Building a Practical Prepper Gun Collection in Canada: What You Need to Know
When it comes to emergency preparedness, having a well-thought-out firearm collection can be an important part of your overall plan. However, in Canada, strict firearm regulations dictate what you can legally own and how you can use them. Whether you’re preparing for self-defense, hunting, or long-term survival, here’s how to build a prepper gun collection that stays within Canadian laws.
Understanding Canadian Firearm Laws
Before starting your collection, you need to understand how firearms are classified in Canada. The Firearms Act and Criminal Code categorize firearms into three main classes:
- Non-Restricted – This includes most hunting rifles and shotguns. These firearms can be used for hunting and sport shooting without needing special transport permits.
- Restricted – This category includes most handguns and some semi-automatic rifles. Restricted firearms require additional licensing and must be registered with the government.
- Prohibited – Fully automatic firearms, many handguns, and specific semi-automatic rifles fall into this category and are illegal to own (unless grandfathered under previous laws).
To own a firearm in Canada, you must obtain a Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL), with additional licensing requirements for restricted firearms.
Essential Firearms for a Canadian Prepper
1. A Reliable Shotgun (Non-Restricted)
Recommended Ammo Storage: 500-1,000 shells (birdshot, buckshot, and slugs for versatility). A 12-gauge pump-action shotgun is one of the most versatile firearms you can own. It can be used for hunting small and large game, as well as for home defense (where legal). Models like the Remington 870 or Mossberg 500 are excellent choices.
2. A Bolt-Action Rifle (Non-Restricted)
Recommended Ammo Storage: 1,000-2,000 rounds of .308 Winchester or .30-06 Springfield for hunting and long-range shooting. A reliable bolt-action rifle, such as the Ruger American or Tikka T3, chambered in .308 Winchester or .30-06 Springfield, is ideal for hunting large game like deer or moose. These rifles are simple, accurate, and easy to maintain.
3. A .22 LR Rifle (Non-Restricted)
Recommended Ammo Storage: 5,000-10,000 rounds of .22 LR due to its affordability, versatility, and lightweight nature. A .22 caliber rifle, such as the Ruger 10/22 or Savage Mark II, is perfect for small game hunting, target practice, and even basic survival situations. The ammunition is cheap, lightweight, and easy to store in bulk.
4. A Lever-Action Rifle (Non-Restricted)
Recommended Ammo Storage: 500-1,000 rounds of .30-30 Winchester for hunting and general-purpose use. A lever-action rifle chambered in .30-30 Winchester is a great addition due to its reliability, ease of use, and effectiveness for medium to large game hunting. The Henry or Winchester 94 are classic choices.
5. A Semi-Automatic Rifle – SKS (Non-Restricted)
Recommended Ammo Storage: 2,000-5,000 rounds of 7.62x39mm for sustained use and availability. For those looking for a reliable semi-automatic option, the SKS rifle is a popular and affordable choice. Chambered in 7.62x39mm, it is known for its rugged reliability, ease of maintenance, and widespread availability of ammunition. The SKS is excellent for hunting, sport shooting, and as a general-purpose survival rifle, all while remaining a non-restricted firearm in Canada.
6. A Restricted Handgun (Optional – Requires RPAL)
Recommended Ammo Storage: 500-1,000 rounds of 9mm or preferred caliber for training and self-defense applications. While handguns are restricted and must be registered, they can be useful for sport shooting and personal defense in extreme survival situations. A Glock 17 or CZ Shadow 2 are popular choices, but their practical use for preppers in Canada is limited due to stringent transport and storage laws.
Note: It is currently not possible to purchase a handgun legally in Canada, however this may change in the future with a change in political culture on the horizon. If you do not already have an RPAL, courses are still available and licenses are still being issued to the best of our knowledge. Consider getting your RPAL in anticipation.
Ammunition Considerations
Stocking up on ammunition is just as important as choosing the right firearms. In Canada, there are no federal limits on how much ammunition you can own, but some provinces have restrictions. Always store ammo safely and in compliance with local laws.
Other Considerations for Firearm Preparedness
- Proper Training: Owning firearms is a responsibility. Take safety courses and practice regularly.
- Storage Compliance: All firearms must be stored in a locked safe or secured with a trigger lock, with additional regulations for restricted firearms.
- Legal Transport: Non-restricted firearms must be transported unloaded. Restricted firearms require an Authorization to Transport (ATT).
- Final Thoughts
While firearms can be an important part of a prepper’s toolkit, Canadian laws place significant restrictions on ownership and use. By focusing on non-restricted firearms like shotguns and rifles, you can build a versatile collection while staying within legal boundaries. Always stay informed on changing regulations and ensure you are compliant with the law.
Do you have any favorite firearms for prepping in Canada? Let us know in the comments!