California is at the forefront of states with the strictest regulations regarding gun laws in the USA. For gun owners interested in individual defense or shooting sports under the Second Amendment, these laws can make living in California quite difficult.
In this article; without getting into “assault weapon” definitions, magazine capacity, waiting periods, background checks, or political debates, I will focus on handguns that can be purchased in accordance with California laws. My aim is to provide an informative guide on weapons that can be acquired legally and without issues within the state borders.
Glock 19 Gen 3
If asked which handgun is the “Honda Civic” of guns, many people would answer Glock. It is not flashy, but it offers a platform that is extremely reliable, durable, and open to modification.
Due to California laws, Glock’s Gen 4 and Gen 5 models cannot be sold in the state. Therefore, the Glock 19 Gen 3 is one of the most logical options for gun owners in California.
- Semi-automatic, striker-fired structure
- Polymer frame
- Tool-less disassembly and reassembly
- Standard capacity: 15+1 (Limited to 10 rounds in California)
Still preferred by many law enforcement agencies, the Glock 19 Gen 3 is also a very strong candidate as a first handgun.
SIG Sauer P220 Combat
The SIG Sauer P220 Combat is considered one of the most successful handguns in its class in .45 ACP caliber. Thanks to its 8+1 round capacity, it is California compliant in terms of magazines.
- Weight: 31 oz
- Barrel length: 4.4 inches
- Aluminum frame
- Nitron coated stainless steel slide
- Accessory support with Picatinny rail
With its durability, balance, and easy maintenance possibilities, the P220 Combat is an ideal choice for those looking for a powerful and reliable handgun.
Ruger LCR
Although getting a concealed carry permit in California is difficult, for those who have this permission, the Ruger LCR offers a simple and effective revolver option.
- Hammerless design
- 17 oz weight
- Structure that reduces the risk of snagging during the draw
- .357 Magnum ammunition support
Suitable for carrying in a bag thanks to its lightness, the Ruger LCR offers ease of use, especially for new gun owners.
CZ 75B (Low Capacity)
CZ is known worldwide for its quality and durable handguns. CZ USA produces low-capacity models specifically for California residents.
- 10-round capacity magazine
- Steel frame
- 4.6-inch cold hammer forged barrel
- Triple safety system
- Extremely high accuracy rate
The CZ 75B is a handgun known as a “tack driver” due to its reliability and precision, never letting the user down.
Smith & Wesson SD9 VE
The Smith & Wesson SD9 VE stands out for those looking for an affordable and reliable striker-fired handgun.
- Polymer frame
- 10-round capacity California compliant package
- Total length: 7.2 inches
- Weight: 24 oz
- Picatinny accessory rail
Offered with 9×19 mm ammunition, this model also appeals to those wanting higher stopping power with .40 S&W versions. It is one of the most ambitious models in its class in terms of price/performance.
Springfield Armory Mil-Spec 1911
Springfield Armory’s California compliant Mil-Spec model presents the classic 1911 design with modern production quality.
- .45 ACP
- 5-inch match-grade stainless steel barrel
- Forged carbon steel slide and frame
- 7-round capacity magazines
Drawing attention aesthetically with its wooden grips and black body, this model is a strong alternative for those looking for an affordable 1911.
Smith & Wesson M&P Shield
Is it flashy? No. Is it aesthetically ambitious? No. However, when it comes to durability, reliability, and shooting performance, the M&P Shield is one of the best compact handguns available in California.
- 3-inch barrel
- 8+1 round capacity
- 9 mm
- Different color options (black, FDE, OD Green, etc.)
Although it is hard to find a modern CCW handgun on the California gun roster, the M&P Shield successfully fills this gap.