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

Published on March 28, 2020
Duration: 12:42

This guide details the process for legally manufacturing or assembling firearms in California, focusing on the requirements for 80% lowers. It outlines the necessity of obtaining a unique serial number from the California DOJ via the CFARS system, the information required for the application, and the subsequent steps of engraving and proof submission. The video also touches upon restrictions for building handguns and the historical context of these regulations.

Quick Summary

To legally build an 80% lower firearm in California, you must be eligible to own a gun, apply for a DOJ serial number via CFARS, engrave it onto the firearm, and upload proof within 30 days. Building handguns like AR-15 pistols from 80% lowers is currently prohibited due to safe handgun roster laws.

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 building an 80% lower firearm in California?

In California, you must be legally eligible to own a firearm, apply to the DOJ for a unique serial number before building, permanently engrave that serial number, and then upload proof to the DOJ within 30 days of completion. Building handguns from 80% lowers is currently restricted.

How do I get a serial number for a self-made firearm in California?

You must apply for a unique serial number through the California Firearms Application Reporting System (CFARS) website. After submitting the application and receiving approval, you will be assigned a serial number that must be permanently engraved onto your firearm.

Are there restrictions on building AR-15 pistols from 80% lowers in California?

Yes, building AR-15 pistols or other handguns from 80% lowers is currently restricted in California due to the state's safe handgun roster requirements. The DOJ system currently lacks a 'Pistol' option for self-builds.

What is the deadline for serializing self-made firearms in California?

California law, specifically AB 857, required all completed firearms to have a serial number by January 1, 2019. Anyone intending to manufacture or assemble a firearm after July 1, 2018, must first apply to the DOJ for a unique serial number.

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