Canadian Ammunition Buying Guide 2025: Laws, Licenses & Where to Purchase

Last Updated: January 7, 2026

Buying ammunition in Canada involves understanding federal regulations, provincial variations, and licensing requirements. Whether you’re a first-time PAL holder or an experienced shooter, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about legally purchasing ammunition in Canada.

Quick Answer: What You Need to Buy Ammunition in Canada

To purchase ammunition in Canada, you need:

• Valid PAL (Possession and Acquisition License) or RPAL
• Government-issued photo ID for verification
• No prohibition orders under the Criminal Code
• Age 18 or older (even with valid Minor’s License)

Important: You do NOT need to register your ammunition purchases with the RCMP. There is no ammunition registry in Canada.

---

Legal Requirements for Buying Ammunition in Canada

The Firearms Act and Ammunition Regulations

Under the Firearms Act and Criminal Code of Canada, ammunition is classified as a controlled substance requiring proper licensing to possess and purchase.

Federal Law Requirements:

• Valid PAL or RPAL must be presented at time of purchase
• Retailers must verify license authenticity before completing sale
• License number is recorded (but not reported to government registry)
• Ammunition must match the class of firearms on your license

What’s NOT Required:

• Registration of ammunition purchases
• Reporting quantities purchased
• Permits for specific calibers
• Background checks at each purchase (PAL already covers this)

Understanding Ammunition Classifications

Unlike firearms, ammunition itself is not classified as “non-restricted,” “restricted,” or “prohibited.” However, practical restrictions apply:

With PAL (Non-Restricted License):

• Rifle ammunition (all calibers)
• Shotgun ammunition (all gauges)
• Handgun ammunition IF you can demonstrate legitimate use (competition, handgun hunting where legal)

With RPAL (Restricted PAL):

• All rifle and shotgun ammunition
• All handgun ammunition without restriction
• Access to restricted calibers for authorized firearms

Prohibited Ammunition:

• Armor-piercing ammunition
• Explosive or incendiary projectiles
• Certain military surplus (case-by-case basis)

---

PAL vs RPAL: Which License Do You Need?

Possession and Acquisition License (PAL)

What It Covers:

• Non-restricted rifles and shotguns
• Ammunition for non-restricted firearms
• Some handgun ammunition with legitimate purpose

How to Get It:

1. Complete Canadian Firearms Safety Course (CFSC)
2. Pass written and practical exams
3. Submit application with photos and references
4. Wait 28-day minimum processing period
5. Background check conducted by RCMP

Cost: $60 application fee + $120-200 course fees (varies by province)

Processing Time 2025: 45-90 days average across Canada

• Ontario: 60-75 days
• Alberta: 45-60 days
• British Columbia: 50-70 days
• Quebec: 75-90 days (includes provincial requirements)

Restricted PAL (RPAL)

What It Covers:

• Everything PAL covers
• Restricted firearms (handguns, AR-15 platform)
• All handgun ammunition without restriction
• Authorization to Transport (ATT) for range use

How to Get It:

1. Complete CFSC (PAL prerequisite)
2. Complete Canadian Restricted Firearms Safety Course (CRFSC)
3. Pass additional written and practical exams
4. Submit application with enhanced documentation
5. Extended background check

Cost: $80 application fee + $120-250 additional course fees

Processing Time 2025: 60-120 days average

Why Get RPAL Even If You Don’t Own Handguns:

• Future-proofs your licensing if you want handguns later
• Simplifies handgun ammunition purchases
• Required for many shooting sports (IPSC, IDPA)
• Single renewal process for both licenses

---

Where to Buy Ammunition Legally in Canada

Online Retailers (Most Popular Option)

Advantages:

• Better selection than most local stores
• Competitive pricing, especially for bulk purchases
• Shop from home, delivery to your door
• Easy price comparison across retailers
• Often free shipping over $200-300

Major Canadian Online Retailers:

• Cabela’s Canada – Nationwide shipping, good selection
• Bass Pro Shops Canada – Similar to Cabela’s, strong US brand presence
• Wholesale Sports – Western Canada focus, competitive pricing
• Canadian Tire – Limited selection, convenient for basic needs
• Independent Online Dealers – Often best pricing for bulk orders

How Online Ordering Works:

1. Select Ammunition: Browse catalog, add to cart
2. PAL Verification: Upload PAL photo or enter license number
3. Order Processing: Retailer verifies PAL with RCMP database or visually
4. Payment: Credit card, debit, or Interac e-Transfer
5. Shipping: 5-15 business days via Canada Post or courier
6. Delivery: Signature required, ID checked against PAL

Important Shipping Notes:

• Canada Post and couriers handle ammunition as “dangerous goods”
• Additional shipping fees typically $15-30 depending on weight
• Some retailers offer free shipping on bulk orders
• Cannot ship to PO boxes in most cases
• Quebec has additional provincial shipping requirements

Retail Gun Stores

Advantages:

• Immediate possession (no waiting)
• No shipping costs
• Build relationships with local dealers
• Expert advice and recommendations
• See products before purchase

What to Bring:

• Valid PAL or RPAL (physical card)
• Government photo ID (driver’s license, passport)
• Payment method

In-Store Purchase Process:

1. Select ammunition
2. Present PAL at counter
3. Clerk verifies license authenticity
4. Complete purchase (retailer records PAL number)
5. Take ammunition home immediately

Finding Local Retailers:

• Use Canadian Firearms Program dealer locator
• Check provincial shooting association directories
• Search “firearms dealer [your city]”
• Ask at local shooting ranges

Big Box Retailers

Canadian Tire:

• Limited selection (basic calibers only)
• 9mm, .223, 12ga most common
• Convenient locations across Canada
• Not the most competitive pricing
• Good for emergency purchases

Cabela’s/Bass Pro Physical Stores:

• Excellent selection
• Knowledgeable staff
• Competitive pricing
• Located in major cities
• Full firearms department

Gun Shows and Firearms Events

Legal Considerations:

• PAL required even at gun shows
• All federal regulations apply
• Vendors must verify licensing
• No “gun show loophole” in Canada

Advantages:

• See many vendors in one location
• Often find deals on bulk purchases
• Network with shooting community
• Discover new products

Major Canadian Gun Shows:

• Ontario Arms Collectors Association shows
• Alberta Gun Shows
• BC Arms Shows
• Various provincial events

---

Ammunition Storage Requirements Under Canadian Law

Federal Storage Regulations

The Firearms Act requires:

• Ammunition stored safely and securely
• Reasonable precautions to prevent theft
• Kept away from unauthorized persons (especially minors)

Best Practices (Recommended but Not Legally Required):

• Store separately from firearms
• Use locked containers or cabinets
• Keep in cool, dry location
• Use original packaging or labeled containers
• Maintain inventory for insurance purposes

What the Law DOESN’T Require:

• Specific locking mechanisms for ammunition
• Separation from firearms (recommended only)
• Registration or declaration of quantities
• Inspections of ammunition storage

Provincial Variations

Quebec:

• Additional provincial regulations may apply
• Check with Sûreté du Québec for specific requirements
• Enhanced storage recommendations

Other Provinces:

• Follow federal regulations
• Local bylaws may add restrictions (rare)
• Check municipal regulations in urban areas

Safe Storage Tips for Canadian Conditions

Climate Considerations:

• Avoid temperature extremes (-30°C to +35°C is safe range)
• Control humidity (especially coastal regions)
• Use desiccants in storage containers
• Avoid direct sunlight
• Keep away from heat sources

Container Options:

• Military surplus ammo cans (excellent seal)
• Plastic storage boxes with gaskets
• Purpose-built ammunition safes
• Locking cabinets or lockers

Long-Term Storage: Modern non-corrosive ammunition properly stored can last 20-50+ years in Canadian conditions.

---

Provincial Variations in Ammunition Regulations

Ontario

Key Points:

• Follow federal regulations
• No additional provincial requirements for ammunition
• Some municipalities restrict discharge, but not possession
• Most populous province, best availability

Purchasing Considerations:

• Excellent online and retail availability
• Competitive pricing in Toronto, Ottawa, Hamilton
• Many shooting ranges and clubs

Alberta

Key Points:

• Follows federal regulations exclusively
• No provincial restrictions beyond federal law
• Strong firearms culture, good availability
• Generally lower prices than eastern provinces

Purchasing Considerations:

• Calgary and Edmonton have excellent selection
• Rural areas well-served by online retailers
• Active shooting sports community

British Columbia

Key Points:

• Federal regulations apply
• No additional provincial ammunition restrictions
• Some municipal bylaws restrict discharge
• Good availability in Lower Mainland

Purchasing Considerations:

• Vancouver area has multiple retailers
• Higher prices due to shipping to west coast
• Strong hunting and sport shooting communities

Quebec

Key Points:

• Federal regulations plus some provincial considerations
• French-language documentation often required
• Additional provincial firearms forms may apply
• PAL required (Quebec FAC no longer valid since 2001)

Purchasing Considerations:

• Montreal has good selection
• Some retailers may require additional documentation
• Check Sûreté du Québec website for updates
• Rural Quebec well-served by online retailers

Atlantic Provinces (NB, NS, PEI, NL)

Key Points:

• Federal regulations apply
• No additional provincial restrictions
• Strong hunting traditions
• Smaller market, sometimes limited selection

Purchasing Considerations:

• Online shopping often best option
• Local stores stock hunting calibers primarily
• Shipping times may be longer (10-15 days)

Prairie Provinces (MB, SK)

Key Points:

• Federal regulations only
• No provincial restrictions
• Strong firearms culture
• Good availability in major cities

Northern Territories (YT, NT, NU)

Key Points:

• Federal regulations apply
• Firearms essential for subsistence hunting
• Limited local retail options
• Rely heavily on online ordering

Purchasing Considerations:

• Longer shipping times (2-3 weeks)
• Higher shipping costs
• Stock up during summer months
• Order in bulk to save on shipping

---

FAQs: Common Questions About Buying Ammunition in Canada

Can I buy ammunition without a PAL?

No. A valid PAL or RPAL is legally required to purchase any ammunition in Canada. There are no exceptions for rimfire, shotgun shells, or any other type.

Can I buy ammunition in the USA and bring it to Canada?

Yes, but it’s complicated and generally not recommended:

• Must declare at customs
• Import duties and taxes apply (typically 20-30%)
• Paperwork required
• Quantity limits may apply
• Most shooters find Canadian sources easier and more cost-effective

Is there a limit on how much ammunition I can buy?

No federal limit exists on quantity. However:

• Bulk purchases may trigger retailer notification
• Storage must be safe and secure
• Transport regulations apply for large quantities
• Some retailers impose per-customer limits during shortages

Do I need my physical PAL card or can I use a photo?

Most retailers require the physical card. Some accept clear photos for online orders, but policies vary by retailer.

Can I buy ammunition for calibers I don’t own?

Yes. There’s no requirement to prove you own a firearm in that caliber. However:

• Ammunition must be for firearms legal under your license class
• Retailers may ask about intended use
• Buying handgun ammunition with only PAL (not RPAL) may require explanation

What if my PAL is expired?

You cannot legally purchase or possess ammunition with an expired PAL. Renew immediately:

• Grace period does NOT exist for purchases
• Possession may be illegal depending on circumstances
• Renewal takes 45-60 days, so plan ahead

Can someone else buy ammunition for me?

This is a legal gray area. Technically:

• The purchaser must have a valid PAL
• “Straw purchases” for prohibited persons are illegal
• Gifting between licensed individuals is generally acceptable
• Best practice: always purchase your own ammunition

How do retailers verify my PAL?

Methods include:

• Visual inspection of physical card
• Calling RCMP verification line (1-800-731-4000)
• Online PAL verification system (for licensed retailers)
• Comparing photo ID to PAL photo

Can I order ammunition to my workplace?

Most retailers allow this if:

• You’re present to receive delivery
• Can provide ID and PAL at delivery
• Workplace permits firearm-related deliveries
• Always check with HR first

What happens if ammunition is lost or stolen?

Legal Requirements:

• Report to local police immediately
• No requirement to report to RCMP (unlike firearms)
• File report for insurance purposes
• Document serial numbers if reloading components

---

Cost-Saving Strategies for Canadian Ammunition Buyers

Buy in Bulk

Savings Potential: 10-25% compared to single boxes

Bulk Options:

• Case quantities (500-1,000 rounds)
• Multi-box discounts
• Group buys with club members
• Annual supply purchases

Considerations:

• Storage space required
• Upfront capital needed
• Ensure long-term use of caliber

Shop Sales and Promotions

When to Buy:

• Boxing Week sales (December 26-31)
• Black Friday (late November)
• Spring clearance (April-May)
• End of hunting season (January-February)

Where to Find Deals:

• Retailer email newsletters
• Canadian gun forums (CGN, Reddit r/canadaguns)
• Social media (Facebook groups, Instagram)
• Price comparison websites

Join Shooting Clubs

Benefits:

• Group purchase discounts
• Bulk ordering savings
• Access to club sales
• Networking for deals

Major Organizations:

• National Firearms Association (NFA)
• Canadian Shooting Sports Association (CSSA)
• Provincial associations
• Local clubs and ranges

Consider Reloading

When It Makes Sense:

• Shoot 500+ rounds monthly
• Use expensive calibers (.308, .45 ACP)
• Want customized loads
• Enjoy the hobby aspect

Investment Required:

• Basic setup: $300-500
• Progressive press: $800-1,500
• Components: Ongoing cost
• Break-even: typically 1,000-2,000 rounds

---

2025 Ammunition Availability in Canada

Current Market Conditions

Supply Status: Significantly improved from 2020-2023 shortages

Well-Stocked Calibers:

• 9mm (excellent availability)
• .223/5.56 (good availability)
• 12 gauge (excellent availability)
• .22 LR (excellent availability)
• .308 Winchester (good availability)

Limited Availability:

• Less common handgun calibers (.357 SIG, 10mm)
• Specialty hunting rounds
• Match-grade ammunition
• Some defensive hollowpoint brands

Pricing Trends:

• Prices 20-30% higher than pre-2020
• Stabilizing but unlikely to return to 2019 levels
• Canadian dollar weakness adds 10-15% to import costs
• Domestic production increasing (G4C Defense)

---

The Bottom Line: Buying Ammunition in Canada

Key Takeaways:

1. PAL is mandatory – No exceptions, no workarounds
2. Online shopping is convenient – Better selection, competitive pricing
3. No ammunition registry – Purchases aren’t tracked by government
4. Storage is your responsibility – Keep it safe and secure
5. Buy in bulk to save – Significant savings on larger quantities
6. Plan ahead – Processing times and shipping add up
7. Know your provincial rules – Most follow federal, but verify

Getting Started Checklist:

□ Obtain PAL or RPAL □ Research calibers you need □ Compare prices across retailers □ Determine storage solution □ Place first order or visit local store □ Inspect ammunition upon receipt □ Store safely and securely

Resources:

• RCMP Canadian Firearms Program: 1-800-731-4000
• PAL Application: rcmp-grc.gc.ca/en/firearms
• Provincial CFOs: Listed on RCMP website
• Canadian Gun Forums: canadiangunnutz.com, reddit.com/r/canadaguns

---

Ready to purchase ammunition legally and confidently in Canada? With your valid PAL and this knowledge, you’re prepared to shop smart, stay legal, and enjoy shooting sports safely.

---

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about Canadian ammunition laws and purchasing. Regulations may change. Always verify current requirements with the RCMP Canadian Firearms Program and your provincial Chief Firearms Officer. This is not legal advice.