CRFSC — Canadian Restricted and Non-Restricted Firearm Safety Course Exam — Questions and Answers

Question 1: Which of the following is a valid 'approved purpose' under the Firearms Act that allows a restricted firearm to be used?

Using it for home defence in rural areas
Carrying it in a vehicle for wildlife defence
Target shooting at an approved range and collecting (Correct answer)
Keeping it for general personal protection while hiking

Correct answer: Target shooting at an approved range and collecting

The Firearms Act lists target shooting at approved ranges and collecting as the lawful purposes for which a person may possess a restricted firearm.

Question 2: A hunter plans to leave their non-restricted rifle in an unattended vehicle while they go into a store. What is the legal requirement for storing the ammunition in this scenario?

The ammunition can be left on the front seat as long as it's out of sight.
The ammunition and the firearm must both be secured, for example, by locking them in the trunk or an out-of-sight locked compartment. (Correct answer)
The ammunition does not need to be locked as long as it is stored separately from the firearm.
The ammunition must be locked in the glove compartment.

Correct answer: The ammunition and the firearm must both be secured, for example, by locking them in the trunk or an out-of-sight locked compartment.

When a non-restricted firearm is left in an unattended vehicle, both the firearm and the ammunition must be secured. This typically means locking the firearm (which must be unloaded) and the ammunition in the trunk or a similar lockable compartment, or placing them out of sight within a locked vehicle.

Question 3: What is the recommended storage arrangement if a household includes both children and firearms?

Teach children not to touch firearms and leave them accessible but unloaded
Keep firearms in a biometric safe so only adults can access them quickly
Store firearms in a high location that children cannot reach without a ladder
Store firearms locked and unloaded, with ammunition locked separately and out of children's reach (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Store firearms locked and unloaded, with ammunition locked separately and out of children's reach

Canadian safe storage regulations require firearms to be locked and unloaded, and best practice separates ammunition in a locked location inaccessible to children.

Question 4: What must a restricted firearm owner do when they acquire a new restricted firearm in Canada?

Store it for 30 days before use
Notify their provincial firearms office within 30 days
Register the firearm with the RCMP within a reasonable period after transfer (Correct answer)
Notify local police immediately by phone

Correct answer: Register the firearm with the RCMP within a reasonable period after transfer

New restricted firearm acquisitions must be registered through the Canadian Firearms Program to comply with the Firearms Act.

Question 5: What is the recommended grip pressure when holding a handgun for accurate shooting?

Grip as tightly as possible to control recoil
Grip tightly with the dominant hand, loosely with the support hand
Hold loosely so the gun can recoil naturally
Use a firm, consistent grip — often described as squeezing an orange or crushing a soda can (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Use a firm, consistent grip — often described as squeezing an orange or crushing a soda can

A consistent, firm grip (roughly 60-70% maximum pressure) controls recoil while avoiding tension that disrupts trigger control.

Question 6: What is a 'stovepipe' malfunction?

A primer that ignites but fails to ignite the main powder charge
A spent cartridge case caught partially ejected and standing upright in the ejection port (Correct answer)
A double feed where two rounds attempt to enter the chamber simultaneously
A barrel obstruction caused by a lodged bullet from a squib load

Correct answer: A spent cartridge case caught partially ejected and standing upright in the ejection port

A stovepipe occurs when a spent case is not fully ejected and stands upright in the ejection port, resembling a stovepipe chimney.

Question 7: Which of the following is NOT a component of the ACTS safe-handling rules?

Control the muzzle direction
Assume every firearm is loaded
Test the trigger pull before shooting (Correct answer)
See your target and what is beyond it

Correct answer: Test the trigger pull before shooting

ACTS stands for Assume loaded, Control muzzle, Trigger finger off trigger until ready, See your target — testing trigger pull is not part of ACTS.

Question 8: For maximum accuracy with a rifle, the shot should be fired during which phase of the breathing cycle?

C) At the moment of maximum exhalation.
A) While holding a deep breath after full inhalation.
D) During the natural respiratory pause after exhaling. (Correct answer)
B) During the process of slowly inhaling.

Correct answer: D) During the natural respiratory pause after exhaling.

The natural respiratory pause is the point at the bottom of the exhale when the body is most still and relaxed, minimizing movement and providing the most stable platform for an accurate shot.

Question 9: What is the penalty category for possessing a restricted firearm without a valid RPAL in Canada?

A minor provincial infraction with a fine only
An administrative warning with no criminal record
A criminal offence under the Criminal Code of Canada (Correct answer)
A civil liability matter only

Correct answer: A criminal offence under the Criminal Code of Canada

Possessing a restricted firearm without a valid RPAL is a criminal offence that can result in imprisonment under the Criminal Code.

Question 10: What does the term 'action' refer to when describing a firearm?

The trigger pull weight required to fire the firearm
The mechanical assembly that loads, fires, extracts, and ejects cartridges (Correct answer)
The legal classification of the firearm under the Criminal Code
The speed at which the firearm cycles between shots

Correct answer: The mechanical assembly that loads, fires, extracts, and ejects cartridges

The action is the complete mechanical system — including the bolt, trigger group, extractor, and ejector — that performs the cycle of operations: feed, chamber, lock, fire, unlock, extract, and eject.

Question 11: What does the term 'continuous eligibility' mean in the context of Canadian firearm licences?

Eligibility is assessed only when the licence is renewed every five years
Continuous eligibility applies only to restricted firearm holders
A licence holder must remain eligible under the law at all times, not just at the time of issuance (Correct answer)
A licence holder must renew every year to remain eligible

Correct answer: A licence holder must remain eligible under the law at all times, not just at the time of issuance

Continuous eligibility means a PAL holder must meet all legal requirements throughout the entire period they hold the licence, not just when it was granted.

Question 12: What government body issues the PAL and RPAL in Canada?

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) (Correct answer)
Transport Canada
The Canadian Firearms Advisory Committee
Provincial police services

Correct answer: The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)

The RCMP administers the Canadian Firearms Program, including the issuance of all Possession and Acquisition Licences.

Question 13: A handgun is classified as a 'prohibited' firearm in Canada if its barrel length is equal to or less than:

105 mm (Correct answer)
470 mm
115 mm
120 mm

Correct answer: 105 mm

The Criminal Code of Canada defines a handgun as prohibited if its barrel is 105 mm or less in length. This is a key distinction between restricted and prohibited handguns based on barrel size.

Question 14: What risk does an improper grip present when firing a semi-automatic pistol?

It increases the chance of a barrel obstruction
It accelerates carbon buildup on the slide
It reduces accuracy but poses no safety risk
It can cause 'limp-wristing,' leading to failures to cycle and potential malfunctions (Correct answer)

Correct answer: It can cause 'limp-wristing,' leading to failures to cycle and potential malfunctions

A weak or limp-wrist grip fails to provide the resistance needed for the slide to cycle fully, causing stovepipes or failures to feed that can require unsafe immediate action.

Question 15: When displaying a non-restricted firearm in a home, what is a key requirement according to the regulations?

The firearm must be unloaded and rendered inoperable with a secure locking device. (Correct answer)
Ammunition can be displayed next to the firearm if it is a different caliber.
The firearm can be loaded as long as it is behind locked glass.
The display case must be made of steel and bolted to the wall.

Correct answer: The firearm must be unloaded and rendered inoperable with a secure locking device.

For display, a non-restricted firearm must be unloaded and rendered inoperable by a secure locking device (like a trigger lock) OR be in a container, receptacle, or room that is kept securely locked. Ammunition must not be readily accessible to it.

Question 16: Which carry method allows the fastest muzzle control over a wide arc and is recommended when walking with others?

Trail carry — firearm in one hand at the side, muzzle down
Port carry — firearm held diagonally across the chest (Correct answer)
Two-hand carry with the muzzle pointed skyward at all times
Sling carry with the muzzle pointed rearward

Correct answer: Port carry — firearm held diagonally across the chest

The port (or ready) carry keeps the firearm across the body with both hands, allowing rapid muzzle redirection while pointing in a generally safe direction.

Question 17: Which shotgun shell designation indicates the largest individual pellet size among standard birdshot loads?

#7.5 shot
#9 shot
#2 shot (Correct answer)
#4 shot

Correct answer: #2 shot

In standard birdshot numbering, lower numbers indicate larger pellets; #2 shot has larger pellets than #4, #7.5, or #9.

Question 18: What is the primary safety goal behind Canada's non-restricted firearm storage regulations?

To reduce firearm cleaning incidents by limiting access
To prevent unauthorized access and accidental discharge by keeping firearms unloaded and secured (Correct answer)
To ensure the government can track firearm locations at all times
To standardize firearm equipment across all provinces

Correct answer: To prevent unauthorized access and accidental discharge by keeping firearms unloaded and secured

The core purpose of safe storage regulations is to reduce theft, unauthorized access (especially by children), and accidental discharges by requiring firearms to be unloaded and appropriately secured.

Question 19: What condition can result from storing a firearm without cleaning it after use in wet conditions?

Better trigger feel
Rust and corrosion on metal components (Correct answer)
Increased accuracy
Stronger springs

Correct answer: Rust and corrosion on metal components

Moisture left on metal surfaces after exposure to wet conditions promotes oxidation, causing rust and corrosion.

Question 20: What precaution best protects a shooter if a hangfire occurs?

Pulling the trigger a second time to initiate ignition of the delayed round
Keeping the firearm pointed in a safe direction for at least 30 seconds before opening the action (Correct answer)
Removing the magazine immediately upon noticing the firing delay
Opening the action as quickly as possible to extract the cartridge

Correct answer: Keeping the firearm pointed in a safe direction for at least 30 seconds before opening the action

By keeping the firearm pointed in a safe direction for at least 30 seconds, any delayed ignition from a hangfire will discharge harmlessly in a safe direction.

Question 21: What action should you take if your firearm falls into water or mud?

Fire a round to clear any obstruction
Unload it immediately and thoroughly inspect and clean the barrel before use (Correct answer)
Engage the safety and continue using it cautiously
Dry the exterior and continue using it

Correct answer: Unload it immediately and thoroughly inspect and clean the barrel before use

After a firearm contacts water or mud, unload it and inspect the barrel for obstructions before firing again to prevent a dangerous barrel obstruction.

Question 22: On a bolt-action rifle, what is the primary purpose of the locking lugs?

To cock the firing pin as the bolt is closed
To guide the bolt into the receiver during cycling
To eject the spent cartridge case after firing
To secure the bolt to the barrel during firing, containing chamber pressure (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To secure the bolt to the barrel during firing, containing chamber pressure

Locking lugs are projections on the bolt head that rotate into matching recesses in the receiver, securing the bolt and safely containing the high pressures generated when a round fires.

Question 23: A handgun registered in Canada is reported stolen. What must the owner do?

Report the theft to police and to the Registrar of Firearms as soon as possible (Correct answer)
Wait to see if it is recovered before reporting
Report only to the local police; no firearms registry notification is required
Only report to the RCMP Canadian Firearms Program

Correct answer: Report the theft to police and to the Registrar of Firearms as soon as possible

The law requires an owner to report the loss or theft of a registered restricted firearm to both police and the Registrar of Firearms promptly.

Question 24: If a vehicle has no trunk (e.g., an SUV or hatchback), where should a restricted firearm be transported?

In the back seat in a locked case
Under the driver's seat in a locked case
In the glove compartment if it has a lock
In a locked container in the rearmost area, out of reach (Correct answer)

Correct answer: In a locked container in the rearmost area, out of reach

In vehicles without a trunk, the firearm must be in a locked container in the rearmost area, inaccessible to occupants.

Question 25: What is the minimum age to obtain a Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL) for non-restricted firearms in Canada?

16
14
18 (Correct answer)
21

Correct answer: 18

Applicants must be at least 18 years old to obtain a PAL for non-restricted or restricted firearms.

Question 26: What colour of safe-action indicator is universally used on Canadian firearms courses to show a firearm has been visually and physically verified as unloaded?

There is no colour standard — verbal confirmation is used
Red
Yellow
There is no single standard, but many ranges use a bright plastic chamber flag (Correct answer)

Correct answer: There is no single standard, but many ranges use a bright plastic chamber flag

Many ranges and courses use a brightly coloured chamber flag or empty-chamber indicator to visually show a firearm is unloaded, though there is no single national colour standard.

Question 27: An owner with a restricted firearm arrives at their destination shooting range but it is closed. They should:

Transport the firearm to a gunsmith for safekeeping
Leave the firearm in their locked car in the range parking lot and wait
Return home with the firearm, which is permitted under the original ATT (Correct answer)
Transport the firearm to a nearby open range if it is on the ATT

Correct answer: Return home with the firearm, which is permitted under the original ATT

Returning home with the firearm is permitted under the original ATT when the destination is closed.

Question 28: When shooting a semi-automatic pistol, what is the correct trigger control technique to minimize muzzle movement?

Pull the trigger in a quick, jerking motion
Slap the trigger quickly to avoid anticipating recoil
Apply smooth, steady rearward pressure on the trigger (Correct answer)
Use only the very tip of the trigger finger

Correct answer: Apply smooth, steady rearward pressure on the trigger

Smooth, steady rearward pressure on the trigger prevents disturbing the sight alignment and reduces muzzle movement during the shot.

Question 29: When is it appropriate to put your finger on the trigger of a firearm?

Whenever the firearm is pointed downrange
As soon as you pick up the firearm and have a grip
Only after the range officer gives the command to fire
Only when you have identified your target and are ready to fire (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Only when you have identified your target and are ready to fire

The finger must stay off the trigger and outside the trigger guard until the target is identified, the shooter is ready to fire, and the decision to shoot has been made.

Question 30: Which of the following accurately describes how a magazine must be transported with a restricted firearm?

Inserted in the firearm but unloaded
Empty and stored separately from the firearm (Correct answer)
Loaded and stored separately from the firearm
Attached to the firearm inside the locked container

Correct answer: Empty and stored separately from the firearm

Magazines must be empty and stored separately from the firearm during transport.

Question 31: Under Canadian firearms law, what is the consequence of failing to safely store a firearm?

Criminal charges under the Firearms Act or Criminal Code (Correct answer)
A fine of up to $500 for a first offence
A written warning issued by the RCMP
Mandatory firearm safety re-training only

Correct answer: Criminal charges under the Firearms Act or Criminal Code

Failure to comply with safe storage regulations can result in criminal charges and penalties under the Firearms Act or the Criminal Code of Canada.

Question 32: On a semi-automatic pistol, what component holds the firing pin (or striker) under spring tension until released by the trigger?

The sear (Correct answer)
The slide stop
The backstrap
The disconnector

Correct answer: The sear

The sear engages a notch on the hammer or striker and holds it cocked under spring tension until the trigger pull causes the sear to release it.

Question 33: A right-handed shooter at the range notices their shots on a paper target are consistently grouped low and to the left. Assuming the firearm's sights are accurate, what is the most probable cause of this issue?

C) Applying too much pressure with the support hand.
D) Poor breathing control during the shot.
A) Focusing on the target instead of the front sight.
B) Jerking the trigger or anticipating the recoil. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: B) Jerking the trigger or anticipating the recoil.

For a right-handed shooter, jerking the trigger or anticipating the firearm's recoil often causes the hand to tighten and push the muzzle down and to the left at the moment of firing, resulting in shots impacting in that quadrant of the target.

Question 34: Which of the following represents a key ETHICAL (not strictly legal) responsibility for a firearms owner?

Avoiding any discussion or display of your firearms that could invite theft or cause alarm to others. (Correct answer)
Storing non-restricted firearms with a trigger lock.
Transporting a restricted firearm in a locked, opaque case.
Renewing your Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL) on time.

Correct answer: Avoiding any discussion or display of your firearms that could invite theft or cause alarm to others.

While storage, licensing, and transport are legal requirements, a key ethical responsibility is exercising discretion. Advertising that you have firearms can make your home a target for theft. Being considerate of how non-firearm owners perceive firearms is part of being a responsible member of the community.

Question 35: A person inherits a restricted handgun from a deceased relative. What must happen before they can legally keep it?

They must register it under their own name within 30 days
They may keep it permanently as an inheritance with no further steps
They must immediately surrender it to police
They have 180 days to obtain a PAL with restricted privileges or transfer it to a licenced individual (Correct answer)

Correct answer: They have 180 days to obtain a PAL with restricted privileges or transfer it to a licenced individual

An heir who is not licenced has 180 days to obtain a restricted PAL or transfer the firearm to avoid an offence.

Question 36: Under Canadian law, which of the following semi-automatic rifles is classified as restricted?

A semi-automatic shotgun with a folding stock
A semi-automatic .22 rifle with a 20-inch barrel
Any semi-automatic rifle manufactured after 1990
A semi-automatic centre-fire rifle with a barrel shorter than 470 mm and capable of accepting a pistol grip (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A semi-automatic centre-fire rifle with a barrel shorter than 470 mm and capable of accepting a pistol grip

A semi-automatic centre-fire rifle with a barrel under 470 mm that can accept a pistol-grip is classified as restricted under the Criminal Code.

Question 37: What obligation does a firearm owner have if their firearm is lost or stolen?

Report it to local police within 30 days
Report it only if it is a restricted or prohibited firearm
Report it to the police and the Registrar of Firearms as soon as possible (Correct answer)
File an insurance claim within 14 days

Correct answer: Report it to the police and the Registrar of Firearms as soon as possible

Under the Firearms Act, the loss or theft of any firearm must be reported to both the police and the Registrar of Firearms promptly.

Question 38: What distinguishes a 'selective-fire' action from a standard semi-automatic action?

It lets the shooter choose between two different calibers
It enables single-action or double-action trigger modes
It allows the shooter to select which barrel fires on a double-gun
It can switch between semi-automatic and fully automatic fire (Correct answer)

Correct answer: It can switch between semi-automatic and fully automatic fire

Selective-fire firearms can be switched between firing modes — typically semi-automatic and fully automatic — and are tightly restricted in Canada under the Firearms Act.

Question 39: Why should you never look down the barrel of a firearm to check if it is loaded?

It can scratch the bore's rifling and affect accuracy
If the firearm discharges, the shooter would be directly in the path of the bullet (Correct answer)
It is only safe to do if the bolt is removed first
The barrel is too dark to see anything useful

Correct answer: If the firearm discharges, the shooter would be directly in the path of the bullet

Looking down the barrel exposes your face directly to the muzzle; any unintended discharge would cause fatal injury.

Question 40: To which destination can an ATT commonly authorize the transport of a restricted firearm?

Any public park or recreational area
A hunting area with a valid licence
A friend's private property
An approved shooting range (Correct answer)

Correct answer: An approved shooting range

ATTs commonly authorize transport to approved shooting ranges, gunsmiths, and border crossings for export.

Question 41: Under Canadian law, which of the following is a prohibited firearm?

A shotgun with an 18-inch barrel
A semi-automatic rifle converted to full-automatic (Correct answer)
A handgun with a barrel length of 105 mm
A lever-action rifle with a 10-round magazine

Correct answer: A semi-automatic rifle converted to full-automatic

Any firearm that has been converted to fire automatically (full-auto) is classified as prohibited regardless of its original classification.

Question 42: Where should your trigger finger be positioned when you are not actively shooting?

Along the frame outside the trigger guard (Correct answer)
Wrapped around the grip below the trigger guard
On the trigger guard itself
Resting lightly on the trigger inside the guard

Correct answer: Along the frame outside the trigger guard

The trigger finger must be kept straight along the frame outside the trigger guard until you are ready to fire.

Question 43: If a PAL holder moves to a new address, what must they do?

Notify the Canadian Firearms Program of the address change (Correct answer)
Apply for a brand-new licence
Surrender all firearms temporarily
Rewrite the CRFSC exam

Correct answer: Notify the Canadian Firearms Program of the address change

Licence holders are legally required to inform the Canadian Firearms Program of address changes to keep records accurate.

Question 44: You pick up an unfamiliar firearm. What is the FIRST action you should take?

Check whether it is loaded by opening the action (Correct answer)
Look down the barrel to check for obstructions
Verify the serial number against registration documents
Dry-fire it to assess the trigger pull

Correct answer: Check whether it is loaded by opening the action

The first action with any firearm is to treat it as loaded and immediately verify its status by opening the action and visually and physically checking for ammunition.

Question 45: A new licence applicant is refused a PAL by the Chief Firearms Officer. What recourse is available?

They may appeal only to the federal Minister of Public Safety
They may appeal the refusal to a provincial court judge (Correct answer)
There is no appeal process; the CFO's decision is final
They must wait five years before reapplying

Correct answer: They may appeal the refusal to a provincial court judge

Under the Firearms Act, a person refused a licence may appeal the CFO's decision to a provincial court judge.

Question 46: Which solvent is commonly recommended for removing carbon fouling from a firearm barrel?

Rubbing alcohol
Motor oil
Water and dish soap
Bore solvent or gun cleaner (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Bore solvent or gun cleaner

Bore solvent is specifically formulated to dissolve carbon and copper fouling from the barrel's interior.

Question 47: In Canada, what does 'accessible ammunition' mean in the context of non-restricted firearm storage?

Ammunition that can be reached without a key or combination by the same person who can reach the firearm (Correct answer)
Loaded magazines that are detached from the firearm
Any ammunition within 10 metres of the firearm
Ammunition stored anywhere in the same building

Correct answer: Ammunition that can be reached without a key or combination by the same person who can reach the firearm

Ammunition is considered accessible if it can be obtained by the same person without needing a separate key or combination from the firearm's location.

Question 48: A Canadian resident wants to take their restricted handgun to a shooting competition in the United States. What is the first step?

Simply declare the firearm at the border with the Canadian registration certificate
Obtain an Authorization to Transport AND comply with U.S. import requirements including ATF Form 6NIA (Correct answer)
Apply for a temporary export permit from the RCMP
Contact U.S. Customs and Border Protection only

Correct answer: Obtain an Authorization to Transport AND comply with U.S. import requirements including ATF Form 6NIA

Exporting a restricted firearm from Canada requires an ATT for the Canadian side, and the U.S. requires a completed ATF Form 6NIA for temporary importation by a non-resident.

Question 49: What is the maximum magazine capacity allowed for a semi-automatic centrefire rifle in Canada?

15 rounds
10 rounds
No limit if the firearm is non-restricted
5 rounds (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 5 rounds

Canadian law limits semi-automatic centrefire rifles to a maximum magazine capacity of 5 rounds.

Question 50: What background check element can result in a PAL application being denied?

Being self-employed
A history of violent behaviour, restraining orders, or certain criminal convictions (Correct answer)
Having a driver's licence suspension
Having unpaid parking tickets

Correct answer: A history of violent behaviour, restraining orders, or certain criminal convictions

Under the Firearms Act, a history of violent behaviour, court orders, or criminal convictions for certain offences can disqualify an applicant.

Question 51: When transporting a restricted handgun, the firearm must be:

Unloaded and in a locked container (Correct answer)
Loaded but with the safety on
Loaded and in a locked safe
Unloaded and in a soft case

Correct answer: Unloaded and in a locked container

Restricted firearms must be unloaded and secured in a locked container during transport.

Question 52: On a revolver, what is the purpose of the hand (also called the pawl)?

It holds the cylinder closed against the barrel forcing cone
It locks the cylinder in alignment with the barrel when the hammer falls
It rotates the cylinder one position each time the hammer is cocked or the trigger is pulled (Correct answer)
It extracts spent cases when the ejector rod is pressed

Correct answer: It rotates the cylinder one position each time the hammer is cocked or the trigger is pulled

The hand is a small lever attached to the hammer or trigger that engages the cylinder ratchet and advances the cylinder one chamber per trigger or hammer cycle.

CRFSC — Canadian Restricted and Non-Restricted Firearm Safety Course Exam

The CRFSC combined written exam tests knowledge of firearm safety rules, handling, storage, transportation regulations, ammunition, and Canadian firearms law for both non-restricted and restricted firearms.

Questions

150 min

Time Limit

80%

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