Moviemaking, Airsoft, and Quebec

[FXPooky]

Okay well I read a bunch of FAQ posts here, but I'm quite confused because none of them seem to say the same thing. I've also searched but not really found anything of any use, so I'll just start a new thread here (hopefully this is the right forum).

Anyway, I am interested in buying Airsoft guns for use in movies (so they don't have to actually shoot anything, and can be broken, but kickback would be nice) . The problem is that I am 16 and in the province of Quebec... so what laws would apply here? Also, are there places to buy used or broken airsoft guns in the Montreal or Quebec city area?

Thanks

[Grim Fandango]

And what kind of movies are you making exactly???? My understanding is, if you are making a movie using guns, you need a licenses props master on set at all times. You can check out retailers on the drop down menu at the top of this page. But most retailers do not sell to anyone under 18 years of age.

[FXPooky]

Amateur movies in the forest and such, nothing big. I know I have to warn EVERYBODY in the vicinity about the guns before I film with them. I know about having to be 18 to buy them, but that's no problem as my parents can buy them. My question is if I can actually have them in my possession, and if I can find cheap used/broken airsoft guns around Montreal/Quebec.

Guns I'm particularly interested in are: a M-16-like rifle, dual Ingrams, and an MP5.

[Greylocks]

Since you're not likely to have a licensed prop-master, wont happen.
Airsoft are not cheap, average $600 each. I doubt your parents are fully aware of the laws for replica weapons (or movies) or they would not be so quick in parting with several thousand dollars.

So... the basic answer to your question is no.

[FXPooky]

Sorry- what is a liscenced prop-master? Also, 600?! I've seen sites (USA, though) advertising them for like 100$ ish.

[Pyro]

And how exactly do you plan on getting those guns across the border?

[FXPooky]

Aargh, no I want to buy from Canada. I think I'm not being clear enough:

How much would a USED or/and BROKEN cheap airsoft gun (say an MP5) be in Quebec? I don't want a gun to use it, I want it to use as a prop.

Also, by movie I mean me filming myself in the middle of a small forest, not an actual film with a budget.

[FXPooky]

Thanks for the feedback, but if this thread has done anything, it has simply confused me further.

What the heck is a prop master, or verification? How does this work? I can wait 2 years, but I at least want to know how this works...

Also, if you knew me in real life you'd know I always play it very safe.. I'm not the kind of moron that runs around lighting firecrackers and such...

Also, my parents would be doing the buying in this case.

Reason I want airsoft guns if for their realism. ATM I'm stuck with 1/2 scale plastic dollarama rifles (that looks awful and tiny).

[GMTII]

Originally Posted by FXPooky

Sorry- what is a liscenced prop-master?

He means that you would need a license to posess replica firearms. You would first need to get a buisness permit (which I think you have to be 18 to get) then you need to send a email to the CFC (Canadian Firearms Center) requesting a form to be able to import replica's, and not just anyone can obtain it. You need to be importing them for theater use, for a muesum, or other type of use. Since your 16 I'd recomend taking video 10, 20, 30 durning high school to give you an advantage. But even then it probably wont be worth it. I'd like to apply for a replica license after I'm 18 but until I decided wether or not I want to make video's after I gradute will determin if I get my replica license.

Erik

[FXPooky]

Ah but I don't want to import them... unless that's the only way you can get them?

[Grim Fandango]

Check the retailers page up top if you want to see prices, and how much things go for here in Canada. Airsoft here in Canada is expensive.

Also, I wouldn't call what you are planning an amatuer film or movie. You don't seem to have a script, budget, camera/lighting crew and other people in the movie/film. From your description, this is just a video of you in the forest doing something with a replica gun. Why are you making this film exactly? What purpose does it serve?

[FXPooky]

WHOA! That is amazingly expensive... is Tokyo Mazui really the only company? I just want something cheap... apparently there is no such thing here.

Okay well then I suppose I should forget airsoft... are there alternatives for realistic gun props?

[Bravo One-Six]

Originally Posted by FXPooky

Ah but I don't want to import them... unless that's the only way you can get them?

The quick and dirty answers.

1) You will have mixed results importing from the states and may lose the item to siezure.
2) To buy used guns on this board you have to be age verified 18+
3) Retailers SHOULD only be selling to people 18+
4) Airsoft is in a fragile state, and most people aren't likely to support your cinemagraphic adventure if they think you're a risk to the community by being in public with a fake gun.
5) We DON'T know you in real life, so we probably won't take what you say at face value, or be concerned with how 'safe' you claim to be.

Thems just the facts.

[Grim Fandango]

No there are other companies that make airsoft. WA, KSC, Classic Army, ICS, G&G, KJW. But TM (tokyo marui) is the most common. As for alternatives, not really. Most replica guns (such as blank firing guns) are prohibited for sale and ownership without proper licenses and documentation.

[FXPooky]

Darn it... guess I'm gonna have to do with these toy ones then... thanks for the help.