California Compliant Guns

Your Ultimate Guide to California Compliant Guns: Handguns, Rifles, and How to Buy Legally in CA at DEGuns

Are you a resident of California looking to purchase a handgun, rifle, or shotgun, but feeling overwhelmed by the state's notoriously complex and restrictive firearm laws? Do you find yourself asking, "What exactly is a California compliant gun?" or "Where can I find CA legal firearms that meet all the strict regulations?" You're not alone. Navigating the California handgun roster, understanding "assault weapon" bans, and deciphering rules like the 1-in-30 day purchase limit can be a daunting task for even seasoned firearm enthusiasts.

At DEGuns, we understand the challenges faced by California gun owners. That's why we've committed to being your premier resource for California compliant handguns, pistols, and rifles for sale online or in-store. We stock a large selection of California compliant guns in all calibers and colors, ensuring that whether you're a first-time buyer seeking personal protection, a seasoned hunter, or a competitive shooter, you can find a firearm that adheres to California's strict regulations without compromising on quality or performance. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the intricacies of California firearm laws and show you how DEGuns simplifies the process of legally acquiring firearms in the Golden State.

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Deciphering California's Firearm Landscape: Key Laws You Need to Know

California has some of the most stringent firearm regulations in the United States. To legally own and purchase a gun in the state, it's crucial to understand these core legal frameworks and how they impact what you can buy.

1. The California Handgun Roster: The Gateway for Compliant Pistols

One of the most significant hurdles for handgun buyers in California is the California Handgun Roster, formally known as the Roster of Certified Handguns, which directly impacts the availability of CA legal handguns.

• What is the California Handgun Roster? This is a dynamic list maintained by the California Department of Justice (CA DOJ) that details every handgun model legally approved for sale to civilians by licensed firearm dealers (FFLs) in California. If a handgun model is not on this roster, it generally cannot be sold new by an FFL in California. This means that if you're searching for specific California compliant pistols, they must be listed here.
• Why does it exist? The roster was established with safety and technological requirements. Historically, it required certain safety features (e.g., loaded chamber indicators, magazine disconnects). More recently, the controversial microstamping requirement has posed a significant challenge. This mandate requires new semi-automatic pistol models to have technology that imprints a unique code on spent casings upon firing. Many manufacturers claim this technology is not yet feasible or reliable for mass production, or that it is easily defeated, making new roster additions extremely rare.
• Impact on availability: Due to the microstamping requirement, very few, if any, truly new semi-automatic pistol models have been added to the roster in recent years. This effectively freezes the addition of most innovative new handgun designs to the market, meaning the selection of new CA legal handguns is largely limited to older models that were grandfathered in before the microstamping mandate took full effect. This is why you'll often see specific generations or models (e.g., Glock Gen3) but not newer ones readily available.
• How to check the roster: The CA DOJ website provides a searchable database. However, when shopping at DEGuns, you can rest assured that any handgun explicitly marked as 'California Compliant' has been meticulously verified against this roster, simplifying your search for on-roster handguns.

2. California's "Assault Weapons" Ban: Featureless vs. Fixed Magazine Rifles

California's "assault weapon" laws are complex and often confusing, focusing on specific cosmetic and functional features rather than the firearm's actual capability (e.g., semi-automatic only, not full-auto). These laws primarily impact AR-15-style rifles and other semi-automatic centerfire rifles and shotguns, heavily influencing the market for California legal AR-15s.

• Definition of an "Assault Weapon" in CA: Under California law, a semi-automatic centerfire rifle or a semi-automatic shotgun can be classified as an "assault weapon" if it possesses certain prohibited features and has a detachable magazine. These features include:
  • A pistol grip that protrudes conspicuously beneath the action.
  • A thumbhole stock.
  • A folding or telescoping stock.
  • A grenade launcher or flare launcher.
  • A flash hider.
  • A forward pistol grip (vertical).
• California Compliant Solutions for Rifles: To avoid being classified as an "assault weapon" and to remain a legal semi-automatic centerfire rifle, firearms must either be:
  • "Featureless" Builds: These rifles are modified to remove all prohibited features mentioned above, while retaining a detachable magazine. This is a popular way to have a versatile semi-automatic rifle in CA. Common modifications include:
    • Fin Grips: A grip that has a 'fin' or 'paddle' behind the pistol grip area, preventing the shooter from wrapping their thumb around the grip (e.g., Strike Industries Simple Featureless Grip, Resurgent Arms Featureless Grip, or similar designs). This breaks the 'pistol grip' definition.
    • Fixed Stocks: Instead of collapsible or folding stocks, a fixed stock is used (e.g., Magpul MOE Fixed Carbine Stock). Adjustable stocks can also be pinned in a fixed position.
    • Non-Threaded Barrels or Permanently Attached Muzzle Devices: Flash hiders are prohibited. Instead, a bare, non-threaded barrel, or a permanently attached muzzle brake or compensator is used.
    • No Forward Vertical Grips: Only angled foregrips or hand stops are generally allowed, as they are not considered 'vertical' pistol grips.
    • Benefits: Featureless rifles allow for standard detachable magazines (up to 10 rounds capacity), enabling faster reloads compared to fixed-magazine systems. They are widely used for range shooting, competitive events, and tactical training where efficient magazine changes are crucial.
  • "Fixed Magazine" Builds: These rifles retain some or all of the prohibited "evil features" (like a pistol grip or adjustable stock) but use a device that renders the magazine fixed (non-detachable) unless the action is disassembled (e.g., by opening the receiver). This makes them compliant by bypassing the "detachable magazine" clause in the "assault weapon" definition.
    • How They Work: Modern fixed magazine solutions often involve mechanisms like the AR Maglock coupled with a Kingpin, or complete kits like the Juggernaut Tactical Hellfighter. These devices physically prevent the magazine from being released until the upper and lower receivers are separated (often referred to as 'breaking the action open').
    • Benefits: Fixed magazine setups allow owners to have the ergonomic advantages of a pistol grip, adjustable stock, and flash hider that would otherwise be prohibited on a semi-automatic centerfire rifle with a detachable magazine.
• Impact on Long Guns: While bolt-action, lever-action, and most pump-action rifles are generally exempt from "assault weapon" definitions due to their manual operation, semi-automatic shotguns can also fall under these restrictions if they have certain features and a detachable magazine or fixed magazine exceeding specific capacity limits.

#### 3. The 1-in-30 Day Rule for Handguns (and some Long Guns) California has a rule that generally limits handgun purchases to one per 30-day period from a licensed dealer. This applies to most new handgun acquisitions.

• What it means: A buyer can typically only acquire one handgun (and in some cases, certain semi-automatic centerfire rifles, particularly those recently added to the roster or deemed "assault weapons" by prior definition) from a licensed dealer within any 30-day rolling period.
• Exceptions: There are limited exceptions to this rule, primarily for law enforcement personnel, licensed firearm dealers (FFLs), collectors with a Curio & Relic (C&R) FFL and COE (Certificate of Eligibility) for C&R firearms, and specific types of private party transfers (PPTs).
• Impact: This rule means you cannot rapidly expand your handgun collection, requiring careful planning for purchases. It's a common query for those asking, "How often can I buy a gun in California?"

4. High-Capacity Magazine Ban

California generally prohibits magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds, affecting all types of firearms.

• Law: It is illegal to import, sell, manufacture, or possess (with very narrow exceptions for pre-existing magazines acquired before the ban, or those used by specific exempt individuals) magazines with a capacity greater than 10 rounds.
• Impact: All firearms purchased in California, whether a handgun, rifle, or shotgun, even compliant models, must be sold with 10-round or less capacity magazines. This is a critical point for anyone buying firearms in the state.

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Exploring California Compliant Firearms at DEGuns: Your Trusted Source

At DEGuns, we eliminate the confusion and take the guesswork out of finding California compliant guns. Our extensive inventory is carefully curated to offer reliable and high-performance firearms that meet all CA DOJ requirements, giving you peace of mind with your purchase.

California Compliant Handguns: On-Roster Options for Every Need

If you're asking, "Where can I find California legal handguns that are still excellent quality?" or "What are the best CA compliant pistols for self-defense and everyday carry?" DEGuns has you covered. Our selection includes popular, highly-rated, and trusted models that remain on the state's stringent roster, ensuring you get a dependable firearm.

• Popular CA Compliant Pistol Brands and Models: While the roster limits new additions, several robust and widely respected models are available for new purchase:
  • Smith & Wesson M&P Shield (various generations/models on roster): Known for its compact size, reliability, and ease of concealment, making it a perennial favorite for concealed carry in California (where individuals obtain a CCW permit). Its slim profile and manageable recoil make it an ideal choice for personal protection.
  • Glock (specific Gen3 models, e.g., Glock 17 Gen3, Glock 19 Gen3, Glock 26 Gen3): Renowned globally for their unmatched reliability, durability, and simple operation. Certain Gen3 models remain on the roster and are excellent choices for personal defense, home defense, and range shooting. Their widespread aftermarket support also allows for customization.
  • Springfield Armory XD series (specific models): A popular option offering ergonomic design, excellent safety features, and consistent performance. These are often chosen for both defensive and recreational shooting.
  • Beretta 92FS: An iconic, full-size service pistol favored for its smooth double-action/single-action operation, comfortable shooting experience, and classic aesthetics. It's a solid choice for home defense or target practice.
  • Sig Sauer P226 (specific models): Known for its exceptional accuracy, robust build quality, and smooth trigger pull. The P226 has a long history of service with military and law enforcement, making it a highly trusted option for various roles.
  • CZ 75 (specific models): Highly regarded for its superb ergonomics, natural pointability, and excellent trigger pull. The CZ 75 offers a comfortable and accurate shooting experience, popular among target shooters.
  • Ruger LCP Max .380 ACP (CA Compliant Model): A compact and lightweight option, ideal for deep concealment, offering a manageable caliber for many shooters.
• Buying New vs. Used (Private Party Transfer): It's important to note that while the roster restricts new sales of off-roster handguns by FFLs, California allows for Private Party Transfers (PPTs) of off-roster handguns between two California residents, provided the transfer is conducted through an FFL. However, DEGuns primarily focuses on compliant firearms available for direct new purchase through the FFL transfer process, ensuring legality and ease for our customers who are buying new.
• At DEGuns, you will find a large selection of California compliant handguns, pistols, and revolvers in all calibers and colors, including 9mm, .45 ACP, .38 Special, and .22 LR options. This extensive range ensures you can find the right fit for your hands, preferences, and intended use, whether it's for concealed carry, home defense, or range enjoyment.

California Compliant Rifles: Navigating the "Assault Weapon" Rules with Confidence

For those looking for California legal AR-15s or other semi-automatic rifles, DEGuns provides cutting-edge solutions that adhere to the state's stringent "assault weapon" laws. We meticulously source and offer firearms in both featureless and fixed magazine configurations, so you don't have to worry about compliance.

• Featureless AR-15s: The Detachable Magazine Solution
  • These rifles are built or modified without any of the prohibited "evil features" (pistol grip, adjustable stock, flash hider, vertical foregrip), making them highly versatile for California gun owners.
  • Common Builds & Components: At DEGuns, you'll find models featuring popular compliant components such as:
    • Fin Grips: Ergonomically designed grips that prevent the thumb from wrapping around (e.g., Strike Industries Simple Featureless Grip, Resurgent Arms Featureless Grip), ensuring compliance while maintaining control.
    • Fixed Stocks: Instead of collapsible or folding stocks, a fixed stock is used (e.g., Magpul MOE Fixed Carbine Stock). Existing adjustable stocks can also be pinned in a fixed position.
    • Non-Threaded Barrels or Permanently Attached Muzzle Devices: Flash hiders are prohibited. Compliant rifles will have bare, non-threaded barrels, or permanently attached muzzle brakes or compensators.
    • Angled Foregrips/Hand Stops: Vertical foregrips are prohibited, but angled foregrips or hand stops are generally allowed, offering improved handling without violating the law.
  • Benefits: Featureless rifles maintain a detachable magazine (up to 10-round capacity), allowing for faster and more natural reloads compared to fixed-magazine systems. They are ideal for range use, competitive shooting (e.g., 3-Gun), and tactical training where quick magazine changes are a significant advantage.
• Fixed Magazine AR-15s: Retaining "Evil Features" Legally
  • These rifles are designed to retain typically "evil features" (like a standard pistol grip, adjustable stock, or flash hider) by using a magazine locking device that requires the action to be disassembled (e.g., opening the upper and lower receivers) to remove the magazine. This effectively makes the magazine "fixed" under California law.
  • How They Work: Devices like the AR Maglock coupled with a Kingpin, or complete kits like the Juggernaut Tactical Hellfighter, are integrated into the firearm. These mechanisms physically prevent the magazine from being released until the rifle's action is broken open, making magazine changes slower but allowing for the desired features.
  • Benefits: Fixed magazine setups allow owners to have the ergonomic advantages and traditional aesthetics of a pistol grip, an adjustable stock, and a flash hider that would otherwise be prohibited on a semi-automatic centerfire rifle with a detachable magazine.
• Other CA Compliant Rifles: Beyond AR-Style Platforms
  • Beyond AR-style platforms, DEGuns also offers a robust selection of generally compliant long guns that are excellent alternatives:
    • Bolt-Action Rifles: These are typically unaffected by California's "assault weapon" laws due to their manual, non-semi-automatic operation. They are superb choices for hunting, long-range precision shooting, and competitive shooting sports where accuracy is paramount.
    • Lever-Action Rifles: Classic, reliable, and highly effective, lever-action rifles are also generally compliant with California's "assault weapon" laws. They are popular for hunting and recreational shooting, offering a nostalgic appeal.
    • Pump-Action Rifles: Similarly, pump-action rifles, being manually operated, are largely exempt from California's "assault weapon" definitions. They are versatile firearms suitable for hunting various game.
    • Rimfire Rifles (.22LR, etc.): Generally have fewer restrictions than centerfire rifles, making them highly popular for plinking, target practice, and training new shooters due to their low recoil and affordable ammunition.

DEGuns ensures that our inventory of California compliant rifles and shotguns meets these nuanced and frequently updated requirements, providing you peace of mind and confidence with your purchase.

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The DEGuns Advantage: Why Buy Your CA Compliant Firearm From Us

When you're searching for California compliant guns for sale online or looking for a trusted retailer, DEGuns stands out as the authoritative choice for several compelling reasons:

• Unrivaled Expertise in CA Laws: Our team possesses deep and current knowledge of California's incredibly complex and ever-changing firearm regulations. We actively monitor legislative changes, interpret new mandates, and ensure that every product we list as 'California Compliant' genuinely adheres to state law. This means you don't have to become a legal expert yourself; we do the heavy lifting for you, saving you countless hours of research and potential legal pitfalls. Our commitment to compliance means we are a reliable source for any queries about California gun laws.
• Vast and Verified Selection of CA Compliant Inventory: We don't just carry a token few compliant models. Our expansive 120,000 sq. ft. gun store in Lincoln, Nebraska, combined with our comprehensive online catalog, means we maintain one of the largest and most diverse selections of genuine California compliant handguns, pistols, and rifles available anywhere. You will truly find a large selection of California compliant guns in all calibers and colors to match your specific preferences, intended use, and aesthetic desires. From compact carry pistols to full-size competition rifles, our inventory is designed to meet the diverse needs of California shooters.
• Seamless Online Ordering & FFL Transfer Process for CA Residents: We've streamlined the online purchasing and transfer process to be as straightforward as possible for California residents, making it easier to buy California compliant guns online.
  1. Browse and Select: Easily navigate our intuitive website to browse firearms explicitly marked "California Compliant." Each product page clearly indicates its compliance status.
  2. Choose a Local CA FFL: During our secure checkout process, you will be prompted to designate a licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer in California to receive your firearm. This is a mandatory federal requirement for all online firearm sales of firearms. If you don't have one, our system can often help you locate one nearby.
  3. Secure and Timely Shipping: Once your order is processed and your FFL is confirmed, we securely ship your compliant firearm directly to your chosen California FFL. We prioritize discreet and efficient shipping to get your firearm to its destination quickly.
  4. Complete Transfer & Pickup: At your local FFL, you will complete the necessary DROS (Dealer Record of Sale) paperwork and undergo your federal background check (NICS). After the mandatory 10-day waiting period (and assuming background check approval), you can legally pick up your new firearm. We work closely with California FFLs to ensure a smooth transfer.
• Dedicated and Knowledgeable Customer Support: Have specific questions about a particular model's compliance, the intricacies of the California FFL transfer process, or requirements for your specific county? Our expert customer support team is readily available via phone, email, or live chat to provide clear answers, guide you through the process, and offer assistance every step of the way. We pride ourselves on competitive pricing, excellent customer service, and being your go-to source for CA compliant firearms, ensuring a positive purchasing experience.
• Unwavering Commitment to Trust and Compliance: Every California compliant firearm we list is meticulously checked and re-checked to ensure it meets the state's specific and often changing requirements. Our commitment to strict adherence to all federal and state laws means we facilitate a fully legal and transparent purchasing experience, giving you ultimate confidence and peace of mind in your acquisition. We help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure you remain compliant with California gun laws.

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Navigating the California Firearm Purchase Process: DROS & FSC Explained

Beyond just finding a compliant gun, understanding the local purchase process in California is critical. This section will clarify the essential steps you'll encounter when buying a firearm as a CA resident.

1. Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC): Your Entry Ticket to Firearm Ownership

Before you can purchase any firearm (handgun or long gun) in California, you generally need a valid Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC), unless you qualify for a specific exemption.

• What it is: The FSC is a certificate issued by the CA DOJ after you successfully pass a written test on fundamental firearm safety rules and basic California firearm laws. It demonstrates your understanding of responsible gun ownership.
• How to get it: You can take the FSC test at most California FFL dealers, including many that partner with DEGuns for transfers. The test typically consists of 30 multiple-choice questions, and you need to score at least 75% to pass. The fee for the test and certificate is usually $25, and it is valid for five years from the date of issuance.
• What to study: The CA DOJ provides a Firearm Safety Certificate Study Guide, available online, which covers all the necessary information to pass the test, including the four basic firearm safety rules, safe handling practices, and secure storage requirements.

2. Dealer Record of Sale (DROS) & Background Check: The Official Gateway

Once you've selected your compliant firearm (whether online from DEGuns or in-store at your local FFL) and possess a valid FSC, the FFL dealer will initiate the DROS process.

• The Process: The DROS (Dealer Record of Sale) involves submitting your personal information, firearm details, and FSC number electronically to the CA DOJ for a comprehensive background check. This state-level check also includes a federal NICS (National Instant Criminal Background Check System) check.
• 10-Day Waiting Period: California mandates a strict and unavoidable 10-day waiting period from the exact date and time the DROS is submitted and accepted by the CA DOJ. You cannot take possession of your firearm until this 10-day period has elapsed and your background check has been approved. There are very limited exceptions to this rule, primarily for certain law enforcement personnel and FFLs with a Collector's License and Certificate of Eligibility for Curio & Relic firearms.
• Why it matters: This waiting period is a critical component of California's firearm control laws, designed to provide a "cooling-off" period.

3. Required Documentation for Pickup

When you go to your chosen California FFL to pick up your firearm after the waiting period, ensure you bring the following essential documents:

• Your valid California Driver's License or state ID. If your ID is not compliant with Real ID requirements, you will typically need to bring supplemental proof of residency (e.g., a recent utility bill, vehicle registration, or residential lease agreement).
• Your Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC).
• Proof of legal status in the U.S. (if you are not a U.S. citizen, such as a valid green card or visa with I-94).

The FFL will also typically require you to perform a safe handling demonstration with the firearm before final transfer, ensuring you understand its basic operation.

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Addressing Common Questions & Misconceptions for California Firearm Owners

California's laws generate many questions. Here are answers to some frequently asked ones:

• Can I bring my non-California compliant gun into California if I'm moving there? This is a complex area. Generally, if you are moving into California and own handguns that are off-roster (but not "assault weapons"), you may be able to bring them in if you report them to the CA DOJ within a specific timeframe (usually 60 days of bringing them into the state) as a "personal firearm importer." However, if your firearms are defined as "assault weapons" under CA law (e.g., a standard AR-15 with prohibited features like a pistol grip and detachable magazine), they must either be modified to be California compliant before you bring them into the state, or registered as "assault weapons" (if that registration window is open, which it currently is not for most common models), or they cannot be brought into the state. It is crucial to consult the CA DOJ guidelines or a California firearm attorney for specific, up-to-date advice on moving guns to California to ensure full compliance and avoid severe legal penalties.
• Are all bolt-action rifles California compliant? Most bolt-action rifles are generally compliant as they are not semi-automatic and thus typically fall outside the "assault weapon" definitions based on features. However, standard magazine capacity limits (10 rounds) still apply to all firearms. While rare, some highly specialized or custom bolt-action rifles might have features that could potentially be scrutinized under obscure interpretations, so it's always wise to verify if there are any unique configurations.
• Can I modify my existing non-compliant gun to be compliant in California? Yes, it is often possible to modify an existing non-compliant firearm (especially an AR-15 platform) to become California compliant. This involves changing out prohibited features for compliant alternatives (e.g., adding a fin grip, installing a fixed stock, replacing a flash hider with a muzzle brake, or implementing a fixed magazine device). It is highly recommended to consult with a knowledgeable California FFL dealer or a California firearm attorney before attempting such modifications to ensure proper adherence to the law.
• What is microstamping and how does it affect the California handgun roster? Microstamping is a technology that, if implemented, would stamp unique identifying marks on spent cartridge casings. California law effectively requires this technology for most new semi-automatic pistol models to be added to the handgun roster. Since manufacturers largely state this technology is not reliably available or easily defeated, it has created a situation where very few new pistol models have been added to the roster in recent years, significantly limiting the supply of new handgun options for California residents.

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Conclusion: Your Trusted Partner for California Compliant Firearms

Navigating California's intricate firearm laws doesn't have to be a barrier to responsible gun ownership. Whether you're looking for a California compliant pistol for self-defense, a featureless AR-15 for sport shooting, a reliable hunting rifle, or a specific CA legal shotgun, DEGuns is your trusted partner.

We are dedicated to providing a secure, compliant, and user-friendly experience for all California residents. Our commitment extends from offering expert guidance on complex topics like the California handgun roster requirements and "assault weapon" definitions, to facilitating seamless FFL transfers for online purchases directly to your local California dealer. We ensure your acquisition is not only legal but also a positive and informed experience.

Don't let the legal complexities deter you from exercising your Second Amendment rights within California's framework. Explore our extensive selection of California compliant handguns, pistols, and rifles for sale online or in-store at DEGuns today. Find the perfect firearm that meets your needs and complies with all California regulations, and embark on your shooting journey with confidence and peace of mind.