carrying a firearm

As noted, hand-guns, not really possible.
Long-guns/shot guns, only of you have plans to go hunting; documented, with license is a good idea.
Self defense is right out, period.
Pepper-spray, only Bear-Spray is allowed, again, self-defense is not
Even many Martial Arts weapons are banned, anything "hinged" and throwing stars (among others)

FYI, the Canadians bust people all the time for trying. In point of fact, if you have an NRA or other gun rights stickers, expect an in depth search.

If you have Texas, Alabama, etc plates, you are more likely to get an in-depth search, due to the perception that you are more likely to try to smuggle guns.

Brewski50 wrote:
What am I supposed to do when I'm trying to cross over the Canadian border.

You have to change your plans.

Brewski50 wrote:
hope I can get an answer for a dilemma. I'm traveling with my 5th wheel and I want to go into Canada while traveling through the Northwest. I keep a sidearm in my vehicle or my camper for obvious reasons.
What am I supposed to do when I'm trying to cross over the Canadian border. I don't want to ship the pistol to my next us destination as I find that option ridiculous.
Any suggestions?

Based on my research handguns are way too difficult to get into Canada, however, long guns are not. If you have a shotgun or rifle maybe that would be a better option for a trip in which you plan to cross the border. Do a google search and you can find the official Canadian Govt website that tells you what you have to do to carry a long gun across the border. They even have the form online to fill out. If you have a shotgun, the barrel has to be 18 1/2" or longer. The US rule is 18" so there are an awful lot of 18" bbl shotguns out there that you can take into Canada.

I had an uncle who carried a pistol into Canada once, but it took over 4 hours at the border and that was in 1956.

Do a search of firearms in canada. Lots of info.
Best answer - DO NOT ATTEMPT TO CARRY A FIREARM OF ANY KIND INTO CANADA!!!!!!

Read this from GOOGLE SEARCH

BRINGING FIREARMS INTO CANADA

Roy Ken

For short trips in and out at same location, there is local facilities to store your weapons.
Longer trips through Canada, leave it home!

What you can or cannot bring into Canada