Canadian Firearms Safety Course (CFSC) Exam — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When you PROVE a firearm safe you are determining:
- that it is loaded and ready to fire.
- that it is in a workable condition.
- that it is unloaded and thus safe to handle. (Correct answer)
- the firearm's make.
Correct answer: that it is unloaded and thus safe to handle.
The "PROVE" safety procedure in firearms handling stands for Point, Remove all ammunition, Observe the chamber, Verify the feeding path, and Examine the bore. Its primary purpose is to confirm that a firearm is completely unloaded and therefore safe to handle, inspect, or pass to another person, preventing accidental discharges.
Question 2: How does the CFSC define responsible firearm ownership beyond the legal minimum?
- Responsible ownership is defined solely by holding a current PAL
- Responsible ownership includes ongoing training, proper secure storage, safe handling habits in all circumstances, and active promotion of safety culture among fellow shooters (Correct answer)
- Responsible ownership applies only when minors are present in the home
- Responsible ownership means only following the law and nothing more is expected
Correct answer: Responsible ownership includes ongoing training, proper secure storage, safe handling habits in all circumstances, and active promotion of safety culture among fellow shooters
Responsible ownership means going beyond legal compliance to include ongoing education, superior storage, consistent safe habits, and contributing to a safety culture in the firearms community.
Question 3: What does it mean to make safe a firearm at the end of a shooting session at a Canadian range?
- Remove all ammunition from the firearm and magazine, open the action, and show clear to the range officer (Correct answer)
- Remove the magazine only since the chamber round may remain until the shooter leaves the range
- Engage the manual safety and set the firearm on the bench
- Cover the firearm with a case while still loaded
Correct answer: Remove all ammunition from the firearm and magazine, open the action, and show clear to the range officer
Making safe at the end of a session means removing all ammunition including from the chamber and magazine, opening the action, and presenting the firearm for inspection by the range officer.
Question 4: The first rule of safety when handling firearms is to assume every firearm to be loaded.
- True (Correct answer)
- False
Correct answer: True
Explanation: <br> The first rule of firearm safety is to always assume that every firearm is loaded, even if you believe it to be unloaded. This mindset ensures cautious and safe handling practices, minimizing the risk of accidents or injury.
Question 5: The pictured bullet is a?
- Jacketed Semi-wadcutter (JSWC)
- Full metal jacket (FMJ) (Correct answer)
- Jacketed Soft Point (JSP)
- Hollow Point (HP)
- Lead Round Nose (LRN)
Correct answer: Full metal jacket (FMJ)
A Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) bullet is characterized by a lead core completely encased in a harder metal jacket, typically copper, except for the base. This design helps prevent lead fouling in the barrel, aids in reliable feeding in semi-automatic firearms, and causes minimal expansion upon impact, making it common for target practice and military use.
Question 6: What is the primary purpose of risk analysis in firearm safety?
- To test the effectiveness of firearms.
- To evaluate the risk of injury and implement safety protocols. (Correct answer)
- To reduce the need for firearms licenses.
- To identify the cost of accidents.
Correct answer: To evaluate the risk of injury and implement safety protocols.
Risk analysis in firearm safety is a systematic process to identify potential hazards associated with firearm use and assess the likelihood and severity of harm. Its primary purpose is to proactively develop and implement effective safety protocols and preventative measures. This minimizes the chance of accidents and ensures a safer environment.
Question 7: Under the Canadian Firearms Act, when is a firearm considered to be 'unsafely stored'?
- When the firearm is stored without its original manufacturer's case
- When the firearm is stored outside of a certified gun safe
- When the firearm is stored more than one floor away from its owner
- When the firearm is accessible to a person not authorized to possess it (Correct answer)
Correct answer: When the firearm is accessible to a person not authorized to possess it
A firearm is considered unsafely stored when it is accessible to someone who is not legally authorized to possess it, regardless of the specific storage method used.
Question 8: What is the legal requirement for transporting a firearm in Canada during hunting season?
- There are no legal requirements during hunting season.
- Firearms can be transported loaded during hunting season.
- Firearms should be unloaded and securely stored in a locked case. (Correct answer)
- The firearm must be registered but can be transported loaded.
Correct answer: Firearms should be unloaded and securely stored in a locked case.
Even during hunting season, the legal requirements for transporting firearms in Canada remain consistent with general regulations. Firearms must always be unloaded to prevent accidental discharge and securely stored in a locked case or container while in transit. These rules apply regardless of the activity, emphasizing safety and preventing unauthorized access to firearms.
Question 9: Under what circumstances does Canadian law permit carrying a loaded restricted firearm outside a residence?
- Canadian law never permits carrying of any loaded firearm outside a residence
- Only with a valid ATT and in the specific circumstances listed in the licence condition such as travel to and from an approved range (Correct answer)
- Any PAL holder may carry a loaded restricted firearm concealed in any location
- Loaded restricted firearms may be carried openly in rural areas only
Correct answer: Only with a valid ATT and in the specific circumstances listed in the licence condition such as travel to and from an approved range
Restricted firearms may only be transported loaded in very limited circumstances authorized by an ATT or licence condition, such as direct travel to an approved range.
Question 10: What is required before a firearm can be permanently imported into Canada by a new resident?
- Firearms can be imported freely and the PAL applied for after arrival
- Only Canadian-manufactured firearms may be imported
- The new resident must obtain a valid PAL before importing and must declare all firearms at the border on a prescribed form (Correct answer)
- A non-restricted firearm requires no declaration at the Canadian border
Correct answer: The new resident must obtain a valid PAL before importing and must declare all firearms at the border on a prescribed form
New residents importing firearms must have a valid PAL, declare all firearms to CBSA at the border, and complete the prescribed declaration form.
Question 11: When is it appropriate to load a firearm during a hunting trip?
- Only when the hunter is in position and prepared to shoot, since firearms should be unloaded during transit and while crossing obstacles (Correct answer)
- Immediately when the hunter believes game may be nearby
- As soon as the hunter enters the field at the start of the day
- Loading is done at the vehicle before entering the field and the firearm remains loaded all day
Correct answer: Only when the hunter is in position and prepared to shoot, since firearms should be unloaded during transit and while crossing obstacles
Firearms should only be loaded when the hunter is in a shooting position and ready to fire. They must be unloaded during vehicle travel, crossing obstacles, and in camp.
Question 12: What is the primary purpose of a trigger lock on a firearm?
- To reduce trigger pull weight
- To prevent unauthorized discharge (Correct answer)
- To improve trigger accuracy
- To clean the trigger mechanism
Correct answer: To prevent unauthorized discharge
A trigger lock physically blocks the trigger from being pulled, preventing unauthorized discharge.
Question 13: What additional storage requirement applies to restricted firearms compared to non-restricted firearms?
- Restricted firearms can only be stored at a licensed shooting range
- Restricted firearms must have their barrels removed before storage
- Restricted firearms must be stored at a government-approved facility
- Restricted firearms require BOTH a locking device on the firearm AND storage in a locked container (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Restricted firearms require BOTH a locking device on the firearm AND storage in a locked container
Restricted firearms must be stored unloaded with a locking device applied to the firearm AND placed inside a locked container, requiring two layers of security.
Question 14: When transporting a restricted firearm, how must it be secured?
- Accompanied by a police escort
- Unloaded and in a locked, secure container (Correct answer)
- Loaded and within reach for security
- Held openly on the back seat in a case
Correct answer: Unloaded and in a locked, secure container
Restricted firearms must be unloaded and locked in a secure container during all transport.
Question 15: What is the proper storage method for ammunition?
- In a sealed plastic bag in the garage.
- In a cool, dry place, away from moisture. (Correct answer)
- In direct sunlight for easy access.
- Near open flames for ventilation.
Correct answer: In a cool, dry place, away from moisture.
Ammunition should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from moisture, to preserve its integrity and functionality. Moisture can degrade the primer and propellant powder, leading to misfires or unsafe performance. Proper storage ensures the ammunition remains reliable and safe for use over time.
Question 16: What is the role of the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP)?
- To enforce laws on firearms possession, use, and registration. (Correct answer)
- To promote hunting and shooting sports.
- To issue hunting permits.
- To provide firearms training.
Correct answer: To enforce laws on firearms possession, use, and registration.
The Canadian Firearms Program (CFP), administered by the RCMP, is the federal body responsible for implementing and enforcing the Firearms Act. Its primary role involves issuing and revoking firearms licenses, registering restricted and prohibited firearms, and ensuring compliance with all Canadian firearms laws. This program is vital for regulating firearm ownership and enhancing public safety across the country.
Question 17: What is the correct way to store prohibited firearms for a grandfathered owner in Canada?
- In a locked approved container with a trigger lock applied, with ammunition in a completely separate locked space (Correct answer)
- The same as non-restricted since a trigger lock alone is sufficient
- In any locked room with a deadbolt since no additional container or device is required
- Prohibited firearms cannot legally be stored anywhere and must be surrendered immediately
Correct answer: In a locked approved container with a trigger lock applied, with ammunition in a completely separate locked space
Prohibited firearms held by grandfathered owners must be stored to the highest standard: locked approved container, trigger lock applied, and ammunition separately locked.
Question 18: At a Canadian shooting range, what does the command cease fire require all shooters to do immediately?
- Stop firing immediately, keep fingers off triggers, and wait for further instructions from the range officer without handling firearms (Correct answer)
- Unload and leave the range immediately
- Holster or sling the firearm and turn to face away from the range
- Continue firing through the current magazine to avoid leaving a loaded firearm
Correct answer: Stop firing immediately, keep fingers off triggers, and wait for further instructions from the range officer without handling firearms
Upon hearing cease fire, all shooters must immediately stop shooting, remove fingers from triggers, and freeze in place awaiting further instructions from the range officer.
Question 19: What condition is described when a round has entered the chamber but the bolt or slide has not returned to the fully closed, locked position?
- Hangfire condition
- Slam fire condition
- Squib load condition
- Failure to go into battery (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Failure to go into battery
When a round partially chambers but the action does not fully close and lock, the firearm has failed to go into battery and is not in a safe condition to fire.
Question 20: A suppressor (sometimes known as a ‘silencer’) is illegal in Canada.
- True (Correct answer)
- False
Correct answer: True
Explanation: <br> Gun silencers, also known as gun suppressors, are illegal in Canada. However, some people are entitled to own and transport them.
Question 21: Why is it essential to wear hearing protection while shooting at a Canadian range?
- A single unsuppressed gunshot exceeds 140 dB and can cause immediate, permanent hearing damage without protection (Correct answer)
- Ear protection is only needed for indoor ranges, not outdoor ranges
- Hearing protection is only required when using calibres larger than .30
- Hearing protection is a courtesy to other shooters but not medically necessary
Correct answer: A single unsuppressed gunshot exceeds 140 dB and can cause immediate, permanent hearing damage without protection
Firearms produce 140 to 170 dB of sound, far above the 85 dB threshold for hearing damage. A single unprotected shot can cause permanent hearing loss.
Question 22: What is a double feed malfunction in a semi-automatic firearm and how is it cleared?
- A double feed occurs when the magazine is overfilled and is cleared by removing one round
- Double feeding only occurs with dirty ammunition and is prevented by keeping rounds clean
- A double feed means two bullets are fused together and must be cleared by a gunsmith
- A double feed occurs when a new round tries to chamber while a spent case is still in the chamber and is cleared by removing the magazine, cycling the action repeatedly, and reloading (Correct answer)
Correct answer: A double feed occurs when a new round tries to chamber while a spent case is still in the chamber and is cleared by removing the magazine, cycling the action repeatedly, and reloading
A double feed malfunction occurs when a new cartridge tries to enter a chamber already occupied by a spent case. It is cleared by removing the magazine and cycling the action multiple times to extract both rounds.
Question 23: How should a responsible gun owner handle surplus or unwanted ammunition in Canada?
- Burn it in a fireplace or outdoor fire
- Flush it down the toilet
- Bury it in the backyard
- Take it to a licensed firearms dealer or police station for safe disposal (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Take it to a licensed firearms dealer or police station for safe disposal
Surplus or unwanted ammunition should be taken to a licensed firearms dealer or local police station. Improper disposal is dangerous and may be illegal.
Question 24: What is the maximum magazine capacity for a centrefire semi-automatic rifle in Canada?
- 30 rounds
- 15 rounds
- 10 rounds
- 5 rounds (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 5 rounds
Under the Criminal Code of Canada, centrefire semi-automatic rifles are restricted to magazines with a maximum capacity of 5 cartridges. Higher-capacity magazines are prohibited devices.
Question 25: How long should you wait before opening the action after a suspected hangfire?
- 5 seconds
- 30 seconds
- 15 seconds
- At least 60 seconds or as directed by the manufacturer (Correct answer)
Correct answer: At least 60 seconds or as directed by the manufacturer
You should wait at least 60 seconds (or per manufacturer guidelines) before opening the action, as the delayed ignition could still occur during this period.
Question 26: Why is it important to keep the finger outside the trigger guard during the entire loading process?
- Even with the safety engaged, mechanical failures can occur, and a finger on the trigger during loading can cause a negligent discharge (Correct answer)
- Keeping the finger outside the trigger guard is only required for restricted firearms
- It is a courtesy rule, not a safety rule
- It is required only during the unloading process, not loading
Correct answer: Even with the safety engaged, mechanical failures can occur, and a finger on the trigger during loading can cause a negligent discharge
Keeping the finger off the trigger during loading prevents negligent discharges caused by startling, tripping, or mechanical safety failure. The trigger should only be touched when ready to fire.
Question 27: What is the correct immediate action after experiencing a suspected misfire?
- Keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction, wait 30–60 seconds, then safely remove the cartridge (Correct answer)
- Strike the back of the bolt to force ignition of the primer
- Immediately open the action and remove the cartridge
- Re-cock the firearm and attempt to fire again right away
Correct answer: Keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction, wait 30–60 seconds, then safely remove the cartridge
The firearm must remain pointed in a safe direction for 30–60 seconds in case the round is actually a hangfire, then the cartridge can be safely removed.
Question 28: What type of storage container is best for ammunition?
- A cardboard box.
- A metal container with holes for ventilation.
- A plastic bag.
- A waterproof and fireproof container. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: A waterproof and fireproof container.
The best storage containers for ammunition offer protection against environmental hazards that can compromise its components. A waterproof container prevents moisture damage, which can ruin primers and powder, while a fireproof container offers crucial protection against accidental ignition in the event of a fire. This comprehensive protection ensures the ammunition remains stable, safe, and effective for its intended use.
Question 29: What should you do if you notice a cartridge with a dented or deformed case before loading?
- Discard it — never use damaged or deformed ammunition (Correct answer)
- Remove the bullet and dispose of the powder safely at home
- Fire it quickly to clear it from your supply
- Return it to the box and use it at a later date
Correct answer: Discard it — never use damaged or deformed ammunition
Damaged or deformed ammunition should never be used, as it can cause dangerous malfunctions, hang-fires, or unpredictable pressure spikes.
Question 30: What is required to legally transport a firearm in Canada?
- There are no regulations for transporting firearms.
- The firearm must be in a carrying case.
- The firearm must be unloaded, and the individual must have a valid firearms license. (Correct answer)
- The firearm can be loaded.
Correct answer: The firearm must be unloaded, and the individual must have a valid firearms license.
Canadian law mandates strict regulations for transporting firearms to ensure public safety. For most firearms, they must be unloaded to prevent accidental discharge, and the individual transporting them must possess a valid Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL). Depending on the firearm's classification, additional secure storage requirements, such as being in a locked case, also apply.
Question 31: The sling carry is also known as the cradle carry.
- False (Correct answer)
- True
Correct answer: False
Explanation: <br> The sling carry and the cradle carry are two different methods of carrying a firearm. The sling carry involves using a sling to carry the firearm over the shoulder, while the cradle carry involves cradling the firearm in the arms or hands. It's important to differentiate between the two for proper firearm handling and safety.
Question 32: When a firearm is left unattended in a vehicle during transportation, what storage requirement applies?
- Up to 24 hours is permitted with no additional measures beyond a locked vehicle
- Up to 4 hours is permitted if the firearm is in the back seat
- There is no time limit as long as the vehicle's doors are locked
- The firearm must be stored in a locked container within the vehicle, such as a locked trunk (Correct answer)
Correct answer: The firearm must be stored in a locked container within the vehicle, such as a locked trunk
When left unattended in a vehicle, a firearm must be secured in a locked container — a locked vehicle alone does not satisfy the storage requirement.
Question 33: Which of the following steps apply when accepting a firearm from another person?
- All of the above (Correct answer)
- Ensure the action is open and visually check the chamber and magazine before touching the firearm.
- Grasp the firearm in both hands keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.
- Thank the other person and let them know you have control of the firearm and then PROVE the firearm is safe.
Correct answer: All of the above
When accepting a firearm, safety is paramount, and all listed steps are crucial to ensure it is handled safely. Ensuring the action is open and visually checking the chamber and magazine confirms the firearm is unloaded. Grasping it with both hands and keeping the muzzle pointed safely maintains control, and verbally confirming control before PROVING it safe ensures everyone is aware of the firearm's status.
Question 34: If a person is bleeding from a gunshot wound, what should be done first?
- Remove any embedded objects.
- Elevate the injured limb.
- Leave the wound exposed to air.
- Apply direct pressure to the wound. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Apply direct pressure to the wound.
For severe bleeding, especially from a gunshot wound, applying direct pressure to the wound is the most immediate and effective first aid measure. This helps to control blood loss, promote clotting, and reduce the risk of shock, buying critical time until professional medical help can arrive.
Question 35: What is the correct precautionary action when picking up a firearm that was left by another person?
- Only check if you did not personally observe the previous person handling it
- Accept the previous person's assurance that it is unloaded and proceed
- Always perform the complete PROVE procedure as if the firearm is loaded, regardless of what the previous person said about its status (Correct answer)
- Look at the safety indicator since if it shows safe no further check is needed
Correct answer: Always perform the complete PROVE procedure as if the firearm is loaded, regardless of what the previous person said about its status
Always perform PROVE when picking up any firearm from any person, regardless of their assurances. Human error means stated status cannot be trusted without personal verification.
Question 36: Which of the following is a key safety practice for the physical storage of ammunition at home?
- Keep it in a warm, humid environment to prevent the powder from drying out.
- Store it in direct sunlight to keep it dry.
- Store it in a cool, dry place away from flammable materials. (Correct answer)
- Mix different types and calibers of ammunition in the same container for space efficiency.
Correct answer: Store it in a cool, dry place away from flammable materials.
Ammunition should be stored in a cool, dry location. This helps to prevent corrosion and the breakdown of components, which could lead to malfunctions. It should also be kept away from flammable substances for safety.
Question 37: Why is it important to check the expiry date of ammunition?
- To ensure the ammunition is new.
- To check the color of the casing.
- To ensure the ammunition is safe and effective to use. (Correct answer)
- Ammunition does not have expiry dates.
Correct answer: To ensure the ammunition is safe and effective to use.
While ammunition does not have a strict 'expiry date' like perishable goods, its components can degrade over time due to environmental factors or chemical instability. Checking for signs of age or degradation helps ensure the ammunition will perform reliably and safely. This prevents potential issues like misfires, hangfires, or dangerous over-pressures that could harm the firearm or shooter.
Question 38: What competitive shooting discipline involves shooting clay targets launched from a trap house at varying angles?
- Long-range precision rifle competition
- Trap shooting (Correct answer)
- Benchrest shooting
- Practical pistol shooting
Correct answer: Trap shooting
Trap shooting involves shooting at clay pigeons launched away from the shooter at varying angles from a single trap house. It is a popular shotgun sport in Canada.
Question 39: What is the penalty for unsafe storage of a firearm under the Canadian Criminal Code?
- A summary conviction or indictable offence depending on circumstances, with potential imprisonment of up to two years (Correct answer)
- Loss of hunting licence for one season
- A formal warning for a first offence with no legal consequences
- A fine of $50 administered by the Chief Firearms Officer only
Correct answer: A summary conviction or indictable offence depending on circumstances, with potential imprisonment of up to two years
Unsafe storage of a firearm is a criminal offence in Canada. Depending on the circumstances, it can be prosecuted as a summary conviction or indictable offence with penalties including imprisonment.
Question 40: What is the consequence of transporting a restricted firearm without a valid ATT?
- A criminal offense and potential loss of PAL (Correct answer)
- A $50 administrative fine
- A mandatory firearms safety course
- Temporary suspension of shooting range privileges
Correct answer: A criminal offense and potential loss of PAL
Transporting a restricted firearm without a valid ATT is a criminal offense that can result in loss of the PAL.
Question 41: During a ceasefire called at a Canadian shooting range, what must all shooters do with their firearms?
- Engage the safety and hold the firearm in a ready position
- Cover the firearm and step away from the firing line
- Only the range officer needs to check firearms while other shooters may continue preparing rounds
- Immediately unload completely, open the action, and lay the firearm on the bench with the action open and muzzle pointed down range (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Immediately unload completely, open the action, and lay the firearm on the bench with the action open and muzzle pointed down range
During a ceasefire, all firearms must be completely unloaded with actions open and laid on the bench pointing downrange. No handling of firearms is permitted until the range officer calls the range hot again.
Question 42: Why should a shooter never rely solely on a mechanical safety to prevent accidental discharge?
- The safety is the most reliable safety mechanism while the human operator is the least reliable component
- Mechanical safeties are unreliable only on older firearms since modern firearms have perfect safeties
- Safeties are legally sufficient in Canada so no additional handling precautions are required if the safety is on
- Mechanical safeties can fail, wear out, or be inadvertently disengaged, so only consistent safe-handling habits provide reliable protection (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Mechanical safeties can fail, wear out, or be inadvertently disengaged, so only consistent safe-handling habits provide reliable protection
Mechanical safeties are supplementary devices that can fail through wear, damage, or accidental disengagement. Consistent safe-handling habits are the primary safety mechanism.
Question 43: Ammunition head stamps are always found on rifle and handgun cartridges and shotshell cartridge heads.
- True
- False (Correct answer)
Correct answer: False
Explanation: <br> A head stamp is the markings on the bottom of a cartridge case designed for a firearm. It usually tells who manufactured the case. If it is a civilian case it often also tells the caliber: if it is military, the year of manufacture is often added.
Question 44: Which of the following is true about prohibited firearms?
- They are only used by military forces.
- They include fully automatic firearms and certain handguns. (Correct answer)
- They are legal for use by civilians.
- They are allowed for hunting.
Correct answer: They include fully automatic firearms and certain handguns.
Prohibited firearms in Canada are those that are generally banned for civilian use due to their inherent design or specific characteristics. This category includes fully automatic firearms, which can fire continuously with a single trigger pull, and certain handguns with very short barrels (105mm or less). Possession of these firearms is highly restricted and typically only allowed under very specific, rare circumstances.
Question 45: How should a semi-automatic pistol be unloaded safely?
- Simply remove the magazine since the chamber will clear automatically
- Pull the trigger to fire the last round, then remove the magazine
- Remove the barrel, then shake out the chambered round
- Remove the magazine first, then rack the slide to eject the chambered round, lock the slide back, and visually verify the chamber is empty (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Remove the magazine first, then rack the slide to eject the chambered round, lock the slide back, and visually verify the chamber is empty
For a semi-automatic pistol: remove the magazine to eliminate the ammunition source, rack the slide to eject the chambered round, lock the slide open, and visually confirm the chamber is empty.
Question 46: What is dry fire practice and is it safe for all firearms?
- Practicing trigger pull and sight alignment without live ammunition, which is safe for most centrefire firearms but can damage the firing pin of some rimfire firearms (Correct answer)
- Cleaning a firearm without solvents, which is always safe
- A practice never recommended for any firearm and prohibited at Canadian ranges
- Firing blank cartridges for practice, which is safe for all firearms
Correct answer: Practicing trigger pull and sight alignment without live ammunition, which is safe for most centrefire firearms but can damage the firing pin of some rimfire firearms
Dry fire is trigger practice with no ammunition and is safe for most centrefire firearms. Rimfire firearms can suffer firing pin damage from dry fire because the pin strikes the chamber edge with no cartridge to cushion it.
Question 47: What is the purpose of the background check conducted during a PAL application in Canada?
- To screen applicants for criminal records, domestic violence history, mental health concerns, and other factors that indicate a public safety risk (Correct answer)
- To confirm the applicant has passed the CFSC written examination only
- To determine whether the applicant's neighbours object to them owning firearms
- To verify that the applicant can afford safe storage equipment
Correct answer: To screen applicants for criminal records, domestic violence history, mental health concerns, and other factors that indicate a public safety risk
The PAL background check screens for disqualifying factors including criminal history, domestic violence, mental health history, and other safety-relevant concerns.
Question 48: What is commonly called a 'stovepipe' malfunction?
- A round that fails to fully chamber and protrudes from the action
- A fired case that is partially extracted but caught vertically in the ejection port (Correct answer)
- A round that fires before the action is fully closed
- A broken extractor claw that allows the case to spin in the chamber
Correct answer: A fired case that is partially extracted but caught vertically in the ejection port
A stovepipe occurs when a spent case is partially extracted but not fully cleared, becoming caught upright in the ejection port — resembling a stovepipe.
Question 49: Using a firearm’s safety guarantees that a firearm will never accidentally fire
- False (Correct answer)
- True
Correct answer: False
Explanation: <br> Safety is a mechanical device and any mechanical device can fail. Use them, but never depend on them.
Question 50: What is a 'failure to feed' malfunction?
- When a cartridge fails to load properly from the magazine into the chamber (Correct answer)
- When the trigger fails to reset between shots
- When the bolt fails to lock fully into battery after chambering
- When a spent cartridge case fails to eject from the chamber
Correct answer: When a cartridge fails to load properly from the magazine into the chamber
A failure to feed occurs when a cartridge does not successfully travel from the magazine and seat into the chamber during the loading cycle.
Canadian Firearms Safety Course (CFSC) Exam
This exam certifies an individual's knowledge and practical skills required to safely handle and store non-restricted firearms in Canada, a prerequisite for obtaining a Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL).
Exam Rules
- You can skip questions and return to them later
- Flag questions for review before submitting
- No feedback shown until you submit the entire exam
- Unanswered questions count as wrong — answer everything
- 10 pretest questions are mixed in and don't affect your score
- Timer auto-submits when time runs out
- Your progress is auto-saved every 30 seconds