80% Lowers in California - What you need to know.

Published on March 28, 2020
Duration: 12:42

This guide details the complex legal requirements for building 80% lower receivers and self-made firearms in California, as explained by Reno May. It covers the necessity of DOJ serial numbers, application processes via CFARS, engraving requirements, and distinctions between pre- and post-July 2018 builds. The guide emphasizes compliance with California's specific regulations, including restrictions on handgun builds.

Quick Summary

In California, manufacturing or assembling a firearm after July 1, 2018, requires applying to the DOJ for a unique serial number before building. If you possessed a self-made firearm without a serial number by January 1, 2019, you must also apply. The assigned serial number must be permanently engraved, with specific requirements for 3D printed polymer firearms using embedded stainless steel.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to 80% Lowers in California
  2. 00:35Pistol Buffer Tube as Mic Holder
  3. 00:52Historical 80% Lower Regulation
  4. 01:09California's New 80% Lower Laws
  5. 01:15DOJ Self-Made Firearms Requirements
  6. 01:26Eligibility and Legal Compliance
  7. 02:12Serial Number Application Rules
  8. 03:13Serial Number Engraving Requirements
  9. 03:32Selling Self-Made Firearms
  10. 03:43Handgun Roster Interpretation Dispute
  11. 04:25Off-Roster Handguns & Local Shop
  12. 04:42DOJ Serial Number Application Process Walkthrough
  13. 05:27Filling Out the USNA Form
  14. 06:00Firearm Type Limitations in CA
  15. 07:02Post-Application Steps
  16. 07:33Legality of Pre-2018 Lowers
  17. 08:08AB 857 Requirements Detailed
  18. 08:44Post-July 2018 Lower Rules
  19. 09:37Summary of Pre-2018 Serialization Interpretation
  20. 10:25Law Enforcement Nuances & Discretion
  21. 11:07Current Legal 80% Lower Build Steps
  22. 11:30Handgun/Pistol Build Restrictions Reiteration
  23. 11:54Future of Title I Firearms & COVID-19 Impact
  24. 12:15Final Thoughts and Disclaimer

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key requirements for serializing self-made firearms in California?

In California, if you manufacture or assemble a firearm after July 1, 2018, you must apply to the DOJ for a unique serial number before building. If you possessed a self-made firearm without a serial number by January 1, 2019, you also need to apply for one. The serial number must then be permanently engraved on the firearm.

Can I build an AR-15 pistol from an 80% lower in California?

Currently, building AR-15 pistols or other handguns from 80% lowers is restricted in California due to safe handgun roster laws. The DOJ's CFARS system does not offer a 'Pistol' option for self-builds, making this process legally prohibited at this time.

What is the rule for 80% lowers serialized before July 1, 2018, in California?

If you completed and engraved an ATF-compliant serial number on an 80% lower receiver *before* July 1, 2018, it generally appears to comply with California law. However, the California DOJ may have differing interpretations or enforcement suggestions.

How do I serialize a 3D printed polymer firearm in California?

For 3D printed polymer firearms in California, a unique serial number assigned by the DOJ must be permanently engraved. This engraving must be done on an embedded piece of stainless steel, which has specific dimensions (3.7x0.5x0.17 inches) and weight (1.7oz).

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