Posted on 04/16/2009 11:42:12 AM PDT by ggrrrrr23456
As a new resident, I have been wondering about my options for firearm ownership and concealed carry in the state of California. Yea, it's an anti-gun state, and there must be more than a few obstacles for law-abiding citizens to exercise their right to bear arms, but I am willing to jump through the hoops.
Specifically, I would like to know 1) what restrictions are there in regards to assault rifles, 2) are these restrictions limited to certain counties, 3) is concealed carry even an option, and 4) what would you recommend for maximum home protection in this state, without circumventing the law.
Any other advice that you would deem appropriate is enthusiastically welcomed!
Thanks in advance!
Bump
Hmm. Move to Texas.
Seriously, stop moving to California especially if you are employed! Take all the tax revenue out of the Socialist State of Kalifornicate.
Maybe I’m just grumpy... I always get this way when I’m in the UK seeing socialism at it’s finest!
Kern County in CA has a pretty good record of issuing CC permits. I believe Kings is also pretty good.
Otherwise, good luck with that.
When it comes to firearms purchases, well, were it me, I’d seriously think about going to AZ to purchase my long arms.
Handguns cannot be purchased from a gun dealer in AZ by a CA resident. So, you’re stuck with the waiting period.
Btw, CA state law states that new resident have 60 days to register all handguns. When you apply for a CC permit, you have to list the handguns you want to Conceal\Carry. So, if you’ve forgotten to register your handgun within 60 days and then list it on the CC permit application, you’ll probably wind up in trouble.
2) are these restrictions limited to certain counties. There are certain restrictions to mailing ammo to certian cities and counties. Sac, Yolo counties spring to mind.
3) is concealed carry even an option. Not unless you're a cop, rich, famous, or like to kiss you sherrif's ass on a regular basis.
4) what would you recommend for maximum home protection in this state, without circumventing the law. . 12 Ga. pump shotty. Win, Rem, Moss,any of them are fine.
There is a longstanding “Assault Weapons” ban in state so you won’t be able to get most of what can be had in most other states.
You’d probably still be able to cobble something together. :)
As for concealed carry, unless you are in one of the more rural counties, have a really good excuse (”I carry 10 lbs of cut diamonds daily”) or unless you are very well connected then you’re SOL.
You probably don’t have any real chance of getting a permit in the SD, LA, SF Bay or Sac areas. I’ve tried.
For home defense you’re probably best served with either a nice pump shotgun or a good quality handgun - or both.
Both are subject to California’s arbitrary and capricious approval policies, but there are still some nice firearms available.
Since CA bans magazines over 10 rounds you’ll probably want something like a 1911 or Sig 220 in .45 ACP. If you’re forced to carry only 10 rounds you might as make them 10 big rounds! :)
Best of luck and welcome to the People’s Republic of Kalifornia, may she fail as soon as possible.
Have you researched the California gun laws, or the NRA website?
I’d recommend something like the Judge revolver (it fires .45 Long Cole & 410 ga shotgun-shells), as there’s no reason that it should be disallowed. (I’m not totally sure if it actually IS restricted in CA though.)
The reason I’d recommend that style of revolver is because you can fire the .45 Long Colt on the range, and 410 ga for home-defense which would reduce the risks of over penetration. Also, with a revolver you can interchange the loadouts. Like “Shot-shell, shot-shell, .45, .45, .45” for a Deter,deter... kill-kill-kill mentality.
But then there IS the legal aspect to worry about. That is if you DON’T kill the intruder you may be worse off than if you had shot him dead.
Also bearing some consideration is the price/availability of the ammos involved.
“As a new resident...”
My condolences.
Consider Montana as an alternate residence or get a vacation home there if possible
http://data.opi.mt.gov/bills/2009/billhtml/HB0246.htm
Looks like Montana is sidestepping the BATFE ( Federal Govt.)
Sorry, but the only advice I can give you is to move.
Join the California Rifle and Pistol Association.
Browse their website for info.
www.crpa.org
I try to fly under the radar here in Calif. No NRA stickers on car, etc.
“Assault” weapons have be essentially banned, even though there are a few semi-auto models that may still be purchased. Unfortunately, you are required to “register” them if you have one. Although long guns are not registered, every handgun sale is registered through a dealer. No direct sales to individuals are permitted. It is not against the law (yet) to posses a handgun that is not “registered.” since its the SALE of the weapon that causes the documentation, not its possession.
Individual counties and cities have sometimes enacted their own gun laws, but many regulations related to possession have been preempted by state law. Most local stuff is related to gun shows, licensing of dealers etc.
Concealed weapons permits are virtually nonexistent. Each county Sheriff (or Police Chief) decides the standards for the permit. Most of them issue very few, and if you “qualify” you may need to reapply every year.
If you were looking to possess and use firearms, California was the worst state you could have chosen.
But, in any event . . .welcome to the Golden State.
A .12 gauge shot gun for home protection. Conceal carry HAH, HAH, HAH.
It depends on what county you are in. If you are lucky enough to live in one of the Northeast counties you can get a permit simply by taking required classes and then applying and paying for the CCW, assuming you can pass the background check. Most other counties in CA will not give them out or give out very few.
Google. It’s a search engine.
Move.
AS a resident here,
Forget “assault” weapons as an option, really. You can own a Garand, M1A, Mini-14, etc
No mags over 10 rounds
CCWs can be had in the northern part of the state, Fresno, Kern,Madera, Mariposa counties, and a few other places, but even then, you have to pay quite a bit and it’s a pain.FORGET that open carry even entered your mind. Aint gonna happen here.
Waiting periods for every purchase, private or dealer. And all transfers have to be done at a dealer’s
Handguns require a safety class/card to purchase. Trigger locks must be bought with a gun, unless you have a CA DOJ or UL listed safe.
“Any other advice....”
Do not unpack. ;>)
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.