California Gun Services

Safe Guns in Safe Places for Safe Families

What Guns are Illegal in California

Firearms are highly regulated and the laws surrounding them vary from state to state. In California, there are strict laws in place regarding firearms, rifles, shotguns, and assault rifles. These laws dictate which types of firearms are legal and which ones are illegal. Today we explore the types of guns that are legal in California and also answering what guns are illegal in California.

Overview

California has some of the strictest gun laws in the United States. These laws are in place to protect public safety and reduce the number of gun-related injuries and deaths. The state has implemented a number of regulations and restrictions on firearms. These include licensing requirements, background checks, and a ban on certain types of firearms.

In California, firearms are classified into three categories: handguns, rifles, and shotguns. Each of these categories is subject to its own set of regulations, which we will discuss below. Let’s discuss the types of firearms that are legal in California.

What Handguns are Legal in California

In California, handguns are subject to some of the most restrictive regulations in the country. Handguns are legal if they comply with the state’s regulations. These laws include that the handguns are not modified to shoot automatically and follow the safety requirements. Examples include an inclusion of a loaded chamber indicator and magazine disconnect mechanism. Additionally, clips that do not exceed the 10-round capacity are part of the states mandates.

The California Department of Justice has this database. It’s a complete list of all the handguns that can be legally sold in California. There are many laws that affect the legality of a handguns. If you have concerns we offer an audits to assure you remain complaint with California’s regulation.

Although your handgun may be CA compliant, the ammunition clip may not be! Stay at 10 or below!

Legal Rifles in California

Next, rifles are legal as long as they comply with the state’s regulations. This means that rifles must have a fixed magazine with a capacity of no more than 10 rounds. Semi-automatic rifles that have a detachable magazine are legal if the magazine can be removed without the use of a tool. In addition, the barrel length of a rifle must be at least 16 inches, and the overall length of the rifle must be at least 26 inches.

Legal Shotgun in California

Shotguns are also legal in California, as long as they comply with the state’s regulations. Shotguns must have a fixed magazine with a capacity of no more than 10 rounds. Semi-automatic shotguns that have a detachable magazine are legal if the magazine can be removed without the use of a tool. Shotguns must also have a barrel length of at least 18 inches, and the overall length of the shotgun must be at least 26 inches.

While the type of firearms above are legal. We will move forward discussing what makes a firearm illegal and what type guns are illegal in California.

What Guns are Illegal in California?

Assault Rifles

Assault weapons are defined as firearms that have the ability to fire multiple rounds with a single trigger pull. In general assault rifles are illegal in California. This includes any firearms that are capable of fully automatic fire. However, there is exceptions for assault weapons that were legally obtained before specific dates. Additionally, they must be registered with the states’ Department of Justice.

In California, an assault weapon is defined as a rifle that has any of the following features:

  • A detachable magazine that can hold more than 10 rounds.
  • A thumbhole stock.
  • A pistol grip that protrudes conspicuously beneath the action of the weapon.
  • A folding or telescoping stock.
  • A grenade launcher or flare launcher.
  • A flash suppressor or a muzzle brake.
  • A forward pistol grip.

Additionally, these requirements apply to all rifles including shotguns and bolt action rifles. Handguns modified to shoot automatically are also a gun that is illegal in California.

Stay Aware!

In conclusion, California has strict laws in place regarding firearms, rifles, shotguns, and assault rifles. There are many factors that can affect the legality of anyone of these firearms. The question changes from, “What guns are illegal in California” to “How can I do I know I’m California compliant.” At California Gun Services we offer audits to assure you always remain compliant to California law. We understand that coming into possession of firearms is not the same experience with everyone. We are here to help anyone navigate through this process. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Best Practices for Safe Gun Storage in California

As a gun owner in California, it is not only your right but also your responsibility to keep your guns safe and secure. One crucial aspect of responsible gun ownership is safe gun storage. Not only does this protect your loved ones from accidental injuries, but it’s also required by law in California. Proper gun storage is essential to prevent accidents, theft, and unauthorized access. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some best practices for safe gun storage.

The Importance of Safe Gun Storage

Accidental shootings and gun-related deaths are a significant concern in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), firearms were involved in over 45,000 deaths in 2020, including suicides, homicides, and accidental shootings. Unfortunately, the problem doesn’t stop there. Many more individuals suffer from nonfatal injuries. In fact, almost 20% of all medically treated firearm injuries are caused by unintentional firearm incidents. Many of these deaths and injuries could have been prevented with proper gun storage. By following safe gun storage best practices, you can help keep your family safe.

Safe gun storage helps prevent unauthorized access to firearms. Children, teenagers, and other unauthorized users can accidentally discharge a firearm if they have access to it. This can result in serious injuries or fatalities. Safe gun storage also helps prevent theft, which can lead to the use of firearms in crimes.

What is Safe Gun Storage?

In California, safe gun storage means storing your firearms in a way that is inaccessible to children or anyone who is not authorized to have access to them. Under California law, it’s illegal to store firearms where a minor or a person who is prohibited from owning a firearm may have access. As a gun owner, it’s your responsibility to ensure that your firearms are stored in a safe and secure manner.

Here are some tips for keeping your family safe:

1) Invest in a Gun Safe

Although storing your firearms in a locked room or closet is legally permissible, the most secure method of gun storage is investing in a gun safe. A top-notch gun safe will offer sufficient space for all of your firearms and ammunition, while also guaranteeing that unauthorized individuals cannot access them.

When selecting a gun safe, prioritize models with a robust build that can fully contain all of your firearms. Additionally, ensure that your chosen safe adheres to the gun safe standards established by the California Department of Justice (DOJ).

If you don’t have a gun safe, storing your firearms in a locked gun case or cabinet is another option. A lockable gun case or cabinet can keep your guns out of sight and reach of unauthorized individuals. Choose a lockable gun case or locked cabinet that is sturdy and meets DOJ standards.

2) Keep Your Guns Unloaded

Keeping your firearms unloaded when not in use is an essential component of safe gun storage. Unloading your guns can prevent accidental discharges and keep unauthorized individuals from accessing them. When storing your guns, remove the magazine and check the chamber to ensure there is no ammunition. Store the ammunition separately from the firearm in a locked location.

If you are not comfortable unloading your firearms, it is recommended that you seek assistance from a professional. Professional gun services companies like California Gun Services have trained experts who can safely unload your firearms and provide guidance on proper gun storage.

3) Use Trigger Locks or Cable Locks

Trigger locks and cable locks are excellent tools to enhance gun safety. A trigger lock is a device that fits over the gun’s trigger and prevents it from firing. A cable lock is a cable that goes through the gun’s barrel and prevents it from being loaded or fired.

Both options are affordable and easy to install, providing an extra layer of security and ensuring that your guns remain inoperable when not in use. You can purchase these types of locks at most gun stores or online retailers.

4) Educate Your Family

Education is key when it comes to safe gun storage. If you store guns in your home, you should educate your family members should on safe gun handling and storage practices. It is crucial to ensure that everyone in your household understands the potential dangers of firearms and how to handle them safely.

Teach your family members, especially children, about gun safety and the importance of safe gun storage. Teach them that guns are not toys and should only be used by trained individuals. Inform them not to touch firearms and to tell an adult if they find one.

5) Store ammunition separately

It is important to store ammunition separately from firearms. Storing ammunition in the same safe as firearms can increase the risk of accidental discharge if the safe is tampered with. Additionally, if a thief manages to break into your gun safe, they will not have access to your ammunition. Make sure to store your ammunition in a secure location, such as a locked cabinet or safe.

Conclusion

Safe gun storage is an essential aspect of responsible gun ownership. By following these best practices for safe gun storage, you can ensure that your firearms remain secure and out of reach of unauthorized individuals. At California Gun Services, we are committed to promoting safe gun ownership and helping gun owners keep their firearms secure. We provide various services related to guns, including gun disposal, gun audits, and firearm transfers. If you have any questions about your guns, safe gun storage, or gun disposal, don’t hesitate to contact us at California Gun Services.

Is it Legal to Have a Gun in Your Car in California?

If you’re a gun owner in California, it’s essential to understand the state’s laws around transporting firearms. Whether you’re on your way to the shooting range, selling your guns, or moving to a new home and need to transfer them between residences, it’s crucial to know if it’s legal to have a gun in your car in California. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the regulations surrounding gun transportation in California so you can stay informed and keep your firearms safe and legal.

California’s Gun Transportation Laws

It’s legal to have a gun in your car in California, but there are specific regulations you need to follow. According to state law, a vehicle is considered a public area, so when transporting a firearm, you must abide by certain legal requirements. Here are some of the rules you need to know about when transporting firearms in California.

Registered Firearms.

While owning an unregistered firearm in California is not a crime, being in possession of one outside of your home is. This means you cannot remove the gun from your home, transport or use the gun without risking criminal charges.

Unloaded Firearms.

Under California law, it is illegal to transport any loaded firearm in a vehicle. The state defines a loaded firearm as any weapon with ammunition attached, inserted, or in the firearm’s chamber. Make sure your firearms are unloaded and that ammo is stored in a separate container from the gun.

Lawful Possession.

To legally transport a firearm in California, you must meet certain requirements to ensure you’re lawfully in possession. Here are the requirements:

  • You must be over 18 years old and a U.S. citizen.
  • You must either be a California resident or temporarily in the state.
  • You must be legally allowed to own, possess, receive, or purchase a gun in California.

If you’re curious about what disqualifies you from possessing a gun in California, we recommend checking out this post.

Transporting Specific Types of Guns

Besides California’s general firearm transportation laws, specific laws apply for transporting certain types of guns, such as handguns or assault rifles. Here we’ll go over the different requirements based on gun type.

Handguns

How to Legally Transport a Handgun in California

In addition to the gun transportation laws above, there are a couple extra restrictions when transporting handguns. In California, handguns must be unloaded and locked in a secure container during transportation. Further, the handgun must be carried directly to or from the vehicle and while being carried, it must be contained within a locked container such as a gun safe.

What is a Locked Container?

It’s crucial to understand what qualifies as a locked container in California. According to state law, a locked container must be fully enclosed and secured with a combination lock, key lock, or similar device.

Examples of locked containers include:

  • a gun safe
  • the trunk of a car (though not the glove compartment).

It’s important to note that even though firearms can be stored legally in a car’s locked trunk, this method has potential issues. These include the following:

  • Not every car has a trunk.
  • Some modern car trunks can be accessed from inside the car, which doesn’t meet the locked container requirement.
  • Opening the trunk to retrieve other items means the handguns are no longer in a locked container.

To ensure that you’re fully complying with all California laws regarding handgun transportation, we recommend storing all handguns in a locked gun safe during transportation.

Non-concealable Guns (Rifles and Shotguns)

If you’re transporting a non-concealable gun like a shotgun or rifle in California, it doesn’t need to be locked up, but it must be unloaded.

Registered Assault Weapons

In California, you can only transport registered assault weapons between specific locations. Like handguns, they also must be unloaded and in a locked container when transported.

Exceptions

Some exceptions may apply to these regulations, such as carrying a firearm that is licensed for sale or carrying a weapon in a law enforcement capacity.

What are the Consequences of Violating California’s Gun Transportation Laws?

Violating California’s gun transportation laws can lead to severe consequences. Being in possession of a loaded gun in your car without a Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) permit can result in a misdemeanour charge, which carries up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. By transporting a loaded gun in a vehicle without a CCW permit, you could face felony charges, which carry a maximum penalty of three years in jail and a $10,000 fine.

Conclusion

As a responsible gun owner, it’s essential to understand these laws and comply with them at all times. If you’re transporting a gun legally, you shouldn’t face any legal issues. However, violating California’s gun transportation laws can lead to severe consequences, including criminal charges and fines.

The Safest Way to Dispose of a Broken Firearm in California

Do you have broken firearms that are taking up space in your home? Perhaps they’re not valuable enough to sell, or you don’t want to deal with the hassle of repairing them. Whatever the reason, disposing of them can be tricky and dangerous, especially if you don’t have experience with firearms. That’s why we put together this guide to help you discover the safest ways to dispose of a broken firearm in California.

Safety and Legal Considerations for Gun Disposal

When it comes to deciding how you will go about disposing of a firearm, it’s essential to keep safety and legal considerations in mind. Improperly disposing of firearms in California can result in severe legal penalties and safety risks. It’s crucial that you know all of the legal and safety risks involved in gun disposal, so that you can make an informed decision. Here’s what you need to know:

Never Throw Away a Firearm in the Trash

First and foremost, it’s important that you never throw away a firearm in the trash. Guns are not like regular household items that can be tossed without concern. There are several reasons for this, including the fact that it’s illegal and potentially dangerous.

never throw guns in the trash - it's the law. California Gun law States: (Summary) You cannot dispose of a firearm if you know or reasonably should know that a child or someone not legally eligible to be in possession (such as a felon), is likely to gain access to the firearm. penalty is 16 months in prison and/or $10,000 in fines

Safe Storage of Guns and Ammo

Before considering disposal options, it’s essential to ensure the proper storage of your guns and ammunition. Store guns in a locked container and make sure they are inaccessible to minors and unauthorized users. Failure to do so could result in criminal charges for unsafe storage, heavy fines and jail time.

Risks and Dangers of Transporting Guns

Transporting firearms for disposal comes with risks and legal requirements. California gun laws state that all firearms must be unloaded during transportation. Further, handguns must also be secured in a locked container, during transportation.

For those who are unsure about safely unloading or handling firearms, you should seek assistance from a professional gun services company that offers firearms removal and destruction services. Companies like these can handle the entire process of gun disposal, including pickup, transportation, and destruction, making this the safest and easiest option for disposing of your firearms as a gun novice.

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What are your options to dispose of a broken firearm?

If you’ve never owned a gun or have recently inherited firearms that you do not want to keep, you may not be aware of your options for legal and safe gun disposal. It’s important to know that there are specific laws and safety risks you need to follow when disposing of guns. Here, we’ll discuss the different options you have for proper gun disposal in California.

1) Surrender Firearms to Local Police

Voluntarily surrendering unwanted firearms to your local police station or sheriff’s office is one legal way to dispose of them in California. To do this, you should contact your local police station or sheriff’s office at their non-emergency number to receive further instructions for gun disposal. However, note that you will need to ensure that the gun is unloaded and separated from ammunition before transporting it.

Here are some useful links to help you quickly and easily access websites for Orange County law enforcement:

2) Participate in a Gun Buyback Program

Another option for gun disposal is participating in a gun buyback program. These programs offer a legal way to exchange firearms for rewards such as cash or gift cards, but broken firearms typically do not qualify for rewards. That being said, you can always dispose of your firearms through a buyback program. This can be a good option if you have other guns to drop off or are going with a group. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to transport and unload the firearm legally, and buyback events don’t happen regularly, so you may need to store the gun for a while before you can participate.

What is the Safest Way to Dispose of a Broken Firearm?

If you are not comfortable handling firearms, working with a reputable company that specializes in firearm removal and destruction services is the single safest way to dispose of your broken firearms. Companies such as California Gun Services will handle the entire process for you, including picking up the firearms and permanently destroying them. By using a professional service, you can avoid the hazards and legal risks associated with handling and transporting firearms and have peace of mind knowing that your firearms are being disposed of legally and responsibly. Get started today with 3 easy steps.

Step 1: Contact California Gun Services

To begin the safe process of gun removal, simply reach out to California Gun Services. You can fill out our contact form or call us at (714) 639-9608.

Step 2: Arrange for Pickup

Once you contact California Gun Services and we confirm that we can assist you, a licensed firearms specialist will come to your home to inspect your guns. If your firearms are found to be unsafe to use, cannot be repaired, and have no historical value, California Gun Services will remove them and permanently destroy them by torching each guns’ receiver or frame into three parts or cutting it with a saw into five parts.

Step 3: Receive Proof of Destruction

We will document the destruction process with photos and log it for the Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. Once our Orange County gun destruction services are complete, we will email proof of destruction to you, our customer.

Hand gun before gun destruction
Handgun after destruction
Handgun Before and After Gun Destruction

Trust California Gun Services for Safe and Secure Firearm Removal

At California Gun Services, we offer a safe and professional solution for those who possess unwanted firearms. Here are some reasons why people across the state choose California Gun Services for their firearm removal and destruction needs:

  • We come to you! You don’t have to worry about transportation or handling, we’ll come to you to remove your firearms.
  • Legal Gun Disposal. Our process is certified and compliant with all state and federal laws. You can rest assured your that guns are disposed of legally and documented properly.
  • Trustworthy Resource. Jeff, the owner of California Gun Services, has been approved and entrusted by the ATF, Department of Justice and the Orange Police Department to carry out Orange County gun disposal services. You can trust California Gun Services to handle your firearms responsibly and ethically.
  • Support and Guidance. We understand that not everyone is comfortable with guns, and we’re here to help. We can offer you advice based on your guns and help you to understand your options. We are not a gun company for “gun people”, but a gun company for those who are not “gun people” who find themselves in possession of a firearm.

California Gun Buyback Programs: Everything You Need to Know

Gun buyback programs have become a popular tool used by law enforcement agencies across the US to promote public safety and address gun violence. California, a state with a long history of gun violence, has been at the forefront of implementing these programs. This guide covers everything you need to know about gun buyback programs including what they are, the benefits and drawbacks of participating in one. We also give a step-by-step guide on how to safely participate in a gun buyback program in California.

What is a Gun Buyback Program?

Gun buyback programs are designed to create a safer community by reducing the number of guns in circulation and preventing them from being involved in criminal activities, accidental shootings, or other forms of misuse. These programs allow citizens to turn in their firearms anonymously and voluntarily for incentives like gift cards or cash. The aim of these programs is to reduce the number of guns in circulation by removing unwanted firearms from homes, preventing them from falling into the wrong hands.

What Types of Firearms are Collected?

California gun buyback programs typically accept a wide variety of firearms, including handguns, rifles, shotguns, and assault weapons. The exact types of firearms that are accepted may vary depending on the specific program, but generally speaking, any firearm that is in working condition will be accepted. You may also turn in broken firearms, but you will usually not receive incentives for them. Some programs may also accept ammunition or accessories such as magazines or scopes.

What Happens to the Collected Weapons?

Once the firearms have been collected, they are typically transported to a central location where they are processed and eventually destroyed. Some programs may also donate firearms that are in good condition to law enforcement agencies or other organizations.

Is a Gun Buyback Program Right for You?

Participating in gun buyback programs is a responsible way for you to dispose of unwanted firearms, with no questions asked. In addition to helping keep your community safe, you’ll also receive cash or gift cards as compensation for your guns.

However, gun buyback programs may not be the best option for everyone. For one, you won’t receive the true value of your guns. This is especially true if you have firearms that are valuable or historically significant. Usually, you will receive gift cards or set prices for specific types of guns, which may not be equivalent to the actual worth of the guns.

You must also consider all legal and safety considerations for transporting firearms to the specified location. Firearms can be extremely dangerous if mishandled, and even a single mistake could result in serious injury or death to yourself or others. If you are unfamiliar with guns, you should not handle or transport them.

How to Participate in California

Participating in gun buyback programs is a fairly simple process. Here we’ve broken it down into 3 simple steps.

Step 1: Find a local gun buyback program. California gun buyback programs are typically organized by local law enforcement agencies, and are held on a specific day or weekend. Participants are usually required to bring the firearms to a designated location. You can find upcoming buyback events by checking with your local police or sheriff’s office or visiting the website.

Step 2: Safely Transport the Guns. California gun laws require you to unload all guns before transportation. If you are turning in a handgun, it must also be in a locked container and inaccessible during transportation. This includes being in places like the trunk, but not the glove compartment.

If you are not comfortable handling or operating your guns, you should not attempt to unload, move or transport them.

Step 3: Trade your guns for rewards. Once you arrive at the designated location, you can turn in your firearms for cash or gift cards. The specific rewards offered may vary depending on the program.

Are gun buyback programs effective?

Many studies have been conducted to determine the effectiveness of gun buyback programs. The data shows that gun buyback programs can be effective in reducing gun violence in homes and preventing stolen firearms from being used to harm others. However, on a larger scale the success is less known due to the infrequency of events. Further, these programs should not be considered as a standalone solution to the issue of gun violence.

Conclusion

While gun buyback programs can be an effective way to reduce gun violence, it is important to consider all your options when getting rid of your firearms. If you have guns that you no longer need and are unsure about participating in a gun buyback program, or if you need assistance with safe gun handling and storage, don’t worry – California Gun Services is here to help. Our team of licensed and certified professionals can provide you with the support you need. Contact us today and let us help you dispose of your firearms responsibly and safely.