Why is the Sig Sauer p320 Illegal in California?
Background
The Sig Sauer P320 is a widely popular and highly-regarded polymer-framed pistol available in various calibers. However, in the state of California, owning, purchasing, or attempting to acquire the Sig Sauer P320 is considered a violation of state gun laws. But why?
In this article, we will dive into the reasons why the Sig Sauer P320 is illegal in California, exploring the legal regulations that make it a blacklisted firearm.
CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE-RECOMMENDED FIREARM SAFE HANDLING RULES FOR SEMI-AUTO handguns
One of the primary concerns related to the Sig Sauer P320 is the manufacturer’s initial design decision. In the early design of the pistol, it could be modified to discharge even when dropped or upon mechanical stress, a scenario deemed unacceptable by California regulatory agencies.
To address these safety concerns, the National Institutes of Justice (NJ) conducted an independent laboratory analysis of the Sig Sauer P320. Based on the test results, Sig Sauer voluntarily discontinued sales of the original pre-Federal Firearms Licensees’ (FFLs’) models to the State of California. This resulted in the subsequent modification and re-engineering of the design to add improved drop safety features (DF) for all further manufacture and sale.
Before explaining the reason why P320 is still illegal, here’s a quick list to highlight some key considerations from the manufacturer’s adjustments:
• The modified or pre-FFL’s models were engineered and tested with improved fall-from-height tests and environmental endurance tests, demonstrating safety.
• Sig Sauer added the drop safe or (DS) mechanisms. This ensured the disconnection of the trigger mechanisms as the firing pin stayed inert in response to fall test, avoiding accidental or stray shots**.
Now, focusing back on California’s reasoning why the P320 cannot still be lawfully traded due to legal loopholes associated with earlier production years (cites 11 CA Code <0.001; §11106.) the:/b/ The regulations set by California are geared specifically towards reducing and eliminating hazards generated by "bullet drops" and accidental shot dispersal due to unexpected contact or loss of traction/loss.
Though modification of Sig Sauer is in process, but Sig Sauer still refused an order of modification regarding other gun model as, like Glock models. On their side, California insists all the pre-licensed modified Sig Sauer variants for California can go back and forth safely between states while not doing justice for some of it not meeting certain requirements outlined on California Gun laws/ rules**.
