Which brings up the question of how to legally transport the ol' Large Firearm through Canada. Locked hard-side case? Trigger lock? Both? More? Less? Ammo stored separately, of course.
Transporting non-restricted or antique firearms
165. An individual may transport a non-restricted or antique firearm in a vehicle only if the non-restricted or antique firearm is unloaded.
166. An individual may transport a non-restricted or antique firearm in an unattended vehicle only if the non-restricted or antique firearm is unloaded and securely locked in the trunk or similar compartment that can be securely locked. If the vehicle is not equipped with a trunk or similar compartment, the non- restricted or antique firearm must not be visible from outside the vehicle and the vehicle or part of the vehicle that contains the non-restricted/antique firearm must be securely locked.
167. An individual may transport an antique firearm that is a handgun only if it is in a locked container that is made of an opaque material and is of such strength, construction and nature that it cannot readily be broken open or into or accidentally opened during transportation.
From: http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications ... 2-eng.html
More: Personal importations by non-residents
79. Unlike Canadian residents, non-residents importing non-restricted firearms will always need to have a valid purpose for importing. Valid purposes can include:
(a) hunting during their respective seasons;
(b) use in competitions;
(c) repair;
(d) re-enactments;
(e) in transit movement (i.e., moving in the most direct route possible from point A to point B, through Canada); or
(f) protection against wildlife in remote areas.
80. A border services officer must be satisfied that the circumstances warrant the firearm being imported. Non-residents who are proceeding to a Canadian national park should be advised that many national parks do not allow firearms. In addition, non-residents under 18 years of age are not permitted to transfer their firearm to an adult to ensure its importation. Please note that only non-restricted firearms can be used for hunting purposes and protection against wildlife in remote areas. Use of firearms for personal protection, or protection of property is not deemed a valid purpose to import firearms into Canada.
More: http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/travel-voyage/menu-eng.html
Hope this helps to cover all your bases, Captain. Hate to hear that you got hung up at the border.