Common CRFSC & CFSC Exam Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

These are the most frequently missed questions and common errors on the CFSC and CRFSC written exams. Learn from others' mistakes before you walk into yours.

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Both

Confusing the AND rule and OR rule for storage

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Correct approach: Restricted firearms need BOTH a trigger lock AND a locked container (AND). Non-restricted need ANY ONE of trigger lock, locked container, or locked room (OR). Write these out and memorize.

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CRFSC

Cycling the slide before removing the magazine on a semi-auto pistol during PROVE

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Correct approach: Always remove the magazine (R in PROVE) BEFORE cycling the slide. With the magazine in, racking the slide chambers a fresh round — leaving the firearm loaded.

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Both

Thinking mechanical safeties make ACTS rules optional

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Correct approach: Mechanical safeties are supplementary only. They can fail, be accidentally disengaged, and are never a substitute for ACTS — especially keeping the trigger finger out of the trigger guard.

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CRFSC

Confusing the barrel length limit for prohibited handguns (105mm)

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Correct approach: Handguns with barrels 105mm or LESS are PROHIBITED. Only handguns with barrels GREATER than 105mm are restricted. A 105mm barrel is prohibited, not restricted.

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Both

Skipping or reordering PROVE steps

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Correct approach: PROVE must be performed in exact order. P always comes first (muzzle safe direction). Never skip a step or do them out of order — exam questions specifically test the correct sequence.

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CRFSC

Assuming the ATT is a separate document you apply for

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Correct approach: Since December 5, 2015, ATT conditions are automatically attached to your RPAL. You do not separately apply for routine transport ATTs. Exam questions test whether you know this changed.

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CFSC

Getting gauge and bore size backwards

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Correct approach: Lower gauge number = LARGER bore. A 10-gauge has a larger bore than a 12-gauge. The .410 is an exception — it is measured in calibre (inches), not gauge.

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CFSC

Thinking all carry positions are always safe

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Correct approach: Carry positions are situational. Trail carry points the muzzle forward — unsafe with partners ahead. The correct answer is always the position that best controls the muzzle relative to other people.

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Both

Firing to clear a suspected squib load

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Correct approach: NEVER fire another round to clear a squib. If the bullet is lodged in the barrel, a second round can cause the barrel to burst. STOP, unload, and inspect before doing anything else.

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Both

Not knowing the magazine capacity limits

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Correct approach: Semi-auto centrefire RIFLES: 5 rounds maximum. Semi-auto HANDGUNS: 10 rounds maximum. Rimfire and manually-operated rifles: no federal limit. These limits are frequently tested.

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