Can you Shoulder a Pistol in California? 2017

Published on July 19, 2017
Duration: 4:02

This video clarifies California's regulations regarding AR-15 pistols and the use of stabilizing braces. It explains that AR-15 pistols are classified as handguns, not rifles, and thus cannot be made 'featureless' in the same way. Owners must opt for fixed magazine configurations or register them as assault weapons. The video also addresses the ATF's stance on stabilizing braces, stating that while they can make contact with the shoulder, they are not intended to be used as a stock, which would reclassify the firearm as a short-barreled rifle under the NFA.

Quick Summary

In California, AR-15 pistols are classified as handguns. While stabilizing braces on these pistols can make contact with the shoulder, using them as a stock is illegal and can result in NFA violations. Legal options for AR-15 pistols in CA include fixed magazines or assault weapon registration.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Shoulder AR Pistol in CA?
  2. 00:14AR-15 Pistols in California
  3. 00:36Featureless Pistols Not Allowed
  4. 00:44Options: Fixed Mag or Assault Weapon
  5. 00:51Fixed Magazine Example
  6. 01:15Stabilizing Braces: Sig Brace, Shockwave Blade
  7. 01:27ATF Revision Letter on Braces (2017)
  8. 01:53Shouldering vs. Using as Stock
  9. 02:19Can You Shoulder a Brace? Yes & No
  10. 02:30Don't Use Brace as a Stock
  11. 03:19Outro & Channel Info

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal to shoulder an AR-15 pistol in California?

In California, shouldering an AR-15 pistol is a nuanced issue. While the ATF has stated that stabilizing braces can make contact with the shoulder, using the brace as a stock is illegal and can reclassify the firearm as a short-barreled rifle under the NFA.

What are the legal options for AR-15 pistols in California?

Due to California's 'evil features' ban, AR-15 pistols cannot be made featureless. Your primary legal options are to configure the pistol with a fixed magazine or to register it as an assault weapon with the state.

What is the ATF's stance on AR pistol stabilizing braces?

The ATF's 2017 guidance indicates that stabilizing braces are acceptable for their intended purpose of arm stabilization. However, any modification or use that makes it function as a stock, or is intended to be a shoulder-fired weapon, can result in it being classified as a short-barreled rifle (SBR).

Can an AR-15 pistol with a brace be considered a rifle in California?

No, AR-15 pistols are legally classified as handguns in California, not rifles. This classification means they are subject to different regulations than rifles, particularly concerning features like magazine placement.

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