Described as living “behind enemy lines,” California is a state like no other: amazing weather, hot sandy beaches, snow-capped mountains, an entire season dedicated to wildfires … and some of the most restrictive gun laws in the nation.
While most people have seen the words “California compliant” when looking through gun catalogs, many people outside of California—and none of the politicians inside of California—know what it means. In fairness, it’s complex, really dumb and ever-changing. I’ll shine a light on it for you in case you ever find yourself in the Golden State … or if you just feel the need to pour one out for your 2A brothers and sisters trapped behind the lines.
HOW DO YOU HOLD THAT THING?
The California Assault Weapons Ban (AWB) bans, by name, a long list of guns. Most of them are older ones and mostly match the 1994 Federal AWB list. Beyond that, there are a lot of rules.
“Assault” rifles, pistols and shotguns have different rules. Arguably, rifles are slightly less restrictive than pistols—but only barely. Possession of an “assault weapon” is a wobbler in California, meaning the DA can charge you with a misdemeanor or a felony depending on what they feel like.
For rifles, anything bolt action is pretty unregulated. You’re limited to 10-round magazines, and the complete rifle needs to be at least 26 inches total with at least a 16-inch barrel. SBRs and SBSs are strictly illegal. Other than that, bolt actions can
