Canadian firearm regulations dictate a minimum barrel length for shotguns to ensure public safety and restrict their concealability. This minimum length applies to both smoothbore and rifled shotguns and is a key component of the Criminal Code of Canada. Non-compliance can result in serious legal consequences.
Maintaining this stipulated length is crucial for responsible firearm ownership and contributes to a safer society. This regulation helps prevent the misuse of shotguns in criminal activities by making them harder to conceal and deploy rapidly. Historically, such restrictions have been implemented globally to control the accessibility of easily concealable firearms. This legal framework has evolved over time, reflecting societal concerns and advancements in firearm technology.