Shotshells in Canada: An Overview of Regulations, Types, and Brands

If you’re a gun enthusiast or a hunter in Canada, you must know the ins and outs of shotshells. Shotshells, also known as shotgun shells, are cartridges that are used in shotguns. These cartridges contain shot pellets, which are propelled by gunpowder and ejected from the shotgun barrel to hit a target. In Canada, shotshells are subject to specific regulations, and it’s essential to know the different types and brands available in the market.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the regulations surrounding shotshells in Canada, the various types of shotshells available, and the top brands to choose from.

Regulations Surrounding Shotshells in Canada

As with any firearm-related item, shotshells are subject to regulations in Canada. The Canadian Firearms Act and its accompanying regulations dictate what is and isn’t legal in terms of shotshells.

Legal Shotshell Types

Only certain types of shotshells are legal in Canada, and it’s essential to know what they are to ensure you comply with the law. According to the Canadian Firearms Act, only shotshells loaded with shot sizes between BB and #12 are legal. Any shot size above or below this range is prohibited.

Shotgun Barrel Length

Shotguns themselves are also subject to specific regulations in Canada. One such regulation is that shotguns must have a minimum barrel length of 18.5 inches to be legal.

Storage and Transportation

In Canada, shotshells are subject to the same storage and transportation regulations as firearms. This means that shotshells must be stored and transported in a locked container, separate from the firearms they’re meant to be used with.

Types of Shotshells Available

Shotshells come in various types, each with its own unique features and uses. Knowing the different types of shotshells can help you choose the right one for your specific needs.

Birdshot

Birdshot shotshells are typically used for hunting small game, such as birds. They contain numerous small pellets, which spread out when fired, increasing the chances of hitting the target.

Buckshot

Buckshot shotshells are larger in size and contain fewer pellets than birdshot shotshells. They’re commonly used for hunting larger game, such as deer or wild boar.

Slugs

Slugs are single, solid projectiles that are used for hunting larger game, such as moose or bear. They’re designed to provide maximum stopping power and are typically used at close range.

Non-Toxic Shot

Non-toxic shotshells are made with materials other than lead, which is toxic to wildlife. They’re commonly used for hunting waterfowl, where the use of lead shotshells is prohibited.

Top Shotshell Brands in Canada

When it comes to buying shotshells in Canada, there are several top brands to choose from. Here are five of the most popular brands in Canada:

1. Federal Premium

Federal Premium is a well-known brand in the shooting industry, offering a wide range of shotshells for different applications. Their shotshells are designed with high-quality materials, making them a popular choice among hunters.

2. Winchester

Winchester is another popular brand among hunters and shooting enthusiasts. They offer shotshells in various types and sizes, ensuring you can find the perfect one for your specific needs.

3. Remington

Remington shotshells are known for their quality and reliability, making them a popular choice among hunters and sports shooters alike.

4. Fiocchi

Fiocchi is an Italian brand that has been making ammunition for over 140 years. They offer a wide range of shotshells in different types and sizes, catering to the needs of different shooters.

5. Hornady

Hornady is a well-known brand in the shooting industry, offering high-quality ammunition, including shotshells. Their shotshells are designed with precision and accuracy in mind, making them a popular choice among hunters and sports shooters.

Choosing the Right Shotshell

Choosing the right shotshell is essential to ensure you have a successful hunt or shooting experience. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a shotshell:

1. Shot Size

The shot size you choose depends on the game you’re hunting or the shooting sport you’re participating in. For example, birdshot is typically used for small game, while buckshot is used for larger game.

2. Gauge

Shotshells come in different gauges, and it’s essential to choose the right gauge for your shotgun. The most common gauges are 12 gauge, 20 gauge, and .410 bore.

3. Velocity

The velocity of the shotshell affects its range and effectiveness. Higher velocity shotshells are typically used for longer ranges, while lower velocity shotshells are used for shorter ranges.

4. Material

The material of the shotshell can also affect its performance. For example, non-toxic shotshells are required for hunting waterfowl, while lead shotshells are still commonly used for other types of game.

Conclusion

Shotshells are an essential part of hunting and shooting in Canada. It’s essential to know the regulations surrounding shotshells and choose the right type and brand for your specific needs. With the information provided in this article, you should be able to make an informed decision when it comes to buying shotshells in Canada.

FAQs

1. Are all types of shotshells legal in Canada?

• No, only shotshells loaded with shot sizes between BB and #12 are legal in Canada.

2. Can I use lead shotshells for hunting in Canada?

• Yes, lead shotshells are still legal for hunting most types of game, except for waterfowl.

3. What is the minimum shotgun barrel length in Canada?

• The minimum shotgun barrel length in Canada is 18.5 inches.

4. What is the most common shotshell gauge in Canada?

• The most common shotshell gauges in Canada are 12 gauge and 20 gauge.

5. Can I transport shotshells in the same container as firearms?

• No, shotshells must be stored and transported in a locked container, separate from the firearms they’re meant to be used with.