Recurring FAQ Thread - Post your questions here for PAL/RPAL application, timelines, CFSC/CFSRC, references & requirements, or general new to firearms ownership-type questions

[u/AutoModerator]

This thread will be used for any Frequently Asked Questions, including PAL/RPAL applications, CFSC/CFRSC requirements, storage/transport, open ended "what gun should I buy first", or other general new to firearms ownership questions. It recurs every 14 days.

We recommend you try the search bar before asking common questions as they are frequently already answered elsewhere.

Most answers to Storage, Display, and Transport questions can be found here Inheriting firearms or dealing with an Estate? Answers here. Do you need to renew your license or check on the status of your license application? Try here.

Do you have questions about the classifications of firearms? More details here.

Are you wondering if a firearm is legal or not? Details here.

Different types of firearms are explained in detail here.

Exporting firearms, ammunition, parts and accessories from the US: most items are controlled under ITAR and you cannot, as an individual, export these items from the USA. Canada does not care in most cases. If you attempt to bring any of these items across the border yourself and you are caught, you will face prison time in the US. If you wish to export items from the USA, use a broker such as IRUNGUNS, Aztech, or Prophet River.

If you took your CFSC and lost the paperwork, you can still apply for your PAL. Both your instructor and the CFP retain copies, you can request a copy by contacting either one. There is no expiration date on the paperwork, you do not have to retake the course. Updated list of scam websites is here.

If you have new scam sites to add, please message the mod team. Be careful: only use reputable sites to purchase things online. It is illegal to manufacture a non-restricted, restricted, or prohibited firearm.

Any posts or comments asking about the legality of making a firearm other than a reproduction antique will be removed. It was not always illegal, which is why you will find old posts regarding this topic. Rest assured, it is illegal now. Do not attempt.

These threads will be stickied for a week, renewing every Monday. Previous threads here.

Take a look, your question may have been answered! If you have any suggestions for this thread, please feel free to ask here, or send the Mods a message. Thank you!

[u/6674826959]

And just like a fresh, crisp Christmas morning, the excited pitter patter of footsteps racing down the stairs to find a circle of SPAS-12s on gunpost

[u/thecoolernameistaken]

Anyone know what the minimum requirements are for the Quebec exemption letter process? I know Ontario is 3 matches at 2 clubs but I can’t find any info for Quebec.

[u/SquishyJeans]

Hey guys, 

What’s the situation if your RPAL expires while waiting for the CFO to review and renew it? I checked about mental health diagnoses off (nothing suicide related) and I’m coming up on 4 months waiting with expiry 1 month from now. 

I’m really getting frustrated. Looking for some advice. Thanks.

[u/Perfect-Emphasis-211 → u/SquishyJeans]

Once expired you can’t touch them. Just gotta wait for your renewal, but you are allowed to store them while you wait. 

[u/SquishyJeans → u/Perfect-Emphasis-211]

I was told by my firearms office since I applied before the expiry I can still use them as normal but it has to be in the presence of someone with a valid PAL. I believe they said I can’t purchase or store new firearms either (restricted). 

I can even still hunt they said

[u/airchinapilot → u/SquishyJeans]

So basically it means you are treated as if you are unlicensed if you wanted to USE your own firearms - unlicensed can shoot and hunt under supervision of licensees - but during the expiry grace period you are allowed to possess them.

[u/SquishyJeans → u/airchinapilot]

Quote from the email they responded to me with if this helps 

As long as you have submitted your application before the date of expiry, or within the 6-month grace period after it has expired, you have done everything you need to do. If your license expires before a new one is issued you simply keep your firearms stored in accordance with the regulations. If your license expires before a new one is issued you will not be able to use the firearms (unless under direct supervision of someone with a valid PAL), and you will not be able to buy/sell any firearms or ammunition until you have valid PAL issued.

So yeah basically what you said. It took like 11 back and forth emails just to get this answer from them 

[u/starw24-ps4]

Have any spas12 owners found a way to make the stock latches easier to use? Mine are super tight both the stock and the folding latch

[u/Diligent-Fondant-364 → u/[deleted]]

Pal/rpal approved on aug 20. I got the card on aug. 28.
Prov. Alberta

[u/beodd]

I must be on the nice list, in BC and RPAL app was processed August 19 and I received my card in the mail yesterday. Pretty much a month on the nose from dropping it in the mail to receiving card. Now I'm just sad there isn't anything to really use it for. lol

[u/N-0-M]

Are trap line ATCs still able to be used to purchase a handgun and or get an exemption?

If so any restrictions on said exemption?

Family owns 80acres of forest surrounded by 1200acres of crownland and I want to start trapping for martens and beaver for pelts