modifications
    Most firearm accessories are legal.
    This includes suppressors, optics (scopes, red dots, holographic sights), weapon lights, lasers, foregrips, folding stocks, and even bayonets.
    Extended magazine base plates are also allowed.

11. Clothing and gear
    There are no general restrictions on clothing or appearance.
    You can wear camouflage, tactical gear, ballistic vests, helmets, or plate carriers.
    Only certain competitive shooting disciplines (especially Olympic-level) may impose restrictions on clothing.

12. Magazine limits
    There are no practical limits on magazine capacity.
    Extended, drum, or other types of magazines are generally allowed.

13. Where can you shoot?
    Shooting is only allowed at officially approved shooting ranges.
    You cannot legally shoot in the wild, even in remote areas.
    Opening a range is relatively straightforward, although local community acceptance can sometimes be a factor.

14. Shooting activities
    Most forms of shooting are allowed, including dynamic and tactical shooting, movement drills, and defensive scenarios.
    There are many competitions, including IPSC, long-range shooting, and various practical shooting events.

15. Self-defense with firearms
    This is a complex and sensitive topic.
    In theory, firearms designated for self-defense should be used for that purpose. In practice, there have been cases where sport or collector firearms were used in self-defense.
    However, such cases often lead to lengthy legal proceedings, even if the person was defending themselves.
    Home defense situations are treated somewhat more leniently, as the home is considered a protected space.
    Still, the use of firearms is always seen as a last resort, and legal consequences are almost always involved.

16. Public perception
    Poland once had a strong firearms culture before World War II.
    However, during and after the war, under Soviet influence and communist rule, civilian access to firearms was heavily restricted for decades.
    This left a lasting impact — firearms are often viewed as dangerous and uncommon, rather than as normal tools.
    Public knowledge about firearms law is generally low, and myths are still common.
    That said, interest in firearms has been growing significantly in recent years, especially since 2022.

17. Number of firearms and owners
    There are over 1 million registered firearms in Poland.
    There are about 411,000 licences issued (though one person may hold multiple licences).
    The actual number of gun owners is estimated at around 250,000–300,000.
    Additionally, black powder firearms (pre-1885 designs or replicas) can be purchased without a licence by adults, and there are estimated to be hundreds of thousands of such firearms in circulation.

[u/SmoothSlavperator → u/Straight-Touch-111]

"You cannot shoot in the wild".

How does hunting work and do most people just shoot in the wild anyway(as in no one cares unless you're being a nuisance)?

Like for instance, I'm not "shooting" my firearm, I'm "Hunting invasive species, I'm just really bad at it". Like in the US in most states house sparrows and starlings are invasive and have no closed seasons or restrictions. My first response if I wanted to shoot my gun was just head off into the woods and if anyone asks I'm "Hunting sparrows".

I'm of Polish decent, my family emigrated from Kupno in the 1890s-1910s and took up firearms and hunting in the US almost immediately. Free food.

[u/1anre → u/Straight-Touch-111]

Blackpowder weapons are the funny part I read in all these.

[u/CurlyWurly61]

sees suppressor

🫩

[u/297146007 → u/CurlyWurly61]

If Canada's gun laws actually made sense, but were still as restrictive; suppressors would be required safety items.

[u/Aggravating_Key69 → u/297146007]

💯

[u/Straight-Touch-111 → u/CurlyWurly61]

It’s funny, because all it takes is for the suppressor manufacturer to state that the suppressor is intended for the civilian market, and then it can be legally sold and used in Poland 🙂

[u/DonAzuld → u/Straight-Touch-111]

As it should be. It seems like your licensing and registration is much more strict but the list of banned or “prohibited” items is much lower for you.

[u/Straight-Touch-111 → u/DonAzuld]

Yeah, you’re right! It’s kind of frustrating that we have to register our firearms basically twice. It could be done at the store, since retailers are already required to report firearm sales. Your system seems more straightforward.

[u/Khill23 → u/CurlyWurly61]

Its funny since my friend from Sweden is shocked that we don't hunt with a suppressor, since it's a mandated thing where he is.

[u/scottsuplol → u/CurlyWurly61]

I can’t wait to run up the OHIP bill on my hearing loss

[u/Critical-Ad4665 → u/scottsuplol]

Funny you mention that, I was surprised to learn that OHIP pays 1k for hearing aids every 3 years. Just got my first set last year at Costco, my benefits from work pay 1k every 5 years, Costco's price was $2100 so I was only out $100 for them. The local hearing aid place wanted 7k which is what kept me from getting them sooner.

[u/scottsuplol → u/Critical-Ad4665]

Good ol Costco

[u/AdeptArt]

Hey! I can try to answer some of your questions from my perspective, I might accidentally leave some things out so forgive me in advance if I do.

>

• Is it legal to own firearms in Canada? If so, under what conditions? Yes, it is legal, long guns with a non restricted license, and handguns (currently frozen unless you have a special exemption, but existing owners with handguns prior to the freeze may continue to use them at a range) with a restricted license (as well as SBR rifles but those have all been banned, lol). There's also grandfathered classes of licenses for full/converted full autos, those can't be taken out, but can be used as safe queens,
• How long does it take to obtain a firearms licence? Due to processing anything from a few months to a year. Requires a written test and approval of the federal police (RCMP) in Miramichi NB
• Are medical, psychological, or background checks required during the licensing process? Yes, all required and all license holders are re-evaluated on these criteria on a daily basis. The medical and psychological check isn't something you have to go out and do, but the police check your record for any red flags such as being admitted to a psychiatric hospital.
• Is the firearms licence granted as a strict administrative decision, or is there discretionary judgment involved? There is discretionary judgement if you have a sketchy record (read: committed some sort of crime or had mental health issues in the past), but for most people with a clean record it is no issue.
• Once you have a licence, how many firearms can you own? To the best of my knowledge there isn't a limit for long guns. For handguns, depending on your purpose, if you have more than a reasonable amount the police may ask questions. The police also have a right to visit your residence if you are a collector.
• What does the firearm purchasing process look like? You go to a store, they confirm your license is valid using the police web portal, and they sell you the long gun most likely that day. For handguns, what used to happen was you'd require the permission of the RCMP, and they'd have to issue you an ATT (basically permission to take it from the store back to your place of residence). This would take a week or two, so you'd pay first, wait for permission, then go back and pick it up and bring it home.
• How must firearms and ammunition be stored? For long guns, must be secured via a cable or trigger lock. Alternatively have a safe room or gun safe. For handguns, both of the above (a trigger/cable lock as well as a safe)
• Is it legal to carry firearms on your person? Long guns for hunting in appropriate areas, yes. Technically (I am not a lawyer) there is nothing in the law explicitly banning you from carrying it unloaded in a city, but I wouldn't do it. For handguns, almost always no unless there is a valid threat to your life or you have a special exemption again.
• What are the rules for transporting firearms (e.g., to a shooting range)? For long guns, must be unloaded. For handguns, same requirements as storage, locked and in a case (which is locked again). And you must legally take the most reasonably direct route to the range you are able to. Transport to anywhere else (such as a gunsmith or if moving houses) again requires the permission of the police
• What types of firearms are legal to own, and which are prohibited? So funnily enough we have an actual class of prohibited in Canada, which are those full auto/converted full auto firearms I previously talked about. You can only own those if you were grandfathered in the 90s. Today though, we have very few semi autos left that are legal for those just entering the sport. SKS, M1 Garand, etc. For high end we have things like the Valmet Hunter and K43. Since 2020 (and forward), common sporting rifles such as the AR15 and those like it have been banned, and owners are currently under an amnesty order which will expire this coming October.
• Are there any restrictions on firearm accessories, attachments, or modifications? Only restriction to my knowledge is sawing off a firearm barrel and attachments like the M203 (some actually exist in canada, in civilian hands, believe it or not, but to my knowledge require registration with the controlled goods program). Most other accessories or attachments are legal (edit: also suppressors are banned)
• Are there any clothing or gear restrictions (e.g., camouflage, tactical gear)? Not to my knowledge.
• Are there magazine capacity limits? 5 rounds for rifles, 10 for pistols. But if your rifle happens to use a magazine designed for a pistol, then it's fine.
• Where are you allowed to shoot? At a range, crown land, or private land (outside of cities)
• Are any types of shooting activities restricted (e.g., dynamic shooting, tactical drills)? Not to my knowledge.
• A difficult topic: self-defense with a firearm — is it legal? It really depends. It might end up "legal" or "illegal" but you'd have to spend a lot of money to prove it in a court of law. My point is, there's no law explicitly permitting it so its fuzzy.
• How does Canadian society generally perceive firearms and gun ownership? In rural areas, mostly positive. In cities it's mixed but people are coming around to the idea that the gun buyback is a waste of money (since even police association chiefs state that the most crime is with smuggled handguns, and not long guns).
• Approximately how many firearms and firearm owners are there in Canada? 2 million license holders. Canada doesn't (anymore) track the number of long guns directly, but estimates vary. Gov says 10 million (gov source: https://www.publicsafety.gc.ca/cnt/trnsprnc/brfng-mtrls/prlmntry-bndrs/20221122/06-en.aspx)

[u/Straight-Touch-111 → u/AdeptArt]

Hey! Thank you soo much for the comment! It will be useful! 😄

[u/Baelnorn → u/Straight-Touch-111]

I would like to add some additional information for the above.
There is a minimum 28 day waiting period for the RCMP to issue a license after receiving the application, but it usually does take much longer. Anecdotally I have seen times between 4 months and 2 years between sending an application in and having a license issued. The Canadian Firearms Safety course has a minimum length of 8 hours and the Canadian Restricted Firearms Safety Course has a minimum of 4 hours if done within 7 days of the first course, or 6 hours if taken after the 7 days.
Authorization to Carry permits do exist, I've only ever personally seen them issued to armored car guards or licensed trappers. Under heavy restrictions such as only in uniform while performing duties on the clock for a security company or only on the registered trap line for trappers.
If you would like to know exactly what is or isn't legal Armalytics https://www.armalytics.ca/?size=n_10_n lists the contents of the RCMP's firearms reference table which is not a legal document but a list of all of the makes and models of firearms that the RCMP is aware of and the classification status of said firearms. The FRT is the bane of my existence. Of the three firearms classifications in Canada, Non-Restricted, Restricted, and Prohibited, Canadians can be license for and own Non-Restricted and Restricted firearms. Generally speaking. There are civilians with prohibited licenses class 12.2 through 12.6, but no new prohibited licenses are being issued. Prohibited class 12.7 licenses exist which allow a direct relative to inherit a 12.6 class firearm, which was handguns with barrels under 4.2 inches in length, but with the ban on new registrations for handguns the 12.7 license is essentially defunct. The general rules of what falls into what category is available on the RCMP firearms program website.
There is no magazine capacity restriction for manual action rifles and shotguns or rimfire rifles of any action. The five round capacity limits are only for semi-automatic rifles and shotguns. Some jurisdictions prohibit more than 2 rounds in a magazine while hunting migratory waterfowl, but those modifications do not have to be permanent and can be removed for sport shooting.

[u/Critical-Ad4665 → u/Baelnorn]

"There is no magazine capacity restriction for manual action rifles and shotguns or rimfire rifles of any action"

Um what about the Ruger 10/22?

[u/Baelnorn → u/Critical-Ad4665]

As far as the RCMP are concerned the 10/22 magazine is a pistol magazine. I did not mention it as I do not wish to think about that "decision." I have my blood pressure to mind.

[u/AdeptArt → u/Straight-Touch-111]

Yeah, if you need clarification or more detail on any of these let me know.

[u/Ok_Lavishness960 → u/AdeptArt]

I love the mods of this subreddit this is a brilliant write up!

[u/blueline731]

European gun laws amaze and disappoint me. The administrative process in Poland seems much worse than Canada, having a limited number of guns or not being able to shoot on your own property, yet they have much cooler toys. Tear my heart in two.

[u/thecoolernameistaken → u/blueline731]

Right? Its like looking at the states firearm/weed situation compared to up here

[u/Straight-Touch-111 → u/blueline731]

From what I can see, your process is a bit simpler and some laws are more relaxed. Still, we get to enjoy all the “crazy toys.” Shooting on your own land should also be allowed, in my opinion.

If you compare it to Germany, where you’re not allowed to own any “war” weapons or shoot while moving, we actually have it pretty good. In Belgium, you’re not allowed to shoot at any target that resembles a human silhouette for example. It gets hard core in some EU countries.

[u/Cre_AK47 → u/Straight-Touch-111]

France 🇫🇷🥖: Hon Hon Hon. Here's an ARrrr-15 with a 30 round capacity you can use for sport shooting.

Québec🇲🇶⚜️: Tabarnak, ARrr-15? 30 rounds? Canada doesn't even trust us with more than 10 rounds for a Ruger 10/22, esti!

[u/Krazee9 → u/Straight-Touch-111]

In Belgium, you’re not allowed to shoot at any target that resembles a human silhouette for example.

But yet I've heard that Belgian firearms collectors can own full-autos.

[u/Q-Ball7 → u/blueline731]

As always, the problem is Eastern urbanites ingesting too much American media.

We had a compromise, they blew it up.

[u/Relative_Context_122]

Overall, the gun ownership situation looks better in Poland IMO. Actually, a lot of things are starting to look better in Poland than in Canada.

[u/Straight-Touch-111 → u/Relative_Context_122]

Sad to hear that. Canada is my country of birth — I love it, and I hope things get better soon.

[u/Noah_S_Schwartz]

I'm a professor and researcher in Canada that has published books on Canada's gun laws and politics. Happy to meet for a Zoom chat if you want to ask questions, or interview an expert for your video.

[u/Straight-Touch-111 → u/Noah_S_Schwartz]

Thank you for your offer — I’d be happy to have a chat. If you’re open to taking part in the video, that would be great as well. As I mentioned, I want to make a fair and accurate video, and your help would be greatly appreciated. Should I send you a DM on Reddit so we can discuss the meeting further?

[u/Noah_S_Schwartz → u/Straight-Touch-111]

Yes, please DM me.

[u/ThrowRA_That_Owl_25]

Hm, so most Poles cannot carry for personal protection? Strange. Thats not what I heard.

[u/Straight-Touch-111 → u/ThrowRA_That_Owl_25]

You can carry a sport weapon (that’s one of the reasons this category has become so popular recently). However, carrying and using a gun for self-defense is a different matter. For example, I carry regularly (a Glock 48), but I treat it like a “glass cannon.” Once things really go bad, it’s my last option. We have a saying: “Better to be judged by three than carried by four.”

[u/Krazee9 → u/Straight-Touch-111]

“Better to be judged by three than carried by four.”

"Better to be judged by 12 than carried by 6" here. Juries are typically 12 people.

[u/ThrowRA_That_Owl_25 → u/Straight-Touch-111]

Whats a sport weapon?

So, you are carrying illegally? Whats the punishment for that?

[u/Straight-Touch-111 → u/ThrowRA_That_Owl_25]

This is actually interesting, because a firearm intended for sporting purposes is just a normal, standard firearm — it’s simply registered as a sport weapon. It can be a Glock-type pistol, an AR-15, a shotgun, etc.

Sporting firearms have the following requirements: rimfire firearms with a caliber of up to 6 mm, and centerfire firearms with a caliber of up to 12 mm. All the firearms you see in the photos are sporting or collector firearms.

Firearms registered as sporting CAN be carried. If the police stop you, nothing will happen. However, using such a firearm for self-defense — for example, if you’re attacked somewhere in the city — may have legal consequences.

The truth is that Poland is a very safe country, and the chance of needing to use a firearm is very low. That’s why every such case becomes high-profile in Poland — because it’s something rarely seen.

[u/CurlyWurly61 → u/Straight-Touch-111]

You said the forbidden AR word. Gary would like to have a talk

[u/Straight-Touch-111 → u/CurlyWurly61]

Huh? What's that about? 😄

[u/WillyBillBilson → u/Straight-Touch-111]

Our government is terrified of anything that is related to ARs. Our Public Safety Minister (Gary) would love to tell you off!

[u/Straight-Touch-111 → u/WillyBillBilson]

Oh, right! 😂 Scary black boom stick

[u/Reasonable_Hall2346 → u/Straight-Touch-111]

Unrelated but since you are a Canadian, please take some time to vote even though you don't live here. We going through a lot up here. https://www.elections.ca/content.aspx?section=vot&dir=reg/etr&document=index&lang=e

[u/ThrowRA_That_Owl_25 → u/Straight-Touch-111]

Hm, strange regulations - they dont officially give you a licence to carry for self-defence but you can carry your "sport" category firearms and when shit hits the fan use that firearm for self-defence. Did I get it right? Sounds hugely political. No?

[u/Straight-Touch-111 → u/ThrowRA_That_Owl_25]

Yeah, you’ve got it mostly right. It’s a bit of a legal loophole. To explain it briefly: the law states that you cannot carry firearms registered for collection. Then, a few points later, it says that the police can add a note to your license prohibiting you from carrying firearms (for example, I don’t have that note).

This effectively allows me to carry firearms that are registered for purposes other than collection. I’ve been through a police traffic stop while carrying — I informed the officer about it, and they could also see it in their system. All they did was ask if it was legal, checked the system, and then I was free to go.

[u/PrestigiousStatus711 → u/Straight-Touch-111]

That isn't terrible but isn't great. In Canada if we are faced with a self defense incident we are expected to die. Carrying any tool to protect yourself is prohibited by the state.

[u/IceWide6245]

Personally I think not being able to shoot in the woods or on your own property would be a massive downside, having all that cool stuff and only being able to use it at a range would suck

[u/Batsinvic888]

1: Is it legal to own firearms in Canada? If so, under what conditions? A: Yes. You must do an in class training session to acquire possession and acquisition licenses, you can find info on the course here. There are 2 kinds available to most civilians: a regular PAL and an RPAL. RPAL is mostly useless now, but it technically allows you to acquire handguns, short-barreled rifles and shotguns.

2: How long does it take to obtain a firearms licence? A: The class is only a day or two. Mandatory 28 days waiting period after submitting an application. But after that it is entirely dependent on the provincial firearms office and the backlog. Some people only wait a month after the wait period ends. Some people take over a year. Mine took about a year when I first applied.

3: Are medical, psychological, or background checks required during the licensing process? A: There are questions about psychological conditions on the application. There is no blanket requirement. But if you include something, you may require a doctor's note saying you are okay to own firearms. There are background checks required. PAL holders have their names run through a police database every single day after acquiring a license.

4: Is the firearms licence granted as a strict administrative decision, or is there discretionary judgment involved? A: To an extent, it is up to the discretion of the provincial firearms officer, but that is mostly in cases of mental conditions. There are crimes that blanket prohibit you from ever owning firearms.

5: Once you have a licence, how many firearms can you own? A: As many as you want. 0 limit on the total number owned, or bought at a time.

6: What does the firearm purchasing process look like? A: Walk into the store, tell the worker you want to buy a gun, walk to checkout, show your PAL and driver's license, wait for the system to check it and give a check confirmation, walk out. It normally takes about 10 minutes.

7: How must firearms and ammunition be stored? A: You can read the laws on storage here.

8: Is it legal to carry firearms on your person? A: Technically, yes, with permission from a firearms officer. But they virtually never get handed out. So in all practical sense, no.

9: What are the rules for transporting firearms (e.g., to a shooting range)? Must be in a locked container or have a trigger lock and not obviously visible for non-restricted class firearms. For restricted class firearms, they must be in a locked box and trigger locked. You must have permission to take the firearm to the range (given when you have an RPAL), but you must apply for a temporary transfer certificate if you are taking it anywhere other than a range. You also must take a "direct path," which is largely given to mean not stopping for a sit-down restaurant or grocery store, but going to a gas station is probably fine.

10: What types of firearms are legal to own, and which are prohibited? A: This is easier to list out what is banned and the exceptions.

• Short-barreled handguns are prohibited. Other handguns are technically restricted, but as of a couple of years ago, it is illegal to buy or sell handguns unless they are Olympic handguns or for trappers (even this is very difficult).
• Machine guns are prohibited.
• Guns that fire over 10,000 Joules are prohibited.
• Guns with a barrel diameter of over 20mm are prohibited.
• Semi-automatic rifles and shotguns that use detachable magazines that have a capacity of over 5 rounds that were designed after December 16, 2023, are prohibited.
• Anything the government prescribes to be prohibited, effectively, bans by name. This is a very long and complicated topic. But essentially, the government will name a gun, say the AR-15, and ban it and all its variants. If you want a comprehensive list of every gun that has been banned and why, go to Armalytics.ca

11: Are there any restrictions on firearm accessories, attachments, or modifications? A: No accessories that speed up or emulate machine gun fire, so no FRTs (upgraded normal triggers are fine). Suppressors are prohibited. Armour-piercing ammo is prohibited.

12: Are there any clothing or gear restrictions (e.g., camouflage, tactical gear)? Some provinces ban body armour. Any clothing or night vision ban would be specifically about hunting. So you'd have to check local hunting laws and regulations.

13: Are there magazine capacity limits? A: Yes. 5-round limit for semi-auto centre-fire rifles and shotguns. 10-round limit for handguns. Unlimited for manual action and .22lr rifles. You may use 10-round pistol magazines in rifles (such as PCCs). If a handgun uses rifle mags, that rifle is now limited to 10 rounds (for example, the Ruger Charger is a pistol, meaning the 10/22 is capped at 10 rounds because of this).

14: Where are you allowed to shoot? A: Crown land that has been designated for shooting. Private property where local laws allow. Gun ranges. Note: Restricted firearms can only ever be shot at RCMP-approved gun ranges.

15: Are any types of shooting activities restricted (e.g., dynamic shooting, tactical drills)? A: That would be up to provincial, local, and range jurisdiction. Anything to do with targets is up to the range. Explosives are determined by range and provincial jurisdiction. Provincial firearms offices often set requirements for approved ranges on things like target styles and distances steel targets can be shot.

16: A difficult topic: self-defence with a firearm — is it legal? A: It technically is, but not as a reason to own a gun. If you put self-defence as a reason to obtain a PAL, you will be denied. However, if you have guns and happen to use them in proportional self-defence in your home, it is legal. You may, however, be charged and have to fight a court case over it.

17: How does Canadian society generally perceive firearms and gun ownership? A: Some firearms instructors tell you not to tell anyone that you own guns. This is not a legal requirement, but indicates the mood in some areas of the country. In general, the more rural you go, the more positive it is. Montreal, Quebec, specifically, has a very anti-gun population. Alberta and Saskatchewan are the most pro-gun provinces in the country.

18: Approximately how many firearms and firearm owners are there in Canada? There are approximately 2.4 million PAL holders in Canada, and about 20 million guns in Canada. But there may be a million or two more illegal gun owners in Canada (typically older people, before firearms licenses).

[u/Straight-Touch-111 → u/Batsinvic888]

Hey! Thanks for the in-depth comment! I’m sure I’ll use a lot of the knowledge you shared here.

[u/Batsinvic888 → u/Straight-Touch-111]

No problem. I am a Canadian firearms YouTuber. If you'd like more info on the current state of Canadian firearms laws and the changes over the last few years, I'd be happy to answer any questions.

[u/Straight-Touch-111 → u/Batsinvic888]

That’s awesome! I checked out your channel — great work! I’d be happy to chat. What’s the best way to contact you?

[u/Batsinvic888 → u/Straight-Touch-111]

Sent you a DM.

[u/Murray3-Dvideos]

Our ears are ringing, arms are sore, selections shit, magazines always near empty and we're constantly looking over our shoulders for horse cops. But apparently our elbows are up so take that America Lol.

[u/OrientalSells95]

Dont even compare us to them. We are Cuck-a-roni and cheese compared to the Polish mindset

[u/Ok_Committee464]

Canada sucks for a lot of reasons these days. Gun laws are among those reasons. Don’t move here - a lot of us are actively trying to leave.

[u/thecoop1999]

Please post the video here once you're done!

[u/-rifle-is-fine-]

I want to add that we are allowed to order guns online and have them delivered by the mailman.

We have slow bans put in place. Tracers, for example, cannot be imported but are legal to own. So what was here before the import ban will dry up eventually. Automatics and others in the prohibited class will be scooped up as the owners die, as they cannot be passed to anyone without a prohibited license. Handguns are a shitshow. We got notice of a "freeze" (Not a ban like many say. The truth is dumber.) months before implementation so Canadians bought ALL the handguns and there are probably more in the country than ever before. Essentially, we keep what we had before the freeze but no certificates will be issued for new ownership of handguns (certificates were "frozen") so we can't get more or pass them to our kids or other people. 50 years from now most will cease to exist. There are some exemptions to get certain handguns though.

It is a weird place. Our Liberal Party panders to an anti gun group here with survivors of a mass shooting in the 80s who also live in one of the more populated provinces, while most of the rest of the country accepts guns. So we get stupid laws.

Fun story for you: I was bringing TT33 magazines with me loose in my checked luggage at Chopin airport. I told the lady right away "there are handgun magazines in there". I did my homework and was ok to do so, and even had a letter from the Polish, German, and Canadian police and import control organizations saying so. She politely asked me to wait and left with my magazines and letters. She comes back and hour later to give everything back and says "I am sorry about the wait... This has never happened before." (someone bringing mags in a checked bag). I bet I was a training memo the next week. 🤣

[u/Busy_Ad5224]

Licenses are needed. Get one through a training course, mine took 2 days and I also did hunter safety on top of that. Certain firearms are restricted, like a lot. Non restricted firearms like a bolt action rifle, pump+semi auto shotgun do not need to be registered. Magazine capacity on semi automatics is 5 I believe, no limit for bolt action or rim fire semi automatic magazine capacity. Self defense is a difficult topic, it's not like the US. All "military style" firearms are prohibited, can still get an SKS I believe. Some Canadian companies are coping with this by making AR-15 style rifles that follow the rules, but when they get popular they usually end up getting banned. As for how people view it, I think it depends on where you live. I live in Rural Saskatchewan, and just about everyone has more than one gun, can not carry firearms on your person unless you get an ATC (authorization to carry) which is limited to those who work in dangerous environments where wildlife is a serious threat, or trapping. I shoot guns wherever, no one cares. Tactical equipment is not really restricted except for suppressors which are completely banned, you can get ballistic vests to the highest level, and handguns are 'frozen" which is basically just a ban

[u/B1GKAHUNAA]

Canadian perspective. No expert here so take it with a grain of salt lol

1. Is it legal to own firearms in Canada? If so, under what conditions?

Yes, provided the individual went through proper licensing which is separated by restricted and non-restricted classed firearms. You take the class which is just showing how to prove and make different types of firearms safe and then a practical at the end of the class with the instructor watching and grading. They’ll usually almost always help you fill out the license application forms so you don’t make any mistakes.

1. How long does it take to obtain a license?

After application it is a minimum 28 day wait. It depends on a few factors but with a fairly clean application that’s around how long it takes.

1. Are medical, psychological, or background checks required during the licensing process?

Yes, all of the above are taken into account I believe. However they do rely on the applicant to tell the truth for the most part besides a criminal background check. I believe for a restricted license or an RPAL they also require fingerprints but I’m not sure on that.

1. Is the firearms license granted as a strict administrative decision, or is there discretionary judgement involved?

As far as I know they go off of what the applicant put on their paperwork so more administrative than discretionary, however when it comes to the background check they do take into account things like how long ago you may have committed said crimes, what crimes were committed, pardons etc.

1. Once you have a license, how many firearms can you own?

As many as you can safely store

1. What does the purchasing process look like?

It’s varied through the years. It’s always pretty simple and easy. You go to any store that is authorized to sell them ask someone if they carry what you’re looking for and they will show you exactly that most of the time. They might ask to see your license before they let you handle anything. Upon purchase they generate a firearms reference number which is just to let the governing bodies know that said firearm was transferred from their possession to yours. It is valid for 90 days so it can be used to transfer again if need be I believe. This is a fairly recent change from how it once was; the store would just keep record for itself by law for 90 days. No wait period or anything like that

1. How must firearms and ammunition be stored?

Non restricteds can be stored in closets and drawers but must have a trigger lock or cable lock on them to do so. Otherwise they can be left in a secure safe/locker with no trigger or cable lock needed. Restricted must be kept in a safe/locker with additional cable lock or trigger lock I believe. Ammunition can be kept close but not kept locked in the same safe. No requirements for it to be locked up so it can be stored in any regular drawer

1. Is it legal to carry firearms on your person?

In short, no. There is licensing to be able to carry but it is very rare for self defense purposes. What is more likely is a wilderness atc ( authorization to carry) for trappers, miners, any occupation that spends a lot of time secluded in deep woods for example

1. What are the rules for transportation?

Non restricted can be unlocked no case required but unloaded. Mags can be loaded. Restricteds are really only allowed to used at shooting ranges. They also require a transportation ATC from your respected provinces CFO ( Chief firearms officer)

1. What types of firearms are legal to own and which are prohibited?

Recently the liberal government arbitrarily banned over 2500 makes and models through an order in council, many being single shot hunting rifles that produce over 10k Jules of energy from the barrel, “scary” looking 22lrs, and of course many centrefire semi autos. So many model went from non restricted straight to prohibited meaning many Canadians have what was once legally purchased property sitting in a safe as they can no longer use it legally. Fully automatic firearms have been illegal here since 1978 I believe. Handguns are on a buy and sell freeze right now meaning nobody can buy or sell them but if you have them you can still use them at ranges

1. Are there any restrictions on firearms accessories, attachments, or mods?

Yes. Suppressors are a big no no. Bump stocks, FRTs and things of the like are also not allowed. Centrefire rifle mags are pinned to 5 rounds. Pistol mags are pinned to 10. Rimfire has no mag limit besides the ruger charger and 10/22 bc our government sucks and makes arbitrary rules all the time

1. Are there any clothing or gear restrictions?

Besides destructive devices and things like flashbangs etc not that I’m aware of. Camo is absolutely allowed. There is a lot of hunters up here so it’s also rather quite popular. What you don’t see at least where I shoot is guys running chest rigs with mags and a belt full of gear and that type of thing.

1. Are there mag capacity limits?

Yes as I mentioned in the accessories question, pistol mags are pinned to 10. Centrefire rifle mags are pinned to 5. Rimfire has no limit with one exception

1. Where are you allowed to shoot?

Non restricteds can be used anywhere it is safe to do so with some laws to follow. You have to be 200m from any occupied building or commonly traveled or regularly maintained roadway. Restricteds are limited to range use only. Legally to use a restricted on private land you need to have an approved range set up which involves having the CFO come look at the area and a bunch of paperwork.

1. Are any types of shooting activities restricted?

Not that I’m aware of. However some ranges might restrict things like tempo of fire, target types and things like that. Where I shoot human silhouette targets are not allowed but I haven’t had any problem using homemade targets with a chest zone and death triangle marked out. There is actually a large community for competition shooting here so many disciplines are supported

1. Is self defense with a firearms legal in Canada?

It depends on the situation. From what I understand we must use proportionate force to the threat. IE. guy breaks in with baseball bat and you blow him away with a 12g you’re pretty much cooked in court. Multiple assailants break in armed with illegal handguns and sawn off shotguns and you barricade yourself with your shotgun and happen to shoot one, you’ll probably stay out of jail but you’ll be buried financially.

1. How does Canadian society generally perceive firearms and gun ownership?

Depends where you live. Generally in the more rural areas it’s more accepted as normal to own firearms. Closer in to the cities people are more or less not as educated on actual operation, functionality and purpose of firearms which leads to less understanding of why anyone would actually need one. This varies depending on individual experiences as well of course. I was perennially not raised with any firearms in the house but as soon as I could I got a license. It’s always been something that’s interested me but my mother had a tragic experience as a child and therefore didn’t want any in the house which my father thankfully respected. In general the more liberal an area is the more anti-gun the people in that are will be just based off of their parties stance on the matter.

1. Approximately how many firearms and firearm owners are there in Canada?

I’m not sure on an exact number but the there are millions of firearms throughout Canada and millions of owners.

[u/B1GKAHUNAA → u/B1GKAHUNAA]

Tried to edit some stuff but wouldn’t let me so I guess that’s what you get from me haha

[u/37BJJ]

What are the storage laws like

[u/KorporalKarnage]

All it takes is one socialist government to get (back) in power and all that freedom gained would be for naught.

Please for the love of god, lobby your current government to eliminate the registry component in your gun laws asap! The rest of the regulations pale compared to that.

[u/PrestigiousStatus711]

They aren't comparable. Our government is threatening firearm owners with prison for owning semi automatic sporting rifles. Firearm rights is the only path forward. 

[u/GreenCactus223]

I like what Poland has to offer, not perfect but much better than Chinada.

[u/AllDay1980]

Canadas sorry and not apologetically

[u/NeruLight]

I’ve got a buddy who got licensed up to becoming an instructor in Poland and he said it took about 2 years start to finish. He also had more than one background check required. Although Poland seems to have some nice rules, it also seems the rules they have are pretty rigorous!

[u/1anre]

Some folks have relocated just to fire big guns.

[u/Saucy__Intruder]

Poland sounds better than Canada in a lot of ways.

[u/LuckNo2351]

i feel triggered.

[u/Krazee9]

I am incredibly curious about this video when it comes out. I'm currently waiting on Warszawa to confirm that I'm a citizen, and I've been looking with envy at all the things you can get in Poland that we can't here.

Is it legal to own firearms in Canada? If so, under what conditions?

Yes. You need a firearms license, known as the Possession and Acquisition License, or PAL. There are 4 categories of firearms in Canada: Non-restricted, restricted, prohibited, and antique. Antiques don't require a license to own, but our definitions for what constitutes an "antique" are kind of stupid. Non-restricted firearms are the easiest to get. They aren't registered, and you don't need to provide a reason for wanting to acquire them. Restricted firearms are registered, and, as of 2023, handguns which are restricted can no longer be bought, sold, or imported unless it's specifically for training for an Olympic pistol sport. You need to provide a valid reason for owning a restricted firearm, and generally the only 2 of them are sport shooting and collecting. Prohibited firearms cannot be acquired unless one already owned them before they were banned. This topic could warrant its whole thread, because there's different kinds of prohibited firearms that were all banned at different points in time, and each category of prohibited firearm has its own rules. Generally, anything full-auto has been banned since 1977, any converted-autos have been banned since 1991, in 1992 and 1994 there were bans on a bunch of rifles by name. In 1996, pistols with a barrel less than 106mm were banned. In 2020 about 1500 models of firearm were banned, including the AR-15, and then in 2024 and 2025 even more guns were banned, mostly semi-auto mag-fed ones.

How long does it take to obtain a firearms licence?

You need to take a course that runs over the weekend typically, then submit your paperwork to the RCMP. The legal-minimum wait time is 28 days from the time the RCMP receives your application, but in practice most people are waiting approximately 6 months due to delays.

Are medical, psychological, or background checks required during the licensing process?

Medical and psychological checks are not required in most cases. If you checked off the box on your application that you've previously been diagnosed with a mental illness, then you may be asked to provide a note from your doctor saying that you're not a threat to yourself and others. Criminal background checks are part of the application process. A criminal record doesn't necessarily mean you won't get a gun license, some people have a license with a DUI charge for example, but it certainly makes it harder.

Is the firearms licence granted as a strict administrative decision, or is there discretionary judgment involved?

Generally it is granted on a shall-issue basis, though the law allows for the Chief Firearms Officer of your province to impose conditions on your license if they deem them necessary. Some people, for example, have conditions that their guns can;'t be stored at their house, either due to someone living there having a firearms prohibition order or due to objections from their spouse.

Once you have a licence, how many firearms can you own?

As many as you can afford, there's no limit.

What does the firearm purchasing process look like?

This depends on the type of firearm. For a non-restricted firearm you show up, show the seller your license, they log into the RCMP's website and then validate your license, you give them the money, and you leave with the gun immediately.

For the few restricted firearms that aren't handguns, you show up, show the seller your license, pay for the gun, they then call the RCMP to initiate the transfer of the registration of the gun. This can take anywhere from a few hours to a few weeks. Once the transfer has been approved, you'll get an e-mail, and then you go pick the gun up. You technically can't legally shoot it until your registration certificate comes in the mail.

If you want to buy a handgun, then on top of the normal process for a restricted, you'll also need to prove that you are exempt from the ban on the sale of handguns, meaning that you'll need to either prove that you are involved in ISSF 25m rapid-fire bullseye shooting, as that's the only Olympic event that still uses real pistols, or that you have a permit to carry a gun as part of your work as a trapper or for wilderness protection in remote areas. Generally, pistols are not really kept in stock because of how rare the exceptions are, so if you meet the an exception, you may have to have the pistol ordered for you.

How must firearms and ammunition be stored?

https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/sor-98-209/

Basically, all firearms must be stored unloaded. Non-restricted firearms need to be locked or rendered inoperable. Restricted and prohibited firearms also need to be in a locked case. Ammunition must also be locked, unless your guns are stored in a safe. If everything stored in a safe, then guns and ammo can legally be stored together, and guns don't need any additional locks on them in the safe. A "safe" has been legally defined as a locked metal container with 6 sides. If everything's in a safe, then it's legal to keep a loaded mag for a gun in the safe next to the gun, but it can't be in the gun. also, if you ever have to use it, expect to get fucked by the legal system for a few years and go bankrupt.

Is it legal to carry firearms on your person?

In most cases, no. In theory there is a permit to carry for self-defence, but according to Access to Information records, only 1 person in the entire country has such a permit. People who work as trappers gathering fur from trap lines can get a permit to carry a .22 pistol for dispatching animals, and some people who work in remote wilderness areas can get a permit to carry a pistol for wildlife protection, but the availability of such a permit varies by province and is generally considered difficult to get. Security guards can get a permit through their employer to be armed, but only when on the job.

What are the rules for transporting firearms (e.g., to a shooting range)?

The link I provided in the storage section also covers transport. Basically, it needs to be unloaded. For a non-restricted firearm, theoretically you could have it on your car's dashboard and it's perfectly legal as long as you don't leave the car. If you do leave a gun in an unattended vehicle, it needs to be kept in a case.

For restricted and prohibited firearms, you need to get a permit to transport them, known as an Authorization to Transport, or ATT. The ATT for going to the range with your restricted firearms is built-into your license, but prohibited firearms can't be easily taken to the gun range, unless you own prohibited pistols. When being transported, a restricted or prohibited firearm must be rendered inoperable with a lock, and also kept in a locked case. There were times I had to transport a stripped AR-15 lower with a lock on it, because even though it was stripped, the law says it must be locked.

What types of firearms are legal to own, and which are prohibited?

Per the Criminal Code of Canada

non-restricted firearm means:

a firearm that is neither a prohibited firearm nor a restricted firearm; (arme à feu sans restriction)

prohibited firearm means:

(a) a handgun that

(i) has a barrel equal to or less than 105 mm in length, or

(ii) is designed or adapted to discharge a 25 or 32 calibre cartridge,

but does not include any such handgun that is prescribed, where the handgun is for use in international sporting competitions governed by the rules of the International Shooting Union,

(b) a firearm that is adapted from a rifle or shotgun, whether by sawing, cutting or any other alteration, and that, as so adapted,

(i) is less than 660 mm in length, or

(ii) is 660 mm or greater in length and has a barrel less than 457 mm in length,

(c) an automatic firearm, whether or not it has been altered to discharge only one projectile with one pressure of the trigger,

(d) any firearm that is prescribed to be a prohibited firearm, or

(e) any unlawfully manufactured firearm regardless of the means or method of manufacture;

(e) a firearm that is not a handgun and that

(i) discharges centre-fire ammunition in a semi-automatic manner,

(ii) was originally designed with a detachable cartridge magazine with a capacity of six cartridges or more, and

(iii) is designed and manufactured on or after the day on which this paragraph comes into force; (arme à feu prohibée)

restricted firearm means:

(a) a handgun that is not a prohibited firearm,

(b) a firearm that

(i) is not a prohibited firearm,

(ii) has a barrel less than 470 mm in length, and

(iii) is capable of discharging centre-fire ammunition in a semi-automatic manner,

(c) a firearm that is designed or adapted to be fired when reduced to a length of less than 660 mm by folding, telescoping or otherwise, or

(d) a firearm of any other kind that is prescribed to be a restricted firearm; (arme à feu à autorisation restreinte)

The list of guns banned by name can be found here:

https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/sor-98-462/page-2.html#h-1024337

Are there any restrictions on firearm accessories, attachments, or modifications?

Suppressors are illegal.

Are there any clothing or gear restrictions (e.g., camouflage, tactical gear)?

You cannot legally own CADPAT, which is the current active-service uniform of the Canadian Armed Forces. Some provinces, like Manitoba and BC, have restrictions on the ability to own body armour.

Are there magazine capacity limits?

Centrefire semi-automatic long guns are pinned to 5, semi-automatic handguns are pinned to 10. There are some listed exceptions, like the Luger's snail-drum magazine and the M1 Garand.

[u/Krazee9 → u/Krazee9]

Where are you allowed to shoot?

Non-restricted firearms can be legally shot anywhere that the local municipality hasn't banned them from being shot. A lot of people who own farm land shoot guns on their farms. A lot of people like to go to crown land (government-owned land) and shoot there too.

Restricted and prohibited firearms can only be shot at legally-approved gun ranges.

Are any types of shooting activities restricted (e.g., dynamic shooting, tactical drills)?

Theoretically the law says that "military drilling" can be made illegal for civilians, but functionally no.

A difficult topic: self-defense with a firearm — is it legal?

Yes, but expect to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars in lawyer fees and several years in court to prove that your use of the gun was "reasonable."

How does Canadian society generally perceive firearms and gun ownership?

Society in general is tainted by American media. They want to be anti-American as much as possible, and to them that means heavy gun control. Society broadly thinks that the only use for a gun is hunting, and that only people who live in the country hunt.

Approximately how many firearms and firearm owners are there in Canada?

About 2.4 million licensed gun owners I believe, who own anywhere between 12-27 million guns. Estimates on the number of guns in the country vary wildly, but we are consistently in the top 10 for global firearm ownership per-capita.

[u/AlbertaFree16]

Dressing like this is so cringe.

-a veteran

[u/Straight-Touch-111 → u/AlbertaFree16]

Some People do dress like that for fun, because you can. But Alot of People do use that gear for tactical competitions. Check out Polish Tactical Games or Operacja Furia (operation fury) on youtube. You are required to have certain elementy like helmets or vests. I will start this year so I'm preparing myself :)

[u/NeruLight → u/AlbertaFree16]

waaaah