Winchester Wildcat 22
Current semi-auto rimfire, but sporter presentation keeps it Low with only category-watch exposure.
Is the Winchester Wildcat 22 banned in Canada? Not currently. The Winchester Wildcat 22 is Non-restricted, but it scores 3/15 on the Holdover Ban-Risk Index. It is not currently eligible for compensation. The current amnesty for prohibited firearms expires 90 days after the latest Supreme Court appeal termination under SOR/2026-114.
Classification: Non-restricted · OIC/SOR: FRT · Ban-Risk: Low · Compensation: Not currently eligible · Amnesty: SCC appeals + 90 days
Verdict
The Wildcat is a modern competitor to the 10/22 and Savage A22, not an assault-style substitute. It earns points for semi-auto rimfire operation and a small policy-watch increment because detachable-magazine .22 rifles have a history of attention in Canada. It does not earn the higher-feature or lineage points that move tactical rimfire trainers up the index.
Tracking a rifle on this list?
The Ban-Risk Index updates as classifications and the federal compensation list change. Get those changes, and the SCC + 90-day amnesty deadline reminders, in The Dispatch.
What would change the score
- Broad semi-auto rimfire restrictions.
- Magazine policy changes affecting rotary/detachable rimfire systems.
- New tactical-stock Wildcat variants becoming the Canadian-market default.
Lineage
Siblings: Ruger 10/22, Savage A22, Mossberg 702 Plinkster
Primary sources for this entry
- RCMP Firearms Reference Table public access page — RCMP. accessed 2026-05-29
- Canada Gazette - SOR/2024-248 — Canada Gazette. accessed 2026-05-29
- Canada Gazette - SOR/2025-86 — Canada Gazette. accessed 2026-05-29
- Winchester Wildcat 22 Semi Auto Rifle 22 LR 18 in — Retailer. accessed 2026-05-29
Safety note: the Ban-Risk Index is editorial estimation, not legal advice or a substitute for current official guidance. The classification field reflects current RCMP FRT status as of the last-scored date. For any transfer, surrender, deactivation, or transport question, consult primary RCMP / Public Safety Canada sources and, where appropriate, a Canadian firearms lawyer.