Frequently Asked Questions
Find quick answers to common questions about using GunEx. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact our support team.
What is GunEx and how does it work?
GunEx is Canada's premier online marketplace for buying and selling firearms, accessories, and archery equipment. We connect licensed buyers and sellers while ensuring all transactions comply with Canadian firearms laws. Users can browse listings, contact sellers, and arrange safe, legal transactions.
Who can use GunEx?
GunEx is available to Canadian residents who are 18 years or older and possess valid PAL (Possession and Acquisition License) or RPAL (Restricted PAL) licenses as required by law. All users must comply with federal, provincial, and municipal firearms regulations.
How much does it cost to use GunEx?
Creating an account and browsing listings is free. We may charge fees for certain premium features or services. Any applicable fees will be clearly displayed before you commit to a transaction or service.
Does it cost money to post listings on GunEx?
GunEx is dedicated to keeping basic listing services accessible for personal use. Individual users can typically post a limited number of listings for free. If you need to post many listings simultaneously or use advanced features, premium plans may apply. Business accounts and high-volume sellers may be subject to monthly or annual fees. Check your account dashboard for current pricing and limits.
What types of items can be listed on GunEx?
You can list legal firearms, ammunition, accessories, parts, and archery equipment that are permitted for civilian ownership in Canada. Prohibited items, modified firearms, and anything illegal under Canadian law cannot be listed. See our community guidelines for complete details.
What is a PAL and how do I get one?
PAL stands for Possession and Acquisition License. This is what you need to buy or possess firearms in Canada. You can get one by taking the Canadian Firearms Safety Course (CFSC). Check online or contact local businesses that provide this service. They can guide you through the application process once you complete the course and test. For more information, visit the RCMP Canadian Firearms Program or call 1-800-731-4000.
Do I need a PAL to purchase ammunition?
Yes, you need a valid PAL to purchase ammunition in Canada. This requirement helps ensure that only licensed individuals have access to ammunition.
Do I need a PAL to purchase all firearms?
There are currently a few exceptions where you do not need a PAL: flintlock muzzleloading rifles, airguns with a rated velocity of less than 500 feet per second, and firearms classified as having "antique status." However, laws can change, so verify current information with the RCMP at 1-800-731-4000.
How do I create an account?
Click "Sign Up" in the top navigation, provide your email address and create a secure password. You'll need to verify your email address and complete your profile with required information including your PAL/RPAL license details.
How long does account verification take?
Basic account verification typically takes 24-48 hours. Additional verification for specific features may take longer. You'll receive email notifications when your verification status changes.
Can I have multiple accounts?
No, each person may only maintain one account on GunEx. Multiple accounts by the same individual are prohibited and may result in account suspension or termination.
I forgot my password. How do I reset it?
Click "Forgot Password" on the sign-in page and enter your email address. We'll send you instructions to reset your password. If you don't receive the email, check your spam folder or contact support.
I'm having trouble logging into my account
First, ensure you're using the correct email address and password. Check if Caps Lock is on. Try clearing your browser's cache and cookies, then attempt to log in again. If you signed up for our newsletter or a contest, note that this doesn't automatically create a marketplace account. If problems persist, use the password reset option or contact support.
Will other people see my email address when they view my listing?
No, your email address is never shared with other users. All communications go through our secure messaging system to protect your privacy.
Will other people see my home address when they view my listing?
No, your home address is never shared with other users. When people view your listing, they only see your general area based on your postal code for basic directional information. You can even use just the first 3 characters of your postal code to make the location even more general.
Why am I not getting emails from GunEx?
If you're not receiving emails from GunEx (account setup, password reset, ad notifications, or inquiries), check your spam/junk folder first. Add @gunex.ca to your email whitelist to ensure future emails reach your inbox. If problems persist, contact support with your email address.
How do I create a listing?
After signing in, click "Post" in the navigation bar. Complete the listing form with accurate details, upload clear photos, and set your asking price. Review our listing guidelines to ensure compliance.
What information must be included in a listing?
Firearm listings must include make, model, serial number (partially obscured in public view), caliber, condition, clear photos, asking price, and general location. All information must be accurate and honest.
How do I contact a seller?
Use the "Message" button on any listing to contact the seller through our secure messaging system. Keep initial communications on platform for safety and record-keeping purposes.
How do payments work?
GunEx facilitates connections between buyers and sellers but doesn't process payments directly. Users arrange payment methods privately. We recommend secure methods like certified cheques, bank drafts, or cash for in-person transactions.
Can I negotiate prices with sellers?
Yes, many listings allow price negotiation. Contact the seller through our messaging system to discuss pricing. Be respectful and reasonable in your offers.
How do I arrange to meet a buyer/seller?
Always meet in safe, public locations such as police station parking lots, gun stores, or shooting ranges. Follow our safety guidelines for secure transactions.
How do I renew or refresh my listing?
You can refresh your listing by editing it in your account dashboard. This will move it back to the top of search results as if it were a new posting. Some platforms charge a small fee for this feature to prevent spam and ensure fair visibility for all users.
How do I leave a review for someone I've dealt with?
You can leave reviews for users you've completed transactions with. Visit their profile page and look for the review section at the bottom. Only leave reviews for actual transactions you've completed, not for deals that fell through during negotiations.
Someone gave me a negative review. Can I have it removed?
Reviews can only be removed if they violate our review policy. Reviews should only be posted by users who actually completed a transaction with you, not from deals that fell through during negotiations. If you believe a review violates our policies, contact support with details about the situation.
How do I legally sell firearms in Canada?
To legally sell firearms, you must verify the buyer has the appropriate license (PAL for non-restricted, RPAL for restricted). For restricted firearms, you must notify the RCMP of the transfer. Keep records of all transactions. For detailed legal requirements, consult the RCMP Canadian Firearms Program or call 1-800-731-4000.
What licenses do I need to buy firearms?
You need a valid PAL (Possession and Acquisition License) for non-restricted firearms, or RPAL (Restricted PAL) for restricted firearms. Both buyer and seller must have appropriate licenses for the type of firearm being transferred.
How do I verify someone's license?
Always verify the other party's license before completing any transaction. Check that the license is current, matches their identification, and covers the type of firearm being transferred. When in doubt, contact the RCMP Canadian Firearms Program.
What paperwork is required for transfers?
Non-restricted firearms require basic transfer documentation. Restricted firearms require notification to the RCMP and may require additional paperwork. Both parties should maintain records of the transaction including license verification.
Can I ship firearms to buyers?
Firearms shipping has specific legal requirements and restrictions. Contact Canada Post or licensed shipping companies for current regulations. Many users prefer in-person transfers to ensure proper verification and compliance.
What if I suspect illegal activity?
Report suspected illegal activity immediately to local law enforcement (911) and notify us at safety@gunex.ca. We cooperate fully with law enforcement investigations and maintain zero tolerance for illegal activity.
How can I validate someone's PAL/RPAL?
For restricted firearm sales, the buyer should provide their name as it appears on the RPAL card, the RPAL number, and expiry date. The seller then calls the RCMP Canadian Firearms Program at 1-800-731-4000 to get a reference number for the transfer. The CFP agent will verify the buyer's license during this call. We don't recommend sending photos of licenses as the official verification process provides proper authentication.
How do I ship firearms legally in Canada?
Firearms shipping has strict requirements. Canada Post has specific rules for firearm shipping - check their firearms shipping guidelines. Restricted firearms have additional requirements and may require authorized carriers. Many users prefer in-person transfers to ensure proper verification and avoid shipping complexities.
How do I stay updated on Canadian firearms law changes?
Canadian firearms laws can change, including Order-in-Council classifications and new regulations. Stay informed by monitoring the RCMP Canadian Firearms Program, Justice Canada announcements, and reputable firearms organizations. GunEx will notify users of significant changes that affect platform usage, but users are responsible for ensuring their firearms remain legally compliant.
How do I stay safe when meeting buyers/sellers?
Always meet in public, well-lit locations. Bring a friend if possible, tell someone where you're going, and trust your instincts. Follow all firearms safety rules during inspections. See our comprehensive safety guide.
What are the red flags I should watch for?
Be cautious of prices significantly below market value, requests for immediate payment, reluctance to meet in person, poor quality photos, pressure for quick decisions, and requests for unusual payment methods.
How do I report suspicious users or listings?
Use the "Report" button on any listing or user profile to report violations. For urgent safety concerns, contact us immediately at safety@gunex.ca or report to local law enforcement.
How is my personal information protected?
We use industry-standard encryption and security measures to protect your information. We never sell your data and only share information as required by law. Read our privacy policy for complete details.
What should I do if my account is compromised?
Immediately change your password, enable two-factor authentication, and contact our support team. Review your account activity and report any unauthorized actions.
How do I edit or delete my listing?
Go to your profile and select "My Listings" to manage your active listings. You can edit details, update photos, change prices, or mark items as sold or remove them entirely.
Why can't I upload photos to my listing?
Ensure your photos are in supported formats (JPG, PNG) and under the size limit (typically 10MB per image). Check your internet connection and try again. Contact support if problems persist.
How do I use the FRT lookup tool?
Visit our FRT lookup page and search by FRN number, manufacturer, model, or other criteria. This tool helps verify firearm classifications and legal status according to the RCMP Firearms Reference Table.
The website is running slowly. What can I do?
Try refreshing your browser, clearing your cache and cookies, or using a different browser. Check your internet connection and try accessing the site from a different device. Contact support if issues persist.
How do I deactivate or delete my account?
Account deactivation options are available in your account settings. Before deactivating, ensure you've completed any pending transactions and downloaded any important information. Contact support if you need assistance.
I'm having trouble posting a listing
If you're getting error messages when posting a listing, first try clearing your browser's cache and cookies. Ensure all required fields are filled out completely and accurately. Check that your photos are in supported formats (JPG, PNG) and under the size limit. If problems persist, contact support with details about the error messages you're seeing.
Why is my account blocked or suspended?
Accounts may be blocked for suspicious activity, terms of service violations, problematic listings, or user reports. We err on the side of caution to protect our community. If your account is blocked, contact support for clarification and to resolve the issue. Most blocks can be resolved once the situation is clarified.
I paid for a featured listing. Why isn't it showing at the top?
Featured listings compete for limited top spots. When multiple users have featured ads, the system rotates which ones are displayed to ensure fairness. Your listing will appear at the top periodically, and more frequently as searches become more specific to your item and location.
How do I clear my browser's cache?
Browser cache clearing varies by browser. Generally: Press Ctrl+Shift+Delete (PC) or Cmd+Shift+Delete (Mac), select "Cached images and files" and click Clear/Delete. In Chrome: Settings > Privacy > Clear browsing data. In Firefox: History > Clear Recent History. This often resolves posting and login issues.
If you can't find the answer you're looking for, we're here to help. Our support team is knowledgeable about Canadian firearms laws, platform features, and technical issues.
Contact Support
Use our contact form or email hello@gunex.ca for general questions and technical support.
Community Guidelines
Review our community guidelines for platform rules, best practices, and enforcement policies.
Response times: General inquiries (24 hours) • Technical support (12 hours) • Safety concerns (4 hours)