CRFSC: restricted and prohibited firearms - RPAL, registration, ATT and the handgun freeze

Which firearms are "restricted"?

Under Criminal Code s.84, a restricted firearm is:

• a handgun that is not prohibited;
• a semi-automatic centre-fire firearm with a barrel less than 470 mm that is not prohibited;
• a firearm that can be fired when reduced to less than 660 mm by folding or telescoping;
• any firearm prescribed as restricted.

Handguns with a barrel of 105 mm or less, or chambered for .25 or .32 calibre, are prohibited (except prescribed international competition pistols).

Licence and registration

• The RPAL (PAL with restricted privileges) requires passing both the CFSC and the CRFSC tests; the CRFSC is for people 18 and over.
• Every restricted and prohibited firearm must have a registration certificate. Possession without one is an offence (Criminal Code ss.91-92).
• A CFO must approve every transfer of a restricted firearm, and only for a lawful purpose (Firearms Act s.28): protection of life (rare, special authorization), a lawful profession or occupation, target practice or competition at an approved club or range, or, for restricted long guns, a collection.

Key fact: Since 21 October 2022, individuals in Canada generally cannot buy, sell or otherwise acquire handguns by transfer (the "handgun freeze", codified in the Firearms Act in December 2023). People who already own handguns may keep and use them lawfully.