Well, this is a somewhat delicate topic for which I have had my knuckles wrapped previously. So, will play this by ear and see what the moderators have to say.

Sorry, this is probably redundant information, but it will provide a little background for anyone who isn't familiar.

In Canada, you must be licensed to own or be in possession of any firearm otherwise known as the possession and acquisition license or more commonly know as the PAL or the previous POL. Firearms are split into 3 distinct groups as per the Firearms Act - nonrestricted or long guns (rifles & shotguns), restricted (handguns/AR15 platform) and prohibited (which few are allowed to possess). Storage and transport for the above are separated into nonrestricted and restricted/prohib. You only require your PAL when transporting a nonrestricted and a PAL/ATT (authorisation to transport) for restricted/prohib.

Having said all this - there are exceptions. Please refer to the Canadian Firearms Centre website for additional information.

Currently, the Firearms Act in Canada has been amended to end the Long Gun Registry for non restricted firearms. In essence, it ends the previously mandated registration of these types of firearms with the federal government. Restricted and prohib are still required to be registered. Licensing, storage and transport requirements remain the same.

Also, Bill C-26 has been passed into law which clarifies self defense and the powers of Citizens arrest under the Criminal Code of Canada. Although I do endorse the right of self defense of ones person and family, I must also be realistic. In general, the Canadian public do not view firearms in the same light as in the United States.

Please note the following are my personal views only. I would not recommend using a firearm to defend personal property (i.e. computer, television, etc.). The Crown prosecutor will probably argue it is an object which can be easily replaced by insurance. A more viable situation would be you and your family defending yourselves in an ensconced position in response to a person or persons threatening your well being. Regardless, as stated by jzmtl you will be dragged through the courts for using a firearm in self defense.

More importantly, I hope that no one has to face the above situation.