Granted it happened exactly one time that I know of, but a journalist(?) managed to find someone who sold illegal firearms, set up a meeting, and have a brand new handgun in less than 4 hours. Is it easier than actually jumping through the hoops to become a legal firearm owner? Absolutely not. The PAL/RPAL tests are pretty easy and really only cost you a one time fee of $100 - $300 and your time, a couple trustworthy friends to vouch for you, and a lack of a criminal record.

Now, the handgun in question was not only illegal but also prohibited in Canada due to current firearm restrictions on barrel length. The firearm was also roughly $400 from what I recall, and that's about as much as it would cost to buy it legally.

I'm against firearm bans and further restrictions but can at least be honest about such things.