Are Lever Action Rifles Legal in CA?
California is known for its strict gun laws, and when it comes to lever action rifles, there’s a lot of confusion surrounding their legality. In this article, we’ll break down the laws and regulations surrounding lever action rifles in California, so you can make an informed decision about whether or not to own one.
What are Lever Action Rifles?
Before we dive into the legality of lever action rifles in California, it’s essential to understand what they are. Lever action rifles are a type of firearm that uses a lever located on the side or bottom of the rifle to cock and load the gun. They were popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and are often associated with the Wild West. Lever action rifles are still popular today, and many modern manufacturers produce them in various calibers and configurations.
Are Lever Action Rifles Legal in California?
The short answer is: it depends. Lever action rifles can be legal in California, but it depends on several factors, including the caliber, magazine capacity, and whether the rifle is configured as a "rifle" or a "firearm."
California Rifle Definition
In California, a "rifle" is defined as a firearm that is designed to be fired from the shoulder, has a rifled barrel, and is not capable of being concealed on the person. Rifles are generally legal in California as long as they meet these criteria. However, if a rifle is designed to be concealed on the person, such as a carbine or a pistol-caliber rifle, it may be regulated as a "firearm" rather than a "rifle."
Lever Action Rifles with Large Calibers
Lever action rifles with large calibers, such as.45-70 Government or.460 Weatherby Magnum, are generally legal in California as long as they meet the definition of a "rifle." These rifles are often used for hunting large game and are typically chambered in calibers that are not commonly used for self-defense.
Lever Action Rifles with Small Calibers
Lever action rifles with small calibers, such as.22 Long Rifle or.30-30 Winchester, are also legal in California, but there are some restrictions. These rifles are often used for recreational shooting and hunting small game. However, rifles with magazine capacities over 10 rounds are regulated under California’s assault weapon laws.
California Assault Weapon Laws
California has some of the strictest assault weapon laws in the country, and lever action rifles with certain features or configurations may be regulated under these laws. The Roberti-Roos Assault Weapon Control Act of 1989 defines an "assault weapon" as a firearm that has one or more of the following features:
• A folding or collapsible stock
• A pistol grip
• A flash suppressor
• A threaded barrel
• A bayonet mount
• A magazine capacity over 10 rounds
Lever Action Rifles with Features Regulated Under California Assault Weapon Laws
Lever action rifles with features regulated under California’s assault weapon laws, such as a pistol grip or a collapsible stock, may be illegal in California. However, some lever action rifles with these features may be grandfathered in if they were legally owned before the effective date of the assault weapon laws.
How to Legally Own a Lever Action Rifle in California
If you’re interested in owning a lever action rifle in California, here are some tips to ensure you’re legally compliant:
• Check the caliber: Make sure the rifle is chambered in a caliber that is legal in California. Avoid rifles with large magazine capacities or features regulated under California’s assault weapon laws.
• Check the configuration: Ensure the rifle meets the definition of a "rifle" in California and does not have any features regulated under the assault weapon laws.
• Obtain a background check: All firearms sales in California require a background check through the California Department of Justice.
• Obtain a permit: You may need to obtain a permit to own a lever action rifle in California, depending on your local laws and regulations.
Conclusion
Lever action rifles can be legal in California, but it’s essential to understand the laws and regulations surrounding these firearms. By checking the caliber, configuration, and features of your lever action rifle, you can ensure you’re legally compliant and enjoy this popular type of firearm. Remember to always follow California’s strict gun laws and regulations to avoid legal consequences.
Table: California Rifle Definition
| Feature | Description | Legal in California? |
|---|---|---|
| Rifled barrel | Designed to be fired from the shoulder | Yes |
| Not capable of being concealed on the person | Designed for shoulder-fire only | Yes |
| Other features | (e.g. pistol grip, collapsible stock) | No |
Table: California Assault Weapon Laws
| Feature | Description | Regulated in California? |
|---|---|---|
| Folding or collapsible stock | Allows for compact storage or transport | Yes |
| Pistol grip | A grip designed for self-defense | Yes |
| Flash suppressor | Reduces muzzle flash | Yes |
| Threaded barrel | Allows for attachment of muzzle devices | Yes |
| Bayonet mount | Allows for attachment of a bayonet | Yes |
| Magazine capacity over 10 rounds | Allows for multiple shots without reloading | Yes |
Bullets: Tips for Legally Owning a Lever Action Rifle in California
• Check the caliber of your lever action rifle to ensure it’s legal in California.
• Ensure your lever action rifle meets the definition of a "rifle" in California.
• Conduct a background check through the California Department of Justice before purchasing a lever action rifle.
• Obtain a permit to own a lever action rifle in California, if required by your local laws and regulations.
• Avoid lever action rifles with features regulated under California’s assault weapon laws.
