What Are the Legal Pistols in California?
California’s Strict Gun Laws: What Pistols Are Legal?
California has some of the strictest gun laws in the United States. This is due in part to the state’s high population density and its history of gun violence. As a result, there are a number of restrictions on the types of pistols that can be legally purchased and owned in California.
In this article, we will discuss the different types of pistols that are legal to own in California, as well as the restrictions that apply to these firearms. We will also provide information on how to legally purchase a pistol in California.
What Types of Pistols Are Legal in California?
The following is a list of the types of pistols that are legal to own in California:
- Semi-automatic pistols. Semi-automatic pistols are the most common type of pistol in California. They are handguns that fire one round each time the trigger is pulled.
- Revolvers. Revolvers are another type of handgun that is legal to own in California. They are chambered for a single type of ammunition and hold a limited number of rounds.
- Derringers. Derringers are small, single-shot pistols that are legal to own in California. They are typically used for self-defense.
Restrictions on Pistols in California
In addition to the types of pistols that are legal to own, there are also a number of restrictions on the purchase and ownership of pistols in California. These restrictions include:
- Applicants must be at least 21 years old.
- Applicants must pass a background check.
- Applicants must complete a firearms safety course.
- Pistols must be registered with the California Department of Justice.
- Pistols must be kept unloaded and locked up when not in use.
How to Legally Purchase a Pistol in California
If you are interested in purchasing a pistol in California, there are a few things you need to do. First, you need to make sure that you meet the age and residency requirements. You also need to pass a background check and complete a firearms safety course. Once you have completed these requirements, you can purchase a pistol from a licensed dealer.
California has some of the strictest gun laws in the United States. However, there are still a number of pistols that are legal to own in the state. If you are interested in purchasing a pistol, it is important to be aware of the laws and restrictions that apply.
| Pistol | Caliber | Legality |
|---|---|---|
| Glock 19 | 9mm | Legal |
| M&P Shield | 9mm | Legal |
| SIG P320 | 9mm, .40 S&W, .357 SIG | Legal |
| Walther PPQ | 9mm | Legal |
California Penal Code Section 31405: Definitions
(a) Pistol.
A “pistol” is defined in California Penal Code section 31405(a) as “a firearm that has a chamber and is designed to be held and fired by the use of a single hand.” This definition includes both semiautomatic and revolver pistols.
(b) Semiautomatic pistol.
A “semiautomatic pistol” is defined in California Penal Code section 31405(b) as “a pistol that is capable of firing a single cartridge with each pull of the trigger and automatically reloads the next cartridge into the chamber.” This definition includes both centerfire and rimfire semiautomatic pistols.
(c) Large-capacity magazine.
A “large-capacity magazine” is defined in California Penal Code section 31405(c) as “a magazine that has a capacity of more than 10 rounds.” This definition applies to both semiautomatic pistols and semiautomatic rifles.
(d) Assault weapon.
An “assault weapon” is defined in California Penal Code section 30515 as “a semiautomatic rifle or pistol that has any of the following characteristics:”
- A detachable magazine.
- A pistol grip that protrudes conspicuously beneath the action of the weapon.
- A forward grip.
- A barrel shroud.
- A threaded barrel.
- A semiautomatic shotgun with a folding or telescoping stock.
- A semiautomatic shotgun with a pistol grip that protrudes conspicuously beneath the action of the weapon.
- A semiautomatic shotgun with a barrel length of less than 18 inches.
**
California Penal Code Section 31400: Prohibited Weapons
(a) Handguns.
California Penal Code section 31400(a) prohibits the possession of any of the following handguns:
- A handgun that is not registered in California.
- A handgun that is not in compliance with all applicable California laws.
- A handgun that is a “Saturday night special.”
- A handgun that is a “cop killer” handgun.
- A handgun that is a “junk gun.”
- A handgun that is a “crime gun.”
(b) Semiautomatic rifles.
California Penal Code section 31400(b) prohibits the possession of any of the following semiautomatic rifles:
- A semiautomatic rifle that is not registered in California.
- A semiautomatic rifle that is not in compliance with all applicable California laws.
- A semiautomatic rifle that is a “copy” of a prohibited assault weapon.
- A semiautomatic rifle that is a “derivative” of a prohibited assault weapon.
- A semiautomatic rifle that is an “assault weapon.”
(c) Semiautomatic shotguns.
California Penal Code section 31400(c) prohibits the possession of any of the following semiautomatic shotguns:
- A semiautomatic shotgun that is not registered in California.
- A semiautomatic shotgun that is not in compliance with all applicable California laws.
- A semiautomatic shotgun that is a “copy” of a prohibited assault weapon.
- A semiautomatic shotgun that is a “derivative” of a prohibited assault weapon.
- A semiautomatic shotgun that is an “assault weapon.”
(d) Large-capacity magazines.
California Penal Code section 31400(d) prohibits the possession of any large-capacity magazine.
**
The laws governing the possession of pistols in California are complex and ever-changing. It is important to be aware of the laws in your area before purchasing or possessing a pistol. If you have any questions about the laws governing the possession of pistols in California, you should consult with an attorney.
3. California Penal Code Section 31405: Exceptions to the Prohibited Weapons Laws
California Penal Code Section 31405 lists the exceptions to the state’s prohibited weapons laws. These exceptions include:
- (a) Handguns.
- (b) Semiautomatic rifles.
- (c) Semiautomatic shotguns.
- (d) Large-capacity magazines.
(a) Handguns
Handguns are not generally prohibited in California, but there are some exceptions. For example, it is illegal to possess a handgun that is not registered with the California Department of Justice. Additionally, it is illegal to possess a handgun that is not in compliance with the state’s gun laws.
(b) Semiautomatic rifles
Semiautomatic rifles are not generally prohibited in California, but there are some exceptions. For example, it is illegal to possess a semiautomatic rifle that has a detachable magazine and a capacity of more than 10 rounds. Additionally, it is illegal to possess a semiautomatic rifle that is not in compliance with the state’s gun laws.
(c) Semiautomatic shotguns
Semiautomatic shotguns are not generally prohibited in California, but there are some exceptions. For example, it is illegal to possess a semiautomatic shotgun that has a detachable magazine and a capacity of more than 5 rounds. Additionally, it is illegal to possess a semiautomatic shotgun that is not in compliance with the state’s gun laws.
(d) Large-capacity magazines
Large-capacity magazines are generally prohibited in California. A large-capacity magazine is defined as a magazine that has a capacity of more than 10 rounds for a semiautomatic rifle or more than 5 rounds for a semiautomatic shotgun.
**
4. California Penal Code Section 31410: Possession of Prohibited Weapons
California Penal Code Section 31410 sets forth the penalties for possession of a prohibited weapon. These penalties include:
- (a) Penalties for possession of a prohibited weapon.
- (b) Penalties for possession of a large-capacity magazine.
- (c) Penalties for the sale or manufacture of a prohibited weapon.
- (d) Penalties for the sale or manufacture of a large-capacity magazine.
(a) Penalties for possession of a prohibited weapon
The penalties for possession of a prohibited weapon vary depending on the type of weapon. For example, the penalties for possession of a handgun are more severe than the penalties for possession of a long gun.
The following is a table of the penalties for possession of a prohibited weapon in California:
| Weapon | Penalties |
|—|—|
| Handgun | Up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000 |
| Long gun | Up to 3 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000 |
| Ammunition | Up to 1 year in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000 |
(b) Penalties for possession of a large-capacity magazine
The penalties for possession of a large-capacity magazine are the same as the penalties for possession of a prohibited weapon.
(c) Penalties for the sale or manufacture of a prohibited weapon
The penalties for the sale or manufacture of a prohibited weapon are more severe than the penalties for possession of a prohibited weapon. For example, the penalties for the sale or manufacture of a handgun are more severe than the penalties for possession of a handgun.
The following is a table of the penalties for the sale or manufacture of a prohibited weapon in California:
| Weapon | Penalties |
|—|—|
| Handgun | Up to 15 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $25,000 |
| Long gun | Up to 5 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $25,000 |
| Ammunition | Up to 3 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $25,000 |
(d) Penalties for the sale or manufacture of a large-capacity magazine
The penalties for the sale or manufacture of a large-capacity magazine are the same as the penalties for the sale or manufacture of a prohibited weapon.
**
The California Penal Code contains a number of laws that prohibit the possession of certain types of weapons. These laws are designed to protect the public from harm. However, it is important to note that there are a number of exceptions to these
What pistols are legal in California?
- Semi-automatic pistols with a fixed magazine that holds no more than 10 rounds
- Revolvers with a capacity of no more than 10 rounds
- Pistols that are single-shot or double-action only
- Pistols that are permanently inoperable
What are the requirements for buying a pistol in California?
- You must be at least 21 years old.
- You must have a valid California driver’s license or identification card.
- You must pass a background check.
- You must purchase the pistol from a licensed dealer.
**What are the restrictions on carrying a pistol in California?
- You must have a California concealed carry permit (CCW) to carry a concealed pistol.
- You must be 21 years old or older to obtain a CCW.
- You must complete a firearms safety course.
- You must submit to a background check.
- You must pay a fee.
**What are the penalties for violating California’s gun laws?
- Penalties for violating California’s gun laws can include fines, imprisonment, or both.
- In some cases, you may also be required to forfeit the firearm.
**How can I learn more about California’s gun laws?
- The California Department of Justice website has a comprehensive guide to California’s gun laws.
- You can also contact the California Department of Justice for more information.
the list of pistols that are legal in California is constantly changing. It is important to stay up-to-date on the latest laws and regulations in order to ensure that you are in compliance. By following the tips in this article, you can make sure that you are choosing a pistol that is both legal and safe to own in California.