By Travis Bader, founder of Silvercore Outdoors.
Last updated: 24 October 2026
Silvercore teaches three live-fire handgun courses in BC, taken in order: Handgun Fundamentals (HG1), Handgun Intermediate (HG2) and Handgun Dynamic / Professional (HG3). Each is $470 plus tax and requires a restricted PAL. Students bring their own semi-automatic handgun and ammunition.
What licence do you need first?
You need a restricted PAL. Under section 7(2)(a) of the Firearms Act, an individual is eligible to hold a licence to possess restricted firearms only if they successfully complete a restricted firearms safety course approved by the federal Minister and pass any tests that form part of that course. That course is the restricted PAL course (CRFSC).
Each Silvercore handgun course page states: "A valid Restricted PAL # must be provided when registering".
If you have no licence yet, take the combined PAL course, which pairs the Canadian Firearms Safety Course (CFSC) with the CRFSC. It is $270 plus tax, and the course page states that it "runs two consecutive days or three consecutive evenings, with all four exams included." The same page states: "Neither course involves live fire." The difference between the two licence classes is covered in PAL vs RPAL.
Can you still own a handgun to train with?
The national handgun freeze limits who can acquire one. Individuals in Canada cannot buy or receive transfers of handguns or bring newly acquired handguns into Canada, and an existing owner can sell or transfer a handgun only to an exempted individual or a business (Firearms Act s. 12.2, s. 19.1, s. 97.1). Individuals who already own registered handguns can still possess and use them. Public Safety Canada states: "Individuals can continue to possess and use their registered handguns."
What an RPAL holder can still do under the freeze is set out in RPAL and the handgun freeze, and the purchase question is answered in Can you buy a handgun in Canada?
How do you get your handgun to the range?
You need an Authorization to Transport. Under section 17 of the Firearms Act, a restricted firearm registered to an individual may be possessed only at their dwelling-house or at a place authorized by a chief firearms officer, subject to sections 19 and 20. Section 19(1) allows an individual to be authorized to transport a restricted firearm between specified places for use in target practice or a target shooting competition, under specified conditions or under the auspices of a shooting club or shooting range approved under section 29. Section 57 makes the chief firearms officer responsible for issuing authorizations to transport.
Gun club membership for restricted firearms is Canadian Firearms Program policy, and the Firearms Act does not require it. The Silvercore Club was the first club in Canada (not a range) approved by the RCMP as meeting ATT issuance requirements. Transport rules for the trip itself are in Transporting firearms in Canada.
What does each course cover?
HG1 is "A one day range course for both beginners and veterans, wishing to further build their marksmanship fundamentals." Topics include safety rules and range procedures, principles of marksmanship, live fire exercises, dealing with malfunctions, target analysis, and proper cleaning and maintenance. An online training program gives you the theory before the range day. Bring a semi-automatic handgun (no revolvers), 2 magazines, a minimum of 300 rounds and a minimum of 5 rounds of dummy ammunition.
HG2 "builds upon the skills you've developed in our Handgun Fundamentals class." It covers safe drawing and re-holstering, loading and reloading, malfunctions and clearing, cover and concealment, and benchmark drills. It requires successful completion of Handgun Fundamentals or recognized certification of formal handgun training through an official agency. Kit adds a belt mounted hard Kydex retention holster, 3 or more magazines, at least 2 magazine pouches and a rigid belt.
HG3 teaches "specific techniques and principles essential for dynamic/professional handgun shooting." Topics include shooting while standing, moving, kneeling and prone, multiple moving targets, low light shooting with a tactical flashlight, and the Federal Air Marshal course of fire. It requires successful completion of Handgun Intermediate or recognized certification of formal handgun training through an official agency, and a minimum of 400 rounds.
All three pages state that Silvercore limits class size to a maximum of 6 students per instructor.
Can you rent a handgun for the course?
Plan to bring your own. All three pages state that "neither firearm rentals nor ammunition are provided" for the course. The HG1 page adds that some venues rent firearms: "If you require a firearms rental from the venue, please contact our office to confirm in advance of the course date."
Where are the courses held?
Range venues vary by course date. Silvercore's live-fire courses are typically held in Langley, Pitt Meadows and Chilliwack, and have run at ranges throughout BC. The range for your date is confirmed when you book.
If you hold your restricted PAL and a registered handgun, book HG1.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a restricted PAL to take HG1?
Yes. The HG1 page states "A valid Restricted PAL # must be provided when registering" and adds that exceptions may be made for active law enforcement officers.
Can I bring a revolver?
No. The HG1, HG2 and HG3 kit lists each ask for a "Semi-automatic handgun (no revolvers)".
Do I have to take HG1 before HG2?
Yes, unless you hold recognized certification of formal handgun training through an official agency. HG2 requires successful completion of Handgun Fundamentals or that certification.
Who issues the Authorization to Transport for my handgun?
The chief firearms officer. Section 57 of the Firearms Act makes the chief firearms officer responsible for issuing authorizations to transport.
