Feds say 25 banned guns were collected and destroyed in buyback pilot program

By Canadian Press on January 7, 2026.

OTTAWA — The federal government says 25 banned firearms were collected and destroyed during a six-week trial run of its buyback program last fall.

Public Safety Canada says the pilot project, which took place in Nova Scotia, showed that clearer and more timely instructions are required to ensure the participation of firearm owners.

The department released a brief “lessons learned” report on the pilot effort late today.

Since May 2020, Ottawa has outlawed about 2,500 types of guns on the basis they belong only on the battlefield.

The federal government says the national buyback program, to be opened in coming weeks, will provide owners fair compensation for their outlawed firearms.

Ottawa has budgeted more than $700 million for the buyback.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 7, 2026.

Jim Bronskill, The Canadian Press

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