Firearms and Weapons charges can be categorized into two types of offences:
(1) Use Offences
(2) Possession Offences
Use offences are when an action associated with the weapon is an element of the offence. Some examples include the charge of pointing a firearm or discharging a firearm with intent. Additionally the use of a weapon in tandem with another act often comes with a more serious charge and higher sentences (ex. assault with a weapon, robbery with a firearm, or use of a firearm in the commission of an offence).
Possession offences put simply, are having possession of a weapon. You do not need to be actively using the item for a charge to be laid. The possession becomes criminal based on the circumstances of that possession. These charges can be based on a person not having the proper license for the weapon they are in possession of, having conditions as part of a court order not to possess a weapon, the weapon itself being prohibited, or the purpose of the possession is for a dangerous purpose.
The sentences for weapons offences vary greatly depending on the charge and the circumstances. From community based sentences all the way to penitentiary sentences. Firearms offences are usually the most serious and can carry some of the higher sentences in the range.