Canadian Firearms Safety Course (CFSC) Exam — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the recommended way to carry a firearm across open terrain when no other hunters are nearby?
- Trail carry or sling carry with the muzzle pointed forward and downward, safety engaged, and full awareness of muzzle direction maintained (Correct answer)
- Resting on the shoulder with the muzzle pointing upward toward aircraft
- One-handed carry by the pistol grip with the muzzle pointing skyward at all times
- Cradled in both arms with the muzzle pointing directly behind the hunter
Correct answer: Trail carry or sling carry with the muzzle pointed forward and downward, safety engaged, and full awareness of muzzle direction maintained
A trail carry or sling carry with the muzzle pointed safely downward and the safety engaged is appropriate for open terrain, maintaining both muzzle discipline and comfort.
Question 2: What is the importance of a safe backstop when shooting at a Canadian range or in the field?
- A backstop protects the shooter from noise and blast
- Only indoor ranges require backstops since outdoor ranges do not
- A backstop is only required for competitive events since recreational shooting does not need one
- A backstop absorbs or stops bullets that miss the target, preventing them from travelling further and injuring people or property downrange (Correct answer)
Correct answer: A backstop absorbs or stops bullets that miss the target, preventing them from travelling further and injuring people or property downrange
A backstop stops bullets that miss or pass through the target, preventing them from travelling to unintended areas and causing injury or property damage.
Question 3: 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 4: What is the barrel length requirement for handguns to be considered restricted?
- 200mm or less.
- 105mm or less. (Correct answer)
- 150mm or less.
- 120mm or less.
Correct answer: 105mm or less.
In Canada, while most handguns are classified as restricted, those with a barrel length of 105mm (approximately 4.1 inches) or less are specifically classified as prohibited firearms. This barrel length threshold is a critical legal distinction that significantly impacts a handgun's classification and the legality of its possession. Therefore, 105mm or less is the specific barrel length that moves a handgun from restricted to prohibited status.
Question 5: Which of the following is a common centrefire rifle cartridge used for deer hunting in Canada?
- .22 LR
- .308 Winchester (Correct answer)
- .50 BMG
- 9mm Parabellum
Correct answer: .308 Winchester
The .308 Winchester is a popular centrefire rifle cartridge used in non-restricted bolt-action and semi-automatic rifles for big-game hunting across Canada.
Question 6: What is a hang fire and how should it be handled at a Canadian shooting range?
- A fire hazard caused by burning propellant residue in the chamber
- A round that fires prematurely during the loading sequence
- A firearm that has jammed during loading and cannot be opened
- A delayed ignition after the trigger is pulled that requires keeping the muzzle in a safe direction for at least 30 seconds before opening the action (Correct answer)
Correct answer: A delayed ignition after the trigger is pulled that requires keeping the muzzle in a safe direction for at least 30 seconds before opening the action
A hang fire is a round that ignites with a delay after the firing pin strikes it. The shooter must wait 30 seconds with the muzzle in a safe direction before carefully opening the action.
Question 7: What is a double feed malfunction in a semi-automatic firearm and how is it cleared?
- 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)
- A double feed means two bullets are fused together and must be cleared by a gunsmith
- Double feeding only occurs with dirty ammunition and is prevented by keeping rounds clean
- A double feed occurs when the magazine is overfilled and is cleared by removing one round
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 8: Cartridges are classified into two main types:
- rimfire, centerfire (Correct answer)
- centerfire, hang fire
- slug, pellets
- None of the above.
Correct answer: rimfire, centerfire
Cartridges are broadly classified into two main types based on the location of the primer: rimfire and centerfire. Rimfire cartridges have the priming compound located within the rim of the cartridge case, which is struck by the firing pin. Centerfire cartridges have a separate primer cup located in the center of the cartridge base, which is struck by the firing pin.
Question 9: What is headspace and why does it matter for safe firearm operation?
- The distance from the bolt face to the point in the chamber where the cartridge stops, as incorrect headspace can cause dangerous failures (Correct answer)
- The amount of trigger travel before the sear releases the firing pin
- The clearance between the barrel and the handguard on a rifle
- The gap between the front sight and rear sight when aiming
Correct answer: The distance from the bolt face to the point in the chamber where the cartridge stops, as incorrect headspace can cause dangerous failures
Headspace is the critical dimension from the bolt face to the datum line in the chamber. Excessive headspace can cause cartridge case rupture, and insufficient headspace prevents chambering.
Question 10: The smokeless powder can be safely used in muzzleloading firearms.
- False (Correct answer)
- True
Correct answer: False
Explanation: <br> The use of smokeless powder in a gun not designed for it will result in serious injury or death! The gun may explode underneath you. Use what the manual states.
Question 11: What should a firearm owner do FIRST before placing any firearm into storage?
- Apply a solvent to the barrel interior to prevent corrosion during storage
- Separate the barrel from the receiver to reduce the firearm's footprint
- Verify the firearm is completely unloaded and confirm the action is clear (Correct answer)
- Apply a trigger lock with the action closed and a round in the chamber
Correct answer: Verify the firearm is completely unloaded and confirm the action is clear
Before applying any locking device or placing the firearm in a container, always verify that the firearm is completely unloaded — this is the essential first step.
Question 12: What is a break-action shotgun?
- A shotgun whose barrel hinges downward from the receiver to expose the chamber for loading and unloading (Correct answer)
- A shotgun with a pump mechanism for cycling the action
- A shotgun with a detachable box magazine
- A shotgun that ejects shells automatically after firing
Correct answer: A shotgun whose barrel hinges downward from the receiver to expose the chamber for loading and unloading
A break-action shotgun hinges open at the breech, allowing the shooter to load and unload cartridges directly into the chamber or chambers.
Question 13: When is it appropriate to load a firearm during a hunting trip?
- Immediately when the hunter believes game may be nearby
- Loading is done at the vehicle before entering the field and the firearm remains loaded all day
- Only when the hunter is in position and prepared to shoot, since firearms should be unloaded during transit and while crossing obstacles (Correct answer)
- As soon as the hunter enters the field at the start of the 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 14: What is a 'failure to feed' malfunction?
- When a spent cartridge case fails to eject from the chamber
- 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
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.
Question 15: What is the first step in conducting a risk analysis for firearm use?
- Set up a shooting range.
- Establish rules for gun ownership.
- Identify potential hazards associated with firearm use. (Correct answer)
- Assess the cost of firearms.
Correct answer: Identify potential hazards associated with firearm use.
The first step in any risk analysis is to identify what could go wrong, i.e., the potential hazards. In firearm use, this includes identifying risks like accidental discharge, ricochets, hearing damage, or unauthorized access. Once hazards are identified, they can be evaluated and addressed with appropriate safety measures.
Question 16: 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)
- Near open flames for ventilation.
- In direct sunlight for easy access.
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 17: When should the PROVE procedure be performed in Canada?
- Only at the time of purchase from a dealer
- Only as an optional procedure for beginners
- Only when handling restricted and prohibited firearms, not hunting rifles
- Every time a firearm is picked up, passed to another person, or put down, regardless of whether it was just checked (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Every time a firearm is picked up, passed to another person, or put down, regardless of whether it was just checked
PROVE must be performed every single time a firearm is handled. Point in safe direction, Remove ammunition, Observe chamber, Verify feed path, Examine bore.
Question 18: Which of the following types of ammunition is prohibited for civilian possession in Canada?
- Full metal jacket rifle ammunition
- Hollow-point pistol ammunition
- Lead round-nose handgun ammunition
- Armour-piercing ammunition (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Armour-piercing ammunition
Armour-piercing ammunition is prohibited under Canadian law; civilians cannot legally possess ammunition designed to penetrate body armour.
Question 19: How long should you wait before opening the action after a suspected hangfire?
- 5 seconds
- At least 60 seconds or as directed by the manufacturer (Correct answer)
- 15 seconds
- 30 seconds
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 20: What type of oil is best for lubricating firearms?
- Vegetable oil.
- Motor oil.
- Light gun oil. (Correct answer)
- Any type of household oil.
Correct answer: Light gun oil.
Firearms require specific lubricants designed to withstand the high pressures and temperatures of firing, while also protecting against rust and wear. Light gun oil is formulated for this purpose, providing proper lubrication without attracting excessive dirt or gumming up internal mechanisms, unlike general household or motor oils.
Question 21: The pictured bullet is a?
- Lead Round Nose (LRN)
- Jacketed Soft Point (JSP)
- Jacketed Semi-wadcutter (JSWC)
- Full metal jacket (FMJ) (Correct answer)
- Hollow Point (HP)
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 22: How is a revolver unloaded safely?
- Pull the trigger repeatedly in double-action mode to cycle through all chambers
- Remove only the fired cases while leaving unfired rounds in the cylinder
- Point in a safe direction, open the cylinder, use the ejector rod to remove all cartridges and spent cases, then visually verify each chamber is empty (Correct answer)
- Remove the grip panel to access the cylinder lock, then shake out the rounds
Correct answer: Point in a safe direction, open the cylinder, use the ejector rod to remove all cartridges and spent cases, then visually verify each chamber is empty
A revolver is unloaded by opening the cylinder, using the ejector rod to remove all contents from every chamber, and visually checking each chamber.
Question 23: The sling carry should only be used with the right shoulder.
- True
- False (Correct answer)
Correct answer: False
Explanation: <br> The sling carry can be used with either shoulder, depending on the shooter's preference or comfort. It's important to choose the shoulder that feels most natural and allows for safe and effective firearm handling.
Question 24: When displaying a non-restricted firearm in a home, what is the rule regarding ammunition?
- Ammunition must not be displayed with the firearm or be readily accessible to it. (Correct answer)
- Dummy rounds can be loaded into the firearm for a realistic display.
- Ammunition can be in the same display case, as long as the case is locked.
- A full magazine can be displayed next to the firearm for authenticity.
Correct answer: Ammunition must not be displayed with the firearm or be readily accessible to it.
Regulations for displaying firearms state that ammunition cannot be displayed with the firearm or be in a location that makes it readily accessible to the firearm. The goal is to prevent the firearm from being easily loaded.
Question 25: What should be included in a firearms storage facility?
- A safe and locked container in a cool, dry area. (Correct answer)
- A plastic bag to prevent damage.
- Just a locked container.
- An unlocked cabinet for easy access.
Correct answer: A safe and locked container in a cool, dry area.
An ideal firearms storage facility combines robust security with environmental protection. A safe and locked container is essential to prevent unauthorized access and theft, which is a legal requirement under Canadian law. Storing it in a cool, dry area further protects the firearm from rust, corrosion, and other environmental damage, preserving its condition and functionality.
Question 26: A person leaves a loaded non-restricted firearm unattended on a table while leaving the house. Which offence may apply under Canadian law?
- No offence applies — non-restricted firearms have relaxed storage requirements
- Careless storage of a firearm under the Criminal Code of Canada (Correct answer)
- A provincial firearms offence only, with a minor fine
- A regulatory violation with a maximum fine under $200
Correct answer: Careless storage of a firearm under the Criminal Code of Canada
Leaving a loaded, accessible firearm unsecured constitutes careless storage, which is a Criminal Code offence in Canada carrying serious penalties.
Question 27: When transporting a non-restricted rifle by aircraft within Canada, what must the owner do?
- No special steps are needed since airline staff handle the storage automatically
- Carry the firearm in the cabin in a soft case to keep it under personal supervision
- The RCMP must be notified 48 hours before any air transport of firearms
- Declare the unloaded firearm at check-in, transport it in a locked hard-sided case in checked baggage, with ammunition in a separate locked container (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Declare the unloaded firearm at check-in, transport it in a locked hard-sided case in checked baggage, with ammunition in a separate locked container
Firearms transported by Canadian airlines must be declared at check-in, unloaded, in locked hard-sided cases in checked baggage, and separated from ammunition per Firearms Act and airline policies.
Question 28: How does the CFSC define responsible firearm ownership beyond the legal minimum?
- Responsible ownership applies only when minors are present in the home
- 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 is defined solely by holding a current PAL
- 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 29: Ammunition for a shotgun is called a:
- Shot Shell (Correct answer)
- Cartridge
- Bullet
- Powder
Correct answer: Shot Shell
Ammunition specifically designed for shotguns is referred to as a "shot shell." Unlike cartridges for rifles and handguns that typically contain a single bullet, shot shells are designed to fire multiple small pellets (shot) or a single large projectile (slug). This terminology distinguishes shotgun ammunition from other types.
Question 30: Why is it important not to point a firearm at anything you do not intend to shoot, even when dry-firing or practicing at home?
- Dry-firing at walls or furniture is acceptable if no one is in the home
- The rule must be practised in all circumstances so it becomes instinctive, since relaxing the rule in training means it will likely be relaxed in live-fire situations as well (Correct answer)
- The rule applies only to loaded firearms and it is acceptable to point unloaded firearms casually
- The rule is only legally required at approved ranges since private property is exempt
Correct answer: The rule must be practised in all circumstances so it becomes instinctive, since relaxing the rule in training means it will likely be relaxed in live-fire situations as well
Safe habits must be practised consistently in all circumstances including dry fire. Allowing exceptions during practice undermines the automatic application of the rule when it matters most.
Question 31: What additional storage requirement applies to restricted firearms compared to non-restricted firearms?
- Restricted firearms must have their barrels removed before storage
- Restricted firearms can only be stored at a licensed shooting range
- Restricted firearms require BOTH a locking device on the firearm AND storage in a locked container (Correct answer)
- Restricted firearms must be stored at a government-approved facility
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 32: It is safe to store ammunition in a tightly sealed metal container.
- True
- False (Correct answer)
Correct answer: False
Explanation: <br> Ammunition cooks off. If it’s in a military-style ammo can, the can will swell and burst. The ammo will make a lot of noise, but it’s not as dangerous as when it’s in a gun barrel.
Question 33: What should you do if a firearm misfires?
- Immediately open the firearm and inspect the chamber.
- Shoot again immediately.
- Remove the magazine and continue shooting.
- Wait 30 seconds, then safely clear the malfunction. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Wait 30 seconds, then safely clear the malfunction.
If a firearm misfires (a 'hang fire'), there's a small chance the primer could still ignite after a delay. Waiting 30 seconds allows any potential hang fire to occur safely while keeping the firearm pointed downrange. After this wait, it's safe to proceed with clearing the malfunction according to proper procedures.
Question 34: Which type of bullet is recommended for rifles with tubular magazines?
- Protected tip
- Rounded soft point (Correct answer)
- Pointed soft tip
- All of the above
Correct answer: Rounded soft point
For rifles with tubular magazines, rounded soft point bullets are recommended. This is because the bullets are stacked nose-to-primer in a tubular magazine, and a pointed bullet could potentially detonate the primer of the cartridge in front of it due to recoil, leading to a dangerous chain reaction. The rounded soft point design minimizes this risk.
Question 35: 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 36: What competitive shooting discipline involves shooting clay targets launched from a trap house at varying angles?
- Benchrest shooting
- Trap shooting (Correct answer)
- Long-range precision rifle competition
- 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 37: Under what circumstances does Canadian law permit carrying a loaded restricted firearm outside a residence?
- Any PAL holder may carry a loaded restricted firearm concealed in any location
- Loaded restricted firearms may be carried openly in rural areas only
- 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)
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 38: What is the first step in responding to an emergency involving a firearm?
- Immediately administer first aid.
- Run to the injured person immediately.
- Ensure the safety of everyone and assess the situation. (Correct answer)
- Call for medical assistance first.
Correct answer: Ensure the safety of everyone and assess the situation.
In any emergency involving a firearm, the absolute first step is to ensure the safety of yourself and everyone else present. This prevents further injury or escalation of the situation. Only after the scene is secured can you safely assess the situation and determine the appropriate next actions, such as calling for help or administering first aid.
Question 39: What is the proper technique for checking whether a semi-automatic pistol's chamber is empty?
- Remove only the magazine and assume the chamber is empty if the gun was just fired
- Simply look at the barrel muzzle from the front to see if a bullet is visible
- Remove the magazine, lock the slide open, and visually inspect the chamber from the ejection port, then run a finger along the chamber to physically confirm it is empty (Correct answer)
- Pull the trigger to release the slide since if no round fires the chamber is empty
Correct answer: Remove the magazine, lock the slide open, and visually inspect the chamber from the ejection port, then run a finger along the chamber to physically confirm it is empty
The correct method is to remove the magazine, lock the slide open, visually inspect the chamber through the ejection port, and physically confirm it is empty with a finger.
Question 40: What is a barrel obstruction and what are its dangers?
- A manufacturing defect that causes the bolt to stick open
- Any foreign object in the barrel such as mud, snow, or a cleaning patch, since firing through an obstruction can cause the barrel to burst (Correct answer)
- A condition where the rifling is worn smooth and no longer stabilizes the bullet
- An unauthorized modification that shortens the barrel below legal length
Correct answer: Any foreign object in the barrel such as mud, snow, or a cleaning patch, since firing through an obstruction can cause the barrel to burst
A barrel obstruction blocks the bullet's path. If a round is fired through an obstructed barrel, the resulting pressure spike can cause catastrophic barrel failure, bursting the barrel and injuring the shooter.
Question 41: What can happen to a PAL if the holder is convicted of a criminal offense after issuance?
- The PAL remains valid until its original expiration date
- The Chief Firearms Officer may revoke the PAL (Correct answer)
- The PAL is suspended for exactly 6 months
- The PAL is automatically renewed at no cost
Correct answer: The Chief Firearms Officer may revoke the PAL
A criminal conviction after PAL issuance can lead the Chief Firearms Officer to revoke the license.
Question 42: What is the most serious danger of firing a second round immediately after a squib load?
- The magazine spring may be damaged by the reduced pressure
- The firearm may overheat and warp the barrel
- A bullet lodged in the barrel can cause catastrophic barrel failure when the next round is fired (Correct answer)
- The firing pin may snap from the impact
Correct answer: A bullet lodged in the barrel can cause catastrophic barrel failure when the next round is fired
If a bullet is left lodged in the barrel from a squib load, firing another round creates an extreme pressure spike behind the obstruction that can destroy the barrel and injure the shooter.
Question 43: When loading a bolt-action rifle, what is the correct sequence of steps?
- Ensure the firearm is pointed in a safe direction, engage the safety, open the bolt, place cartridges in the magazine, close the bolt to chamber a round (Correct answer)
- Insert all cartridges directly into the chamber simultaneously
- Chamber a round first, then insert the magazine
- Load with the safety off so the action can be cycled freely
Correct answer: Ensure the firearm is pointed in a safe direction, engage the safety, open the bolt, place cartridges in the magazine, close the bolt to chamber a round
The correct loading sequence for a bolt-action rifle is: safe direction, safety on, open bolt, load magazine, close bolt to chamber. The safety must be engaged during loading.
Question 44: Ammunition should be stored:
- anywhere.
- with your firearm.
- where it’s very accessible.
- in a cool, dry place. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: in a cool, dry place.
Ammunition should always be stored in a cool, dry place to maintain its integrity and ensure safe operation. Exposure to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight can degrade the propellant, primers, and bullet components, potentially leading to misfires, hang fires, or dangerous pressure inconsistencies when fired. Proper storage is crucial for safety and reliability.
Question 45: Why is firearm maintenance important?
- To keep the firearm aesthetically pleasing.
- To make it easier to transport.
- To prevent rust and ensure safe functioning. (Correct answer)
- To increase its shooting accuracy.
Correct answer: To prevent rust and ensure safe functioning.
Regular firearm maintenance, including cleaning and lubrication, is essential for preserving the firearm's integrity and operational reliability. It prevents corrosion (rust) that can degrade components and removes fouling that can cause malfunctions. Proper maintenance ensures the firearm functions safely and consistently when needed.
Question 46: Which statement about storing different calibres of ammunition together is correct?
- Different calibres should be clearly labelled and separated to prevent loading the wrong ammunition into a firearm (Correct answer)
- Different calibres may be mixed freely as long as they are locked away
- Calibre mixing is only a concern for restricted firearms
- Only the same brand of ammunition can be stored together
Correct answer: Different calibres should be clearly labelled and separated to prevent loading the wrong ammunition into a firearm
Mixing calibres risks accidentally loading the wrong ammunition into a firearm, which can cause dangerous malfunctions or serious injury.
Question 47: Which part of the firearm needs to be cleaned most often?
- The trigger.
- The barrel and bore. (Correct answer)
- The trigger guard.
- The stock and handle.
Correct answer: The barrel and bore.
The barrel and bore are the parts of the firearm that directly contact the projectile and combustion gases, accumulating the most fouling (carbon, lead, copper residue). Regular cleaning of these areas is critical to maintain accuracy, prevent corrosion, and ensure the firearm functions reliably without obstructions.
Question 48: What is the minimum barrel length for a non-restricted rifle in Canada?
- 470 mm (Correct answer)
- 300 mm
- 600 mm
- There is no minimum barrel length
Correct answer: 470 mm
A non-restricted rifle must have a barrel of at least 470 mm. Rifles with shorter barrels become prohibited firearms under the Canadian Firearms Act.
Question 49: What must a firearm owner do before leaving home if firearms are stored inside?
- Verify all firearms are unloaded and secured with approved locking devices (Correct answer)
- Leave one firearm loaded for home security
- Remove all firearms from the premises
- Notify local police of the stored firearms
Correct answer: Verify all firearms are unloaded and secured with approved locking devices
Before leaving, owners must confirm all firearms are unloaded and secured with approved locking devices.
Question 50: What does the CFSC acronym PROVE stand for?
- Prepare safe direction, Ready chamber, Observe magazine, Verify safety, Engage trigger
- Point safe, Remove, Open action, View chamber, Examine barrel (bore) (Correct answer)
- Point safe, Remove ammo, Observe chamber, Verify feed path, Examine barrel
- Prepare, Ready, Operate, Verify, Engage
Correct answer: Point safe, Remove, Open action, View chamber, Examine barrel (bore)
PROVE: Point in a safe direction; Remove all cartridges; Open the action; View the chamber; Examine the barrel — the five-step procedure to confirm a firearm is safe.
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