Is the FN 509 Tactical California Legal?
The FN 509 Tactical is a popular semi-automatic pistol designed for law enforcement and civilian use. But is it legal in California, a state with notoriously restrictive gun laws? In this article, we’ll break down the California-specific laws and regulations to determine if the FN 509 Tactical is compliant.
Background Check and Background Investigation
Before we dive into the specifics of the FN 509 Tactical, it’s essential to understand California’s background check and investigation requirements.
• In California, background checks are conducted through the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
• To purchase a firearm in California, individuals must first obtain a background check, which includes a comprehensive search of their criminal and mental health records.
California’s Assault Weapon Laws
The FN 509 Tactical is a semi-automatic pistol with a number of features that may raise red flags in California, which has strict laws regulating assault weapons. California defines an "assault weapon" as a firearm that has certain features, including a:
• Stabilizing brace: This refers to a device designed to improve the stability of a firearm, such as a pistol stabilizing grip.
• Folding or collapsible stock: These types of stocks are often used on rifles and may be considered a "convertible" feature under California law.
• Handguard or foregrip: A handguard is a component that extends forward from the barrel, often used to improve accuracy. A foregrip is a grip located in front of the trigger, typically used for shooting accuracy.
• Barrel length of less than 16 inches: While California allows rifles with barrels 16 inches or longer, it’s unclear if a similar rule applies to pistols.
• Threaded barrel: A threaded barrel may be used to attach a silencer or suppressor, which is strictly regulated in California.
The FN 509 Tactical features a stabilizing brace, which may raise concerns under California’s assault weapon laws. However, the pistol does not have a folding or collapsible stock, handguard or foregrip, barrel length of less than 16 inches, or a threaded barrel.
The Thompson Firearm Safety and Liability Act
In 2000, California enacted the Thompson Firearm Safety and Liability Act, which amended the state’s definition of an "assault weapon." The law effectively prohibited the sale and manufacture of certain firearms, including those with certain features or accessories.
The Roberti-Roos Assault Weapons Control Act
The Roberti-Roos Assault Weapons Control Act was passed in 1989, making it illegal to own or possess an assault weapon in California. The law defines an "assault weapon" as a semi-automatic firearm that can accept a detachable magazine and has one or more specified features.
FN 509 Tactical Compliance
While the FN 509 Tactical may have some features that raise concerns under California law, it is designed and marketed as a sporting firearm, which may exempt it from some regulations. The pistol’s features, including its stabilizing brace, do not appear to exceed those allowed under California’s sporting firearm exemption.
Here is a summary of the key points:
| Feature | Compliance |
|---|---|
| Stabilizing brace | Potentially non-compliant under assault weapon laws |
| Folding or collapsible stock | Not present |
| Handguard or foregrip | Not present |
| Barrel length of less than 16 inches | Not present |
| Threaded barrel | Not present |
| Sporting firearm exemption | Potential exemption |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the FN 509 Tactical may have some features that raise concerns under California’s assault weapon laws, but it appears to be compliant with many of the state’s regulations. The pistol’s stabilizing brace, in particular, may be the main area of concern, as it could be argued to be a feature designed to improve the firearm’s accuracy and stability.
Ultimately, the legality of the FN 509 Tactical in California will depend on how California courts interpret the state’s assault weapon laws and whether any future legislation or regulations change the landscape. As such, it’s recommended that individuals interested in purchasing or owning the FN 509 Tactical in California consult with a qualified firearms dealer and attorney to determine their individual obligations and responsibilities under California law.
Disclaimer
Please note that this article is intended to provide general information and is not a substitute for legal advice. Always consult with a qualified firearms dealer and attorney before making any decisions regarding firearms compliance in California.
