What Guns Can You Get at 18 in California?
California has some of the strictest gun laws in the United States, and there are specific rules regarding what firearms an 18-year-old can purchase and own in the state. While it’s possible for an 18-year-old to obtain certain firearms in California, there are limitations and restrictions that must be considered.
What Firearms Can an 18-Year-Old Buy in California?
In California, 18-year-olds can purchase certain firearms, including:
- Rimfire firearms: These are firearms that fire rimfire cartridges, such as.22 caliber rifles and pistols. There is no minimum age requirement to purchase rimfire firearms in California.
- Air rifles: Air rifles are not considered firearms and do not require a background check or permit to purchase. However, they may be subject to local regulations and ordinances.
- Airsoft guns: Airsoft guns are also not considered firearms and do not require a background check or permit to purchase. However, they may be subject to local regulations and ordinances.
What Firearms Require a Background Check and Permit for an 18-Year-Old in California?
In California, 18-year-olds can only purchase certain firearms with a background check and permit. These include:
- Centerfire firearms: These are firearms that fire centerfire cartridges, such as.38 caliber pistols and rifles. To purchase a centerfire firearm in California, an 18-year-old must:
- Pass a background check through the California Department of Justice (DOJ)
- Obtain a permit to purchase a firearm from the California DOJ
- Show proof of residency in California
- Meet the requirements for possession and ownership of a firearm
- Handguns: To purchase a handgun in California, an 18-year-old must:
- Pass a background check through the California DOJ
- Obtain a permit to purchase a handgun from the California DOJ
- Show proof of residency in California
- Meet the requirements for possession and ownership of a firearm
What are the Restrictions on Firearms for an 18-Year-Old in California?
In addition to the requirements for purchasing firearms, there are restrictions on the types of firearms that an 18-year-old can own and possess in California. These include:
- Assault weapons: California has banned the possession and sale of certain types of assault weapons, including semi-automatic firearms that have certain features.
- High-capacity magazines: California has banned the possession and sale of high-capacity magazines that hold more than 10 rounds of ammunition.
- Certain types of ammunition: California has banned the sale and possession of certain types of ammunition, including hollow-point bullets and tracer bullets.
Table: Summary of Firearms Available to 18-Year-Olds in California
| Type of Firearm | Age Requirement | Background Check Required | Permit Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rimfire firearms | 18+ | No | No |
| Air rifles | No age requirement | No | No |
| Airsoft guns | No age requirement | No | No |
| Centerfire firearms | 18+ | Yes | Yes |
| Handguns | 18+ | Yes | Yes |
Conclusion
In California, 18-year-olds can purchase and own certain types of firearms, including rimfire firearms and airsoft guns. However, they may not be able to purchase or own certain types of firearms, including centerfire firearms and handguns, without a background check and permit. Additionally, there are restrictions on the types of firearms that can be possessed and sold in the state. It’s important for 18-year-olds in California to understand these restrictions and requirements before attempting to purchase or own a firearm.
