Understanding California AR-15 Compliance Parts
When it comes to owning an AR-15 in California, understanding the compliance parts is crucial. The state has stringent regulations that dictate which parts can be used on an AR-15 rifle. In this article, we will delve into the various compliance parts required for an AR-15 in California, ensuring that you are well-informed and compliant with the law.
Caliber Restrictions
One of the first compliance parts to consider is the caliber of the rifle. In California, only certain calibers are allowed for AR-15s. These include .22 LR, .223 Remington, .308 Winchester, and .30-30 Winchester. If you plan to use a different caliber, you will need to make sure it is legal in the state of California.
Magazine Capacity
Another critical compliance part is the magazine capacity. California law restricts the magazine capacity of an AR-15 to 10 rounds. This means that any magazine you use with your rifle must not hold more than 10 rounds. It is essential to check the capacity of your magazines to ensure compliance.
Fixed Magazines
California also requires that the magazine used with an AR-15 be a fixed magazine. This means that the magazine cannot be removed from the rifle without the use of tools. Fixed magazines are designed to be more secure and less prone to accidental discharge, making them a crucial compliance part.
California Legal Lower Receivers
The lower receiver is the part of the rifle that is serialized and registered with the state. In California, there are specific lower receivers that are legal for use with an AR-15. These lower receivers must be marked with the words “CA Legal” or “Compliant with California Law.” It is essential to verify that your lower receiver meets these requirements.
California Legal Handguards
The handguard, or forend, is another compliance part to consider. In California, handguards must be a certain length and design to be legal. Specifically, the handguard must be at least 13 inches in length and have a solid surface. This ensures that the rifle cannot be easily modified to accept a high-capacity magazine or other prohibited features.
California Legal Stocks
The stock of an AR-15 must also comply with California law. The stock must be a fixed stock, meaning it cannot be easily removed or adjusted. This is to prevent the rifle from being converted into a short-barreled rifle, which is illegal in the state.
California Legal Sights
Lastly, the sights on your AR-15 must comply with California law. The sights must be fixed and cannot be easily removed or adjusted. This ensures that the rifle is not modified to have a scope or other sights that could be considered prohibited.
Table: California AR-15 Compliance Parts
| Compliance Part | Description |
|---|---|
| Caliber | Must be .22 LR, .223 Remington, .308 Winchester, or .30-30 Winchester |
| Magazine Capacity | Cannot hold more than 10 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Fixed magazine, cannot be removed without tools |
| Lower Receiver | Must be marked with “CA Legal” or “Compliant with California Law” |
| Handguard | At least 13 inches in length, solid surface |
| Stock | Fixed stock, cannot be easily removed or adjusted |
| Sights | Fixed sights, cannot be easily removed or adjusted |
By understanding and adhering to these compliance parts, you can ensure that your AR-15 is legal and safe to use in the state of California. Always check with local authorities or a licensed firearms dealer to confirm the legality of your rifle and its components.
