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Firehawvvk's avatar
Firehawvvk
Explorer
Jan 31, 2015

Alaska Questions

We are planning a trip to AK this year and I have a few basic questions. When crossing into Canada do they allow you to bring in knives and bear spray? I know about firearms going into Canada but not sure about other forms of defense. I will not risk getting caught with firearms going into Canada and the paperwork/cost isn't worth doing it legally so those are out.
TIA.

10 Replies

  • See all the info. you will ever need in the forum for RVing in Canada and Alaska. Posts there as well as the sticky about border regulations
  • Firehawvvk wrote:
    Thanks and good luck on your retirement this year.....if it hasn't happened yet.


    Thank you. You have a fun safe trip.

    I had to quit working the beginning of the year for health reasons. House is going on the market in 15 days, CL stuff mostly gone, and a ton of stuff given to family members and the animal rescue thrift shops.

    15 years of planning for full timing all coming down to the last 30 days it seems.
    We are both scared to death and excited. Can't sleep well, and I brains won't seem to shut off.

    Time is ticking quickly! Hope to be on the road by mid March :C
  • Its $20 to take a firearm into Canada we take a lever action 30-30 when we go.
  • We carry carving knives, bread knives, steak knives, large and medium fillet knives, boning knives and pocket knives. When asked at the border by Canadian customs, we say yes and tell the type. Never had another followup question. We don't bother with bear spray.
  • Below are the copied rules. It is up to the discretion of the border guards to take away your bear spray or not. You can buy bear spray in Canada at sporting goods stores, Canadian Tire, Walmart.


    (c) Any other spray designed to be used against humans (e.g., “pepper spray”) – These are chemical agents, often packaged in the form of aerosol sprays, made with the active ingredient capsaicin. Pepper spray is also known as OC (oleoresin capsicum) spray or OC gas. It is used to cause temporary incapacitation through irritation of eyes, skin, mucous membranes, and/or respiratory system, sometimes causing temporary blindness. In addition, some devices labelled as “pepper spray” may also contain Mace and/or tear gas.
    Exception: Aerosol or similar dispensers that contain substances capable of repelling or subduing animals (e.g. dog or bear repellent) are not considered prohibited weapons if:
    (i) the label of the container indicates specifically that it is for use against animals only; and
    (ii) the provisions of the Pest Control Products Act are met.
    (iii) In order for a device or dispenser to be considered to meet the above criteria, it must be apparent that the device was designed exclusively for the control or use against animals. The manufacturer’s label and specifications will be deemed as the design of the product. The misuse of these or any other similar device may nonetheless be punishable under other laws.
    (iv) Please note that there is no minimum quantity or capacity requirements (in terms of grams or milliliters) in making the determination with respect to animal repellents.
  • Knives as defense against a grizzly? :) Even bear spray is iffy. The bear would have to be very close to you to use it.
  • Thanks and good luck on your retirement this year.....if it hasn't happened yet.
  • Suggest you read through the many discussions and stickys in the Canada Alaska Forum. A ton of information including links to Both US and Canadian Customs.