About Silvercore1
Sorry, no listings were found.
How to choose a rifle scope
Hunting season will be here in no time and with that, many new hunters are preparing for their first hunt. But a big question is; what rifle scope should I purchase?
I just purchased my first rifle about a month ago now and before doing anything else with it, I wanted to get a scope for it. As I started looking online at available scopes I quickly realized that I had no idea where to begin and what anything really meant. So, I did some researching and talked to colleagues, read articles and listened to some Silvercore Podcast’s since we had an optic specialist on talking about Vortex Optics.
But doing all that, it took me a while to really figure out what it was that I was looking for. I’m the type of person who needs to know every detail when it comes to buying something, so in order for me to make a properly educated decision I felt it was really important that I understood all the components to an optic, what the different numbers meant, and how they worked.
Being passionate about the industry I’m in, I wanted to take the time to share this new knowledge I’ve gained in my journey of learning about optics. So let’s get right into it by reviewing the different components that I’m going to go over with you today.
- Magnification numbers
- Objective Lens
- Fixed Power Vs. Variable Power
- Reticle / Crosshair
- Bullet drop compensation
- Light transmission
- Eye Relief
- Parallax
- Field of View
- Adjustments
- Lenses
- Coatings
Magnification numbers
If you’ve checked out any of the rifle scopes either online or in a store yet then you’ll have noticed that they all start with numbers that look something like this 3-9×40 or some other numbers with the same format ie. #-# x #.
The number range of 3-9 is your magnification ability. So for example, in a scope which has a magnification range of 3-9, this means you are able to magnify and enlarge your target starting at 3 times it’s size, up to 9 times it’s size. 3 being your low power and 9, your high power.
There are many different ranges you can find when it comes to rifle scope magnification, but bigger isn’t always better.
Rather than purchasing a rifle scope based on a larger magnification range and thinking that if you get something with a larger magnification ability, the better off you’ll be, decide first what you plan to do with your rifle. There’s no point in spending extra money on a feature if you’re not going to use it. But thinking long term is also a good thing. Personally, I decided on a scope with a 3-15 magnification power because I plan to go hunting, but I can also see myself getting into precision rifle shooting in the future and if I’m spending a good chunk of change on a high quality optic, if possible, I’d like it to be a multi-purpose use optic.
Objective Lens
The objective lens is the lens found at the end of your scope (the one you look into is called your ocular lens). The 40 from 3-9×40, refers to the diameter of the objective lens and is in millimetres. The larger this number, the larger the lens itself is.
When choosing the size of your objective lens an important consideration will be when you plan to use the scope. Will there be low light or will it be used only during the middle of the day when there is plenty of light? The larger the objective lens, the more light can be transmitted which can help to make a clearer image in lower lighting situations.
The larger you go with your objective lens however, the heavier it will be and if you are going hunting and trying to pack light, this may not be the most practical. You’ll also find yourself needing higher mounting scope rings which could potentially be harder to find and it can also affect your cheek and weld method causing you to either need an adjustable cheek rest, or a stock specialized for your firearm to allow for more comfortable shooting.
If you don’t plan to be shooting during dawn or dusk when light conditions aren’t as ideal, then you can get away with a smaller objective lens. Majority of scopes out there are between 32 and 44 mm.
Fixed Power vs Variable Power
We’ve already discussed the magnification numbers, but we only discussed the variable power. There is also something called fixed power, this means that there is no range of magnification on that particular scope.
An example of this would be 4×32. This means that the scope has the 4 power magnification or having the target appear 4 times its typical size. There is no adjustment option for this.
As with anything, there will pro’s and con’s with one option vs another. One of the pro’s of a fixed power scope is that there is less fiddling around with magnification as it’s already done for you. This provides a level of assurance in not having to worry about making a mistake in your magnification adjustments and then missing your target. It’s also going to cost less which is great if you have a fixed budget.
Possible con’s are that because the magnification is fixed, you aren’t able to adjust it to a target further away or that may be closer. For this reason variable scopes can be more desirable.
Another pro to a variable scope is that it can ultimately be used anywhere because of the ability to adjust your magnification.
Reticle / Crosshair
The reticle or crosshair is the point in which the vertical and horizontal lines meet up to make a cross or “+”. This is the aiming point. There are many variations of reticles including, but not limited to fine crosshair, duplex crosshair, german reticle, target dot, and mill-dot.
A consideration is the reticle’s focal plane. The reticle will either be located at the front focal plane, also known as the First Focal Plane or FFP. Or it can be located at the rear focal plane, also known as the Second Focal Plane, or SFP. The difference is that with the SFP, the reticle will remain a constant size whether the target grows larger due to increased magnification, or shrinks due to decreased magnification. If you purchase a FFP, the reticle will increase with magnification, or decrease with lower magnification.
Second Focal Plane scopes are not as expensive as those that are First Focal Plane, but depending on what type of shooting you plan to do, it may be worth wile purchasing one on the FFP. Wether you buy a scope that is FFP or SFP will depend on your personal preference, and again, what you plan to do with your rifle. Because I’m looking at getting into longer range precision shooting and I like that the reticle size increases with magnification, I felt the FFP would be a good choice for me. But purchasing a FFP scope may not be the best option for you if all you plan to do is go shooting at a max of 100 yards.
Bullet Drop Compensation
Some rifle scopes have a bullet drop compensation (BDC) feature, this can also be referred to as ballistic elevation. This is actually something that’s built in to your reticle and it compensates for the effect of gravity. In order for this to be accurate, it needs to be specifically tuned for the particular ballistic trajectory of a particular combination of gun and cartridge at a predefined muzzle velocity and air density.
Nikon has created the SpotOn technology which allows you to go to their website, input the type of scope you have, followed by the bullet size, manufacturer, grain amount, bullet style, weight, and how far you’re shooting, scope magnification and it will show you where to have everything lined up on your reticle. It’s pretty cool, but keep in mind that this doesn’t account for windage.
Light Transmission
This is the rifle scope’s ability to transmit available light and give a bright and sharp image. Factors that can affect brightness include objective lens diameter, magnification, type and quality of the objective lens glass and the type of lens coatings.
Eye Relief
Eye relief is the space between the ocular lens and where your eye is placed. This is important in order for you to prevent ‘scope eye’. This occurs when you don’t have proper eye relief and your scope hits the area around your eye from the firearms recoil after a shot and can be pretty painful. Eye relief also plays a role in preventing eye strain and ensuring a clear view.
The amount of eye relief you need is dependant on the firearm you have as well as the magnification of your scope. The more powerful a firearm, the more recoil, then the more eye relief distance you’ll need. That said, the higher the magnification of your scope, the less eye relief you will need.
Typically 4 inches is the average eye relief distance needed.
Parallax
Parallax occurs when your reticle and the target don’t line up within the scope and can create an unclear sight picture. You can spot this by moving your eye or head around whilst peering into the scope; if the reticle moves around the target you’re aiming at, then you are able to confirm that it is a parallax issue you’re dealing with. More on this and how to fix it below in the section on adjustments.
Field of View
Field of view (FOV) simply put is the area which you can view through your optic. As you increase magnification, the field of view decreases. FOV is mеаѕurеd in feet at 100 yards. To explain, if a rifle scope states that the field of view is 42ft at 100 yards, that means you can view a 42 foot scene from left to right at 100 yards. For scopes that have a variable magnification power you’ll likely find a range for the FOV, for example, 41.2-8.6 ft/100 yds. This accounts for the magnification variation which if it were 5-15 then at 5 power you’ll see a scene of 41.2 across and at 15 power you’ll see a scene of 8.6ft across.
Adjustments
There are many adjustments which can be found on a scope. These include the following:
Windage
- Elevation
- Parallax
- Illumination
- Magnification
- Diopter
Windage and Elevation
Windage is the horizontal adjustment on your scope whereas Elevation is the adjustment of the vertical direction.
Parallax
These adjustments are made when parallax is an issue. This is done in steps; obtain your sight picture by aiming at your target, then adjust your parallax until the reticle becomes clearer. You want it as clear and crisp as possible. Then, while lifting your cheek off the stock of your firearm, continue to look through your scope lens. Look around and see if the crosshairs move off target when you do. If they do, continue to adjust until they stay focused and centred on your target, even when you move your eye around. Once there, lock these into place.
Illumination
Illumination adjustments can be useful in controlling the level of brightness, especially when in low light conditions as it increases the illumination intensity for the lit parts of the reticle/crosshairs.
Magnification
This adjustment is exactly like it sounds, allowing you to adjust your level of magnification (provided you have a variable power and not fixed) with the given range of magnification power on the rifle scope you have.
Diopter
The Diopter adjusts focus of the reticle, this is not to be used to focus on an object. While it will focus on the object, you don’t want to because it will effect the focus of the reticle, which is on another plane.
Stare at a blank blue sky or single colour wall, bring the scope up and quickly look through. Don’t stare, your first glance is what you are looking for, then take the scope away, adjust the diopter. Repeat. Until the reticle is crystal clear. Your eye very quickly adjust focus so you want the reticle clear at a relaxed eye focus at a neutral object so your eye has only one thing to try and view. Then you use your parallax adjustment to reduce parallax which, typically brings your target into focus.
Lenses
Typically, you’ll find about eight lenses on a rifle scope (this includes the obvious ocular lens and the objective lens), however there can be more, or less.
Coatings
Majority of scopes will have some sort of coating on the lens and near all rifle scopes are fogproof and waterproof. The coatings available will vary and typically, the more coatings you have, the more expensive the rifle scope will be. Coatings can provide a clearer and brighter sight picture as well as reduce glare, but having multiple coatings doesn’t necessarily mean that it will be better than one with a single coating; this will depend on not only the coatings but also the glass quality.
There are 4 types of coatings commonly found on rifle scopes, these include the following:
- Coated – This means there is a single layer coating on at least one of the lens surfaces.
- Fully Coated – This means that there is a single layer of coatings on all air to glass surfaces.
- Multicoated – This means that there is more than one layer of coatings on at least one lens surface.
- Fully Multicoated – This means there are multiple layers of coatings on all air to glass surfaces.
Conclusion
This information should give you a good basis of understanding to be able to determine what type of rifle scope you’ll be looking to purchase. However, if you are looking for additional information, I’d definitely recommend listening to The Silvercore Podcast, more specifically, these episodes:
- Ep. 15: Insider Pro Tips from Jimmy Hamilton of Vortex Nation
- Ep. 16: Firearms, Optics and Equipment for New Hunters
In addition to The Silvercore Podcast, we also have our YouTube channel where we’ve shared videos on how to mount a rifle scope as well as sighting in a rifle the easy way which will come into use after you’ve purchased your rifle scope.
Happy scope shopping!
Corrine Owerko
10 total views, 0 today
Emergency Preparedness and Becoming a Prepper
In this episode of The Silvercore Podcast, Travis Bader speaks with Ian Jones from The Canadian Prepper Podcast and discusses how he got into prepping and what he would recommend to others to have in order to be prepared for any eventualities.
If you have a story that would be of value to the Silvercore audience, or know someone who does, email us at podcast@silvercore.ca. We would love to hear from you!
If you have any feedback or questions that we can address, please reach out to us via social media or at 1-855-771-5837 or info@silvercore.ca. Finally, don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe to the podcast, and while you’re at it, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!
Travis Bader
Looking for Show Notes of this Podcast? Read them Here!
10 total views, 0 today
How to get a gun in Canada
So you want to get a gun and go shooting at the range, or maybe you want to go hunting, or get into competition shooting. It can be tricky to navigate what is legally required of you to get a gun in Canada.
First thing’s first, you need a firearms licence. There are many terms people use for this, but the proper name is a Possession and Acquisition Licence, or PAL. (previously known as a POL or FAC, more on these terms here).
In order to obtain your licence to buy a gun, you need proper training. In Canada, the RCMP and Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) require individuals to take a firearms training course called the Canadian Firearms Safety Course (CFSC).
This course will teach you the different types of firearms, firearm actions, how to use the firearm, how to identify the proper ammunition that can be used with that particular firearm, what ammunition types are available and what uses they are commonly for. You will learn the laws and regulations around firearms, your firearms licence, what is required of you as a responsible and legal firearms owner, and what conditions you must follow when purchasing, possessing, transporting, storing, or displaying your firearms. You also get the chance to practice with deactivated firearms, giving you the opportunity to see the firearm actions in use and be able to load, and unload them in a safe manner.
Depending on the firearm you wish to purchase, you may just want the CFSC, or you may wish to also take the Canadian Restricted Firearms Safety Course (CRFSC) as well if you want to buy a handgun (the CFSC is for long guns like rifles and shotguns).
At the end of your training, you are required to complete a written examination which includes true and false and multiple choice questions. You will be required to obtain 80% or higher to pass that written component and move on to the next phase of your examinaton. Pending a successful written exam, you will then show your instructor how to identify the firearms, ammunition, load and unload the firearm, all while doing so in a safe manner. This is the practical examination and it also requires that you pass with a minimum of 80%.
So you’ve gotten your firearms training, passed examinations, whats next? Well, you will be required to apply with the RCMP for your PAL with your personal information and include proof of your training (these are provided in form of course reports). In addition, you’ll be required to supply information about your current or past conjugal partner (if any) for the past 2 years, 2 references, a photo together with a photo guarantor and your application fees.
Once your PAL application has been submitted, this process can take between 3-6 months prior to being approved. If approved, then you’ll receive your firearms licence in the mail and you can now go out and legally buy a gun.
So, to recap, these are the 5 simple steps required to purchase a firearm.
14 total views, 2 today
How to stay safe in Bear Country
Whether you’re planning your next camping trip, going for a hike up a local mountain or going hunting, you want to be prepared for the unexpected. As Benjamin Franklin once said “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”
One of the first, and best things you can possibly do to protect yourself from a bear encounter is avoidance. There are two types of avoidance:
- Initial planning, and
- Site specific
What do we mean by these? Well, your initial planning should consist of creating a bear map to identify that are considered to be high use areas of bears. Then, avoid these areas as much as possible. If you are able, it’s recommended that you perform a helicopter fly over beforehand and work in pairs.
When being site specific, you’ll want to be able to recognize the bear sign and understand the bear behaviour(s), then you can employ your techniques to make sure that your presence is known.
If you see a bear and its unaware of you, this is your best opportunity to still avoid the encounter by quietly leaving. Don’t yell at a bear if it hasn’t given an aggressive signal. This is really important as it could trigger an attack.
In the event of an encounter, do your very best to avoid anything close range and that could be a surprise to the bear. Many people employ the use of bells to alert bears of their presence. Although this is a good idea, these are ineffective when there is high wind or river sounds because they could mask the sound of the bells. Try giving more than one indicator that you are in the area as many animals will wait for a second sensory input prior to feeling.
If you’re planning to be in an area that has the chance of bears being around, we highly recommend taking the time to learn more about bears and their behaviour and signs.
Silvercore’s Online Bear Defence course was created in partnership with James Gary Shelton, the bestselling author on bear behaviour. Many students choose to take this online course to complement their training in conjunction with Silvercore’s Bear Defence Shotgun Course. This in depth online training will lead you through the psychology of a bear and their signs and identification thereof.
You’ll have the opportunity to learn more about encounters and avoidance strategies as well as survival tactics if in the event of an unlucky bear attack. We also lead you through the various bear protection devices including bear spray, firearms and the use of dogs.
Looking for a glimpse of what this course is like? Try our free demo.
Need to be prepared? Get started with the full course!
10 total views, 0 today
What is a Range Safety Officer (RSO) and how do I become one?
Have you ever heard the term RSO, or Range Safety Officer? It’s exactly like it sounds, someone who is in charge or overseeing the safety of individuals at a Range (or Shooting Club), also known as range users.
In addition to overseeing safe shooting procedures, an RSO will also need to know how to deal with malfunctions, emergency situations as well as organize the procedures when dealing with an emergency. They may also organize range activities and enforce range rules during these events.
It is important that they also know and understand the legal aspects and what is required of them as it pertains to record keeping and reporting.
So what do you need to become a fully trained and certified Range Safety Officer?
Well, first a valid firearms licence, also known as a PAL is required. If you don’t already have this, the Canadian Firearms Safety Course is required to obtain this licence.
Having the knowledge to be a safe range user and know the concepts behind how ranges work will also be required as well as extensive firearms experience. Being physically and mentally fit, being able to pass a criminal record check and vulnerable sector check will also be required. Lastly, valid first aid training which is suitable for the position of a range officer.
After you have your PAL, the knowledge to be a responsible and safe range user, you’ll also need to understand the duties and responsibilities of a Range Safety Officer. Thereafter you will undergo a practical test to demonstrate your ability to manage a firing line. This is done under the supervision of your ranges Chief Range Officer (CRO).
If you are looking to be certified as a RSO at your local range, we recommend taking the Silvercore Online Range User course followed by our Online Range Safety Officer course. These courses provide you with the theoretical knowledge needed to be successful in your practical examination with your local range’s CRO.
13 total views, 1 today
What do you need to go fishing?
So you want to go fishing? With modern technology and the internet, sometimes finding the information you need that can be considered reliable and trustworthy can be difficult. This is why Silvercore is here to guide you through what you need to go fishing.
First, decide what type of fishing you want to do. By that we mean, would you like to fish for freshwater fish, also known as non-tidal, or would you like to fish for saltwater fish, also known as tidal. The regulations for these types of fishing are different. Non-tidal fishing is provincially regulated, whereas Tidal fishing is federally regulated.
Freshwater Fishing (Non-Tidal)
In British Columbia, if you plan to go for freshwater fish, you will need a Basic Licence, also known as a Non-Tidal Angling Licence. This is for every angler who is 16 years of age or older and will allow them to fish in the non-tidal waters of beautiful BC.
In addition to your Basic Licence, you may also need a Conservation Surcharge Stamp, a White Sturgeon Conservation Licence, and / or a Classified Waters Licence.
Why? Glad you asked. There are two reasons why these are required. If you plan to fish for a specific type of fish such as Steelhead, non-tidal Salmon, or Sturgeon, or you’re going to specific locations that are regulated as Class I or Class II Classified Waters.
Purchasing these licences can be done either online through the BC Recreational Freshwater Fishing website, or from any vendor who offers this service.
Saltwater Fishing (Tidal)
If you plan to go fishing in the saltwaters of BC , you’ll need a Tidal Waters Fishing Licence. Although free for juveniles (under 16 years old), you’ll still need a licence for them which can be done online under your account.
This licence also has the option to purchase a Salmon Conservation Stamp. In the event that you catch Salmon in saltwater, and you intend to retain it, then you must purchase this stamp. This is not required if you catch and release. The fees for the Salmon Conservation Stamp help generate funds which are provided to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans to the Pacific Salmon Foundation. This helps to support Salmon restoration, stewardship and enhancement projects in British Columbia.
These licences can be purchased through the Department of Fisheries and Oceans of Canada website or through an Independent Access Provider.
Conclusion
When you plan to go fishing, be sure to always check for new regulations as things change from time to time.
If you’d like to know more about Freshwater Fishing such as the species, regulations and limits, equipment and setup and use thereof and more, we would recommend signing up for our online Pacific Northwest Fishing course.
This course was designed with the beginner in mind and is a must for anyone looking to get into the sport of freshwater fishing. This is a veritable A to Z of everything a new angler needs to know and includes information on how to safely and legally fish in beautiful British Columbia.
To provide you with the best, Silvercore’s course was created in partnership with the world renowned angler, guide and conservationist April Vokey.
16 total views, 2 today
Silvercore Podcast Ep. 23: Blood Tracking and Science Dogs
In this episode of The Silvercore Podcast, Travis Bader speaks with Lindsay Ware of Science Dogs of New England situated in Maine, USA and discusses how she got into tracking animals for hunters with the help of dogs, different signs and evidence to look for when tracking and how you can teach your dog to track as well.
If you have a story that would be of value to the Silvercore audience, or know someone who does, email us at podcast@silvercore.ca. We would love to hear from you!
If you have any feedback or questions that we can address, please reach out to us via social media or at 1-855-771-5837 or info@silvercore.ca. Finally, don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe to the podcast, and while you’re at it, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!
Travis Bader
Looking for Show Notes of this Podcast? Read them Here!
13 total views, 0 today
How to import and export firearms in Canada
Many times throughout the year Silvercore gets asked “How do I import (or export) a firearm in Canada?“. We wanted to provide you with all the in’s and out’s of importing and exporting firearms in Canada and make it smooth sailing for you to safely, and legally get your firearm into (or out of) Canada.
What do you need to Import (or Export) a Firearm in Canada?
What are the legal requirements for importing and exporting firearms?
There are a few different legal requirements which need to be followed when it comes to importing or exporting firearms. The first we’ll touch on those that relate to Canada. There are governing bodies that have their own regulations which need to be followed. In this section we will review the following:
- Canada Border Services Agency, or CBSA
- Global Affairs Canada
- The Criminal Code and The Firearms Act.
So let’s begin!
1. CBSA, Importing and Exporting Firearms, Weapons and Devices.
Review Memorandum D19-13-2, effective as of May 29 2019. This document not only goes over a briefing of things most recently changed, legislation, the definitions of things like Action, Ammunition, Authorization to Carry (ATC), Authorization To Transport (ATT) and more, but also describes in great detail prohibited weapons and ammunition. Knowing what is considered prohibited will save you a great deal of grief when importing or exporting a firearm.
Additionally, you’ll find the import and export procedures. But we’ll keep this simple and break it down for you!
If importing a Non-Restricted Firearm
In addition to the 18+ age and valid PAL which has the proper authorization for the class of firearm which you plan to import, you’ll also need the following:
-
-
- Verify if you need an import authorization from Global Affairs Canada, more on that below.
-
If importing a Restricted Firearm
In addition to the 18+ age and valid PAL, you will also need the following:
-
-
- Be authorized owner to which the Restricted firearm is registered to with the Canadian Firearms Program, or CFP and have your Firearm Registration Certificate,
- Have a Long Term Authorization to Transport, or ATT in order to Transport the firearm (this is obtained by being a member of a recognized gun club or range),
- Obtain an import authorization from Global Affairs Canada.
-
Something worth noting is that you can generally only import a restricted firearms if you are able to show that you have a need for that firearm, this could be something such as needing it to be able to take part in an organized target-shooting event.
Ensure you are properly covered, Join The Silvercore Club!
2. Import Controls and Import Permits handled by Global Affairs Canada
Apply for an Import Permit. In order to apply for this you’ll need to complete an Application for Import/Export Permit EXT-1466. (you’ll need Adobe Reader to load this file)
Be sure to include your application with a cheque for the corresponding total value of goods otherwise the permit will not be issued. The fee schedule can be found here.
3. The Criminal Code and the Firearms Act.
You’ll need to keep in mind the Criminal Code and the Firearms Act as this outlines the offences you could face if you import or export a firearm illegally and who is authorized to import or export. More on this below.
As a final note on things you need to do, don’t forget that you will also need to keep in mind the country where the firearm is coming from, as well as any other country the firearm will pass through and their legal requirements.
What offences could be faced for importing or exporting firearms illegally?
We’ll keep the legal jargon out of this summary- if you want to read that you can find it here in the Criminal Code of Canada.
Importing or exporting knowing it is unauthorized
The punishment when it comes to a firearm is imprisonment for up to 10 years and minimum punishment of 3 years (if first offence), or of 5 years (if second or subsequent offence)
In other cases of an indictable offence, imprisonment up to 10 years and a minimum punishment of imprisonment of one year.
Unauthorized importing or exporting
Imprisonment for up to 5 years for an indictable offence, or if guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction.
Who is authorized to import and export a firearm?
35 (1) A non-resident who does not hold a licence may import a firearm that is not a prohibited firearm if, at the time of the importation,
(a) the non-resident
(i) is eighteen years old or older,
(ii) declares the firearm to a customs officer in the prescribed manner and, in the case of a declaration in writing, completes the prescribed form containing the prescribed information, and
(iii) in the case of a restricted firearm, produces an authorization to transport the restricted firearm; and
(b) a customs officer confirms in the prescribed manner the declaration referred to in subparagraph (a)(ii) and the authorization to transport referred to in subparagraph (a)(iii).
So what about airguns, replica firearms, and antique firearms? Can I import / export them?
Replica firearms are prohibited from entering Canada.
- are designed or intended to exactly resemble a firearm with near precision;
- are not reproductions of antique firearms; and
- may include airsoft or blank guns.
Replica firearms are classified as prohibited devices. Individuals cannot import them into Canada. For more information on replica firearms see Memorandum D19-13-2, Importing and Exporting Firearms, Weapons and Devices.
Antique firearms can be imported to Canada- conditions apply
An Antique firearm can be imported as long as it is considered to be Antique as outlined under the Criminal Code, and as long as you are a Canadian resident or a visitor to Canada. You won’t need to register an antique firearm, and you do not need a licence if you are the owner of one, however the proper safe storage and transportation requirements will all still apply.
What weapons or devices are prohibited from entering Canada?
*Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, but common weapons and devices prohibited from entering Canada.*
Weapons:
- automatic knives such as switchblades;
- centrifugal knives such as flick knives or butterfly knives;
- gravity knives;
- mace or pepper spray designed for use on humans;
- nunchaku sticks;
- shuriken (throwing stars);
- manrikigusari or kusari (fighting chains);
- finger rings with blades or other sharp objects projecting from the surface;
- Taser and stun guns shorter than 480 mm;
- crossbows designed for one-handed use;
- crossbows 500 mm or shorter;
- Constant Companion (belt-buckle knife);
- push daggers;
- devices shorter than 30 cm concealing a knife blade (e.g. knife-comb);
- spiked wristbands;
- blowguns;
- Kiyoga or Steel Cobra batons (spring batons);
- spring-loaded rigid batons (triggered by a button or lever);
- morning stars; and
- brass knuckles.
Devices:
- silencers or devices designed to muffle or stop the sound of a firearm;
- certain cartridge magazines above a given capacity. Generally, cartridge magazines are limited to 5 rounds for centre-fire, semi-automatic rifles or shotguns and 10 rounds for semi-automatic handguns, with exemptions for certain magazines;
- bullpup stocks;
- replica firearms (see additional information on replica firearms below); and
- devices prohibited by regulations.
Can I ship firearms?
- When shipping, the item must be shipped in a sturdy, non-transparent container. This container should be hard to break into and should not break open accidentally during transport.
- There must not be any markings on the outside of the container which indicate there are firearms inside- unless the marking is an address.
- The Canadian Firearms Program, CFP, recommends that you label an envelope “Customs Documents” and attach it firmly to the outside of the container. You can put any waybills, import permits, or export permits into the envelope.
- You must declare all firearms at Canada Customs and pay applicable duties and taxes.
Where can updates be found relating to firearms regulations?
It’s important that as a safe, legal and responsible firearms owner you’re always staying up to date with any applicable changes. Updates can be found online the RCMP Canadian Firearms Program section of the website under ‘Highlights’.
How can I learn more about firearms and firearms related Information?
There is a number of ways to find the information that you’re looking for, but for the sake of bringing you the easy access of information you may be on the look for, we would recommend any of the following.
- Listen to The Silvercore Podcast. The Silvercore Podcast discusses matters related to hunting, firearms, hiking, outdoor adventure and the people and businesses that comprise the community all from a uniquely Canadian perspective.
- Join the Silvercore Club to receive exclusive club discounts with participating retailers (some of whom sell hunting related products) – and the Silvercore Club Facebook Community. There are many individuals who hunt and have experience in hunting who are happy to share their knowledge and all it takes is a little ask and community involvement.
- Take a Silvercore Online Course. Silvercore has a number of different online courses whether you’re looking to obtain your PAL, go hunting, become an RSO, or even just want to make sure you’re safe in bear country.
DISCLAIMER:
Please note that this post was created and intended for educational purposes and acts only as a guide and is by no means considered a legal document.
As regulations and legislation change from time to time, Silvercore and its subsidiaries make no warranties whatsoever, either express or implied, oral or written, in fact, or by operation of law or otherwise, regarding the import or export of any firearm or device mentioned throughout this post.
Individuals should always check with the appropriate governing bodies regarding legislative and regulatory specifications for the import and export of firearms into or out of Canada.
20 total views, 2 today
Silvercore Podcast Ep. 22: Ineffective gun control & Canadian gun ban
In this episode of The Silvercore Podcast, Travis Bader sits down with Shane Mathieson, the third generation owner of Reliable Gun in Vancouver BC. Listen in as they discuss how Reliable Gun got it’s start, the recent OIC firearms ban and how it’s affecting business as well as how COVID has impacted gun sales and more!
If you have a story that would be of value to the Silvercore audience, or know someone who does, email us at podcast@silvercore.ca. We would love to hear from you!
If you have any feedback or questions that we can address, please reach out to us via social media or at 1-855-771-5837 or info@silvercore.ca. Finally, don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe to the podcast, and while you’re at it, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!
Travis Bader
Looking for Show Notes of this Podcast? Read them Here!
15 total views, 1 today
Firearms Program Quick Links
Finding the information you are looking for when it comes to firearms licensing, buying, transporting, importing, or other areas, it can be a bit tricky at times when trying to navigate where to go and what information you need. Silvercore is here to help make this process quick and easy! Below you can find a compiled list of quick links for your ease of access on different topics for the Canadian Firearms Program rules, regulations, forms and more!
Contact the Canadian Firearms Program
Firearms Classifications (Learn about non-restricted, restricted and prohibited firearms)
Information on Firearms Licensing (Do crossbows need a licence? What is required to own a gun in Canada?)
Firearms Safety (Training requirements, instructors, exemptions)
Firearms Registration (Restricted or Prohibited Firearms)
Information for Buying and Selling (transferring) Firearms (Learn the legal ways to transfer firearms properly)
Importing and Exporting Firearms (Can you purchase a firearm in the United States and bring it into Canada or vice versa?)
Information relating to Executors and Heirs (Important information if a loved one passes away and leaves firearms in their will or estate)
Information on Shooting Clubs and Ranges (Want to build your own range on your property or understand the construction requirements?)
Firearms Forms (PAL applications, Licensing for Businesses, Registration or Transfer of Firearms, Authorizations for Transportation, Authorizations for Estates, etc)
Individual Web Services (for online PAL Renewal, PAL application Status, Firearms Registration, etc)
Business Web Services (registration of firearms, transfer of firearms, obtaining copies of registration certificates, etc)
History of Firearms in Canada (A quick background on the important dates relating to Canadian firearms ownership).
Don’t forget to check out the Silvercore Blog for other useful links and information!
15 total views, 1 today
The Chasing Food Club with Jenny Ly
In this episode of The Silvercore Podcast Travis Bader sits down with Backcountry Hunters and Anglers Regional Leader, Jenny Ly about how she got into hunting, ego involved in hunting, her role as a regional leader for BHA and her direction moving forward with Chasing Food Club.
If you have any feedback or questions that we can address, please reach out to us via social media or at 1-855-771-5837 or info@silvercore.ca. Finally, don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe to the podcast, and while you’re at it, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!
Travis Bader
Looking for Show Notes of this Podcast? Read them Here!12
7 total views, 1 today