Folding Stocks in California - is the LAW FOLDER LEGAL IN CALIFORNIA?

Published on September 7, 2020
Duration: 7:14

This video explains California's complex laws regarding folding stocks on semi-automatic firearms. It clarifies that folding stocks are generally prohibited on 'featureless' rifles due to assault weapon definitions. For fixed-magazine rifles, the overall length requirement of 30 inches in the shortest fireable configuration makes folding stocks impractical without significantly longer barrels. For AR-15 pistols, folding stocks are permissible if the overall length remains above 26 inches, but adding a vertical foregrip then triggers NFA regulations.

Quick Summary

In California, folding stocks are generally prohibited on semi-automatic rifles classified as assault weapons. For fixed-magazine rifles, the overall length must exceed 30 inches in its shortest fireable configuration. AR-15 pistols can have folding stocks if the overall length remains above 26 inches, but adding a vertical foregrip introduces federal NFA concerns.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Folding Stocks in California
  2. 00:09Assault Weapon Definitions Overview
  3. 00:12Folding Stocks on AR-15s/AKs
  4. 00:23Sponsor: Franklin Armory
  5. 00:52Disclaimer: Not Legal Advice
  6. 01:06Rifle Example: Overall Length (Federal)
  7. 01:28California Assault Weapon Definition (Rifle)
  8. 01:47Featureless Rifle & Folding Stock Rule
  9. 01:52Fixed Magazine Rifles & Folding Stocks
  10. 02:15Measuring Overall Length (26 Inches)
  11. 02:36Law Folder on Fixed Mag Gun
  12. 03:06California Overall Length (30 Inches)
  13. 03:24Shortest Fireable Configuration Measurement
  14. 03:5830-Inch Requirement Explained
  15. 04:36Folding Stocks on Semi-Auto Rifles (Summary)
  16. 05:12AR-15 Pistol Example
  17. 05:16Pistol with Fixed Magazine
  18. 05:37Law Folder on Pistol & Overall Length
  19. 05:54Pistol, Vertical Foregrip, and NFA Laws
  20. 06:12Summary: Rifles vs. Pistols
  21. 06:48Resources: Assault Weapon Definitions & NFA
  22. 07:03Closing Remarks

Frequently Asked Questions

Are folding stocks legal on AR-15 rifles in California?

Generally, no. California classifies semi-automatic rifles with folding or telescoping stocks as assault weapons, unless they have a fixed magazine. Even then, the rifle must meet a 30-inch overall length requirement in its shortest fireable configuration, making folding stocks impractical.

Can I put a folding stock on a California-compliant AR-15 pistol?

Yes, you can put a folding stock on an AR-15 pistol in California, provided the firearm's overall length remains above 26 inches in its shortest fireable configuration. However, adding a vertical foregrip to such a pistol can trigger federal NFA regulations.

What is the overall length requirement for rifles in California?

For semi-automatic rifles in California, the overall length must be at least 30 inches when measured from the shortest fireable configuration. This measurement is crucial for determining compliance, especially when considering features like folding stocks.

What makes a firearm an 'assault weapon' in California regarding stocks?

In California, a semi-automatic centerfire rifle is considered an assault weapon if it has a folding or telescoping stock, among other features, and does not have a fixed magazine. This definition directly impacts the legality of folding stocks on many rifle platforms.

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