Can You Order Ammunition Online in California?
As a resident of California, you may wonder whether it is possible to order ammunition online in this state. The answer to this question is not as straightforward as it seems, and it depends on a number of factors. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive overview of California’s laws and regulations surrounding online ammunition sales, making it easier for you to navigate the process.
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California’s State Law on Ammunition Sales
Prior to 2016, there were no specific restrictions on the sale of ammunition in California. However, on July 1, 2016, new legislation went into effect requiring licensed firearms dealers to register each ammunition sale with the state. This law aims to improve the tracking and regulation of ammunition sales, making it easier for law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute crimes committed with firearms.
New 2019 Law Affecting Online Ammunition Sales
In 2019, California Governor Jerry Brown signed Assembly Bill (AB) 1628, which further restricted the sale of ammunition online in California. The law went into effect on January 1, 2020, and requires online vendors to obtain a California internet license to sell ammunition within the state. This law specifically prohibits online vendors without a California internet license from selling ammunition to California customers.
Rules and Regulations for Online Ammo Sales in California
To order ammunition online in California, it is essential to understand the following rules and regulations:
• Licensed Vendors: Only licensed firearms dealers who have obtained a California internet license can sell ammunition online to California customers.
• Background Checks: Before shipping ammunition to California customers, online vendors are required to conduct a federal background check on the recipient. This check is not the same as a statewide background check, which requires an additional step.
• California-Compliant Ammo: Online vendors selling ammunition to California customers must ensure that the ammunition sold complies with California regulations, including the use of special bullet tips and projectiles that are designed to inflict a greater amount of penetration to the target.
What Ammunition is Prohibited in California?
Under California law, certain types of ammunition are prohibited, including:
• Semiautomatic rifles chambered in.50-caliber or larger: Under the California Assault Weapons Act, these rifles are specifically banned.
• Large-Capacity Ammunition Feeding Devices: This term refers to magazines with the capacity to hold 11 or more rounds for pistols and 10 or more rounds for rifles. Online vendors selling ammunition online must ensure that the items sold do not include such feeding devices.
• Armored Piercing ammunition: This type of ammunition is specifically designed to pierce armor and is generally banned in California.
Ammunition Sold for Hunting and Sport Must be California-Compliant
When purchasing ammunition for hunting and sport in California, it is essential to ensure that the ammunition complies with California regulations. Specifically, the ammunition sold must be designed to fully penetrate the target and deliver maximum kinetic energy to effectively humanely harvest game or other targets.
Tips for Buying Ammo Online in California
To ensure that your online ammunition purchase in California is legal and safe, follow these tips:
• Check the Website’s California Compliance: Always verify that the online vendor’s website explicitly states its compliance with California laws and regulations.
• Licensing and Certification: Before ordering ammunition online, make sure the vendor has the required California internet license to sell ammunition within the state.
• Background Check: Ensure that the online vendor conducts a federal background check on the recipient before shipping the ammunition.
• California-Compliant Ammunition: Verify that the ammunition sold is compliant with California regulations, including special bullet tips and projectiles.
Buying Ammunition Online in California: A Summary
In summary, it is possible to buy ammunition online in California as long as you follow these rules and regulations:
What You Can Do: Purchase ammunition online from a licensed vendor with a California internet license, ensuring federal background checks are conducted before shipping.
What You Must Do: Verify compliance with California laws and regulations, including the use of California-compliant ammunition designed for hunting and sport. Online vendors must also follow rules regarding prohibited ammunition.
By understanding California’s specific laws and regulations, online ammo sales, and other significant points, you will be better equipped to buy ammunition online in California in compliance with state laws and regulations.
Table Summary of California Ammunition Restrictions
| Type of Ammunition | Restricted or Prohibited? |
|---|---|
| Semiautomatic rifles chambered in.50-caliber or larger | Prohibited |
| Large-Capacity Ammunition Feeding Devices | Prohibited |
| Armored Piercing ammunition | Prohibited |
In conclusion, while online ammo sales in California present specific challenges, understanding these challenges and following the outlined guidelines will ensure a hassle-free and legal experience when buying ammunition online in this state.
