Getting a restricted license

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thepress83

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I'm relatively new to the world of shooting but am wanting to get my first handgun this summer (hopefully) and I'm wondering if it's worth taking a course before writing the test or if I can get away with just reading the books and then challenging it? My hope is to save the money for the course to put towards a higher grade gun as my first purchase.

I live near Vancouver so if anyone knows of any reasonably priced courses that they would recommend that would be useful info as well.

thanks in advance
 
thepress83 said:
I'm relatively new to the world of shooting but am wanting to get my first handgun this summer (hopefully) and I'm wondering if it's worth taking a course before writing the test or if I can get away with just reading the books and then challenging it? My hope is to save the money for the course to put towards a higher grade gun as my first purchase.

I live near Vancouver so if anyone knows of any reasonably priced courses that they would recommend that would be useful info as well.

thanks in advance
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The Restricted test is almost identical to the PAL test, with the obvious addition of handguns, so you shouldn't have any problems challenging it. If you've passed your PAL test you should have the basic knowledge to pass the RPAL.
 
You already have a PAL? If so, you could likely just study the manual and challenge the restricted tests. You do need to be able to manipulate different types of pistols.
If you don't already have a PAL, or have not passed the non-restricted tests, I believe that you must do the non-restricted tests before you can do the restricted ones.
When you have course reports for both non-restricted and restricted, you can apply for a RPAL, without having a PAL first.
 
tiriaq said:
You do need to be able to manipulate different types of pistols.
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This is the more important part. If you have your PAL, you already have 95% of the knowledge to pass the written test. If you have never handled pistols, then you need some range time to get familiar with it before you do the practical portion of the test. It is far easier to sweep the instructor or yourself with a handgun because of the size. Find a pistol shooter or two in your area or at your range to let you practice a bit, buy some ammo and spend an afternoon handling some pistols to get up to speed. Since you already understand safe handling of long guns (from the sound of it), it won't take long to get comfortable with handguns and be able to pass the test.

Mark
 
Thanks Mark that's some good advice. I have checked the newbie section and have sent a PM to a member in my area who hopefully is willing to give me some pointers with hand guns. My dad is a cop so I grew up around them but I've never handled one as it was the golden rule at my house not to play with his service gun.
 
Mark's advice is very good. You need to know how CFC wants you to be able to identify and handle handguns (and long guns). The practical part of the test is serious, and you'd do well to have someone who's been through it coach you in identifying, handling, and knowing about different kinds of ammunition, as well as safe handling of the guns. You can buy the study books from the people giving the exam, and they'll go a long way to helping.
 
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