What do you know about the 2nd amendment?
We think it’s safe to say that the U.S. constitution is universally considered one of the most important documents ever written. Here in Canada, we have the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which provides similar protections to our citizens, but gun ownership is one place where the U.S. and Canada differ.
The right to bear arms is a constitutionally guaranteed right in the United States of America. In Canada, gun ownership is more limited, but that doesn’t mean firearm collecting is any less popular up here, and our firearms auctions prove that!
But what do the differences between Canadian and American gun laws mean for U.S. citizens who wish to purchase firearms through our auctions? Is the process a huge hassle? Not at all—believe it or not, we have put a lot of thought into it. We love our American buyers and do whatever we can to help them out.
Here’s how folks from the U.S. can purchase firearms through GTA Guns:
Canadian Gun Laws
In Canada, firearms laws are federally regulated, meaning that you need to go through the process of obtaining a Possession and Acquisition License (PAL) before you can legally own a gun. In the U.S., things are a little different—and often much easier—as states establish their own laws to regulate firearms.
There are three categories of firearms in Canada:
- Non-restricted – the majority of modern hunting rifles and shotguns.
- Restricted – some rifles and handguns.
- Prohibited – generally smaller handguns and some semi-automatic firearms.
With this in mind, GTA Guns can sell prohibited firearms to properly licensed Canadians and with some exceptions to the United States. We also cannot sell any modified military firearms. Non-restricted and restricted firearms, however, are fine!
The Process for U.S. Citizens
To begin, the process for U.S. citizens who wish to bid on firearms in our auctions is the same as for any Canadian citizen. They simply need to place a bid! Then, if they have the highest bid at the end of the auction, they win!
After that, American citizens will need to set up an account at Borderview for restricted firearms and long guns. Borderview is a U.S.-based firearm import service that works with GTA Guns to get our American-based auction winners their guns. You can set up an account with Borderview at this link.
After you’ve finished, we can get the ball rolling by sending you your firearms. The costs are:
- Standard 15% buyer’s premium + 4% online
- Direct shipping costs (Canada Post or UPS)
- Packaging and handling
- Insurance
GTA Guns has worked hard to build up a dedicated buyer base across North America. Whether you are a U.S. citizen or a Canadian citizen, we’ll get your purchased firearm to you as quickly as possible.
If you want to learn more about our auctions or any of our other services, please feel free to contact us today!