Got you terminology a little mixed up. You've always needed a hunting licence. Hand guns have been required to be licensed since way back in the 30's. But they are not prohibited. Long guns are what the failing registry was mainly about. Long guns are suppose to be registered. They are , Same gun 22,322 times. Couple of glue and staple guns. One nail gun. I know of 11 long guns not registered, 4 different owners. Because they're not registered Ottawa says they don't exist and no one is looking for them. OK.