I used to be a Handi-holic in Canada, and it wasn't until about '98 that I ever saw a Handi other than an old Topper in 30/30 or 22 Hornet. Then a 357 showed up and I bought it, but never did I see a 45-70. Once in a while I'd see one advertised, but it was always snatched up by somebody else, or it was priced too high for me.
My life changed when I married a nice American gal and moved across the line... what a joy! Not only in having access to more toys, but she also loved shooting (though not a 45-70 - yet)
And truthfully I expect it was worse than being an alcoholic during prohibition (I have no first hand experience with that, so I'm just guessing here). At least there were speakeasies and bootleggers where a guy could get some relief. No bootlegged Handis in Canada when I was there - definitely a few other things, but not Handis!
Like every other place with stupid gun laws, the criminals can always get whatever they want. The stupidity only has a negative effects on the honorable responsible gun owner!
MacLernon is a gentleman who has more fortitude than I believe I could muster. If I still lived in Canada, I doubt I could so regularly hang out in this forum and see all the possibilities with Handis. I would go to bed weeping most nights.
It expect it would be for me, a case of going with the idea that ignorance is bliss.
Cheers
Kerry