I signed up for firearms licensing courses

"gin-san - shitpost specialist" (gin-san-)
04/01/2017 at 15:25 • Filed to: GUNS

Canadian here. Not sure what the rules are south of the border but up here there are a lot of restrictions on guns and I’m planning on getting both of the necessary licenses to own long guns and handguns.

The RPAL required for handguns isn’t really needed but I figured that I may as well get it all done at once.

It’s not for self defense or hunting, but because: 1) I love mechanical things like cars, watches, and now guns; 2) trap/skeet/clay shooting looks like fun.

Only problem is that the course isn’t until next month. I also learned that it takes a while to process an application for a license once the courses/exams are completed, so I probably won’t be getting my first gun until July or later.

I wanted to get an over/under shotgun but apparently good ones are expensive, so I may opt to go with a semi-auto. Pump-action would be nice but I think it would be limiting if I decide to go with skeet shooting (I think that’s the one with the two discs on different trajectories). I may want to get an M1 Garand (replica or whatever) just because I think they’re cool.

Fun fact: after doing some research on firearms restrictions, there are anti-tank rifles that you can legitimately own in Canada, but you’re restricted from owning pea-shooters like Derringers and .25/.32 cal pistols.

DISCUSSION (65)

V8Demon - Prefers Autos for drag racing. Fite me! > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/01/2017 at 15:31

Firearms rules and regulations are just as wonky here in the US. 50 states, 50 sets of rules. What’s legal in one state will get you 5 years in another....

CB > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/01/2017 at 15:34

To be fair, smaller firearms are an issue because they can be concealed on a person, which is a bit of an issue. It’s pretty hard to hide an anti-tank rifle.

OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/01/2017 at 15:35

In December I walked into the gun shop, told them which gun I wanted, they ran a background check on me, and 20 minutes later walked out, a proud handgun owner. It’s great. My buddy is buying an AR15 for me for my wedding and I’m getting my carry permit this summer. I love it.

Viggen > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/01/2017 at 15:35

South of border, here in ‘Murica, the firearms laws change state to state. For instance, in one state you can have Constitutional Carry of open or concealed firearms and no limit on magazine capacity for internal or external magazines. Or, you can have a state like mine which has different licenses which regulate what you can own and how many rounds you can carry in said firearm. And then of course there’s the National Firearms Act and Hughes Amendment which are federal firearms laws.

Viggen > CB
04/01/2017 at 15:36

But in the US, to own an anti-tank rifle, such as a Lahti, you have to have an FFL (aka the Class III license) because it’s considered a Destructive Device to the US Government.

BorkBorkBjork > CB
04/01/2017 at 15:40

Yup. Cops will tell you, the most dangerous gun is the one you can’t see.

My bird IS the word > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/01/2017 at 15:40

Trap shooting is really fun. I am going to be getting a pump gun later this year hopefully.

To be honest, most murders are commited with handguns, not rifles, so the restrictions make more sense than ours do.

BorkBorkBjork > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/01/2017 at 15:41

Do a good write up on the whole process, I’d be very interested to see the requirements.

OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars > Viggen
04/01/2017 at 15:41

I can buy a grenade launcher for the rail of an AR15 like nothing though.

OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars > Viggen
04/01/2017 at 15:42

AKA California sucks to own a gun in. I know some people thy do Biathalon and they almost cannot compete in California anymore because the biathalon rules require larger magazines then are allowed.

Highlander-Datsuns are Forever > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/01/2017 at 15:53

Guns are fun. Guns are dangerous. Taking the effort be properly licensed and trained is smart.

AFAK I don’t even need a background check to buy a rifle in Montana, hand gun maybe. I only have a rifle and got it when I was 12 so I’m pretty sure it isn’t even in any kind of registry.

gin-san - shitpost specialist > CB
04/01/2017 at 15:55

I figured this was the case since there are minimum barrel lengths as well. Just thought that being able to own anti-tank rifles in the first place is very amusing.

gin-san - shitpost specialist > Viggen
04/01/2017 at 15:58

I wonder where that guy that does the Demolition Ranch videos lives. The guy has so many cool guns but also somewhere to actually shoot all of them. I still haven’t researched what laws prohibit discharging firearms on private property (i.e. if you live in a rural area and have a large plot of land) but he’s able to shoot everything from .22LR handguns to incendiary armor piercing .50BMGs wherever he’s recording his videos.

V12 Jake- Hittin' Switches > Viggen
04/01/2017 at 16:01

I still really want a boys rifle converted to 50 BMG. It seems like such a cool piece of kit.

gin-san - shitpost specialist > OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars
04/01/2017 at 16:04

Wow, surprisingly simple.

I had initially thought that Canada really wasn’t gun friendly but it’s actually not too bad. Although there are a lot of restrictions I think there’s enough available to have fun. I think AR15s are technically allowed here but semi-auto centrefire rifles are limited to 5-round mags, only exception being the M1 Garand which has the 8-round clips.

I know concealed carry is a big deal in the US but even if this was legal in Canada I don’t have any desire to do so.

DipodomysDeserti > Viggen
04/01/2017 at 16:04

You don’t need an FFL to own a destructive device. An FFL is only required to sell guns commercially. There’s no such thing as a “class III license”. You have to buy an NFA tax stamp ($200) and submit the proper paperwork to the BATFE. If your state allows them then any non felon over 18 can make one, and 21+ can buy one from an FFL. It’s the same process for SBRs, SBSs, and suppressors. The process generally takes about a year while you wait for the BATFE to approve your application.

66671 - 200 [METRIC] my dash > OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars
04/01/2017 at 16:04

Ammo for it won’t be as easy though will it? I’ve seen flare launchers and practice rounds for sale for them iirc.

DipodomysDeserti > OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars
04/01/2017 at 16:08

You may be able to buy it, but that doesn’t mean you won’t end up in federal prison. Per the ATF, this is some of the language they use to define a destructive device:

“Any weapon by whatever name known which will, or which may be readily converted to, expel a projectile by the action of an explosive or other propellant...”

https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/26/5845

gin-san - shitpost specialist > Highlander-Datsuns are Forever
04/01/2017 at 16:10

The safety courses are necessary to take the licensing exams. The licensing exams are needed to submit with the application to the RCMP so that I can get my licenses. I think I would have done a safety course either way; the only guns I’ve shot in the past were airsoft, paintball, or pellet guns.

I know the very basic safety principles, like don’t point the gun at something unless you’re going to shoot, don’t put your finger on the trigger or inside that trigger guard unless you’re going to shoot, always assume every gun is loaded. The courses should tell me how to safely verify a gun is unloaded, how to break them down, etc.

66671 - 200 [METRIC] my dash > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/01/2017 at 16:10

I’ve been thinking about doing that but I’m not sure it’s worth it for me right now. A lot of the laws in Canada don’t make sense but I think it’s definitely for the better people take these sorts of safety/licensing courses. Also strange how an nice over under costs more than some semi autos lol. Keep us updated!

DipodomysDeserti > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/01/2017 at 16:10

In my state any non felon over 21 can buy and conceal a handgun. Any non felon over 18 can buy a rifle. There’s no requirement for any classes or licenses of any kind. Takes about ten minutes while the store calls out state police to see if you’re a felon or have any warrants. God help us all.

gin-san - shitpost specialist > My bird IS the word
04/01/2017 at 16:11

Yeah, I totally get the small calibre and handgun restrictions.

I may just go with a pump gun based on the fact that the prices are most reasonable, but the over/unders are just so damn nice looking.

Highlander-Datsuns are Forever > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/01/2017 at 16:13

That’s great that the course is mandatory. The courses are mandatory in MT only if you want a hunting license. I had to take a specific course to get my archery license. They don’t want people trying to shoot animals with bow and arrow without any knowledge.

OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars > DipodomysDeserti
04/01/2017 at 16:14

Flares *cough cough* hahah

OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars > 66671 - 200 [METRIC] my dash
04/01/2017 at 16:15

yeah usually you use them or looks and flares.

LastFirstMI is my name > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/01/2017 at 16:15

I grew up in Texas, and I recall needing a special permit to NOT carry a firearm. You also have to be able to cite the Second Amendment to graduate from kindergarten.

DipodomysDeserti > OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars
04/01/2017 at 16:16

Or the venerable golf ball launcher.

OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/01/2017 at 16:17

Concealed carry is good for making my life easier when transporting my handgun. Right now I keep it in my trunk with rounds in the magazine but the magazine not in the gun. It’s just a hassle and I have to make sure I do it right everytime. I haven’t even risked transporting it in a truck where I do not have a trunk. Also there are some places I’d like to have my handgun at least accessible.

gin-san - shitpost specialist > BorkBorkBjork
04/01/2017 at 16:18

I think my writing tends to be dry, so you may lose that interest quickly.

It doesn’t seem like a difficult process, just one that requires patience. The courses and exams all take place over one weekend (the one I’m signing up for is scheduled for 8-hour days) after which you submit your results (as long as you pass, not sure if there’s a minimum required grade) to the RCMP (Canadian police w/ federal jurisdiction) with required paperwork to get approved for the license(s). It’s the paperwork processing by the police that seems to take a long time, with forums suggesting it takes around 60 days, although some have had it done in shorter or longer timeframes.

OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars > DipodomysDeserti
04/01/2017 at 16:19

Exactly! Except my dog is scared to death of things that shoot projectiles. Even Nerf guns will have him running.

gin-san - shitpost specialist > OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars
04/01/2017 at 16:20

I see; AFAIK in Canada you need a permit to even transport a handgun (or any “restricted” class firearm) from your home to a range.

gin-san - shitpost specialist > LastFirstMI is my name
04/01/2017 at 16:22

Texas seems alright - you guys have guns AND barbecue.

DC3 LS, will be perpetually replacing cars until the end of time > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/01/2017 at 16:23

1) Defiantly get a pump. They’re super cheap, even new.

2) Garands are expensive as balls. Including M14s as well. I’d recommend a WW2 bolt action, but even those are expensive now. I remember in HS you could get a Mosin for under $100 USD.

OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/01/2017 at 16:23

Yeah, that’s ridiculous. You should be able to transport private property from Point A to Point B without recourse, no matter what the private property is.

404 - User No Longer Available > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/01/2017 at 16:25

I’ve long considered the idea of getting a restricted license and go for something like an IPSC course.

OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/01/2017 at 16:26

One of our family friends had enough property that we shot an actual cannon at a washing machine and fridge. Like a legitimate Civil War style cannon.

wiffleballtony > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/01/2017 at 16:52

Firearms really are fascinating from an engineering perspective. They’re also a lot of fun, if not expensive. We have little in the way if red tape here in AZ. So provided a clean history you can purchase whatever you like.

DipodomysDeserti > OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars
04/01/2017 at 17:11

Mine too. I used to hang my SBR on my wall and he would eyeball it when he walked in my room.

OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars > DipodomysDeserti
04/01/2017 at 17:39

Haha that’s funny. I’m still trying to figure out exactly why he’s so scared of them.

TheD0k_2many toys 2little time > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/01/2017 at 17:59

Here in MI you can open carry a firearm with no license. I have a CCW license so i always conceal. Personally i never would open carry but thats just my opinion.

The Compromiser > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/01/2017 at 19:28

Yes you need to notify them for the permit. I’ve been looking. The training material is online if you look. I will probably read it and challenge the test.

Remember to buy a restricted weapon you have to be a member of a gun club.

The Compromiser > CB
04/01/2017 at 19:32

It’s pretty easy to conceal. If I’m meaning to do harm with one, you will never see me. And if I’m not too rusty you won’t hear it either.

So I see Saskatoon is a busy place lately, any calls?

CB > The Compromiser
04/01/2017 at 20:31

Five to seven weeks until I hear back!

The Compromiser > CB
04/01/2017 at 21:00

They could be blown to Moose Jaw by then.

gin-san - shitpost specialist > The Compromiser
04/02/2017 at 01:02

I didn’t realize the gun club membership was a requirement. I’m not sure what that entails but it doesn’t sound like something I’d do. A restricted firearm wouldn’t be an immediate purchase anyway.

Who knows, if I end up really enjoying shooting maybe I will join a club.

gin-san - shitpost specialist > TheD0k_2many toys 2little time
04/02/2017 at 01:07

I can only imagine that the open carry would just draw unnecessary attention. I’ve never seen anyone open carry before in my visits to the US. That said, the only part of Michigan I’ve been to is Detroit. Contrary to what others had warned, I didn’t see any guns or shooting there and have been a few times with no new fears or wounds.

Concealed carry I can understand - you want to protect yourself, and there’s really no need to advertise it.

gin-san - shitpost specialist > wiffleballtony
04/02/2017 at 01:17

The US has some firearms that I would love to own but will never be able to in Canada. I’ve loved weird guns like the FN P90 from my days playing Counter-Strike as a kid, along with the FAMAS and Steyr Aug.

I can see how this can quickly become an expensive interest since I want a really nice shotgun for no justifiable reason. I can probably make do with a low-budget pump shotgun but I can’t get over how cool the over/under shotguns can be if you’re willing to spend a reasonable amount.

gin-san - shitpost specialist > OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars
04/02/2017 at 01:22

That’s an intense level of freedom. In contrast, I think it’d be swell if I even had the choice to be able to buy an MP5 9mm or something weird like an FN P90.

OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/02/2017 at 01:25

It was amazing.

wiffleballtony > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/02/2017 at 11:14

We do have access to a large assortment. With that said we do have some quirky rules like the rules on minimum barrel length and sound suppressors. If it makes you feel any better, I’ve never run across a FAMAS for sale anywhere. And the standard civilian P90 here is pretty blah.

wiffleballtony > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/02/2017 at 11:28

The fact that you know the difference between a mag and a clip sets you apart as a smart owner already.

wiffleballtony > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/02/2017 at 11:33

I’ve shot a full auto MP5, it was goos but not worth the hassle of actually getting one. HK and Germany have restrictive export rules, to the extent that I’d just buy a clone. The P90 is really only worth it in a full auto PDW form.

wiffleballtony > Viggen
04/02/2017 at 11:36

Or any 12 guage shotgun that doesn’t have a “sporting purpose”

wiffleballtony > OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars
04/02/2017 at 11:39

Yeah, but good luck getting the HE 40MM.

wiffleballtony > OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars
04/02/2017 at 11:43

Technically your buddy buying you an AR15 is illegal as a straw purchase. However, if he were to “private sale” it to you for zero dollars it becomes legal.

wiffleballtony > TheD0k_2many toys 2little time
04/02/2017 at 11:44

I open carry when I’m in the desert.

Viggen > wiffleballtony
04/02/2017 at 11:44

SPAS 12, for instance.

wiffleballtony > DipodomysDeserti
04/02/2017 at 11:46

Assuming you don’t have a CCW, then it’s the time it takes to run your credit card.

wiffleballtony > Viggen
04/02/2017 at 11:51

Or the USAS12

OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars > wiffleballtony
04/02/2017 at 11:52

I’m buying the lower register and he’s buying everything else. The lower is the only part of the gun actually co soldered a firearm.

wiffleballtony > OpposResidentLexusGuy - USE20, XF20, XU30 and Press Cars
04/02/2017 at 12:03

Well that makes sense

The Compromiser > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/02/2017 at 12:15

I have a few guys at work who are in the restricted boat. I want to go for prohibited, but the hoops are much smaller and there are many, many of them.

DipodomysDeserti > wiffleballtony
04/02/2017 at 12:21

Yep.

TheD0k_2many toys 2little time > gin-san - shitpost specialist
04/02/2017 at 15:18

yea its few and far in between.

Detroit really isnt as bad as people say. especially when your visiting you wont go to the places where most the crime happens.

TheD0k_2many toys 2little time > wiffleballtony
04/02/2017 at 15:18

that makes sense. no people around