the noobest noob lol

foxyfoxy

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Hey,

so i was just wondering a couple things -- if someone could give me straightforward answers to these questions that would be awesome.

1. I'm 100% planning on taking the course to get my PAL since I have ZERO experience handling firearms, but it's only like 2 days. Is there enough practical in there to get you ready for the test?
2. frmo what i understand i can go to a shooting range before i get my license if accompanied by a licensed party. what i wanted to know was do i have to provide this third party myself, or are there supervisors there available to directly supervise me? because i don't know anyone who would qualify to be my supervision :(
3.the last thing is, if i want my license to include restricted firearms, do i have to take the test/course separatley, and do i have to send in a separate form, or can i do it all at once?

i have read a lot of different contradictoy statements regarding these issues, so id really appreciate if someone could just give me a clear answer.

thank you!
 
1. First, the firearms handling course is 1 day (10hrs if i remember) with a theoretical and practical test at the end. The theoretical test is multiple choice test, and it easy as pie as long as you read the book they provided. The questions are about the different types of action(bolt, lever, semi auto, pump, etc..), basic parts of a firearm(receiver, stock, trigger guard, etc..), and basic rules to be followed(point firearm in safe direction at all times, etc..). The practical test is a handling test, when i did mine he gave me a [deactivated] shotgun with dummy rounds and ask me to put it on safe, unload the rest of the cartridges safely, and clear it. He also looks if your pointing the firearm in a safe direction at all times. Is this enough practice to pass the test? Well young kids takes this course and pass, so if you study the book, there should be no problem.

The other day is your hunting course.

2. Depends on the range, i've never been to one, but from what i heard, most allow visitors who can shot the range member's firearms under his supervision.

3. There are two different test for the Non restricted and restricted licenses, and after you completed both, you should be able to get your restricted license even if you don't have a Non restricted license, and i think your restricted license can let you purchase both Non restricted and restricted firearms. Correct me if i am wrong guys.

Hope that helps.
 
1: Yes. The instructors teach you exactly what is covered in the test, plus some other "basics" to ensure you know enough to safely walk out of their course and into a farm field hunting gophers, deer, etc..

2: Google the local ranges in your area. Call them. Most ranges have a time alloted for "visitors" to come and be introdiced to the sport. While there, ask about the PAL & RPAL courses, many run the courses onsite, or have members that run the courses.

There is awlays a Range Supervisor whenever anyone is shooting, and it's their job to ensure you are brought up to speed on safe handling techniques and the range rules prior to you picking up the gun. Also, whoever owns the gun you are borrowing will most likely be standing right behind you, ensuring that you are A: not doing something wrong to their weapon, and B: making sure you are getting the most out of your visit.

Gun owners are a unique group ... we want new people to have a good time the first time, and will go out of our way to do as much as we can to bring another "convert" into the fold.

3: You can do your RPAL seperately. If you have Zero experience with firearms, I would suggest it might be the way to do it. Get your PAL, join a range, get some hands on knowledge using range/member suppliede firearms (All ranges I know of have a "probation" period in which you must shoot other's guns prior to bringing your own, so don't think you are imposing on anyone). Then take your RPAL course. The tests are not hard, but it is a lot of info to take in at once if you are doing all 3 (hunting, PAL & RPAL) at the same time.
 
there's MORE than enough time spent on handling- there's only 4 basic action types, and a few MINUTES spent on each will basically give you all you need to know- the ACTS AND PROVE are taught right from the get-go, and everything is then based on that- our local FIRE department used to teach it to SCOUTS and get them qualified for a crossed rifles badge in one night- now we're talking 10 year old kids here and RANGE TIME- it was sponsored at that time by dominion /cil and the rifles were provided by the fire guys themselves- so there was a smattering of semis, pumps, single shot cooeys and repeaters- the only thing that wasn't around was a lever, but those were expensive- now the safety course is more extensive than that, and that's probably why it takes 2 days- on the other end of the example, the m1919a1 took about 4 hours to learn, and the 50 about the same
take your r-pal and pal TOGETHER- mine MIRRORED each other, doing the pal first, with JUST THE WAY THE QUESTION WAS WORDED being different- you COULD have written simultaneously-
 
I'd never handled a firearms before and i passed with only 1 mistake (forgetting to "check" my rifle before putting it down).

Pay attention and practise when you have the time there and you'll do great!
 
1) In my humble opinion, I wish there was more PRACTICAL time on the firearms during the course. First day is pure theory. Second day there's actual (deactivated) firearms and dummy ammo to be handled. Protip; Never ever put your finger on the trigger of any of the firearms in class, unless specifically told to by the instructor.

2) I would call your local range and see if someone is available to talk to about observing and perhaps trying some small caliber rifles, to make sure this is for you. You CAN simply do the course and purchase a rifle though. No club I know of has people "on hand" to take walk-in's down to the ranges. My co-worker got his PAL having never fired anything before.

3) Restricted can be done at the same time. There's additional expense (it's a seperate course) and it's $80 to apply for the RPAL when you're done vs. $60 for a PAL, but you save 4 hours and if you decide later you do want to try restricted firearms you're legal to buy & shoot one on your own. I did this, having only handled a 'real' rifle twice and never a 'real' pistol. The course was brief but focused 100% on the safe handling of the firearms. Proper carries, how to load and unload, how to PROVE a firearm safe, and regulations of storage, transportation and ownership of non-restricted and restricted firearms. I did not do any hunting course as I'm interested in target shooting only.
 
Hey,


1. I'm 100% planning on taking the course to get my PAL since I have ZERO experience handling firearms, but it's only like 2 days. Is there enough practical in there to get you ready for the test?
2. frmo what i understand i can go to a shooting range before i get my license if accompanied by a licensed party. what i wanted to know was do i have to provide this third party myself, or are there supervisors there available to directly supervise me? because i don't know anyone who would qualify to be my supervision :(
3.the last thing is, if i want my license to include restricted firearms, do i have to take the test/course separatley, and do i have to send in a separate form, or can i do it all at once?

1. The course has all the information and hands on experience you will need for your test and exam. Other than that once you actually own a gun then you can apply the practical knowledge and it may then make more sense since you are very new to the hobbie

2. Some ranges depending on where you are rent guns to people as you do not need a license to shoot a firearm, they will have a range officer with you and you may shoot their guns for a price, also they will teach you how to properly use that gun (safety, mag change, etc)

3. Pretty much all places that teach the PAL also teach RPAL. The combo is usually 2 days, where as just your PAL is 1 day. RPAL is basically the same thing over again just a different type of gun and a few different rules pertaining to storage and transportation.
 
honest, i just want to say thanks so much to all you for 1. not laughing at me lol and
2. giving REAL advice and clearing up a lot of the ambiguity out there.
thanks a million! and hopefully i'll have some good news soon :)
 
honest, i just want to say thanks so much to all you for 1. not laughing at me lol and
2. giving REAL advice and clearing up a lot of the ambiguity out there.
thanks a million! and hopefully i'll have some good news soon :)

Hey foxyfoxy,

i see you're in Laval?

There are a couple of people on these forums, including me, who live in the greater Montreal area and who would most likely be willing to bring you to the range if you'd like. I don't know how your french is, but you can find a lot of us in the "forum d'accueil francophone", and a good number of us are bilingual.

Cheers.
 
Hey foxyfoxy,

i see you're in Laval?

There are a couple of people on these forums, including me, who live in the greater Montreal area and who would most likely be willing to bring you to the range if you'd like. I don't know how your french is, but you can find a lot of us in the "forum d'accueil francophone", and a good number of us are bilingual.

Cheers.

hey,
yeah im living in laval which is rough because my french isssnnn't amazing. conversational is more the word i'd use to describe it. thanks for the advice though! i'll check out that forum for sure. do you know any places in the laval/montreal area that offer the cfsc? i dont mind if its a bit far even, but i WOULD need it to be english... i can converse in french usually alright (like if your more comfortable answeing this in french feel free) but i doubt ill understand much of the class if it is...
 
hey,
yeah im living in laval which is rough because my french isssnnn't amazing. conversational is more the word i'd use to describe it. thanks for the advice though! i'll check out that forum for sure. do you know any places in the laval/montreal area that offer the cfsc? i dont mind if its a bit far even, but i WOULD need it to be english... i can converse in french usually alright (like if your more comfortable answeing this in french feel free) but i doubt ill understand much of the class if it is...

Nah, don't worry about it, although French is my first language and I embrace it, I have zero issues speaking english...its always good to practice and stay fluid.

I'm guessing you're looking for to take the course for both non-restricted and restricted firearms?

There are a couple places that offer it I believe...I had this online list with all the places, dates, availability, and language of the classes (yes they're offered in english on a regular basis)...But I can't seem to find it now...I'll keep looking. I'll post the link right here as soon as I find it.

Cheers budd, welcome to the addictive world of guns ;)
 
Alright, I couldn't find the original list I was refering too, but I did find the equivalent, which is a list of people/phone numbers where you can call to take the english course.

1-
Contact : André Raschotte
Phone number : 514-367-0075
City : Lachine

2-
Contact : Spyridonas Pettas
Phone number : 514-770-7057
City : Kirkland

3-
Contact : Robert Dominique
Phone number : 450-469-1606
City : Not specified

Note that these are for the CCSMAFAR course so you to get your RPAL ; with this license, you'll be able to acquire and possess both non-restricted and restricted firearms.

HOWEVER

Would you want to get a hunter's license in Quebec, you'll have to retake the full CCSMAF course (non-restricted firearms only). The reason is that Quebec requires that you both attend the CCSMAF course and pass the exam. When taking the CCSMAFAR for restricteds, you only pass the CCSMAF exam along with the CCSMAFAR exam and CCSMAFAR course. So you're still missing the CCSMAF course attendance.

I know, it sounds stupid, but it is the way it is.
Hope all this info is not too confusing, let me know if you need more info.

cheers.
 
1) In my humble opinion, I wish there was more PRACTICAL time on the firearms during the course. First day is pure theory. Second day there's actual (deactivated) firearms and dummy ammo to be handled. Protip; Never ever put your finger on the trigger of any of the firearms in class, unless specifically told to by the instructor.
You have to use the trigger only on some lever-actions to activate the half-cocked safety.

I had never handled a firearm prior to getting my license either. It's really not a big deal, lots of people in my class hadn't.

Most instructors advise you to get your PAL and RPAL at the same time to avoid doing the paperwork twice. If you get the PAL and then wait and go back for your RPAL you'll have to submit references and wait 28 days again.
Having your RPAL doesn't mean you have to own restricted guns but, should you choose to then there's no additional hassle.
 
2. giving REAL advice and clearing up a lot of the ambiguity out there.
thanks a million! and hopefully i'll have some good news soon :)

"Soon" ... HA! Not likely! Takes a while for it to be processed! But best of luck to you and if you're persistent and follow the steps to shorten the approval time you'll be shooting in no time!
 
...
There are a couple places that offer it I believe...I had this online list with all the places, dates, availability, and language of the classes (yes they're offered in english on a regular basis)...But I can't seem to find it now...I'll keep looking. I'll post the link right here as soon as I find it.

Cheers budd, welcome to the addictive world of guns ;)

thank you so much, honestly i think you've been the most helpful person i've spoken to inluding long irritating go-nowhere phone conversations with people whose supposed job it is to inform others

and thank you to everyone (sorry if ive said that about a thousand times already but i feel this level of appreciation is warranted, you guys have been really encouraging) :)

i'll be making my calls tommorow morning before work :) :) :) lol im excited
 
thank you so much, honestly i think you've been the most helpful person i've spoken to inluding long irritating go-nowhere phone conversations with people whose supposed job it is to inform others

and thank you to everyone (sorry if ive said that about a thousand times already but i feel this level of appreciation is warranted, you guys have been really encouraging) :)

i'll be making my calls tommorow morning before work :) :) :) lol im excited

Always a pleasure to help out another gunnut! I'm happy if i managed to make your life just a tiny bit easier with the info...The world of guns in Canada (let alone in Quebec) can be confusing and discouraging at times, I think we're doing every gun owner and enthusiast a favour when we help eachother out.
cheers! let us know how everything turns out. dont hesitate to ask if you need anything else.
:cheers:
 
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ouff :S ok heres a weird problem, im not sure if any of you have encountered this but heres hoping :) *id like to preface this post by saying please dont judge me i honestly feel that ive more than paid for what happened, it was a long time ago and i wasnt the brightest kid AND the whole situation was blown wayy out of proportion*

so i was looking over the PAL forms and it specifically asks whether or not you have been arrested for 'violent crimes' within the past 5 years. its an understandable question, but the problem is i was charged with assault a couple years back (its a long story, basically a cop picked on me and my friends repeatedly accusing us of things we werent in ANY way associated with just because we were hanging out in berri park on out way to a show, we were young and stupid, a SMALL kick to the shin ended up constituting assault on a police officer) and unfortunatley at the time i was spending a lott of time messing around with cars and happened to be wearing steel-toed boots. this resulted in charging me with armed assault which needless to say was somewhat unnessecary (im like 5'3 120 lbs little girl against literally 4 cops). anyways, this coming may (of 2012) it will have been 5 years since the incident -- which happened when i was a minor. so ill be able to truthfully say "no" to the whole violent crimes issue. my real question in this whole story is, what happens then? will they still be able to access the information? i know that the charge is supposed to be locked on my record, coincidentally after 5 years from its occurence, because i was a minor when it happened, but my social justice told me that it would never really be ERASED. and even if the information is locked, can't the government, including any license-appointing-bureaus still access it?
will this haunt me forever and prevent me from ever getting my PAL?
i hate to sound like im trying to justify it but honestly, the cop i kicked had apparently been previously suspended of duty due to multiple complaints of provocation, i'm serious the social justice even said "adfk not tanguay.." like she knew who tanguay was. furthermore, he flat out refused to meet for victim reconciliation thing (not that i really wanted to reconcile) and gave a statment saying he had nothing to say to me and he thought i had a temper problem. basically a very childish response to standard procedure, particularly for a law enforcer. won't they consider that when reviewing my situation?
im sorry this is like a novel of a post, but it cant be possible that ill have to keep paying for this for the rest of my life -- has anyone else been charged with assault or other violent crimes, but a long time ago, and still gotten their PAL/RPAL?? :( i want this so bad, this stupid charge cant really mean i'll never get it, can it??
 
Hey again foxy, here's a couple of things you should know.

1 - if you lie on your form and they find out, no matter how small the lie, that alone is enough to deny your application.
2 - if you have indeed been charged/convicted in relation to a violent crime, no matter if it was a misunderstanding or not, thats also enough to deny your license (especially if it involves a peace officer). The CFC/CFO won't care about the specifics of your case, all they'll see is "armed assault".
3 - If i was you : i'd wait out until may 2012. Then, ask for your Pardon. When you get your pardon, only then should you apply for your PAL. You could still apply for your PAL without asking for your pardon in may though. But if EVER they could look beyond5 years, and found out about the old conviction, they may give you trouble for it.
 
ouff :S ok heres a weird problem, im not sure if any of you have encountered this but heres hoping :) *id like to preface this post by saying please dont judge me i honestly feel that ive more than paid for what happened, it was a long time ago and i wasnt the brightest kid AND the whole situation was blown wayy out of proportion*

so i was looking over the PAL forms and it specifically asks whether or not you have been arrested for 'violent crimes' within the past 5 years. its an understandable question, but the problem is i was charged with assault a couple years back (its a long story, basically a cop picked on me and my friends repeatedly accusing us of things we werent in ANY way associated with just because we were hanging out in berri park on out way to a show, we were young and stupid, a SMALL kick to the shin ended up constituting assault on a police officer) and unfortunatley at the time i was spending a lott of time messing around with cars and happened to be wearing steel-toed boots. this resulted in charging me with armed assault which needless to say was somewhat unnessecary (im like 5'3 120 lbs little girl against literally 4 cops). anyways, this coming may (of 2012) it will have been 5 years since the incident -- which happened when i was a minor. so ill be able to truthfully say "no" to the whole violent crimes issue. my real question in this whole story is, what happens then? will they still be able to access the information? i know that the charge is supposed to be locked on my record, coincidentally after 5 years from its occurence, because i was a minor when it happened, but my social justice told me that it would never really be ERASED. and even if the information is locked, can't the government, including any license-appointing-bureaus still access it?
will this haunt me forever and prevent me from ever getting my PAL?
i hate to sound like im trying to justify it but honestly, the cop i kicked had apparently been previously suspended of duty due to multiple complaints of provocation, i'm serious the social justice even said "adfk not tanguay.." like she knew who tanguay was. furthermore, he flat out refused to meet for victim reconciliation thing (not that i really wanted to reconcile) and gave a statment saying he had nothing to say to me and he thought i had a temper problem. basically a very childish response to standard procedure, particularly for a law enforcer. won't they consider that when reviewing my situation?
im sorry this is like a novel of a post, but it cant be possible that ill have to keep paying for this for the rest of my life -- has anyone else been charged with assault or other violent crimes, but a long time ago, and still gotten their PAL/RPAL?? :( i want this so bad, this stupid charge cant really mean i'll never get it, can it??

I am going through this at the moment. I applied for my PAL/RPAL In the beginning of August and still have not gotten approved. I have a record from a long time ago for possession of a weapon (because I had a tire iron lol). I have spoken with the BC CFO and explained how and why I was charged and he said he would have to look into it and then I will have to come in for an interview. This charge was from 8 years ago and they are still bringing it up. I know this is not a violent offence but it is still causing me a problem getting my license.

You may find that because it was a youth issue it may not show up. Doesn't hurt to just apply. Another thing you can do is go apply for a pardon and wait for that to go through first before you apply. I am not sure if they can still look up your record if you get a pardon though. Hope this helps.

John
 
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