r/canadaguns • u/Butchi3_To3 • May 18 '26

Application / Regulation advice Handgun ownership of deceased

Hello all,

I have a family member who recently passed away who owns some handguns I was wondering if there is anyway to have the passed down to me? The guns themselves are older cowboy style guns and I recently have been interested in Cowboy Action Shooting but obviously cant buy a revolver for the sport and this would be a great opportunity to not only get one but also keep the collectible in the family.

With the laws in place is this even possible anymore?

Thanks in advance

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u/spicymeatmemes May 18 '26

Afaik, inheriting would still require a transfer. And those aren't happening.

I wonder if you could get them deactivated somehow. That way you could at least still keep them.

You might also need an RPAL to get things started. I'm not 100% sure at all. Possibly a lawyer could help shed some light.

Edit: unless they are considered antiques, and thus not a firearm (through the magic of our laws)

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u/waitwhatnothing May 18 '26

The executor is considered to have the same license privileges as the deceased while the estate is being settled so they can sit in limbo for a while. They can also be transferred to a business or anyone with an exemption. 

1

u/demetri_k May 18 '26

Can the executor/estate “loan” them to OP if they have an RPAL? You can loan your handguns to someone which I recall requires a transfer but can still be done as long as the recipient has an RPAL. 

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u/waitwhatnothing May 19 '26

Not sure about that. A loan different from a transfer since the registered owner doesn’t change. There is still a little paperwork involved since the person borrowing it needs an ATT.