Magazine Capacity Limits in Canada — Legal Guide 2026
Canadian law restricts magazine capacity based on firearm type. Handgun magazines are limited to 10 rounds. Centre-fire semi-automatic rifle magazines are limited to 5 rounds. Rimfire magazines have no federal capacity limit. Shotgun magazines are limited to 5 rounds. Possessing a prohibited magazine is a criminal offence.
| Entity | Attribute | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Handgun Magazine | Legal Maximum | 10 rounds |
| Centre-fire Rifle Magazine | Legal Maximum | 5 rounds (semi-automatic) |
| Rimfire Magazine | Federal Limit | None federally |
| Shotgun Magazine | Legal Maximum | 5 rounds (tube magazine) |
| Large-Capacity Magazine | Status | Prohibited (over legal limit for that firearm type) |
| Criminal Code | Reference | s.84(1) definition of prohibited device |
| Pinned Magazine | Restriction Method | Permanently pinned to legal capacity |
Why Are Magazine Limits Different by Firearm Type?
Magazine limits reflect the risk profile of different firearm types. Handguns (10 rounds) and semi-automatic centre-fire rifles (5 rounds) have specific caps. The 5-round limit for semi-automatic rifles is intended to reduce the lethality of potential mass shooting events. Rimfire firearms (like .22 LR) are considered lower risk and have no federal magazine limit.
What Makes a Magazine Prohibited?
A magazine is prohibited if its capacity exceeds the legal limit for the type of firearm it is designed for. A 15-round magazine designed for a 9mm handgun is prohibited (over 10). A 30-round magazine designed for an AR-15 (now prohibited firearm) is prohibited as a prohibited device. Possession of a prohibited magazine is a criminal offence.
Can You Use a Pinned Magazine to Comply?
Yes. A common compliance method is "pinning" a magazine — permanently modifying it so it physically cannot hold more than the legal limit. A 30-round AR-15 magazine permanently pinned to 5 rounds is compliant. The pin must make exceeding the limit impossible without destroying the magazine.