Importing shotgun chokes from the US to Canada is a straightforward process with no Canadian import restrictions. However, the primary challenge lies with the US export regulations and finding a US retailer willing to ship.
Canadian Requirements
No Import Permit: Choke tubes are not considered controlled parts (like receivers or barrels) under Canadian law, so you do not need a Canadian import permit to bring them into the country.
Declaration & Duties: You must declare the item at the border and be prepared to pay applicable duties and taxes (GST/HST/PST) if the value exceeds your personal exemption limits.
PAL: While not strictly required for the chokes themselves, possessing a valid Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL) can facilitate the process and is needed for importing other parts like barrels or ammunition.
US Requirements and Shipping
Export Laws: US law classifies firearm parts under the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). While most chokes fall under the EAR99 classification, meaning no specific export license is required, many US retailers are hesitant to ship due to the complexity of the regulations.
Finding a Shipper: The main hurdle is finding a US dealer or retailer that is knowledgeable about export requirements and willing to handle the necessary paperwork. Some companies, like Brownells, are known to ship certain items to Canada, often working within specific value limits to avoid more complex procedures.
I used to be able to buy direct from Mesa Tactical yrs ago until they lost their import/export person.
