Can You Own a Gun in Canada 2024?
As of 2024, the landscape of gun ownership in Canada has changed significantly. The Federal Government has passed new regulations aimed at reducing gun violence and promoting public safety. In this article, we will explore the current state of gun ownership in Canada, the newly implemented regulations, and what they mean for gun enthusiasts, hunters, and collectors.
The Current State of Gun Ownership in Canada
In Canada, the lawful ownership of firearms is regulated by the Firearms Act and the Customs Tariff Act. Under these laws, individuals are allowed to possess and own firearms for sporting, hunting, or protection purposes, as long as they follow the necessary protocols and requirements.
Registration and Licensing
To legally own a firearm in Canada, you must:
• Be at least 18 years old to purchase or acquire a rifle or shotgun, and 21 years old to acquire a restricted firearm (pistol or revolver)
• Take a firearms safety course, which covers handling, loading, and unloaded storage of firearms
• Obtain a license, which requires a police background check and a verification of identity
• Register your firearm(s) with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)
Types of Firearm Licenses
There are two types of licenses:
- Class A license: Allows ownership of non-restricted firearms, such as rifles, shotguns, and other non-automatic firearms.
- Class B license: Allows ownership of restricted firearms, such as handguns, semiautomatic rifles, and other specified firearms.
Newly Implemented Regulations
In November 2021, the Canadian Government introduced new regulations aimed at reducing gun violence. These changes include:
• Removing the "sight variator" exemption: Prohibits the possession or acquisition of firearms with scopes or optics that can only be used for hunting
• Requiring fingerprints for new licenses: Strengthens identity verification and screening processes
• Tightening storage and safety requirements: Mandates better storage and safety measures, such as trigger locks, to reduce the risk of unauthorized access
• Increasing waiting periods: Raises the minimum waiting period from 28 to 119 days for non-restricted firearms and from 84 to 183 days for restricted firearms
• Enhancing background checks: Improves the screening process to include more comprehensive police checks and mental health reviews
Impact on Gun Enthusiasts, Hunters, and Collectors
These new regulations are expected to have a significant impact on many gun owners in Canada:
• Hunters: Will need to reassess their firearms and licenses, and potentially upgrade or replace them to comply with the new regulations
• Sport shooters: Will need to ensure their firearms and accessories meet the updated safety standards and storage requirements
• Collectors: May face challenges acquiring and transporting certain firearms or accessories due to the restrictions on restricted firearms and certain accessories
• Citizens concerned about public safety: May see a decrease in the number of registered firearms in Canada, reducing the potential for unauthorized use
Conclusion
The current landscape of gun ownership in Canada is complex, with regulations in place to ensure public safety and minimize the risks associated with firearm ownership. While the new regulations aim to reduce gun violence, they also have significant implications for gun enthusiasts, hunters, and collectors. By understanding the changes and complying with the requirements, Canadians can continue to enjoy lawful firearm ownership and use.
Table: Comparison of Old and New Regulations
| Area | Old Regulation | New Regulation |
|---|---|---|
| Sight Variator Exemption | Permitted | Prohibited |
| Fingerprints for New Licenses | Not Required | Required |
| Storage and Safety Requirements | Loose Guidelines | Strengthened Standards |
| Waiting Periods | 28 Days (Non-Restricted), 84 Days (Restricted) | 119 Days (Non-Restricted), 183 Days (Restricted) |
| Background Checks | Basic Police Check | Enhanced Screening |
Additional Resources
- Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP): www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca
- Canadian Firearms Program: www.canada.ca/canadian-firearms-program.html
- Canadian Government’s Firearms and Weapons Regulation Office: www.canada.ca/fwo-firearms-weapons-regulation
By staying informed and adhering to the regulations, Canadians can enjoy lawful gun ownership and use while also promoting public safety and security.
