Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

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Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I am a resident of the state of California and this is my AR-15 rifle. I acquired it legally in late 2006 – 6 years after the passing of California’s so-called “Assault Weapons Ban”. I built it myself with standard household tools even though I had no prior experience. It was easy to build, it looks and shoots great, and best of all, it is perfectly legal.

Here is how you can build your own.

Step 1: Buy an off-list lower receiver through a gun dealer.
Click here for details. Here is a list of "off-list receivers".
Here is a nice Google Map showing all the California gun stores that sell and stock off-list receivers

Step 2: Install a lower parts kit (trigger, hammer, safety, etc…).
Click here for details.

Step 3: Add a magazine lock, 10 round magazine, and a standard pistol grip or install a California legal grip.
Click here for details.

Step 4: Add a stock and you have a completed Lower Receiver Assembly.

Step 5: Add an Upper Receiver Assembly and your California-Legal AR-15 is ready to shoot!

Q) How is this legal?

A) The Assault Weapons Ban in California bans specific makes and models of rifles by name. If you did not own one of those rifles before the ban was passed in 2000 then you can not legally own one in California now. Since new rilfe manufacturers and models are created all the time, it was difficult for the California lawmakers to keep the list up to date. In order to handle this situation, they also banned any rifle that has specific characteristics that are common with the types of rifles they were intending to ban. These characteristics, commonly referred to as "evil features" consist of things such as pistol grips, flash-hiders, and collapsible or folding stocks. The primary feature they were concerned with was a removable magazine. If your rifle does not have a removable magazine then it can have any and all of the "evil features". If your rifle does have a removeable magazine, then it cannot have any evil features. A product such as the Bullet Button creates a fixed magazine rifle. The MonsterMan Grip does not meet the definition of a pistol grip. By building your rifle using one of these products or other similar ones, taking care to fully understand the law, you can configure a legal AR-15 rifle for use in the state of California.

Q) I have more questions, where can I get more information?

A) There is an online California gun-owners community with thousands of members that have built their own rifles and they are always ready to offer information and advice. If you want to build your own AR-15 I would suggest you join www.calguns.net. Below are some additional useful links:

Assault Weapon info on RifleGear.com
California compliance products for sale at RifleGear.com

California gun stores stocking off-list receivers
The Off List Lower "Cliffs Notes"
The Office of the Attorney General Assault Weapons Identification Guide

To improve the load time of this page, comments from before 2009 have been archived. You can find the archived comments here: http://blog.riflegear.com/articles/california-legal-ar-15-rifle-comment-archive.aspx

Print | posted on Thursday, August 23, 2007 6:34 PM |

Feedback

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Hey david, got a question about having a m16 bcg in a ar15. I know you CANT make a ar15 go FA without the m16 trigger group. Still semi, would that still make everything ok..assuming so. Thanks for any information

1/2/2009 11:05 AM | Andrew

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Steven,
Like I said before, a threaded barrel on a rifle in CA is fine - just make sure your barrel is 16" long.

Andrew,
A full-auto bolt carrier is fine in a semi-auto rifle - nothing illegal about that at all - it's just a little heavier than the semi version.

1/2/2009 11:19 AM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

david, i am 20, my mother has a stag lower in her name and i sent in the dros paperwork to put it into my name to the doj. my question is if they wont allow me to put it into my name because some people say that i am under 21 and cant have a lower in my name, what will happen.

1/2/2009 8:09 PM | kyle

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Kyle,

Is your mother in CA? If so then she can just give it to you as an intrafamilial transfer - you don't even need to do a DROS. If it's coming from out of state it would have to be DROSed and in that case you should be 21 for a stripped lower. It depends on if the FFL is following the rules or not. Could a stock be installed before shipping it in? In that case it is a long gun and not a stripped receiver.

1/3/2009 12:13 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

david, thank you and yes actually she does live in cali, i got the weapons claim form off the doj site and sent it in with the 19 dollars they charge. this is the form that i sent <http://ag.ca.gov/firearms/forms/pdf/volreg.pdf> and said i got it from my mother. my mom originally purchased it as a strippedlower and i am showing on the form that it in fact does have a 16 inch barrel and is a longgun. does this sound approvable by the doj? thank you david

1/3/2009 1:32 PM | kyle

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

are there any new laws coming up ???

1/4/2009 8:53 PM | steven

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I have been look on line for week now … NEED HELP!
what if I bought my lower in 1999? what are the restrictions on the assembly?
How can I configure my AR rifle?
Thanks.
-Al

1/6/2009 4:23 PM | al

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Al,

What kind of lower is it? If it is a listed assault weapon (Colt, Bushmaster, DPMS Panther, etc...) then I need to know if you registered it as an Assault Weapon back in 2000? If you did, then it is a registered assault weapon and you can build it up any way you like (with a few restrictions). If not, then there is NOTHING you can do to the lower to make it legal in California. Then again, if it is an "off-list" lower receiver (Stag Arms, CMMG, Noveske, Spikes Tactical, etc...) then you can make it legal by simply installing a magazine lock, such as a Bullet Button. There is a lot to understand before you enter into this realm. I advise you to do some research in the "Rifleman's Forum" of www.calguns.net or to contact someone that knows about CA-legal ARs. You can give me a call if you like - look for my contact information on our website at www.riflegear.com

1/7/2009 7:33 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

is a bushmaster izzy flash suppressor/compensator legal in california??

1/10/2009 2:26 PM | steven

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

also what is the difference between the magnesium phosphate finish, and the forged 7075 T6 finish??

1/10/2009 9:42 PM | steven

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

David,

A friend of mine has 5 preban magazines that he is giving me, they are all hi cap (20's and 30's). I have a fixed magazine configuration. Is there a way i can make them into 10 rounders to be legal? Maybe a set screw in order to go down so far? Let me know if there is a way i can do this at home!

Much thanks in advance!

1/10/2009 11:14 PM | Estevan A.

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Just a question which would be a bit off-topic.
I'm just a bit curious if it would it be legal in California to rebuild Desert Eagle pistol to rifle, thanks.
PS: I am European believing that there is no need to have a rifle, pistol is enough for both self defence and hunting.
For example: Desert Eagle pistol
> no need to use MP5s or Assault Rifles.... I do accept hunting rifles though.

1/13/2009 9:47 AM | Saharus

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

is a dpms a-15 lower legal. The law says "Panther(all)" not a-15??

1/15/2009 8:29 PM | steven

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Does anyone know if it's legal to build a ar15 pistol, from a new stripped lower. in Calif. of course.

1/17/2009 11:05 AM | tahoetwin

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

David, in your opinion which is the best lower, stag, yankee hill, or grizzly?? much thanks

1/18/2009 4:14 PM | steven

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

inforamative great souce info, thank you for all your great work.

1/19/2009 10:39 AM | john contreras

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

david, my friend, does teflon coating really make that big of a differnce, thank you andy

1/19/2009 11:23 PM | steven

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Steven,
I would avoid the DPMS lowers since the listing is vague referencing "(all)". Teflon finish is not really necessary - it looks nice but it may not match an upper as well that does not also have the teflon finish.

Tahoetwin,
You cannot build up an AR pistol from a stripped lower. You can however bring in a fully built AR pistol that is off-list and in a single-shot configuration. Single-shot pistols are exempt from the CA "safe handgun roster".

1/20/2009 12:07 AM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

so what is the purpose of the teflon, does it make a harder surface??

1/20/2009 3:40 PM | steven

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I just purchased an OLL from a local FFL, still in ten day waiting period. And during the conversation regarding the current and possible future legalities the subject of the bullet button came up. As well as being an FFL, he is also an SO, and a firearms instructor for the SO to boot. His take on the bullet button is that it is the same as the original prince 50 mag lock, meaning that while the "evil features" are attached to the weapon, that the mag can never legally be removed, because it has the ability to accecpt hi cap mags and therefore falls into the definition of an assault rifle. reloading must be done through the top of the rifle by removing the takedown pin. What are your thoughts on this?

1/22/2009 10:46 AM | Jeff

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Yes with the prince 50 you MUST reload from the top because it actually secures the mag to the lower which makes it a "real" fixed mag. There is i think some kind of pin or screw that locks the mag in place. The bullet button is in the same place as the actual mag release but you can't push it with your finger because its locked, you need a small tool or the tip of a bullet to take out the mag. Make you you only use ten round mags with the prince and bullet button or else its a felony.

Does anybody know of somebody that is selling an upper half? please email me if so Dan6414@aol.com

1/22/2009 12:34 PM | Dan

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

You can also click on this. Here you can read some good info from the Sacramento PD. I found it on this forum.

copy and paste onto your web browser.

http://www.hoffmang.com/firearms/Sacramento-PD-OLL_Training_Bulletin-2008-11-18.pdf

1/22/2009 12:38 PM | Dan

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Dan6414, go to www.dynamicarmament.com They have uppers in stock and have very good service. I purchased one a couple of months ago.

1/24/2009 6:20 PM | johnny p

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

while doing research on the bullet button, i have seen many poeple refer to the ability to remove the BB for either out of state travel or use with a .22 LR upper. From what my FFL told me, is that the law is based on what is stamped on the side of the lower. To clarify, even if you were to put a .22 LR upper on the lower, you would still have to use the BB because the lower is stamped with 5.56 as the caliber, which is center fire. Any clarification for me?

1/24/2009 10:45 PM | Jeff

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Ya Johnny i have looked at Dynamic and have bought from them in the past, but the current demand of the black gun has boosted his price to what i think is an extreme offer.

Jeff your correct, no matter what if its a 5.56 or a .22 it goes by the make and model of the lower. If your looking at a specific lower, check out the ca ban list to clarify if its listed. If you don't want the "evil" features then you don't have to use the BB. If you want the "evil" feature then yes you need the BB.

1/25/2009 12:49 PM | Dan

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

how much should it cost to build my own ar-15 in Ca. and what is the cheapest way?

1/25/2009 9:49 PM | daniel

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Depends if your in a hurry to build one and want one now.

1/25/2009 10:06 PM | Dan

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

whats the cheapest way and waiting is nothing

1/26/2009 1:24 AM | daniel

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Haha where are you looking? Cheapest way would be to buy the cheap stuff and to wait until all the factories catch up with orders.

1/26/2009 1:32 AM | Dan

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

whos got lowers for sale.where and whos the cheapest

1/28/2009 11:14 AM | joe

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

OK, This forum is awesome!

Now for my stab at a question. If I use a OLL lower with BB with 10 round mag, using a Colt, or DPMS upper is still a legal AR?

Helps in the decision making process.

1/28/2009 11:40 AM | rob

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Joe,
We have a handful of lowers in stock at www.riflegear.com and are supposed to get a shipment of more early February.

Rob,
It does not matter the make of the upper - it is what is marked on the side of the lower that determines if it is on the ban list.

1/28/2009 6:01 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

any 308 lowers coming in.
thanks for this website and all the help its been great

1/29/2009 10:05 AM | joe

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I am just wondering how everyone reloads there magazine at the range. do you just use the take down pin and top load or use the bullet button tool and release the magazine and load a fresh magazine.

2/10/2009 10:41 AM | Blake

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I use the bullet button myself.

2/10/2009 11:40 AM | Dan

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

do you think that releasing the magazine could cause you to get in trouble by some sort of law enforcement if there at the range.

2/10/2009 12:33 PM | Blake

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

David, i have a question, can you pin a flash hider on a threaded barrel??? thanks andy BLAKE, read 51 threads above this one that will answer your question.

2/11/2009 8:29 PM | steven

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

i have a few questions. I live in cal. and want to either make or buy a gun like you have. how much would you say it would cost me to build it cheep but with good parts without all the accessories just like 16" barrel and a collapsible stock.

2/11/2009 10:24 PM | chad

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

i bought a rra car A4 tactical after i moved out of california and i want to move back at some point. as i understand the LAR-15 lower is off-list, but i'm concerned it is part of the kasler list under "car a4 flattop". i've read a couple arguments about this point on forums and nothing seems definitive. where do i go to find out if i need to get a new upper to take it there?

http://www.rockriverarms.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=category.display&category_id=218&CFID=22827096&CFTOKEN=71016529

2/17/2009 8:38 PM | med

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

med,
That would be outside my comfort zone. At minimum I would replace the upper with a non-RRA upper. Even though the LAR-15 is not on the list a prosecutor could argue that a complete RRA rifle that was sold as the Car A4 is "on the list" even though the roll mark says "LAR-15". It may actually be cheaper to replace the lower, however, with one that is completely off the list.

Blake,
If you use a tool to remove the magazine (aka Bullet Button) you are following the law. That is the whole point of the Bullet Button devices.

Steven,
No, I am not set up to pin flash-hiders.

2/18/2009 8:47 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Is it possible to make a CA legal AR-15 in a 5.45x39?

2/23/2009 12:25 AM | Dave M

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

David,

Following up on Med's question...

I just purchased a RRA stripped LAR-15 lower. I have been looking at purchasing the RRA A-4 upper. Is the feeling that this could be construed by a zealous prosecutor as a complete 'listed' (therefore illigal) Rock River rifle?

Thanks.

-Mike

2/28/2009 11:18 AM | Mike

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Mike,

I think so. Personally, I would put something other than a RRA upper on an LAR-15 lower.

2/28/2009 6:47 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

First off let me start by just thanking everybody for their great advice on this post because I was feeling a little lost when I first started researching the CA Legal AR but now I feel like I like I have good understanding of the law and I haven't even posted on here ounce. I've been doing as much research as possible because I decided on building my first AR 15/M4 type rifle but I'm still unsure about were to start so my question to you guys is what brand OLL should I buy to get started on my very first build? I here Kaiser Defense is one of the better ones but any advice would be greatly appriciated and thanks again.

3/1/2009 12:18 PM | Ben

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

With a collapsed buttstock, what length barrel do you need to meet the 30" law?

3/2/2009 10:28 AM | Ken

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Does the bullet button fit the Sig 556 rifle?

Thanks.

3/5/2009 12:06 AM | JAMES

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

ARE THERE ANY GUN SHOPS IN CA THAT SELL A COMPLETED AR15 WITH THE BULLET BUTTON ALREADY INSTALLED. DON'T REALLY WANT TO BUILD MY OWN AR, AND WOULD JUST LIKE TO GO TO A GUN SHOP AND BUY ONE. IF SO, DOES ANYONE KNOW OF ANY GUN SHOPS THAT HAVE SOME IN STOCK NOW.

3/8/2009 5:08 PM | Dan

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Check out Cold War Shooters.

3/8/2009 5:54 PM | Dan

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Check out Triple A sporting goods.. in Vallejo, CA

3/9/2009 4:46 PM | RA

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Ken - the barrel must be 16" or greater in length.

And I want to give a kudos to Dave, who has doggedly replied to every question that has been asked of him... with quite a few repeats for the people who didn't want to bother reading through posts to see if their question had previously been answered... once.. twice.. or three times. Great job! Keep up the good work sir!

3/11/2009 4:20 AM | Patrick

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Can I send a ar15 upper with 16in m-4 barrel and removeable flash hider to California legally ?

3/11/2009 6:39 PM | john

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

John, I think so because they are just a "part". I had my upper sent from Florida with no problems and it has a flash hider.

3/12/2009 10:20 AM | Dan

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

you guys seem pretty knowledgeable on here. here's my situation. i have an American Spirit Arms(ASA) rifle out of state. i'm not sure what its exact model nomenclature is. i know on the CA website it has the "ASA Model" as being banned which seems rather generic to me. I'm trying to figure out if its all-inclusive or what, because the link at the top of the article for "off-list" receivers has the ASA-10 as being "off-list". if i had to wager a guess as to what mine is, i think its an ASA M-4. so if i can't get proof its legal, i'm just going to buy a bare off-list receiver and put all my parts into it. if i go out of state and buy one of these, i can bring it in without registering it and having the CA backgorund check/waiting period/illegal registration, correct? i don't see why it would be considered anything other than a regular long gun as it is not banned. any opinions or help in this matter is greatly appreciated. keep up the good work.

3/16/2009 10:23 AM | jeff

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Is it legal to bring an OLL receiver from out of state into California without registering it?

Thanks

3/16/2009 6:14 PM | JAMES

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

i think it is, james, that's my question too. i dont see how it would differ from any long gun as long as it doesn't have any illegal features until you put the bullet button and magazine on it

3/16/2009 7:58 PM | jeff

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Jeff/James,

If you are a CA resident you cannot buy a gun out of state and bring it into California without using an in-state FFL to DROS the rifle - that would be illegal. DROSing a long gun is not "registration" - it is a background check only. If you are a resident of another state that is moving into Calfornia then you can bring in your guns, assuming they are in a legal configuration and not on the AW ban list. Handguns brought into the state by new residents are supposed to be "reported" to the state, along with a $19 fee. Long guns do not have to be declared at all, to the best of my knowledge, just make sure you KNOW they are legal. I recommend using the OLL flow-chart and check the EXACT make/model that is found on your rifle's receiver.

3/16/2009 8:15 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Thanks for the reply David. I'm prior service military, and bought all my long guns when I was stationed in KY using my military ID card. I was under the impression that I could go to AZ and buy a receiver. I thought that you can buy long guns, but not handguns, without being a resident of the said state, ie. AZ. Wouldn't I be able to go to a gun show in say Phoenix and purchase a lower? Or is it then the act of bringing it back to CA that is illegal? If you could give me some references as to the laws concerning that it would be great. As far as the "registering" of the weapon by the DROS, I was being cynical, however, if you believe records of what make/model of firearms you are purchasing aren't being kept, you have far more faith in the system then I do. I guess my other long guns I brought back with me would be considered illegal since I didn't have them DROSed when I came back to CA? I did have my 2 pistols reported though and paid the fees, so I guess I'm ok there. They didn't question that as far as the background check was concerned. Anyway, all this is confusing. Thank you again for the reply, and all the great info you have here. I stumbled across the site the other day when an old friend of mine told me about the bullet button and buying an AR in Kalifornia, and I was presently suprised to learn I could shoot one here, thanks to the info you provided. I had all but given up on it, and only got to shoot mine when I would take trips to the desert. Much appreciated...

3/16/2009 9:44 PM | jeff

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Jeff,

When we DROS a longgun only the type "longgun" and the qty are transmitted to the DOJ so that is ALL the information they receive. Handgun DROS includes make, model, and serial number. The FFL keeps the details on the longgun on file, however no details about the type of long gun are ever transmitted to the California DOJ.

Federal Law -- 18 USC 922 (a)(3) and (a)(5) -- generally requires ALL transfers to unlicensed person to take place at a FFL in the state where the buyer/transferee lives. That is, an unlicensed California resident may receive an interstate transfer only at a California FFL.

California law -- PC 12070 -- requires that transfers to unlicensed persons go through a California-licensed FFL (licensed according to California PC 12071). There are some exceptions, but they do not apply here.

California requires you to ship the out of state purchased item through a California FFL. Of course it has to be as restrictive as possible in this state - the California section of the ATF state firearms book is 68 pages long, the next most complicated state is NY but theirs is only 28 pages by comparison!

3/16/2009 10:23 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Wow, you know your stuff. Thank you for clearing up some of the misconceptions I had. Also, it appears my already owned lower is legal as it is not on list. So there are no restrictions on me bringing it here in a legal configuration(evil features removed or bullet button and mag installed)? I hope that is my last question for you, haha. Thanks a million.

3/16/2009 11:08 PM | jeff

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Yes, put a Bullet Button and a 10-round magazine on it. Just make sure it does not say "USA Model" on the receiver otherwise it would be best to get a new lower that is completely off-list.

3/17/2009 9:08 AM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Right, thanks again. I still need to see my receiver first, but I'm 90 percent sure it doesn't say USA Model.

3/17/2009 10:56 AM | jeff

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Dave, just want to thank you for a great site. I don't know of any other page that combines a great product selection with all this knowledge. You are amazingly patient in answering the same questions over and over. I had no knowledge of the off-list solution until a friend tipped me off, and I didn't initially believe him. This blog, along with Calguns.net (which every CA gun-owner ought to join or at least lurk in) has totally eased my mind and I am now confidently building my first AR. Judging by the massive backorders of all things AR-related, these things will be as commonplace as 10/22's in no time. Then we won't have to worry about harassment from the minority of range masters and LEO's who don't bother to read up on the law. Thanks again!

3/21/2009 4:55 AM | Reid

# re: Building a California-legal AR-10 gun

I am wanting to build/assemble a AR-10 based style gun (.308 cal), do the same rules as the AR-15 base style guns apply. I can find stripped and assembled lowers and the same for the uppers and if I keep a 10 rd mag. and a California legal mag button can I do it. I have assembled a parts gun (AR-15) already. I have been reading up on the .308 AR-10, alot of uppers and lowers are not interchangable and the same with the mags. I am wanting to use Noveske or Aero Percision parts and maybe an Eagle Arms Upper. any advise will be helpful

3/21/2009 3:42 PM | John

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Building an AR-10 style rifle is just like building an AR-15, except everything cost 2-3X as much. Bullet Buttons and Raddlocks work fine in the .308 AR lowers. You are right, there is not as much compatibility between mfgs in the .308 AR world. If you want an Armalite upper then go with a Noveske N6 or Aero Precision lower. If you want a DPMS style upper, go with POF, Fulton, or CMMG lowers. CMMG also has an AR10 compatible lower coming out at some point.

3/21/2009 5:05 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Dave, thanks for all of your information, I have owned a Colt AR-15 SP1 " car" for years and it is registered in California I have assembled a Kaiser Defense Lower, an AR-15 style parts gun, like I mentioned in a earlier comment ( AR-10). I want to know where the line is drawn in the sand. sense I have 2-40 round, 10-30 round and 1-20 round and 1-10 round clips for my Colt all purchased in the early '90s. If I install a Monster Grip and with my bull barrel Upper (no flash protector) do I still need the Bullet button to drop the magizines and can I use my old high capacity mags in my newly assembled parts gun? I have been reading about the Monster Grip, some comments; some say, it is not in writting that is it approved by D.O.J. in California it is up to the D.A. if there is a problem, all interputation of the law. Others say with the monster Grip you do not need the bullet button and can use high cap. mags, but still can not have the flash guard.(those dare evil features) Can you please help clear this up, to keep the un-informed out of the joint, because I love my guns and my freedom.

3/22/2009 12:00 PM | John

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Hi
Somewhere I read that in order for an AR-15 to be legal here in California, there cannot be the words "something America" labeled, engraved or marked on the Lower Receiver. Is that true? What do they mean by this? Can you tell me more about this?

3/22/2009 2:06 PM | FMTFXE

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I have no idea what you are talking about. The best way to know if your rifle is legal is to follow the flowchart

http://www.calguns.net/caawid/flowchart.pdf

3/22/2009 10:44 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

John,

If you want to use your normal-capacity magazines I highly recommend going with the MonsterMan grip, a fixed stock, and no flash-hider. That is a "featureless build" and you can press the magazine release and drop your magazines as the rifle was designed. The DOJ is not going to go out of their way to encourage us to build these rifles - the legislators and law-enforcement brass are downright hostile to our 2nd-amendment rights in this state. But just know that it is legal and there are more and more of these legally configured AR style rifles being built and otherwise legally brought into this state every day. They are very common these days and arrest, while still a possibility, is very rare these days. Go to an outdoor range and count how many AR style rifles you see.

3/22/2009 10:52 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

HAS THERE BEEN A "BULLET BUTTON" TYPE BUTTON/DEVICE DEVELOPED THAT CAN BE DISENGAGED (BUT KEPT IN PLACE), SO THAT THE MAGAZINE RELEASE BUTTON CAN FUNCTION AS A "NORMAL" MAGAZINE RELEASE BUTTON?

I LIKE THE "BULLET BUTTON", OVER THE "PRINCE 50" AND WOULD LIKE TO KEEP MY AR IN THAT CONFIGURATION. WHEN OUTSIDE OF CA (OR IN CASE OF EMERGENCY WHERE CA LAW WOULD BE OUT THE WINDOW), I'D LIKE MY AR TO FUCTION AS ANY NORMAL AR, WITHOUT HAVING TO REMOVE THE BULLET BUTTON. IT WOULD BE NICE TO BE ABLE TO IMMEDIATELY DISENGAGE THE BULLET BUTTON (BY USE OF A TOOL, SIMILAR TO DISENGAGING THE SCREW IN THE PRINCE 50 DESIGN) AND CONVERT TO USING THE MAG RELEASE BUTTON AS NORMAL. I DID SEE A DEVICE CALLED "BULLET BUTTON WRENCH" ON A WEB SITE, BUT THERE WAS VERY LITTLE INFO ON IT. I'M NOT SURE HOW IT FUNCTIONS AND IF ITS WHAT I WOULD NEED.

3/23/2009 12:44 AM | DAN

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I have 2 questions regarding a CA legal AR-15. I have read the entire thread and have not seen them answered yet, and was wondering if you can help me. I purchased my off list lower last week, and now I am looking for the rest of the parts (which are damn scarce) to complete it.
1) If I buy an upper with a 16" barrel is it reasonable to assume that any readily available collapsible stock will make the rifle longer than 30"?
2) I am assuming the advantage of a 20" barrel is that it is more accurate than a 16" barrel. What I am wondering is, at which distance will the differenced be seen? For example, do they have reletively the same accuracy up to 500 meters? I would like a 16" barrel, but I don't want to sacrifice accuracy at 500 m or less.

I am thoroughly impressed at how well you have answered all the questions on your post, and because of that I look forward to purchasing from riflegear.com in the future. Thanks.

3/23/2009 3:34 PM | JasonC

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

David, I called the DOJ to ask them a question about the SIG P250 blah blah blah. I then asked the lady if she has heard of the bullet button, of course she has. I asked her about it and she said, some people are getting prosecuted and some are not. She told me that the DOJ is no longer handling cases on the Bullet Button and that they are leaving to your local county DA whether they want to continue with the charges or not. She asked what county i was in and i told her Ventura. She did not know if they were or not. Then she brought up the Detective of the Sacramento Police Department who wrote that Training Bulletin on the Bullet Button and said to print that out and carry it with you whenever you take out your AR that has the bullet button. Very nice lady to talk.

I love my M4 style Stag :-P

Jason C.
My AR has the 16inch barrel and i can hit a metal target at 500 yards with no problems, and that was the first time i took it out. Iron sights. I don't know much one the lengths of barrels, but i think that is pretty good for a rookie shooter to hit something at 500 yards with just iron sights.

3/23/2009 4:47 PM | Dan

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Dan,
Check out the Raddlock AR - it is exactly what you are looking for: (copy and paste link)
http://riflegear.com/p-470-raddlock-ar-series-magazine-lock-wtwo-position-operation.aspx

Jason,
1) Yes, with 16" upper ANY standard collapsible stock will still meet the 30" overall length requirement when collapsed.
2) 20" upper is not more accurate, but you get more muzzle velocity so in effect you need less hold-over at longer distances - it's a fairly negligible amount, about 100 fps.

Dan,
Yes, the FUD is still out there but fixed-magazine ARs are getting more and more common, therefore you have less and less chance of getting hassled as long as you KNOW why it is legal and keep it in a legal configuration.

3/23/2009 9:15 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Ya, I completed mine in January and had a good ol time looking for the parts, and they were surely marked up in price of course. Its the main gun i have always wanted, and now i have it! Stag lower with the Magpul MOE collapsible stock and Bushmaster upper. I have three 10/20 round mags and two 10/30 round magpul PMAG that have the little window with dummy rounds in there so it looks fully loaded.

3/23/2009 9:23 PM | Dan

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

OMG what a great article!!! I’m so glad I found you guys.. I’ve been doing tons of research for the past few months and finally decided to build my own! (thanks guys).. I have set a side 2k for my build and I’m the kind of guy who will post up a step-by-step of the build if that OK?? I’m new here to the forum so I’m sorry for the dumb question right of the bat.. (my bad)..

My second question is this; I live in HB (Huntington Beach, CA) does anyone know where I take my AR (once it completed) and actually shoot it??

Thank you all for your time and I’m really looking forward to joining the team of So-Cal AR owners.. YOU GUYS ROCK!!!

P.S.
I’m heading to the orange county gun show this weekend in search of all the required parts, wish me luck.. for those who are interested in attending here is the link.. http://www.crossroadsgunshows.com/showVenues.htm#orange

Thanks again for your time guys it’s been a pleasure!..

3/28/2009 12:34 AM | Shaun

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Does anyone have any experience / recomendations with Kaiser Defense lowers out of San Diego? The ones I saw are all black Al with bullet button already installed. They are being sold after at several San Diego area stores. SDPD bases their rifles around them. Supposedly mil spec.; seem pretty good.

3/28/2009 6:56 PM | Bill

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Shaun,
Thanks for the post - you should come by our shop in Costa Mesa - we are open Mon-Sat 10-6

Bill,
Kaiser Defense lowers are good-to-go! We have lots of these in stock right now and I even built up one for personal use myself lately.

3/28/2009 7:06 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I really think that in your opening list with images, you should not just say

"Step 5: Add an Upper Receiver Assembly and your California-Legal AR-15 is ready to shoot! "

you should say

"Step 5: Add a minimum 16" Upper Receiver Assembly and your California-Legal AR-15 is ready to shoot! "

just saying "Add an Upper Receiver Assembly....." implies an 11'', or 14'' are acceptable, and in CA, they are not. So, I would be more specific and note there is a minimum size barrel that makes it legal in CA.

3/30/2009 4:13 PM | LockNLoad

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Dear locknload, when he says add an upper assembly, do some actual research and find that ALL states must follow the federal limit which is 16", NOT JUST CALIFORNIA, thereof subcategorizing into the california specifications as to a california legal ar-15.

3/31/2009 12:56 AM | andy

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Andy, this forum is pretty much for people in California!!

3/31/2009 12:32 PM | Dan

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

come on Andy. the title of this page and this entire article is "BUILDING A CALIFORNIA-LEGAL AR-15 RIFLE" - so it seems a very worthy & simple step, since you can buy an 11" or 14" or 14.5" upper receiver assembly, to note the California requirement regardless of the law anywhere else. No one, no one, will read this entire thread as it is massive... so just noting that you must buy one 16" for CA is an easy simple smart addition.

3/31/2009 10:55 PM | LockNLoad

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

in andys defense, i read the whole post. takes about 20 minutes. it has tons of great info in it. learned a lot. also, the fed requirement is 16", i believe the only way you can go shorter is with a permit of some sort.

4/3/2009 12:27 AM | jeff

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

does anyone know how the bullet realse will work with the 9mm conversion?

4/6/2009 6:09 PM | Gene

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Gene,

The Bullet Button style magazine locks work fine with 9mm conversions. Basically the magazine catch goes into a hole in the block that then goes into a hole in the side of the 9mm magazine so it works the same as for a 5.56mm magazine.

4/6/2009 6:56 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

David, great job. What a service you are providing to people by answering all these questions. I read this entire page, and am damn glad I did. I will be visiting you on line. Keep up the good work.

4/8/2009 10:50 PM | Justin

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Hi guys, this is the finest collection of CA legal AR info I have found. Thank you so much for spending the time on this Rifle Gear! I will definately be a customer when I need parts for my AR's.

Heres my question, I am going to be moving to CA (San Diego Area) later this summer. I own 2 Colt AR 15's (both 6920's). Will I be able to convert them to comply with CA's strange, confusing and rules by installing a bullet mag release button and using only 10 round mags?

I also own an LMT 10.5" AR. It is a registered SBR with the ATF. Would this be legal to convert and own in CA since I already have it registered?

I almost feel like I need a lawyer to figure all this stuff out!

4/10/2009 12:12 AM | Colt Owner

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Hi David, I was wondering when you will be getting another shipment of Complete CMMG 16" Carbine Specter Uppers? If I placed one on back order, how long do you think it will take?

Thanks

4/13/2009 7:51 PM | AR-Ken

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Hi david im military and will be flying into cali with a unlisted AW and it has every evil part. when i check it into the airlines would i be ok if i just remove the magizine release completly so that way it will not except a mag.

4/14/2009 3:58 PM | greg

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Greg, I need more information. Are you just passing through or are you going to be staying here for awhile? I would probably separate the upper from the lower before packing it for transport. If you plan on going shooting with the rifle I would probably just order a Bullet Button and install it prior to flying in. It is very easy to install and you can reverse it when you go back to free America.

4/14/2009 8:28 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Im stationed there now im just in school (TDY) and if i order the bullet button i wont see it till after im back in cali. If i shoot on post i can use the detachable mag

4/15/2009 1:24 PM | greg

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

David, where in SoCal can I take a barrel to be converted from carbine to a mid-length and have the flash hider pinned and welded?(Near Ontario,CA)

4/21/2009 10:49 AM | Jesse

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

David, one more question my friend, where can i just buy a 16 m4 carbine barrel?

4/22/2009 12:58 AM | andy

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Jesse,
Not sure but you may want to contact Randall (ar15barrels.com) - he is in LA area and may be able to do that for you.

Andy,
Good question. Now is not a good time to be shopping for an m4 carbine barrel. I'd crank up the google and shop around. You may be able to find something in stock.

4/22/2009 8:09 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

David,tried to get a hold of Randall(AR-15 Barrels.com) with no luck,By any chance do you know if he's still around or a better way I can get a hold of him other than e-mail?

4/24/2009 9:52 AM | Jesse

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

David, i have a 14.5 inch barrel. I want no trouble with the law so i am going to permanently attach a 1.5 inch flash hider. The thing is i dont like the way the izzy or some of the way the phantoms look. is there any regular looking a2 flash hider thats 1.5 inches long. thanks andy

4/24/2009 2:55 PM | Andy

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Jesse,
Join calguns.net forum and send him a private message - that may do the trick as he is on that site every day.

Andy,
What about the flat-end YHM comp 5C1 - it looks (somewhat) similar to an A2 birdcage. We have these in stock at the moment: http://riflegear.com/p-449-yankee-hill-phantom-5c1-compflash-suppressor-223556mm-flat-end.aspx

4/24/2009 7:36 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

JUST SO EVERYONE KNOWS, I FOUND ONE. SABRE DEFENSE MAKES AN A2 FLASH HIDER THAT IS LONGATED A LITTLE BIT TO MEET THE 16 LEGAL MINIMUM. IT LOOKS EXACTLY THE SAMME AS AN A2 BUT A LITTLE LONGER. I LOVE IT!! HERE IS THE LINK
http://www.talonarms.com/talonarms/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=218&products_id=258&zenid=67afce253328fc52b33840b0a151439f

4/24/2009 11:03 PM | ANDY

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Can anyone tell me an actual cost of this project?

4/28/2009 9:17 AM | James

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

James.. Before the big demand for these guns they were about 900-1300 bucks depending on the accessories you might want. The price does go up much more if you continue adding crazy things. I paid about 1400 bucks for just a standard AR-15 with the 16inch barrel and collapsible stock. Nothing special on the gun what so ever.

4/28/2009 11:01 AM | Dan

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Really appreciate all the information regarding building a california-legal AR-15 rifle. I just need to know, who much did the whole rifle cost you, with all the accessories on it.

5/3/2009 1:30 AM | glenn

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I'm building one and its costing me about $1300. Its just a M4 style AR15 with a removable carry handle. It can be done for less but it will take longer.

5/3/2009 7:37 AM | Segev

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Hey Segev, thanks for the information. Do you recommend any brand for lower and upper receiver that is not too expensive?

5/3/2009 9:58 PM | glenn

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I have a Stag lower with Stag lower receiver parts kit, Bushmaster upper half and a Magpul collapsible stock.

5/3/2009 11:57 PM | Dan

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I am currently living in Texas and own a Colt LE6920. I noticed the Colt "off list" receiver is "carbine". Does this mean that if I moved to California, as long as my AR has a 10 round fixed mag, it is legal.

5/4/2009 8:30 AM | Danny

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Gentleman, just for clarification, if the brand is listed in the off-list then it is legal to purchase? Am I correct?

Dan, the Stag Lower receiver and parts kit and the Bushmaster upper half with the Magpul collapsible stock, are they reasonable price?

5/4/2009 9:44 AM | glenn

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Dave,
The one and most important question is where is "THE CA LIST" of illegal receivers? The only one I could find was on the CA DOJ website and it had not been updated since 2001 ( the 3re addition dated Nov 01)? I have heard new list with band lower recievers come out all the time and you have to watch them.

http://ag.ca.gov/firearms/forms/pdf/awguide.pdf

5/4/2009 11:26 AM | Jeff

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Glenn, I put my rifle together pretty much in January. I'm not sure how hard it is now to get the parts, but when i was building my AR, the parts were very difficult to find which means higher demand=higher prices.

Lower $250
Parts kit $120
Stock (with all parts; buffer, spring ect.) area of $100
Upper half what the hard one to find especially finding a person to send it out to Cali... $900

Ya, i know. I paid way to much for almost everything, but i wanted the gun.

Jeff, this is the link i have for the AW ban list.

http://ag.ca.gov/firearms/regs/chapter40.pdf

5/4/2009 5:51 PM | Dan

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Dan you are right about the prices, but since we all like to have the same toy, then we have to sacrifice for it.
I am so glad I found this website and you guys are very helpful and knowledgeable. Thank you Dan, Jeff, Dave and everybody.

5/4/2009 11:56 PM | glenn

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

This AR-15 will be my first build. I purchased a Charles Daily stripped lower for a 5.56 NATO. Will it make considerable difference if I use a different upper and barrel? Is there a difference with the different barrel lengths? Lastly, I want something like the Tactical Solutions muzzel compensator, but is that a legal alteration/addition?

5/12/2009 9:42 PM | Michael M

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

OMG - Finding and upper has been crazy. Which is better; a complete upper (2-4 month wait) or build by pieces? Is this true that there may be an overal Federal Ban on these weapons? I'm sorry, but I had to cancel my Comcast when the budget crisis kicked in and I haven't restored it yet. So, yes, I'm a lot behind on the news.

5/12/2009 11:17 PM | Michael M

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Ok, I did my best to go through every single post. I believe that most all questions are answered more than 3 times. I'm still looking for a good buttstock and upper.

I've read about the proposed H.R. 6257 weapons ban and very much hope that congress will never buy off on it. I'm not the smartest person when it comes to politics, but restricting the countryman from his own means of protection and leaving defense up to a small arms force (local law enforcement) does nothing for the morale, welfare, and feeling of personal security of each. Also, by such a ban, I fail to see an overall achievement to stopping crime, reduction in crime, nor critical hinderence on weapons flow between U.S. and foreign soils. Criminals do as criminals can!

Can someone, at least, please help me understand the difference between the 'flash suppressor' and 'flash hider'? Through all the posts, I did not gather the difference between the two and really want to purchase the, "Tactical Solutions muzzel compensator" that I believe is available on Riflegear.com.

5/15/2009 8:32 PM | Michael M

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

david, what are the restrictions on ar-15 pistols. they can only be single shot??

5/20/2009 3:21 AM | andy

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I'm just going to top load my AR15 just to be safe rather than buy a device that requires a tool to remove the magazine so I don't run into any legal issues.

5/23/2009 10:39 AM | H.J

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

You need to buy the device that requires a tool to release the mag if you want to top load it and be safe. That's the entire point of the bullet button. IF YOU DO NOT INSTALL THE BULLET BUTTON ON YOUR AR, YOU WILL RUN INTO TROUBLE!!!!

5/23/2009 6:17 PM | Dan

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Top loading is so troublesome, but if you don't mind it more power to you.

5/27/2009 8:29 PM | Michael M

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Hi, I'm in the process of building my first ar and I am leaning toward territorial gunsmith for the lower. Can you tell me how are these lower receiver?

5/29/2009 7:01 AM | Jan

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Great page! I have a issue with the banned list you reference. The site from the DOJ:

http://www.ag.ca.gov/firearms/infobuls/kaslist.pdf

doesn't list the rock river LAR-15 as banned.
In fact, cold war shooters sells a california legal LAR-15. Do you know the reliability of this link? Any thoughts? Thanks for your thoughts.
M

5/30/2009 12:37 AM | M

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I think it's the rock river owner that is brothers with the stag arms owner. Stag Arms are i think the best, so i'm guessing rock river are the same.

5/30/2009 1:07 AM | Dan

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Jan, the Territorial Gunsmiths are great lowers. The fit and finish is about the best, plus they come with an enhanced trigger guard and a trigger travel adjustment screw.

M, Yeah, the Rock River ARs are a bit of a "gray area". They listed models as they appear in their catalog, not by what is marked on the receiver. Most people think it is safest to add a non-RRA upper to the LAR-15 RRA lower as that would be easily defensible should the need ever arise.

5/30/2009 8:33 AM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Question to all,

If all Bushmaster rifles are on the assault weapon banned list then how can Kalifornia gun dealers sell the fixed 10rd AR 15 bushmaster rifle?

Thanks

5/30/2009 11:42 PM | james

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Why do people ask for most common sense question on here before reading the forum? It says it right in the penal code.

5/31/2009 8:27 PM | Dan

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

James,

It's because not all Bushmaster rifles are on the list. The exact make/model of the rifile has to be on the list for it to be considered banned. Look at the flowchart and the appendix that lists the AR style rifles.

6/1/2009 10:39 AM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

HEY DAN,
The nature of these forums and blogs is to clarify questions and confusion that typical citizens have. Not everyone can be penal code omnipotents' such as yourself. If you are too superior to be bothered with us asinine people and our questions, STOP READING, jackass.

6/2/2009 3:31 PM | M

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Well Dan does make a great point seeing the fact that every question possible has been asked at least 2-3 times. Maybe if some readers would actually read the forum, they wouldn't even need to ask a question and get a smart ass remark.

6/2/2009 11:28 PM | Jeff

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Make and Model? The list states DPMS as the make and Panther (all) as the model what gives? Panther is not a model.
Havent heard of any dealers selling any DPMS lowers. Just bringing it up cause I was interested in a DPMS LR-308.

6/3/2009 7:20 PM | james

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

James,

I would stay away from a DPMS lower as they all say "Panther" on the side and they tried to cut corners by listing it as "(all)". I wouldn't want to have to fight that one in court. I would just buy the upper and get a non-listed lower. We have CMMG 308 billet lowers in stock that are compatible with DPMS uppers.

6/3/2009 9:29 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Hello, First off, thanks for your time, Heres my situation, I would like to know, when using the bullet button systems, yes my rifles have the features and bullet buttons with the funnel feature that allows me an easier entry with my tool to drop the magazine, Heres my question, During line breaks I have the SAFETY BLOCKS that I usually use with my registered PREBAN,
but can I use these blocks with my post bans (bullet button) set up , this means during line break, I drop my magazine with the tool and inset the SAFETY BLOCK during the line break, point being that there is no magazine in the well fpr this period of time, am I in anyway breaking the law by not having the magazine in the well for a period of time, and
how does this apply to transport of my weapon?

Can I transport my post bans (bullet botton rifles) with a SAFETY BLOCK or should transport with the magazine still in the well?

thanks for your time

6/7/2009 9:13 AM | Carlos

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Hi, my friend in Georgia has a Stag AR15 with 30 round clips. I have read this entire page, so i think i have a pretty good idea of what i need to do to make this Ca lega.

Basically, i have to have the gun shipped to a Cali dealer FFL and do a DROS.

Then, i have to install the bullet button on my lower receiver so that i must use a tool to drop the magazines. and then on top of this, i can never load more than 10 rounds in my magazines?

I also gotta install a parts kit?

ALso, is it possible to purchase a CA legal lower receiver assembly, and just swap it out with the illegal receiver when i want to take my gun outside to the range?

Thanks in advance.

6/14/2009 9:07 PM | Stagar15

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Does your friend have a complete rifle, or just a stripped lower? If it is a complete Stag 15 rifle then he can sell it to you and you transfer it into a dealer and then DROS it in your name. Just have him separate the upper from the lower and then you can install the Bullet Button. Or, you could just send the Bullet Button to him and have him install it prior to shipping. If it is a complete rifle then the parts kit is already installed. If it is just a stripped lower, you may as well just buy one here. We have off-list lower receivers in stock as do a lot of other CA dealers.

I don't really understand what you are asking about "swapping out an illegal receiver" when you want to take it to the range. If you own an illegal receiver it is illegal to posess whether it is at the range or in your home. The Stag Arms stag-15 receiver is NOT illegal in California, it is "off list".

6/15/2009 2:41 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

David,

Do you know a FFL Dealer in the San Francisco Bay Area that would accept a CA legal AR from out of state? I tried contacting a local FFL dealer and they said they would not accept any type of AR type rifle even if it had a bullet button installed.

Thanks.

6/17/2009 6:41 PM | Park

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I'm a reserve component soldier from CA currently deployed to Iraq, figured I'd use the long wait until i get home and went ahead and ordered myself a stag upper (considering the 6 month backlog), planning to build my own lower when I get home next Feb - however, I'm concerned that:
a) the laws will change to elliminate the bullet button loophole before i get home, or
b) i will have a chance to complete my weapon upon my return, only to have the laws change after i've already made the investment.

the former option i have no power over however, what would happen to the legal status of weapons built under current laws and loopholes should the laws change in the future. in other words, would a weapon with a bullet button become illegal if the laws changed? and if so, what would our options be?

btw david thanks for your polite, professional, and expert advice.

6/21/2009 6:53 AM | Placebo

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Response to M from 5/30/09

I have an FNAR that I purchased through Cold War Shooters (CWS) at the Costa Mesa Gun Show, I have been to their shop in Highland, Ca. a few times purchasing various items. They are a legit business, with very decent prices for California. You could purchase through Rock River, Stagg, or Panther but by the time you pay for shipping and FFL transfer, it is almost the same price as CWS. If you are closer to the San Fernando Valley I would ask you to contact IAC (Independant Armament Co.), I have my AR lower in 5.56 (around $300) through them and they are custom making my upper with a 16" M249 Barrel and 12" rails.

6/24/2009 8:33 AM | Scott

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Has anybody tried the AK 47 bullet button?

6/27/2009 3:02 PM | james

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

DAVID,
if the laws were to change, then you would most likely be grandfathered in. that would probably mean that they are adding the bullet button to the assault weapons ban, in which case you would either have to get rid of yours, or register it. to my understanding, if you were to register it, it would then become a "registered assault weapon" and you could have all the evil features including a detachable magazine and maybe even 30 round magazines again(don't qoute me on that though, i'm not 100 percent sure). so as you can see, they would probably not want to changer the law as it would add more evil rifles to the ones they are already trying to get rid of. hope that helps. thank you for your service, i spent 2 years in iraq with the 101st, 5 years total active duty. now fighting the war on the homefront against our own politicians. stay safe out there and get home so you can build you your rifle.

6/29/2009 11:54 AM | jeff

# California-legal AR-15 rifle

I live in Nevada and i might be moving to California and i own a Colt AR-15 (LE6920) Law Enforcement Carbine. If i install a bullet button will it be legal in Ca. If not what do i need to do. If anybody knows let me know. Thank you.

6/29/2009 8:37 PM | Patrick

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

What is the minimum length barrel that you can purchase and remain legal in CA?

7/7/2009 5:24 PM | Michael

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

The overall length (OAL) of the barrel must be 16". That can be a 16" threaded barrel or a 12" barrel with a 4" flash-hider that is permanently attached, or any combination in-between. 16" is the most flexible as you can simple unscrew the muzzle device to change it to something else, but a 14.5" barrel with a 1.5" flash-hider that is pinned and welded is also common.

7/7/2009 7:41 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I found it in a Sacramento Metro Police Depatment bulletin that the length of the weapon must be over 31 inches. I'm good because I bought a 16" barrel. Just put in on tonight. Cleaing the whole thing took some time, it appears that the barrel had old oil on it. It was really sticky or varnishy.

The cam on the bolt carrier was tight as heck. I had to use pliers an light hammering to twist it out. Just came in Monday from J & T Distributing. Be causious of who you but from right now. Some of the manufactuing may be off a little due to rush jobs from the back logs. My firing pin was not true, I had to re-finish with a vice and buffer so that it would slide into place.

Hope this doesn't jam on my first test fire.

7/8/2009 11:34 PM | Michael

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

California PC 12276.1 (a)(3)

a) Notwithstanding Section 12276, "assault weapon" shall also mean any of the following:
(3) A semiautomatic, centerfire rifle that has an overall length of less than 30 inches.

It's 30", not 31", measured with the stock fully collapsed or folded.

We have CMMG bolt carrier groups in stock if that J&T doesn't work out for you.

7/10/2009 6:01 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I'm not entirely sure if this issue has been addressed as I only skimmed the responses to the post but does anyone know how CA registration works with a gun like this. Meaning, once the gun has been assembled, I assume it needs to be registered just like any other firearm in California, but what is it registered as and how does one go about getting it registered.

On a secondary note, I greatly appreciate a resource like this. I have been wanting to build an AR for a few years now but haven't had the know how as to legality of doing so in my home state of California. In summary, thanks to the OP for resource, especially the hotlinks to off list receivers and the like.

7/11/2009 2:26 AM | Chris

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Chris,

There is no registration required for long guns in California. There is a background check done at the time of purchase in the form of the DROS (dealer record of sale). A non-AW AR-15 is no different than a shotgun or any other long gun as far as purchasing and/or building is concerned. The state does not even know the make, model, or serial number of a long gun purchased in CA, unlike with handguns. You purchase the lower receiver (or complete rifle), fill out the 4473 ATF form, supply a copy of your CA drivers license, the dealer submits the DROS electronically, and you come back 10 days later and pick it up.

7/11/2009 10:09 AM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Wow, I guess I wasn't really paying attention to what I was signing when I purchase the guns I own now. Haha.

Just to make sure I'm crystal on the info you provided, there is no registration just the 4473, and the lower receiver specifically is the portion that requires the 10 day waiting period.

Thanks again for the information. Really appreciate it.

7/11/2009 10:28 AM | Chris

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

david,
if we send in a firearm ownership record, are we subjigating ourself at all??

also

I'm concerned that:
a) the laws will change to elliminate the bullet button loophole before i get home, or
b) i will have a chance to complete my weapon upon my return, only to have the laws change after i've already made the investment.

the former option i have no power over however, what would happen to the legal status of weapons built under current laws and loopholes should the laws change in the future. in other words, would a weapon with a bullet button become illegal if the laws changed? and if so, what would our options be?

7/11/2009 7:37 PM | skylar

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

skylar,
see 9 posts above yours. the 30 round mags would only be legal if you owned them preban

7/12/2009 12:20 AM | jeff

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I'm sure glad I don't live in the crappy State of California as I couldn't live with a severly 'watered down' AR-15. It's bad enough I can't even have 'burst' auto without jumping through hoops or an M203 as it is; I'm ex military.

7/12/2009 1:43 PM | Randy

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

jeff what are you talking about, your thread does not make sence, you can not answer a question with a question from your thread. preban mags are illegal here even if you register the gun. my question is, if the laws change, would the bullet button still be legal???
and this
if we send in a firearm ownership record, are we subjigating ourself at all??

7/12/2009 7:05 PM | skylar

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Skylar,

Pre-ban mags are NOT illegal - it just means you owned them before the ban, therefore you are grandfathered in. If you read the details of the law you will find that posession of high caps is not illegal. Theoratically, if you found a high-cap in the trash at the range you could keep it and that is not illegal. They specifically cite importation, selling, lending, etc... but not possession.

If the laws change most likely it would open up a new registration period that would allow you to register your gun as an assault weapon, and most likely put a normal magazine release back in since it would be a registered assault weapon anyway. I don't see that happening, however, and one would have to be Nostradamus to predict what is going to happen in the future anyway.

7/12/2009 8:18 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

skylar,
if you would read everything, your questions would be answered. just trying to help. i guess i won't do that anymore...

7/12/2009 11:05 PM | jeff

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

what if you were a minor when you possesed the mags before the ban??
jeff, sorry to be short, i have no excuse for my rudeness

7/13/2009 1:00 AM | skylar

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

skylar, thanks. i'm not sure, i would have to dig through the PC to figure that out, because i would be in the same boat(and i do have some 30 rounders, just not at the same location where i keep my AR). i have no idea about mags and age requirements, the only ones i know of are for purchasing guns and ammo. thats a good question, maybe someone else on here could share some insight on that.

7/13/2009 9:54 AM | jeff

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Why can I walk into a gun shop in Burbank and buy a semi-auto .308 M1A Rifle from Springfield Armory? It would seem to be a much deadlier weapon than any AR-15 style rifle due to the bigger round. Is the legislature scared by the size of these smaller rifles? I'm guessing that's why the Taurus Judge is also illegal in CA...

7/15/2009 8:42 AM | Cadillac

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Quoting "If the laws change most likely it would open up a new registration period that would allow you to register your gun as an assault weapon, and most likely put a normal magazine release back in since it would be a registered assault weapon anyway. I don't see that happening, however, and one would have to be Nostradamus to predict what is going to happen in the future anyway. "

I am no Nostradamus, but I do believe that "Man" will continue to manufacture weapons that are only legal for certain "Men" to wield. So much for =quality.

7/17/2009 10:23 PM | MK

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I am looking for a upper and I am currently waiting to pick up my lower receiver, day one already, lol. I just wanted to know if this is a good buy for a upper...

http://www.riflegear.com/p-230-cmmg-16-m4-upper.aspx

Thank you david and much thanks to the rest of you here as well, this blog was very helpful and informational in helping me to decide to build my 1st California-legal AR15.

7/19/2009 12:08 PM | Johnny

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

"Necessity is the mother of invention." These firearms, and their rules will soon be outdated. Good luck on your build Johnny.

7/19/2009 9:45 PM | MK

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Thanks MK.

7/21/2009 12:44 AM | Johnny

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

i'm not too sure if this was posted before but with a standard buttstock and a 16" barrel, dose the rifle meet the 30" standard?

i recently got out of basic training and fell in love with my m-16 so i want a civilian legal version... hence the CA legal ar-15.

thank you for your time.

-Will

7/26/2009 4:50 PM | Will

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

How is CA about out-of-state person to person (via FFL dealer) transfer of AR lowers (or complete rifles)?

I've been reading this forum and am interested in building a CA-compliant rifle for my brother who still lives in CA (I live in Idaho now). I wanted to use one of these receivers: http://www.tacticalinc.com/t15bdx-billet-deluxe-patented-billet-machined-lower-receive-p-1082.html?osCsid=262ca9769924f8b9540f55a2bb4fc126 . I would install the Bullet Button and 10 round mag, build the rifle with at least a 16" bbl, then sell it to him.

Based on anyone's research, would this be legal in CA?

7/26/2009 9:03 PM | Cleatus

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Will,
yes it will meet the 30 inch requirement. thank you for your service.

7/26/2009 11:38 PM | Jeff

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

David,
Great info here! kudos! Just an update on OLL suppliers on your google map link. An employee, sorry didn't get his name, at Quantico Arms and Tactical Supply in Oceanside informed me yesterday that they no longer deal in OLL's. Will call next closet place National Police Supply in Vista today. Looking forward to building my own AR15 real soon.

7/28/2009 9:23 AM | Patrick

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Did they say the reason for not dealing with OLL anymore?

7/29/2009 7:17 PM | James

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

James,
Didn't want to comment on his reason for not dealing in OLL's in my original post. He did mention Kaiser Defense to me as a place to check for one. Looked up KD on calguns.net and purchased a cal bear lower from them yesterday. Anyway, his reason had to do with worries over laws, responsibility for selling etc and since San Diego is home to a lower manufacturer I can understand. Also asked if they stock a gunbelt case to hold my revolver's speed loaders and was told by same employee, "No, we only sell high end tactical gear." So excuse me while I walk out the door without spending a dime now or in the future. Well maybe not, they had a better price on a 1911 than another North County gunstore

7/30/2009 11:45 AM | Patrick

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Patrick,
I'm in the process of doing my first AR build as well. I just checked out national police supply today. No one answered the phone and I drove to the building (I live just in San Marcos) and it was empty. I would like to know where they moved to if anyone has that info. Other than that, the closest place i know of in our area is Southern California Gun down in SD.

7/30/2009 7:11 PM | Jon

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Jon,
Call Rob at Kaiser Defense 619-692-3300. He is off the Old Towne exit on the 5 South. He manufactures a lower for $159.00. Check out the thread on calcuns.net. I will be visiting riflegear next to find my upper.

7/30/2009 7:40 PM | Patrick

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Yeah, right now I'm looking at getting a POF lower from a friend of mine. If that doesn't work then I'm going with a KD lower for sure.

7/31/2009 3:42 PM | Jon

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

My uncle in Nevada has an extra off list lower reciever, a Rock River LAR-15. I am looking to buy it from him but, I dont know how to do that legally being as I live in California. The gun stores I have visited in my area tell me it would be cheaper to buy one of there lowers. None carry Rock River lowers and the lowers they do have are between $230 to $300 at the moment. Does anyone know of a good dealer that would be able to help me out? or have any suggestions for me in general? I would appreciate any information at all. Thanks

8/2/2009 5:29 PM | corey

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Corey, you should check out www.riflegear.com. They have some stripped off-list lowers starting at $159.00. If you are in OC you can go DROS it there, if not they can ship it to a dealer near you.

8/3/2009 10:40 AM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

well my uncle has refused to allow me to buy the lower...he basically said I can have it if I want it and next time I am up to see him I will have to pit for my cousin's race team. Not a bad proposition at all since I have fun doing that anyways. I just want to make absolutely sure that I do things legally here in Ca. I was hoping to do a PPT or something of that nature. Thanks for the info though David. I appreciate it. This will be my first Ca legal ar, and I do hope to help some friends and family build some as soon as I am done with mine.

8/3/2009 8:45 PM | corey

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Corey, If your uncle is going to be in CA at some point have him bring the lower and then you both can walk into an FFL and do a PPT for $35, including DROS. That would be the least expensive way to legally transfer ownership. If you have him ship it to an FFL here in CA, they will most likely charge you a transfer fee, which is usually $50 - $100 + the $25 DROS fee.

8/4/2009 12:28 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Quick question, primarily for confirmation. We can have the pistol grip as long as the stock doesn't collapse right? So a skeletonized stock is fine as long as it is fixed 1 position only which makes it ok however if I were to have a 6 position, etc. bar laying around or buried in my backyard (and as long as it's not mounted), that would be fine right?

As long as they aren't mounted to the rifle, under current CA laws, are we ok to be in "possession" of such items like hi-cap mags or 6 position/similar stocks?

Thanks.

8/4/2009 5:00 PM | ed

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

it depends. you can have all the evil features you want....collapsable stock, flash hider, forward pistol grip, etc... as long as you have a fixed magazine. by fixed magazine they mean one you need to remove with a tool...ie bullet button or one that is permanently fixed...ie a top loaded AR. that is one way.

the other way to have a ca legal ar is to remove all the evil features and you can then have a normally opperating magazine release.

REMEMBER though no matter what you can only have a 10 round magazine fixed or removable.

You can posses the stocks and have them on your rifle as long as you have a fixed magazine. they have not made the colapsable stock illegal at all.

this may help you. it is taken from the DOJ website. as long as you have an off list lower this is the law you are going by.

Generic Characteristics Defining Assault Weapons:
12276.1 (a) Notwithstanding Penal Code section 12276, “assault weapon” shall also mean the following:
Rifles
(1) A semiautomatic, centerfire rifle that has the capacity to accept a detachable magazine and any one of
the following:
(A) A pistol grip that protrudes conspicuously beneath the action of the weapon.
(B) A thumbhole stock.
(C) A folding or telescoping stock.
(D) A grenade launcher or flare launcher.
(E) A flash suppressor.
(F) A forward pistol grip.
(2) A semiautomatic, centerfire rifle that has a fixed magazine with the capacity to accept more than 10
rounds.
(3) A semiautomatic, centerfire rifle that has an overall length of less than 30 inches.
Note: Bayonets and bayonet lugs are not assault weapon characteristics under California law.

8/4/2009 7:13 PM | corey

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Ok, got it. I think I was getting "rifle" laws confused with "shotgun" laws since the semi-auto shotgun is what I have now. Thanks for the clarification! Gonna start my AR build now. Great site!

8/5/2009 9:39 AM | ed

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

ih have one of these great machines and plane to move to calli. so all i have to do is get the bullet button and im good?

8/14/2009 1:39 AM | jimmy

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

just so u know i have an amtec vm15 post ban registered in my name i legally bought this gun from a dealer where i live i have all the paperwork i just want to be sure

8/14/2009 2:57 AM | jimmy

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

can i buy a complete lower in california? im 20 years of age just went to the costa mesa gun show they wouldnt sell me a stripped lower because of a new law you have to be 21 ?

8/22/2009 9:53 PM | tommy

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

tommy,
try cold war shooters in highland, i think they sell complete lowers. i have no knowledge of some law about being 21, only for handguns. good luck. i missed the show this time because of stupid work...

8/24/2009 4:26 PM | jeff

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Tommy, we have completed lower assemblies here at RifleGear as well. The law always required a purchaser to be 21 years old if buying anything other than a long-gun, and that includes stripped receivers. It has now been clarified on the federal 4473 form (yellow form) so most dealers will no longer sell a stripped lower to anyone under 21. On the California DROS system, however, it will be DROSed as a long gun.

8/24/2009 6:59 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Stag OLL w/adjustable stock & Chip McCor. after market drop-in trigger, Del-Ton NATO 5.56 20" barrel w/Phantom 2 break.
The rest of the small parts are mostly from Del-Ton. Last but not least, the Bullet Button replacing the standard mag release, not a bad option, considering the other choices out there...
Mine DID get attention from an off duty police man. He liked it!

9/10/2009 8:42 PM | Navy Davey

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Take a look at this California magazine lock for AR15 OLLs. It''s quick to convert and it uses the stock mag release/catch that comes from the lower pack kit. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6g1ZdTarnDY

9/15/2009 9:12 PM | JTROKS

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I'm still reading through this topic but I have a question. My apologies if it's already been covered. It's been several years since I've ready the California laws regarding "assault weapons." At the top of the list the author states, "If you did not own one of those rifles before the ban was passed in 2000 then you can not legally own one in California now."

Does this mean that since I owned an AR-15 type rifle legally in California, pre-ban, but sold it in another state, I can legally own one in California now?

David

9/23/2009 4:14 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

David,

"The Assault Weapons Ban in California bans specific makes and models of rifles by name. If you did not own one of those rifles before the ban was passed in 2000 then you can not legally own one in California now."

He is speaking of the named or "listed" rifles that can be found on links through this page, or on the state website. It doesn't matter if you used to own one, you don't now. You need to by an off list lower receiver, either by itself, or with a complete rifle, with the bullet button and other accesories, which you can read about in the posts here. So yes you can own a rifle, you just have to go about it the right way.
Jeff

ps. To the Rifle Gear David, sorry about giving a prospective customer wrong info, I forgot you guys carried the lowers :^)

10/1/2009 7:43 AM | Jeff

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Hello, I really enjoyed reading this blog. We are building our first AR 15. We have a lower, but after reading this, I have a question on the upper assembly. Can we buy any upper assembly? Is it just the lower receivers that are on the flow chart that are illegal in California? Thank you, Patricia

10/5/2009 9:28 AM | Patricia

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I want to build a desert tan color ar15, do all the parts come in that color?

10/6/2009 10:06 PM | Dallas

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Patricia,

The only thing that would make any upper illegal in CA is what makes it illegal in any state - if the barrel is less than 16" in length. It is the combination of parts on the complete rifle that must be considered. For example, a flash-hider is not a banned part if you use a bullet button magazine lock. You can mail-order any complete lower to your house, it is the lower receiver and the complete rifle configuration you need to be careful with.

Dallas,

It is difficult to find entire receivers in dark earth, although there are some anodized versions out there. The best way to get a complete color is to have it duracoat painted. You can easily find stocks, grips, magazines, and rails all in dark earth, however.

10/6/2009 10:15 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Correction "you can mail any complete UPPER" to your house. Sorry for the typo, of course a lower must go through a dealer.

10/6/2009 10:17 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

David,

Thank you for your response. Just so I am crystal clear, I can purchase a 16 inch DPMS upper assembly with my Stag Lower, 6 Position Collapsible Stock, 10 Round Mag & Bullet Button & be completly legal in CA?

I have seen barrels with & without NATO is description. Is there any difference?

Thanks,

Patricia

10/7/2009 7:29 PM | Patricia Young

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Pat,

Yes that would be ca-legal - make sure you only use a 10 round or less magazine as well. 5.56mm and 5.56mm NATO is the same chamber. .223 remington is different. If you have a barrel chambered for 5.56mm then you can shoot both 5.56mm and .223 rem, but not the other way around. Some mfg's have a Wylde chamber, which can also shoot both.

10/8/2009 6:46 AM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

David,

Thank you so much for the information. The information is simple and straight to the point. I'm sure I will be asking more questions when we get all the parts in!!

Patricia

10/8/2009 1:45 PM | Patricia

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I have 2 DPMS receivers that were purchased and registered before the deadline in 2000. Can I put a collapsible buttstock and a flash hidder on those recievers and still be legal for CA?

10/8/2009 11:46 PM | scattergunjake

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

It's been awhile since i asked a question on here, but I am in love with ar15 but really want to shoot some .22LR. I currently have the bullet button configuration. After some hours of research, I came to the conclusion that with a rimfire .22 LR, i am able to buy a .22 LR upper, and with that .22lr upper installed, i can take out my bullet button, and keep my pistol grip, my collapsible stock, and my flash hider and it be legal. Is this correct? (all of course using 10rd mags) Just clarifying

10/9/2009 12:35 AM | Estevan A.

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Jake,

If there were registered as assault weapons before the deadline, and you have the registration paperwork to prove it, you can add ALL the banned features - collapsible stock, flash-hider, vertical grip, high-cap mags, etc... You can't make it "more of an assault weapon". Just make sure you do indeed have registration papers - some people seem to think the DROS papers = registered assault weapon.

Estevan,

No, rimfire rifles are exempt from the AW ban so you can have a normal detachable magazine AND evil features. You can even use high-cap magazines if they were in your posession prior to the ban.

10/9/2009 10:49 AM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

David,

Thank you for the information.

After reading in more detail about the magazine ban, I now have a question regarding hi-cap mags. I have many 20 and 30 round mags for my registered AR's. These were all purchased and in state before the ban. If I'm reading the law correctly, it would be illegal for me to let someone else shoot one of my registered AR's if it had a hi-cap mag. Is that correct?

10/9/2009 7:22 PM | scattergunjake

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Can one legally use a 30 Round Mag in one of these builds? I bought some rebuild kits from David at:

http://www.alliedarmory.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=62_80_63&products_id=1881&zenid=692785496b28095c65396265ff0d6ac2

Thanks!

Will

10/11/2009 5:59 PM | Will

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Is is possibleto build a california legal ar in 9mm

10/23/2009 3:06 AM | Richard

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

You cannot lend a registered AW to another person. It is legal to allow them to shoot it if you are present, and the other person is an adult.

Magazine rebuild kits are legal to use as replacement parts for high-cap magazines you already legally own. They can also be built into 10 rounders for use in a fixed-magazine AR. It would be illegal to reassemble a rebuild kit back into a high-cap magazine if that results in you having more high-caps than you started with (i.e manufacturing a new vs repairing an old). I will leave it as an exercise of the reader to determine if it is an enforceable law.

It is also illegal to use a magazine > 10 rounds in a fixed magazine rifle. A semiauto, centerfire, fixed magazine rifle with a magazine capacity > 10 rounds is an assault weapon.

10/23/2009 6:51 AM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Richard,

Yes, 9mm ARs are the most popular handgun round found in AR form. The rules to what is/is not legal in CA apply to ANY centerfire cartridge, not just rifle rounds. So that means you have to play the "evil feature" game and use a magazine lock or go featureless, same as with 5.56mm. Check out http://riflegear.com/p-394-rra-9mm-a4-mid-length-upper.aspx

10/23/2009 7:02 AM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

David... great job seriously...

To all the people who have said no one would go though and read all this.. LIARS..

If you really wanna build.. buy.. own.. or possess.. you read and get as much info as possible...

You do not just skim and assume..

anyway thanks for all the help.. info.. and I might have to go by costa mesa one of these days..

11/5/2009 4:44 PM | Andrew

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

you guy are such dorks why dont youget a reel gun like a quad 50 or at least starte a forum to figure out even what that is

11/5/2009 5:18 PM | watever

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

ok people are you so brain washed by are ridiculus state laws that you have copletely asimulated hhgmm hhgmm ok the are hand guns and ther are rifles 18 years old to by a rifle 21 years old to by a hand gun maybe now its 21 for arifle but theres no special rifles or special procedures to by a rifle o yeah a ruger mini 14 has the ability toacept a folding pistol grip stock omg talk about lethal some on e could order a stock like that very easily throught the mail and be so lethaly equiped so whats o yeah i heard ruger backed the ban on ar 15s and now they make one but they also made sure you wont have it just try and get one

11/5/2009 5:51 PM | watever

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Andrew,
Yes, I can tell you from the number of people that walk through our store every week that there are a LOT of people putting together or buying complete CA-legal ARs. It's not just ARs either, there are ways to make pretty much any off-list "evil" rifle CA-legal.

Watever,
Apparently you are in denial that California has the most restrictive gun laws in the country and also continues to have it's own Assault Weapons Ban that requires us law-abiding citizens to have to jump through a few extra hoops to legally obtain these types of firearms. I'm sure that doesn't apply to you since you must get your illegal weapons from your homeboys on the streets, but for the rest of us that want to avoid getting popped with a felony possesion of an Assault Weapon this blog offers some very accurate and valuable advice. I suggest you stay in school and work on both your spelling and your reading comprehension and then you can read the links posted above and understand the actual laws on the books in California. If you really want one of those new Ruger SR-556 piston ARs I can get you one, legally, assuming you pass the background check, but I wouldn't bet on that.

11/5/2009 6:21 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

David..

I plan on purchasing an AR-10 and building an AR-15.. maybe more who knows we will see......Looking at your website a few of your 10's are a little bit more then what is in my area here.. but also have more of the "features" I think I want while also bein new compared to used here... You're only about an hour and a half away and I believe you would have more of what I want WHILE also being a lot more informative and helpful then maybe just some "joe shmoe" dealer...

I would bet on it...
Well worth the drive ... and more then likely well worth the money...

11/6/2009 7:10 PM | Andrew

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Can the 6.8 SPC work in a 5.56 NATO spec'd barrel?

11/9/2009 10:46 PM | michael mearlon

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Nevermind, I answered my own question. I require a whole new barrel and bolt for the 6.8 SPC round. Don't know if I can still use the 5.56 mags, though.

11/9/2009 10:59 PM | michael mearlon

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I have a Colt AR 15 bought and registered in the late 90's early 2000's, can I legally transport and shoot this weapon? It has the standard colt magazine(detachable) and is bone stock 20" hbar. I have been getting conflicting answers regarding the use and ownership of this rifle.

11/16/2009 8:20 PM | surferjp

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I've read this entire post. GREAT info, and I don't believe I'm asking a question that has already been asked. I have a Bushmaster AR15 purchased in 2003 in Florida and have since moved to CA without it. It seems that I can bring the upper to CA and purchase an OLL (which I will now do from Rifle Gear - Thank You) and have a CA legal AR15. My question is, can I have the DISASSEMBLED lower here in CA at all? Or does it need to stay out of this state completely?
Thanks again for all the info. I am looking forward to finally having my AR15 (or at least half of it) here!
Drew.

11/17/2009 2:46 PM | Drew

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

surferjp,

If you have the Assault Weapon registration paperwork from the DOJ, then yes you can legally transport and shoot the weapon. You must transport it in a locked container and you can only transport it to/from your home and the range - no side trips or you risk getting popped like the guy at the LA airport a few months back. Make sure you keep your paperwork with the rifle at all times.

Drew,

You can strip the Bushmaster down to parts and bring everything except the lower receiver into California and then reassemble it on a new, off-list lower receiver. You cannot keep the Bushmaster receiver in California, even stripped it is still an Assault Weapon.

11/17/2009 3:07 PM | david@riflegear.com

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Thank you! I'll try to make it down to Rifle Gear tomorrow.

11/17/2009 5:54 PM | Drew

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I'm new to the sport and with personal defense in mind I decided to start researching. I plan on purchasing a hand gun and shotgun but in terms of a rifle I am interested in an M4 Carbine. Would the Daniel Defense XV be a good choice or would building one from the ground up be better? They make it California legal with the locking mag, but I cannot tell the lower receiver model to check the "off-list". Any ideas on it? Link is below.

www.riflegear.com/p-585-daniel-defense-xv.aspx

11/18/2009 5:36 PM | Mark

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

New here. I did read the posts above and tried to understand what I could =) I am in California. By the blog I found it makes it look like i can order everything from riflegear.com? Next, do I register this and how? Or does the lower receiver get registered? Is there a better place for pricing or quality?

I guess those questions are a start for me =)

Thanks!

Ron

11/20/2009 1:11 PM | Ron

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Went down to Riflegear on Wednesday. I dealt with Ryan. He was very knowledgeable and helpful and I purchased and new OLL for my Bushmaster upper. Great price, great service. Can't wait for eight more days to go by so I can pick it up. PLEASE BE OPEN ON SATURDAY AFTER THANKSGIVING!
But serisously, I highly recommend these guys. They are great.
Drew

11/20/2009 4:01 PM | Drew

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Another question. For half the price. Why not just buy it?

www.atlanticfirearms.com/storeproduct794.aspx

11/20/2009 4:16 PM | Ron

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Ron,

Del-Ton is not exactly a high-quality brand AR. For just a few hundred more you can get a Daniel Defense XV rifle which is of superior quality and materials. Also keep in mind if you buy online you usually have to pay a "transfer fee" to the receiving dealer. Transfer fees usually range from $50-100. I'm a big fan of RifleGear.com myself :)

David

11/20/2009 4:43 PM | david@riflegear.com

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Hi David,

I sent you an email to your email address posted. =)

Thanks
Ron

11/21/2009 12:35 AM | Ron

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I also found this... JUst trying to see if it's cheaper to build or buy?

S&W MP15 ORC Rifle
www.coldwarshooters.net/index.php
$859

What is the difference?
www.riflegear.com/p-585-daniel-defense-xv.aspx
$1149

11/21/2009 8:33 AM | Ron

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Ron,

The difference between a Toyota and a BMW. Yes they are both AR-15 rifles but the DD is much nicer and better equipped. The S&W has no sights, the DD has both front and rear sights so it is ready to fire. The DD has a cold-hammer forged barrel, 4150 steel, 1/7 twist, MP tested, enhanced trigger guard, and is just a higher quality rifle. The S&W is pretty much the same as a Stag Arms rifle in terms of quality. It is still a decent rifle, don't get me wrong, but the DD is better - and the price reflects that difference.

11/21/2009 11:04 AM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Hi David,

My Father owns a Pre-ban Colt Sp-1 Ar-15, registered in 1989 as an assualt weapon. I am currently 20. Is their any way I can transfer the ownership of that rifle. Secondly, he also owns a Beretta 92fs with 15 round magazines registered in 1999. Can that be transfered to me as well assuming I discard the 15 round magazines for california legal 10 round magazines?

11/23/2009 12:41 PM | Leung

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Hi David,

I recently had to have my dad buy a stag arms stripped OOL from a local dealer due to me being one year under the 21 year old law. I read above about someone with a similar situation but I wasnt able to fully understand how to obtain the outcome. I am curious what needs to be done to have the OOL, when it is assembled into a complete California legal AR-15, to have it transferred to my name even though I am under 21.

Thank you in advance,
Andrew

11/23/2009 7:53 PM | Andrew-NorCal

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Steve & Andrew

Unfortunately a registered Assault Weapon in the state of CA cannot be transferred to anybody, not even a son. To stay legal, the AW will have to be taken out of the state or turned into the police (or destroyed, etc...) when it's registered owner passes.

non-AW long guns (like your Dad's Stag-15, Andrew) can just be given directly from father to son - no FFL involved. He hands it to you, you say "thanks dad", and you're done.

Handguns are different. Since handguns are registered in California, you should fill out this form and mail it in with $19 to report an intra-familial handgun transaction. You should also use this form if moving into the state with handguns you already legally posses.
http://ag.ca.gov/firearms/forms/pdf/oplaw.pdf

Possession of a high-cap magazine is not illegal. It is the importation, manufacture, offer for sale, give, lend that is illegal - not mere possession. For instance, if your father had given you those Beretta mags in 1999 or if you go the the range, look down on the ground and find a 15 round Berreta mag, you can legally possess and use those mags.

Regards,
David

11/24/2009 7:04 AM | david@riflegear.com

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Hi David,
Great post...Just wanted to see if you could clear this up for me. I am interested in obtaining a rifle in 6.5 grendel. the manufacturer will not ship lowers or complete rifles to CA. They are CA legal but he does not want to deal with the headache! Can I use any lower even though it is for a 556 and just use their upper and magazines or do I need a specific lower for the 6.5 grendel? Thanks Kevin

11/27/2009 6:52 PM | Kevin

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I currently have a Calfornia legal AR15 with fixed Magazine.
I would like to build a bad Ass AR15 with Cool tactical add-ons.
Can you advise me on the websites tyou can suggest hat can offer me a variety of options.
And what $$ am i looking at for my build?

I would appreciate any info..

Thanks
Luckyiceman

11/27/2009 8:31 PM | Luckyiceman

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I am currently looking for built me a legal Ar15, but i just don't know where to start as where to purchase the OLL, upper, buttstock, ect.

another question, buying the OLL has to be trasnfer to my local FFL, right? and then i have to register it? is it ok to have a 20 inch barrel? been thinking/debating about building a rifle for the last 4 years, i think i am ready now.

I am located here in LA.

12/7/2009 12:59 PM | Eric

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I may have missed this in the previous questions, but what exactly is an off-list lower reciever?

12/9/2009 9:24 PM | John

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Where can i have a gun like this made? does anyone know? is there stores that can make it for me? or anyone independent that can do it for the right $? Please contact me or let me know chris.h@xpeonline.com thanks guys.

12/13/2009 6:44 PM | Chris Henriquez

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

OLL = Off List Lower receiver.

There are lots of dealers in CA that can sell California legal ARs. My preference is RifleGear in Costa Mesa, CA (my company!) If you are in SoCal then do yourself a favor and come visit us. We have all the parts you need to build a complete CA-legal AR and we also have complete, fully assembled ARs from several manufacturers on the wall ready for you to purchase.

RifleGear
3303 Harbor Blvd Suite D7
Costa Mesa, CA 92626

http://riflegear.com/t-contact.aspx

12/14/2009 9:32 AM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Hey, I was just in a Big 5, and they have a .22LR Colt M4 Carbine. Has a flash-hider, pistol grip, adjustable stock, and a ten round mag. I had gone in to see if it was a bullet button or one you had to strip to load, and it was a standard push button. The person behind the gun counter thought it was an air-soft gun and had no idea what a bullet button was, so he was useless. Has the law changed, or are they selling an illegal firearm?

12/15/2009 3:06 PM | Lone Wolf

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

A .22LR is a rimfire cartridge, the CA Assault Weapon laws only apply to centerfire cartridges so a .22LR with a pistol grip and detachable magazine is perfectly legal.

12/15/2009 8:56 PM | david@riflegear.com

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

"OLL = Off List Lower receiver.

There are lots of dealers in CA that can sell California legal ARs. My preference is RifleGear in Costa Mesa, CA (my company!) If you are in SoCal then do yourself a favor and come visit us. We have all the parts you need to build a complete CA-legal AR and we also have complete, fully assembled ARs from several manufacturers on the wall ready for you to purchase.

RifleGear
3303 Harbor Blvd Suite D7
Costa Mesa, CA 92626"

ah, you work for the company? sweet. do you guys know gunrunners down duarte? they do tranfers? if yes, I'd be interested in purchasing one of your OLL that is, if you guys do ship? work so much don't have time to go all the way to costa mesa.

12/16/2009 9:38 AM | Eric

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

We can ship to gunrunners, no problem.

12/19/2009 1:36 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I have a Fidelis AR 15 lower, is it compatible with a stag arms M4 upper?

12/20/2009 4:36 PM | Raul

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Hi, what kind of sight/optic is that? Where did you get it and how much was it? Thank you!

12/21/2009 12:07 AM | Cesar

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Kudos to David for the great info. I've read the thread and want to confirm my understanding of the law.

I have six hi-cap .223 mags from the 80s when I owned a CAR-15, that was subsequently sold. I am legally grandfathered with the pre-ban magazines. If I got a CA legal AR with a bullet button or like device it would still be illegal to use the hi-cap mags with this rifle because it defeats the design intent of ARs sold in CA. So, it is legal for me to own the mags, I just can't use them.

Do I understand the law correctly? Thanks in advance for your comments.

12/25/2009 10:19 PM | BUGEYE

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Howdy David, i was wondering if there are any other manufacturers of uppers (besides stag arms) who make dedicated "lefty" uppers. I hear LAR grizzly is coming out with a few models, however, have not been able to find any models, or prices. Any info would be fantastic. Also, if i must sacrifice purchasing a standard upper, would a piston style offer much difference of gas emissions in my face. Thanks

12/28/2009 10:40 PM | Tim

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

First off thank you for this website, I've wanted an AR-15 for a long time but since I'm not a police officer yet I couldn't have one. I was hoping David or any other avid AR-15 enthusiast could give me their opinion on the atlantic firearms CA legal AR.

www.atlanticfirearms.com/storeproduct794.aspx

It was recommended to me by one of my Deputy friends at work.

Thank you

Wheeler

12/29/2009 2:43 AM | Wheeler

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Raul,
All AR-15 lowers are made to the same spec and will work with any standard AR upper.

Cesar,
That is an EOTech holographic red-dot sight.
http://riflegear.com/m-2-eotech.aspx

Bugeye,
The law states that any fixed-magazine centerfire rifle with a magazine capacity of more than 10 rounds is an Assault Weapon. You CAN use your mags but ONLY in a "featureless" rilfe with a detachable magazine. You could use them in a Kel-Tec SU-16 or you can use them in an off-list AR that does not have a pistol grip or collapsible stock. Goofle the "MonsterMan" grip.
http://riflegear.com/p-56-monsterman-grip-ar.aspx

Tim,
Stag Arms makes dedicated left-hand models or all of their uppers.
http://riflegear.com/m-7-stag-arms.aspx

Wheeler,
That is just a Del-ton AR with a Bullet Button and a 10 round magazine. It will work fine, but is considered one of the "bottom tier" AR manufacturers. For just a few hundred more you could get a Daniel Defense XV which is "top tier"
http://riflegear.com/p-585-daniel-defense-xv-rifle-556mm.aspx

12/29/2009 1:34 PM | david@riflegear.com

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

hey i have one last question. can i do the DROS paperwork at rifle gear prior buying a OLL for the first time? or do i have to go to my local FFL dealer to do? I'll be going to you guys to get my parts.

12/29/2009 8:25 PM | Eric

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

david, what ar-10 stripped lowers are cali legal that will fit armalite uppers?? thanks

1/6/2010 2:09 AM | Joseph briggs

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I live in Cal. I swapped out my grip to a Hogue pistol grip on my AR15... Does this make it illegal?

1/6/2010 10:44 PM | Vic

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Eric,
You can DROS the lower from any FFL dealer but you have to physically be at the location twice - once to start the DROS and then 10 days later to sign it out. If it is too far, we can ship to a dealer near you and you go to their location both times.

Joseph,
Noveske N6 and Aero Precision come to mind.

Vic,
If your rifle was legal with a standard pistol grip before just swapping to a different brand will not make a difference.

1/7/2010 12:43 PM | David

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

David,

I've always wanted to aqcuire a legal AR15 however I don't want build one myself. I went around online to check on some websites and came across www.atlanticfirearms.com where they sell California legal firearms. Can I trust that if i did purchase a California "legal" firearm from this site paper work and such would go through smoothly?

1/7/2010 2:11 PM | George

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

david, any idea where to get a noveske n6 stripped lower, cant find one anywhere??

thank you

1/7/2010 2:30 PM | joseph briggs

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

David, what do you think about JD lower receivers?

Thank You

1/9/2010 11:32 PM | HNTRHC

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Well, I built the AR-15 last year from all the post information and Riflegear product line. I love my black rifle. The only hiccup I had was breaking it in. My best suggestions is to follow the riflegear info on building an AR-15 to the 'T'. Once completed, fire only 5.56 true Nato (with cross on the casing) to get the rifle broke in [perhaps 100-200 rounds]. After that, the .223 is fine, but dirty. DO NOT use reloads or dirtly lip casings until the weapon is broke in and trusty, otherwise, expect jams.

My lower is a Charles Daly, the upper is from J&T Distributing as a Picatinny rail top 16", the flash hider is Vortex, and my buttstock and magzines are Magpul. I build it all for closed to $1100.

I hear that for more stopping/take-down power, I can use a LAR-.458 or 7.62x39 for my lower. Is this true and which is a better choice?

1/16/2010 1:07 AM | Michael Mearlon

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I need some clarification. If AR pistols are legal where do you get them? Can you buy one out of state, make it a single shot and bring it back? And if 16" barrel is the legal min., how and why can you purchase shorter barrel uppers? Thanx!

1/23/2010 2:07 AM | Tim

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

My boss has a pre-ban Bushmaster that he wants to sell (and I want to buy). I know that as the gun is this can't be done. If he were to remove the lower and sell be the upper and stock as parts and I simply put it on an OLL lower that I purchased would this be legal? Also if this works out and I were to do this, any recommendation on something that would match well with the Bushmaster.

Thanks David, this is about the best resource I've found so far.

1/29/2010 10:21 AM | Mike

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

@George
Keep in mind most dealers are going to charge you a "transfer" fee to ship in a rifle. There are lots of dealers in CA that stock CA-legal AR rifles so don't limit yourself to a single out of state vendor

@Joseph
They are hard to come by, we have some on order so keep checking our site.

@HNTRHC
JD lowers are excellent quality - and made right here in California!

@Michael
5.56mm has plenty of "stopping power" - just ask all the dead enemies of the USA since Vietnam

@Tim
You have to have a complete AR pistol built for you from an out of state vendor or an in-state vendor that has an 07 license (manufacturing license). You cannot build one yourself in CA. If you have an AR pistol registered in your name you are safe to posess a barrel shorter than 16". If you do not have an AR pistol, you can get into trouble with federal "constructive posession" charges of a short-barrel rifle.

@Mike
You can buy all the parts from him and slap them on an off-list lower receiver. But you need to convince your boss to NOT get rid of his registered lower as it irreplaceable! Pretty much any standard lower will work fine with the parts off the bushmaster - just pick a lower with a logo you can live with.

2/2/2010 10:32 AM | david@riflegear.com

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Okay I am soo sorry if I missed this somewhere in this long list of very useful information. Is it legal to use Rock River CAR-A4 upper on and offlist lower? Thinking of buying the complete kit online and getting a local off list lower.

Thank you and sorry if it has been covered multiple times.

2/2/2010 10:23 PM | Kevin

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Im getting confuse on law, so hopefully you can clear it up for me, how old do you have to be to buy an ar15 in CA, how old do you have to be to buy parts for ar15.?

Thank you.

2/4/2010 12:45 AM | andrew

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

I have been looking for an upper for my AR 15 lower. I am wondering if I buy a barrel , gas block, and whatever other parts go along with it will the items be interchangeable or am I looking for trouble? I want something with a stainles barrel and I want accuracy in a barrel but I am trying to save money...

2/4/2010 10:19 PM | J R

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Great place to buy AR parts and rifle. I purchase two lower for a 9mm/ 22cal that i'm building

2/16/2010 3:19 PM | emy

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Kevin:

No limit on your upper as long as its not banned by caliber

Andrew

For a Rifle lower, 18, and for a pistol lower 21

J R

depends on your barrel, some require the gas block to be at certain positions of the rifle. For example a 16'' barrel and 24'' barrel will require different size gas tubes. These gas tubes will require different gas blocks aka manifolds. So no, they are not interchangable and most do not disassemble the upper receiver unless the barrel is shot out. It's easier to buy a new receiver and parts.

3/7/2010 8:49 PM | Raw

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Hi Everyone, I have seen some discussion about 10/20 and 10/30 mags if these are 30 round maga that only hold 10 rounds, what is the point of getting them? Why not just get a 10 round mag or am I missing something here.

3/26/2010 12:20 AM | Liam

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Nothing wrong with short 10 round mags. The problem is selection is limited and if you want the best magazine currently on the market, the Magpul MPag, then you have no choice but to block a 20 or 30 round magazine because they do not make a 10 rounder for use in California. Some people also like the look of a longer magazine and it is easier to grab it or remove from the magazine well.

3/29/2010 7:44 AM | david@riflegear.com

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Just wondering why nobody brings up the fact that you can find an onslaught of complete CA compliant AR15 rifles with bullet buttons and 10 round mags already installed at the gun shows held around parts of CA held every 3 months or so. Find one that catches your eye, put your hands on it, feel it, then pay for it at that moment along with 5 minutes of paperwork and pick it up in 10 days.

4/12/2010 12:40 AM | Martin

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Hi,

great website...Learned a lot...one being that I live in a highly restrictive state that doesn't respect the 2nd Amendment. I was on fence between buying an LWRC M6A2 or Barrett m468. But without the auto and 10 round mag limit, it just seems like a waste of money to buy such a beautiful rifle that's been castrated to be CA compliant. So I've been thinking about buy a short barrel PSW or PDW (Personal defense weapon) or a GOOD gas-piston carbine.

are PDW legal in california? I read that you can buy them but you had to register them with ATF? I dont really know. Please advise.

also--does your store in costa mesa sell complete AR-15 gas-piston carbines that you custom make? whats the price? only ones I've seen so far are the LWRC, Barretts, and Colts. I like the colt price but don't like the direct impingement set-up

thanks

4/13/2010 8:15 PM | OCVIET

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

@Martin

This article was first published 3 years ago - it was not very common to find complete CA-legal ARs at gun shows back then. Besides, people still like to build their own as it's fun and a great way to learn your AR inside and out.

@OCVIET

You are not going to get any class 3 weapons in California, not without being either an FFL or law enforcement at least. We have LWRC rifles in stock at our store. Just look under LWRC in the manufacturer list on our website

4/14/2010 7:03 PM | david@riflegear.com

# re: Building a California-legal AR-15 rifle

Hi David. thanks for taking the time to answer all of our questions. I have a 'simple' one.
Im in CA, I have 30rd mags. Can I drill them so that they cannot obviously hold more than 10rds? bolts etc? I leaning towards selling them outta state so not to have to deal with them. any advice is greatly appreciated.

5/2/2010 1:05 AM | JC

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