How to get an AK in California? - everything you need to know

Published on September 29, 2020
Duration: 20:48

This video explains how to legally acquire and configure AK-pattern firearms in California. It details the 'featureless' and 'fixed magazine' compliance methods for rifles, the limitations for AK pistols due to the handgun roster, and the specific requirements for AK-style shotguns. The presenter emphasizes understanding California's assault weapon ban by name and feature, and outlines a process for using FFL middleman services to modify non-compliant firearms before transfer.

Quick Summary

To legally own an AK-pattern rifle in California, you must either configure it as 'featureless' by adding a grip fin and removing other banned features, or use a 'fixed magazine' system that limits capacity to 10 rounds. AK pistols are generally not viable due to the Handgun Roster and feature restrictions.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: AKs in California
  2. 00:50Sponsor: TacPak
  3. 02:00AKs in California: Rifles vs. Pistols
  4. 02:20Assault Weapon Ban: By Name vs. By Feature
  5. 03:06Current Production AKs & Banned Models
  6. 03:38Arsenal SLR Series Controversy
  7. 05:34Rifles: Fixed Magazine vs. Featureless
  8. 06:13CompMag Explained
  9. 08:43Fixed Magazine Benefits
  10. 09:28Featureless Configuration Explained
  11. 10:04Featureless vs. Fixed Mag for AKs
  12. 11:30AK Pistols in California
  13. 12:19California Handgun Roster & AK Pistols
  14. 13:25AK Shotguns (Saiga-12) in California
  15. 14:33Detachable Magazine Shotguns
  16. 15:34How to Get an AK into California
  17. 16:11FFL Middleman Service Example
  18. 17:39Other Middleman Services
  19. 18:11Online Sellers & Conversions
  20. 19:31Zastava ZPAP M70 Review Tease

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ways to legally own an AK-pattern rifle in California?

In California, you can legally own an AK-pattern rifle by configuring it as 'featureless' (e.g., with a grip fin) or by using a 'fixed magazine' system that limits capacity to 10 rounds. Both methods address the state's assault weapon ban by feature or name.

Are AK pistols legal to buy in California?

AK pistols are extremely difficult to acquire legally in California. They are not on the state's Handgun Roster, and cannot be configured featureless, requiring a fixed 10-round magazine, often leading to high prices on the secondary market.

What is a 'featureless' AK in California?

A 'featureless' AK in California is one that has been modified to remove or avoid 'evil' features that classify it as an assault weapon. This typically includes installing a grip fin to prevent wrapping the thumb around the pistol grip and avoiding features like telescoping stocks or flash hiders.

Can I buy an AK that is banned by name in California?

No, AKs specifically banned by name in California, such as certain Arsenal SLR or SGL models, cannot be legally acquired. It's crucial to check the state's banned firearms list before purchasing.

How can I get a non-compliant AK into California legally?

To legally get a non-compliant AK into California, you can use an FFL middleman service. These services will install compliant parts, like a fixed magazine or grip fin, before shipping the firearm to your local FFL for the legal transfer process.

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