Canadian Rangers serving in the North have encountered a major issue with the C-19 rifles provided to them in 2017. These rifles, which were intended to assist the Rangers in their duties for the Canadian Armed Forces, have been found to malfunction in extreme cold temperatures. The Department of National Defence (DND) has acknowledged the problem and is now facing a significant financial burden to rectify it.

According to a statement from the DND to CBC News, the problem lies with the stocks of the rifles. The stocks, which provide structural support to the gun and are crucial for its operation, have been expanding and contracting in response to the extreme cold. This issue was first noticed by the Rangers during testing in 2019, after extended field usage in harsh climatic conditions.

Alex Tétreault, a senior communications adviser with DND, explained, “Following reports from Canadian Rangers after extended field usage in extreme climatic conditions leading to cycles of expansion and contraction in the stock. This was not observed during initial operational capability training; it only became apparent in the last two months before the end of deliveries.”

As a result, the DND has determined that the stocks of the C-19 rifles need to be replaced. The estimated cost for this repair is between eight to $10 million. Despite the issue with the stocks, the department maintains that the C-19 rifle is still an effective and accurate weapon. Some of the rifles are still functioning properly and do not require replacements.

The procurement process for the new stocks is currently underway, and the delivery of the replacements will be phased over a period of three years. This phased approach will ensure that all Canadian Rangers have access to properly functioning rifles without causing a disruption to their duties.