Can You Buy A Gel Blaster in Canada?

Introduction

Gel blasters have been gaining popularity in recent years due to their similarity to airsoft guns, but with a more realistic action. As the name suggests, gel blasters use gel balls that are fired from the gun instead of pellets or bullets. These are especially popular in Australia, where they were invented, but are also gaining popularity in other countries, including Canada. However, there is some confusion around whether or not you can buy a gel blaster in Canada.

What are gel blasters?

Gel blasters are toys that look and function like real firearms, but instead of bullets or pellets, they shoot small, soft gel balls. These gel balls are made of a water-absorbing polymer that expands when soaked in water. When fired, the gel balls travel at a slower velocity than traditional airsoft pellets, making them less likely to cause serious injury. Gel blasters come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but most resemble pistols, rifles, or submachine guns.

The legality of gel blasters in Canada

While gel blasters are legal in many countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and parts of the United States, their legality in Canada is unclear. Canada has strict gun laws that prohibit the sale and possession of certain types of firearms, including handguns, assault rifles, and fully automatic weapons. While gel blasters are not real firearms, they closely resemble real guns and could be mistaken for them.

According to the Canadian Firearms Program, gel blasters are considered replica firearms. These are defined as any device that "was designed or intended to exactly resemble, or to resemble with near precision, a firearm, and that itself is not a firearm and does not discharge a projectile." Replica firearms are considered prohibited devices in Canada and are illegal to import, sell, or possess.

However, some retailers in Canada still sell gel blasters, claiming that they are legal to buy and own. It is important to note that the legality of gel blasters in Canada is still a gray area, and possessing one could result in serious legal consequences.

The risks associated with gel blasters

While gel blasters are marketed as toys, they still pose serious risks, especially if used improperly. Because they closely resemble real guns, they can be mistaken for them, leading to potentially dangerous situations. For example, if someone were to use a gel blaster in public, they could be mistaken for an active shooter, leading to a response from law enforcement that could be deadly.

Additionally, gel blasters can cause injury if not used properly. While the gel balls they shoot are softer than traditional airsoft pellets, they can still cause damage if fired at close range or in sensitive areas of the body. It is important to always wear protective gear and follow proper safety procedures when using a gel blaster.

Conclusion

In summary, while gel blasters are growing in popularity in Canada and around the world, their legality in Canada is still up for debate. As they closely resemble real guns and could be mistaken for them, possessing a gel blaster could result in serious legal consequences. Additionally, they pose potential risks if used improperly and can cause injury if not used safely. It is important to exercise caution and follow proper safety procedures when using a gel blaster, and to be aware of the legal risks associated with them in Canada.