Canadian Firearms Safety Course (CFSC)

This course was developed in partnership among the provinces, territories, national organisations with an on-going interest in firearms safety and many firearms and hunter education instructors from across Canada. The course was developed to meet the mandatory requirements set out in sub-paragraph 106 (2) (c) (i) of the Criminal Code of Canada and came into effect on January 1, 1994.

As a result of the Firearms Act, the Firearms Safety Training that was provided to firearms owners and users required modification. The revised CFSC, which was implemented on February 1, 1999, reflects the new legislation and focuses primarily on non-restricted firearms (rifles and shotguns). The legislation stipulates that individuals wishing to acquire non-restricted firearms must:

• take the CFSC and pass the tests
• OR challenge and pass the CFSC tests without taking the course.

Topics covered in the CFSC include:

• the evolution of firearms, major parts, types and actions
• basic firearms safety practices
• ammunition
• operating firearms actions
• safe handling and carrying procedures
• firing techniques and procedures
• care of non-restricted firearms
• responsibilities of the firearm owner / user and
• safe storage, display, transportation and handling of non-restricted firearms

Participants must be a minimum of 12 years of age.