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Reloading Update #3

Here are the links to the Department of Natural Resources:
https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/mms/explosif/over/faq_hr_e.htm
https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/mms/explosif/over/faq_hr_f.htm

From the National Firearms Association, thank you to all of you who sent letters. Your efforts helped.

Here is the letter the Minister of Natural Resources the Hon. John Efford is sending out:

“Dear :

Thank you for your letter expressing your concerns over proposed changes to regulations under the Explosives Act relating to the handloading of ammunition.

We are currently reviewing all of our regulations, for a number of reasons. Firstly, newer legislation has rendered some of my department’s obsolete, e.g. the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act now covers much of explosives transportation. Secondly, explosive products and technology have changed a lot over the years, also necessitating changes to the regulations. Moreover, you will appreciate that there is increasing public sensitivity to safety issues that must be taken into account.

While we recognise that handloading properly practiced is a safe activity, government has the duty to maintain up-to-date, appropriate regulations, thereby maintaining the confidence of the public that government is acting in a responsible manner. At the same time, I would like to make it clear that the current review of handloading regulations is not sparked by any rash of accidents or fear of them, which will be an important factor to consider in the review of the regulations.

The Explosives Act prohibits the manufacture of explosives (including ammunition) anywhere except in a licensed factory – unless exempted by regulations. In the past, we have worked with the reloading community to put in place regulations to exempt handloaders from this prohibition. Indeed, the Explosives Branch maintains close links with many stakeholder associations, including
the blasting explosives manufacturers, fireworks importers and users and other industry groups. It has always been their practice to consult fully with stakeholders before changing any of their regulations.

At the invitation of the National Firearms Association (NFA), NRCan officials will join a world sport shooting advisory board at their annual meeting next March. At that time a decision will be made whether any regulatory changes will be required. Be assured that no proposals to modify the regulations affecting handloading will be made before full consultations have been completed.

Due to the large volume of correspondence being received on this matter, responses to specific questions are not being provided at this time. What we are doing is collecting and categorizing all questions submitted. Once all feedback has been received a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) fact sheet will be prepared and posted on our Web site, www.nrcan.gc.ca/mms/explosif/index.htm, and mailed on request for those preferring a hard copy.

If changes to the regulations are required, our goal will be
to balance the desire of handloaders to continue to practice their hobby unimpeded with the need to ensure public safety and security.

Again, please be assured that we will not change anything in the current regulations until all interested parties have had the opportunity to provide their input.

Thank you for taking the time to write and share your thoughts.

Yours sincerely,

The Honourable R. John Efford, P.C., M.P.