Crossing Into Canada with a Firearm

Back in 1986 we tried to cross into Canada with a shotgun, we were turned away, so we went to the next crossing east, did not declare and were allowed in. Bad idea, we were ok but there could have been serious ramifications. They are very strict about firearms. So last year we went again with the camper and no firearms, but I was, as most are, concerned about self defense. When we arrived at the border crossing we were asked about firearms. We responded that we had none, but we did have flare guns that we carried as safety devices on our kayaks. (We did have kayaks). The negatives, of course, is that these are one shot and you may start a forest fire. These are legal as long as they are not used as weapons. The moment you use them as anything but safety devices they are considered weapons. For many years there have been discussions in the marine field about inserts for firing 20 gauge shells in these flare devices. This is also a bad idea as they are not designed for them. Interestingly, when the border agent asked us about firearms he had trouble believing we had none. He told us several times that all we had to do was to tell him what we had. He said everyone carries a gun. As others have stated it is all about who you talk to. He informed us that is not a problem to carry a long gun as long as you declare it. This is all just my experience and I am not advocating anything, just giving you my experience.
By the way, we never felt threatened while in Canada or alaska. We did carry bear spray, which you can buy at many retailers in Canada. Last thought, if hiking and the need for spray arises, always consider wind direction.