Replica firearms are prohibited devices in Canada.
Antique firearms, as defined by the Criminal Code and corresponding regulations, are not prohibited.
Some devices resemble real firearms in many ways, but are made of clear or brightly coloured plastic, or have significant dimensional differences. Many of these devices need to be assessed on a case-by-case basis. As a general rule, however, devices significantly smaller or larger than the real version are not classified as replica firearms.
Airsoft guns are devices that have a low muzzle velocity and muzzle energy, and usually discharge projectiles made out of a substance such as plastic or wax rather than metal. Some airsoft guns, resembling with near precision an existing make and model of a firearm, are replica firearms and therefore prohibited devices. Advice as to whether or not a particular make and model of airsoft/pellet gun would be considered a replica can be obtained by contacting the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP).
Possessing or Acquiring Replica Firearms
Individuals may keep any replicas that they owned on December 1, 1998. A licence is not required to possess a replica firearm, and it does not have to be registered. However, individuals cannot acquire, make or import a replica firearm. If a replica firearm is taken out of Canada, it cannot be brought back in. Businesses may possess, acquire or import replica firearms only if they have a valid Firearms Business Licence that allows them to possess prohibited devices for an approved purpose.
Lending or Borrowing Replica Firearms
A replica firearm cannot be sold or given to an individual or an unlicensed business. However, a replica firearm can be loaned to:
a person who borrows it specifically to fulfill their duties or employment in a motion picture, television, video or theatrical or publishing activities; or
a certified instructor who wants to use it to teach the Canadian Firearms Safety Course or the Canadian Restricted Firearm Safety Course.
The specific requirements pertaining to such things as record keeping, notification and storage requirements can be found in the Special Authority to Possess Regulations (Firearms Act) (SAP