I prefer to go by the definition of firearm vs. weapon. A weapon is defined as: A weapon is a tool which can be used during combat to kill or , to destroy property, or to otherwise render resources non-functional or unavailable. It may be used to attack and defend, and consequently also to threaten. The use of weapons has been recorded since the advent of cave painting, and the process has been formulated resulting in both martial arts and strategic doctrines.
None of my firearms have been used to kill, destroy property, attack, defend, render resources non-functional, or threaten anyone. Hence, they do not meet the definition of a weapon. I think of it more as a tool, to knock down targets at the range. You need a golf club to go golfing, its not a weapon, but it can become a weapon if used against someone. The same for a gun. You cant shoot trap without a shotgun, consider it a driver. You need it to play a sport, but it could be used as a weapon.
As for the original question, you need your restricted PAL, become a member of a club, you don't need a PAL to do that. Then when you get your PAL, you can buy your pistol, tell them you belong to a gun club, then just wait. For an ATT, I would get one that allows you to take your guns to any club in Canada, that way you can move around to a different range if you want to.
