It's all intended to mislead and generate fear.

The C8 carbine, a Canadian variant of the Ar-15, often referred to as a "military style assault rifle" by those who are simply ignorant or have an agenda to pursue. 

AR-15 variants in civilian application do not have the capability of automatic fire and are classified as a modern sporting rifle and are restricted.  Other modern sporting rifles are not restricted, simply because they are not "painted" black or dark grey.  Black guns LOOK scarier.

The only people that can own a restricted firearm are those that have been vetted and approved by the RCMP as not posing a danger to public safety, have an established record of clean mental health, do not have criminal convictions, don't pose a danger to a spouse, don't have a history of violence, are suitably trained and are suitably licensed. 

Essentially civilian gun owners have been certified as safe, responsible and stable members of society.  Your safest people are actually gun owners.