I think this is a great thread, I learned something new today, I defend people who have gun charges, people who have had firearm charges when shooting BB guns, now I will for the case, a defendant charges with a Grave Act offense by an officer who considers a flare gun or signal gun a firearm (here in NJ)...that video of the guys shooting the flare gun - flare projectile through the hollowed-core door was an eye-opener.

Copied from a Canadian Government site:

Q. I always carry a flare gun in my boat/vehicle for emergencies. Do I need a licence and does it have to be registered?

A. Flare guns and other devices designed exclusively for signalling or notifying of distress, and intended to be used exclusively for that purpose by the person in possession of it, are not classified as firearms for purposes of the Firearms Act. A licence is not required to possess one, and it does not have to be registered. These devices are classified as firearms for purposes of the Criminal Code if they are used to commit a crime.

(Note: A few flare guns have been designed using the frame or receiver of a real handgun, and may require registration as such. The Canadian Firearms Program should be contacted for more information.)


If you ever go to Cuba as I did in 2009, they will take them from you until you are ready to leave. Along with my Sat phone.

Bob

The biggest point has been stated. It needs to be in a case and unloaded. If you have it loaded and in your pocket with no imminent danger to the vessel then I can totally see a firearms charge. However if you have it loaded in your pocket with no distress you are likely up to no good anyhow. Haha

I was told by a Mi DNR officer that flare guns are not legal in Canada.Maybe the greenie thought I meant on land or something...lol

They don't look so dangerous here with a point blank shot to the temple. It doesn't take much to penetrate a hollow door. I have kicked around the idea of putting some starting fluid capsules, the kind used to start diesel engines, in the tip of a gun flare and coat it with a layer of wax. Then if used on someone in self defense the person should burst into flames!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bPTjTChQRfc

Cuba? Mojitos?

Thanks Bob, good info, that's what I was looking for.

Yes, Cuba / Mojitos. Here is a funny little side story. After being escorted into Marina Hemingway by their coasties and search and check in procedures all done including the paying of bribes and seizing of flare guns and sat phone , the lady doctor that checked us on arrival says - Here is my phone number, you must report on the condition of your crews health to me each day. On departure day we arrive back at marina and she is there waiting. " So how is everyone? " to which I reply ..... not so well. With a grave look on her face lady doctor says .... What is the problem ? My reply ..... too many Mojitos to much laughter and everyones relief. Reason for the health concern was it was at the tail end of the Sars epidemic and they were concerned about us bringing it to Cuba.

Bob

I've read most of this thread, but not all of it. Forgive me if what I'm asking has already been covered.

I keep reading the original post and I can't get past one part that keeps bugging me. The OP said that he needed a carry permit to purchase ammunition for a flare gun. What does a carry permit have to do with purchasing ammunition for a firearm of any kind? He wasn't purchasing the flare gun itself, just the ammunition.

Did I miss something?

Buck

Yes