Canada Firearms Training

Alaska/Canada Firearms Training is the only certified Canadian firearms safety training program operating in Alaska. Ed Bosco, a 50-year Alaska resident, is certified by the Chief Firearms Officers of British Columbia and the Yukon Territory to teach the Canadian Firearms Safety Course administered by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

Anyone traveling to Canada with a firearm needs a Canadian Firearms Possession and Acquisition License (PAL). The license makes it easier to cross the border with rifles and shotguns without paying the $25 fee, and it's required if you want to carry semi-automatic rifles (AR-15s, etc.) or restricted pistols across the border.

The PAL is valid for 5 years and can be renewed online. Cost is $60CAD for non-restricted firearms or $80CAD for both non-restricted and restricted.

• •Non-Restricted Course covers basic firearm safety, handling, ammunition knowledge, and Canadian transportation and storage rules.

• •Restricted Course adds training on restricted firearms and deeper coverage of Canadian regulations. Both courses are 8-10 hours long and include written and practical exams.

Ed Bosco brings serious credentials. He's been a certified hunter education instructor for over 30 years, plus certified as a bowhunting and muzzleloading instructor. He's an NRA certified Range Safety Officer, NRA certified Rifle and Shotgun Instructor, and NRA Level 1 Rifle Coach. He's also NMLRA certified, making him one of the most thoroughly trained instructors in the state.