Can Pellet Guns be Shipped to California?
The answer to this question is not a simple yes or no. Pellet guns, also known as air rifles or BB guns, are subject to strict regulations in California, and their shipment is heavily restricted. In this article, we will delve into the complexities of shipping pellet guns to California and provide guidance on what you need to know.
California Laws and Regulations
California is known for having some of the strictest gun laws in the United States. In 2019, the state passed Assembly Bill 162 (AB 162), which prohibited the sale and distribution of air-powered guns that could fire projectiles exceeding 6 feet in distance. This law was enacted to reduce the risk of accidental shootings and minimize the impact of pellet gun-related injuries.
Can Pellet Guns be Shipped to California?
In general, pellet guns cannot be shipped to California without meeting specific requirements. Here are some key points to consider:
• California Airsoft Regulation: Airsoft guns that shoot 6mm or larger BBs are considered airsoft guns and are exempt from the AB 162 regulations. However, these guns are still subject to the California Department of Justice’s (DOJ) regulations.
• Air-powered Guns: Air-powered guns that shoot projectiles exceeding 6 feet in distance are prohibited in California.
• Pellet Guns with a Caliber Over.177: Pellet guns with a caliber over.177 are considered air-powered guns and are prohibited in California.
Shipping Requirements
To ship a pellet gun to California, you must ensure that it meets the state’s regulations. Here are some shipping requirements to consider:
• Background Check: You must perform a background check on the recipient before shipping the pellet gun.
• Manufacturer’s Certification: The pellet gun must be certified by the manufacturer as meeting the AB 162 regulations.
• Documentation: You must provide documentation, including a copy of the manufacturer’s certification and a proof of age, to the recipient.
• Compliance with California Law: The pellet gun must comply with California law, including the prohibition on air-powered guns that shoot projectiles exceeding 6 feet in distance.
Exemptions
There are some exemptions to the pellet gun shipping regulations in California. Here are some key exemptions:
• Hobbyists: Recreational users of pellet guns, such as target shooters and airsoft enthusiasts, are exempt from the AB 162 regulations.
• Commercial Use: Commercial users of pellet guns, such as hunting and pest control companies, are exempt from the AB 162 regulations.
Table: Pellet Gun Shipping Requirements
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Background Check | Perform a background check on the recipient |
| Manufacturer’s Certification | Obtain certification from the manufacturer that the pellet gun meets the AB 162 regulations |
| Documentation | Provide documentation, including a copy of the manufacturer’s certification and proof of age, to the recipient |
| Compliance with California Law | Ensure the pellet gun complies with California law |
Conclusion
Shipping pellet guns to California is heavily restricted due to the state’s strict regulations. To ship a pellet gun to California, you must ensure that it meets the state’s regulations, including performing a background check, obtaining manufacturer’s certification, providing documentation, and complying with California law. Additionally, there are some exemptions to the regulations, including recreational users and commercial users. It is essential to carefully review the regulations and ensure compliance before shipping a pellet gun to California.
