Are Angled Foregrips Legal in California?
As a gun owner in California, it’s essential to stay up-to-date on the latest laws and regulations regarding firearms and accessories. One common question among gun enthusiasts is whether angled foregrips are legal in the Golden State. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive answer to this question and delve into the details of California’s firearms laws.
What is an Angled Foregrip?
Before we dive into the legality of angled foregrips, let’s define what they are. An angled foregrip is a type of handguard or accessory that attaches to the fore-end of a firearm, typically a rifle or shotgun. It provides a ergonomic grip for the shooter, allowing for more comfortable and accurate shooting. Angled foregrips can be made of various materials, such as metal, plastic, or carbon fiber, and come in different designs and sizes.
California’s Firearms Laws
California has some of the most restrictive firearms laws in the country. In 1989, California passed the Roberti-Roos Assault Weapons Control Act (AWCA), which regulates the sale and possession of certain firearms, including rifles and shotguns. The AWCA prohibits the manufacture, sale, and possession of certain types of firearms, including those with features such as pistol grips, folding stocks, and flash suppressors.
Is an Angled Foregrip a "Pistol Grip"?
Under California law, a pistol grip is defined as a grip that is angled between 25 and 65 degrees from the horizontal. This is where things get tricky. While an angled foregrip may have a similar design to a pistol grip, it is not necessarily considered a pistol grip under California law. The key distinction is that a pistol grip is designed to be held by the shooter’s hand, whereas an angled foregrip is designed to be held by the shooter’s arm or shoulder.
California Penal Code Section 30515
California Penal Code Section 30515 prohibits the manufacture, sale, or possession of certain firearms with features such as pistol grips, folding stocks, and flash suppressors. Section 30515 specifically states that a pistol grip shall not be construed to mean a grip that is not designed to be held by the shooter’s hand. This implies that an angled foregrip, which is not designed to be held by the shooter’s hand, is not considered a pistol grip under California law.
The California Department of Justice (DOJ) Guidelines
In 2017, the California DOJ issued guidelines on the legality of certain firearms and accessories, including angled foregrips. The guidelines state that an angled foregrip is not considered a pistol grip as long as it does not have a curvature or shape that allows the shooter to hold it by the hand. The guidelines also note that the angle of the foregrip is not the sole determining factor in determining its legality.
Conclusion
In conclusion, angled foregrips are generally legal in California as long as they do not have a curvature or shape that allows the shooter to hold it by the hand. The key distinction is that an angled foregrip is designed to be held by the arm or shoulder, whereas a pistol grip is designed to be held by the hand. While there may be some gray area, the California DOJ guidelines and the legal definition of a pistol grip under California law suggest that angled foregrips are legal in the state.
Table: California Firearms Laws
| Law | Description |
|---|---|
| Roberti-Roos Assault Weapons Control Act (AWCA) | Regulates the sale and possession of certain firearms, including rifles and shotguns |
| California Penal Code Section 30515 | Prohibits the manufacture, sale, or possession of certain firearms with features such as pistol grips, folding stocks, and flash suppressors |
| California DOJ Guidelines | Provides guidance on the legality of certain firearms and accessories, including angled foregrips |
Important Considerations
- Always check with a local firearms dealer or law enforcement agency to ensure compliance with California law
- Ensure that any angled foregrip is designed to be held by the arm or shoulder, and not by the hand
- Be aware that California law is subject to change, and it’s essential to stay up-to-date on any changes or updates
By understanding the laws and regulations surrounding angled foregrips in California, gun owners can ensure compliance and enjoy their firearms safely and responsibly.
