Category: Firearms

  • Proposition 63 and FFLs

    Proposition 63 and FFLs

    We are a few months in to 2018, which, in California, means a few months in to the ammunition regulations found in Propositions 63. As of January 1, 2018, all ammunition sales must happen face-to-face with an FFL dealer or licensed ammunition vendor in the state of California. It is no longer legal to buy ammunition online or via catalogue, and have the items shipped unless it goes through an FFL or licensed ammunition vendor and picked up in person by the customer.

    Proposition 63 and FFLs

    Proposition 63 & FFLs

    Since the revealing of Proposition 63, California has seen a huge uptick in applications for licensed ammunition vendors. Unfortunately, it’s being reported that the state was not prepared to process and approve the influx of applications they have been receiving. Meaning, many folks sit in limbo waiting for their application to be approved before they can sell ammunition. Establishments that are California Licensed Firearms Dealers are automatically considered a licensed ammunition vendor without having to submit for addition licensing. This has made the transition into these new regulations much smoother at Lambert Pawn as we have been licensed by California for many years as a firearms dealer.

    What is an FFL?

    As gun owners and enthusiasts settle into the numerous new “rules” of Proposition 63, a lot of people are wondering, “What is an FFL and why are they now a part of my ammunition purchase?” In short, FFL stands for Federal Firearms License. Holding an FFL allows a person or organization to legally take part in the manufacturing, selling or importation of firearms and ammunition with application and approval from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The California state government doesn’t stop there as they require additional application measures and contingencies beyond what the federal government requires, including a yearly license renewal.

    Why are FFLs Required?

    Now that you have a short description of what it means to be “FFL”, we can move on to the second question on everyone’s mind. Why do FFLs have to be personally involved in my firearm transaction? The long and short of it is California is using these new requirements to keep a closer eye on who is buying ammunition. Now when purchases are made, a licensed firearms dealer will require the purchaser to show proof of residency and a gun safety certificate. The FFL is also required to demonstrate safe handling skills for the gear in question. FFLs are also mandated reporters of lost or stolen firearms. This means, fewer stolen guns being sold online or person to person (assuming the purchaser is law-abiding).

    No matter your take or opinion on the new laws and processes in place, they are in fact in place and unlawful to ignore.

    Have more questions on Proposition 63? We have answers for you in this blog post.

  • California Proposition 63 FAQs

    California Proposition 63 FAQs

    The start of 2018 isn’t just another year or another resolution to keep if you are a Californian. As of January 1, 2018, California’s Proposition 63 law has taken effect. As the bill is set to continue to roll-out over the next 18 months, many are questioning what exactly this new law means to them today. So, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 most frequently asked questions we’ve received here at Lambert Pawn.

    California Proposition 63 FAQs

    California Proposition 63 FAQs

    Question 1: Can I still own an assault rifle?

    Yes, you can still own an assault rifle. However, you can no longer buy one. The assault rifles you currently own must be registered with the state by June 30, 2018.

    Question 2: Can I buy ammunition online?

    Yes, but you cannot have the ammunition shipped to your home, or any other personal space. All ammunition purchased online or through a catalog must be shipped to a licensed dealer.

    Question 3: What is the limit on how much ammunition I can buy?

    There is no limit on the amount of ammo you can buy.

    Question 4: What do I do if I buy ammunition out of state?

    Don’t. As of January 1, 2018, you can no longer drive ammunition across state lines. Period.

    Question 5: Who can I loan my firearm to?

    Only immediate family.

    Question 6: If I want to sell or give away my own ammunition because I won’t use it, what do I do?

    You will need to locate a vendor licensed by the Department of Justice (like Lambert Pawn). The vendor must oversee and conduct the entire process of transferring the ownership of the ammunition.

    Question 7: Do I need to pass a background check to purchase ammunition?

    Yes. It has long been standard practice to pass a background check to buy a gun. However, as of July 1, 2019, firearm owners will need to pass a background check for every ammunition purchase they make.

    Question 8: What about reloading supplies?

    Reloading supplies such as bare bullets and empty cartridges do not need to be shipped to a licensed DOJ vendor if bought online. These purchases can still be shipped to personal addresses.

    Question 9: What do I do if my gun is lost or stolen?

    You must report any instances of lost or stolen firearms within 5 days of the incident. Failing to do so may result in fines of up to $1,000 per occurrence.

    Question 10: What is considered an assault weapon?

    Assault weapons are now defined in California as “semiautomatic centerfire rifle, or a semiautomatic pistol that does not have a fixed magazine but has any one of those specific attributes.”

    While this is our list of most frequently asked questions on Proposition 63, we understand that there are many more questions you may have. As a licensed DOJ vendor, we are happy to help answer those questions at any time. Also, it’s important to note that we are not attorneys and this does not constitute legal advice. We encourage you to always research the laws yourself or consult with a firearms attorney.

  • Target Ammunition Vs. Defense Rounds

    Target Ammunition Vs. Defense Rounds

    The most common misconception we find with new gun owners surrounds ammunition. Regardless of whether the owner is planning to take up target shooting, hunting or looking for a means of self-defense, they seem to believe that when it comes to ammunition, they can simply look at the size and cost to make their choice. Not only is that information not true, but it can be dangerous! We’ve previously talked about the  ammunitions needs for hunting purposes, so today we want to explain the differences and purposes between target ammunition and defense rounds.

    Target Ammunition vs Defense Rounds

    Target Ammunition vs Defense Rounds

    Target ammunition is much less expensive than defense rounds, which is why some novice and even advanced shooters will choose target ammunition over defense rounds for their carry weapon. Unfortunately, not all ammunition is created equal, and if you ever need to use your weapon for self-defense you may end up in trouble. Most target ammunition is lightweight with a soft interior (usually lead material) surrounded by a full metal jacket. They are less expensive to produce and therefore cheaper to purchase.

    While target ammunition may be less expensive, it is also less effective because of its design. Target ammunition will not expand or fragment when it hits a target simply because that is not what it is designed to do. Whereas defense rounds are specifically manufactured to create damage to the object or target that it hits. Commonly called hollow-point projectiles, these bullets feature a cavity on the tip of the bullet. This cavity, or hollow-point, causes the bullet to expand upon impact causing a significantly higher amount of damage than a bullet meant for target practice will. In fact, the purpose of the hollow-point goes even farther than to create damage. When the tip of the bullet expands, it makes it much more likely to stay within the target, keeping it from wounding others in the surrounding area. Target ammunition will not cause the same amount of damage as seen with defense rounds nor will it inflict the same amount of pain to the target you are trying to defend yourself or your family against. Even worse, because it is a close-nosed projectile, it will likely fly straight through the target hitting other objects or people nearby. Not the damage you are hoping to create when you are on the defense.

    We all hope that we will never have to use our carry weapon for self-defense. But if you do, make sure you defend yourself with ammo that will stop the threat and keep those around you safe. If you are having trouble choosing the right ammunition for target practice or for your carry weapon, we are happy to help match you to the best fit. Our selection of ammunition can match the right purpose, size and price for every gun and its owner.

  • Differences in Rifles, Shotguns & Handguns and their Ammunition

    Differences in Rifles, Shotguns & Handguns and their Ammunition

    With the rollout of California’s Proposition 63 starting in just a few weeks, we thought it would be helpful to go through the differences between rifles, shotguns and handguns, and the ammunition required for each.

    differences in rifles handguns and shotguns and their ammunition

    Differences in Rifles, Handguns and Shotguns

    You may or may not know that the essential difference between these 3 firearms are their barrels. Rifles have thick spiraling grooves cut into the bore of the gun. Shotguns are long and smooth on the inside of the barrel, and made from thin steel. Handguns are actually very similar to rifles; they also have grooved patterns cut into the inside of the barrel. The difference between rifles and handguns is simply the length of the bore.

    Next we will cover the reasons for these differences and what each gun is intended for.

    Rifles, Handguns and Shotguns & their Ammunition

    Rifles and Handguns

    The spiraling grooves on the inside of the bore of a rifle or handgun causes bullets to spin upon firing. The spin is essential to the accuracy of a shot but also aids in a bullet’s ability to reach a greater distance. Of course, the accuracy of a shot greatly depends on the skill of the shooter. However, the rifle or handgun model also can have an impact.

    The size of a gun’s bore indicates what caliber bullet the firearm requires. It is important to know that while caliber size may be universal to the size of the bore, cartridges are not interchangeable to every firearm. Every rifle and handgun are designed for a specific cartridge. You will need to look at the firearm’s data stamp to determine what type of cartridge is required. If you cannot find the data stamp, bring it in to Lambert Pawn and we can help you find the right ammunition.

    Shotguns

    The ammunition fired by a shotgun is not exactly a single bullet at all, but instead hundreds of tiny particles formed into a shell, that disperse upon firing. Shotguns are a popular choice for home defense purposes as they are meant for short to medium range distances and their ability to create a large amount of damage without a high skill of accuracy from the shooter. However, many also enjoy bird hunting with smaller gauge shotguns.

    Unlike rifles and handguns, shotgun ammunition is referred to in gauges. Common shotgun gauges are 10-gauge, 12-gauge, 16-gauge, 20-gauge and 28-gauge, with 10 gauge being the largest size and getting smaller from there. Shotgun ammunition is referred to as shells. Shells are not interchangeable among different gauge sizes (i.e. a 10-gauge shotgun can only shoot 10-gauge ammunition). To find the gauge of a particular shotgun, you can look on the rear of the barrel. Ammunition or shells should display their gauge on the shell itself.

    Determining the right ammunition for your firearm is not only potentially confusing or possibly intimidating if you are a first-time gun owner, but it is also critical. Using the incorrect ammunition with firearms can cause an explosion and will likely harm you and the people around you. People have died from firing their gun with the incorrect ammunition. Please do not take this lightly.

    If you need help matching your firearm to the correct ammunition come in to Lambert Pawn and we will be happy to assist.

  • Lead-Free Ammunition

    Lead-Free Ammunition

    By 2019, lead-free ammunition will be required for all hunting. If you’re wondering what the big deal is over lead ammunition or are worried how lead-free ammunition will impact your hunt, then this article is for you.

    Lead-Free Ammunition

    Why Lead-Free Ammunition?

    Lead ammunition has been used in hunting and sport shooting since what seems like forever because it is easy to make at an affordable price. It is true that lead-free ammunition is a bit more expensive, but the positives most definitely outweigh the negatives.

    Lead-free ammunition ensures the highest quality meat from your hunt.

    Lead bullets leave harmful remnants throughout the meat as it passes through an animal. The particles left behind are so small that they are impossible to find or remove; however it is still dangerous to ingest. Some skeptics argue that lead-free bullets are less effective, but science can prove otherwise. Performance-wise, lead-free bullets made from copper or gilded metal have a better weight retention and penetration, which means the bullets can crush bone and create the organ and tissue damage you want during a hunt. Lead-free bullets also do not fragment like lead bullets do, which means that when it hits the animal, it has retained more energy and can therefore pass more energy on to the animal and create more internal damage. Documentation also shows that because of lead-free bullets weight and lack of fragmentation, it is more likely to create a large exit wound, which leaves a better trail of blood allowing for a more likely recovery.

    Lead-free is safer for everyone.

    Beyond the concerns of lead remnants in your food is the negative impact lead ammunition has on the environment. If you are an avid hunter, we can only assume you are a nature lover. So, you will be happy to know that using lead-free ammunition will result in the elimination of secondary loss of wildlife. With lead bullets, you run the risk of remnants from the ammunition be left at the scene of the hunt where it can potentially be ingested by other wildlife. It is a well-known fact that lead bullets unintentionally kill bald eagles and other wildlife from the harmful lead remnants left behind.

    Not so much of a conservationist? That’s fine, but think about the dust residue from lead ammunition that you are inhaling during your hunts. Or that your children are inhaling on your hunts. Due to the change in law come 2019, you can already find more and more calibers and weights of lead-free bullets. We carry a wide variety of lead-free ammunition at Lambert Pawn currently and will continue to expand our selection to meet your ammunition needs.

  • California Proposition 63

    California Proposition 63

    If you are a licensed gun owner in the state of California, you’ve likely heard of Proposition 63. Proposition 63 places stronger requirements on the purchase and possession of ammunition. While there is strong support for the new law, there is also a strong voice of opposition. Opponents to the law argue that the law violates the rights of the second amendment. Regardless, the law is still on track to take effect beginning January 1, 2018.

    California Proposition 63

    California Proposition 63

    In summary, Proposition 63 states that as of January 1, 2018, it will be illegal to purchase ammunition, reloading bullets and brass, magazines and speed loaders via the internet or mail orders without shipping to a licensed dealer. However, there is more to the law that will affect gun owners as well as ammunition dealers, like Lambert Pawn. Here is what you need to know about the law.

    • A background check will be required in order to purchase ammunition in California
    • Dealers must obtain a 1-year license from the Department of Justice (DOJ)
    • Purchasing ammunition out-of-state and returning with the purchased ammunition to California will risk a misdemeanor charge
    • In order to give or sell personal ammunition to another individual, owners will need to seek out a licensed dealer to act as a middle-man and essentially oversee the transfer.

    Essentially, the state of California is trying to ensure background checks are taking place and that the individuals verifying the checks are also verified (licensed) through the Department of Justice. The law was introduced and passed with the hope that it will keep guns and ammunition out of the wrong hands by closing loopholes in existing gun laws. Supporters of the law say that the law does in fact protect the rights of law-abiding citizens’ abilities to bear arms as allowed by the second amendment.

    Lambert Pawn is a proud dealer of guns and ammunition and is licensed by the Department of Justice. We look forward to partnering with you for all your ammunition needs and are happy to answer any questions regarding the new law and required background checks for the purchase of ammunition.

  • How to Clean your Gun Before Pawning or Selling

    How to Clean your Gun Before Pawning or Selling

    There is no question that when you want to pawn or sell an item, you should put your best foot forward. You should be prepared to answer questions about your item, have an idea of the current value of the item and be prepared to walk away from the deal. However, it is also important to remember that your item’s first impression is just as important as yours. Make sure you clean off cobwebs, wipe off dirt, and if possible, remove rust spots before trying to pawn or sell your gun.

    How to Clean a Gun before Pawning or Selling

    How to Clean your Gun Before Pawning or Selling

    One of the more difficult items to clean is a firearm. There are a lot of moving parts, tough to reach areas, and sometimes, signs of age that can be difficult to erase.

    Step 1: Prepare the Area

    Cleaning a gun typically creates a mess. For this reason, you will want to find a space where you don’t mind the mess or that can easily be cleaned up.

    Step 2: Gather your Supplies

    There are a few must have items when cleaning your firearm. Make sure you gather these items before you begin.

    • Toothbrush
    • Cotton Rag
    • Gun Cleaning Solvent
    • Copper or Brass Brush
    • Thin Gun Oil

    Step 3: Remove Surface Dirt

    Use your dry cotton rag to remove any surface level dirt or sediment off the firearm. Remove the gun’s barrel so you can wipe inside. Removing as much dirt and grime during this step will make the remaining cleaning process smoother.

    Step 4: Remove Rust

    Many pistols are made with polymer components so you will want to separate those pieces from the steel pieces. The reason being is that we recommend cleaning rust off with a copper or brass brush. However, a copper brush will scratch the polymer pieces; which is why you will want to separate the two materials when removing rust. A small toothbrush should suffice to clean off grime from the polymer.

    Steel Components Include:

    • Upper Receiver
    • Barrel
    • Recoil Springs
    • Magazine

    Use your copper or brass brush to begin removing rust from the steel pieces of your firearm. Repeatedly shake out the gun during cleaning to remove lose rust particles. This may be the most time-consuming part of cleaning your firearm depending on the amount of rust. Finish by wiping the firearm with your dry cotton rag.

    Step 5: Apply Solvent

    Applying cleaning solvent to your firearm is an optional step. The solvent will help breakdown any remaining dirt or grime that is difficult to see or reach. Use your toothbrush to scrub inside any cracks or crevices you cannot reach.

    Step 6: Apply Gun Oil

    Wipe down your firearm with gun oil to prevent rust from forming on the gun. You only need a very small amount to provide your gun with added protection. If you accidentally apply too much oil, you can easily use your cotton cloth to wipe down the gun and remove the excess.

    After following these steps, your firearm should look shiny and new. You are now ready to visit your pawn shop and begin negotiations. As always, be sure to bring your firearm to the shop unloaded and securely locked in its case. It’s important to always follow safety guidelines for safe handling of firearms.

  • Can I Pawn my Firearm in California?

    Can I Pawn my Firearm in California?

    If you are in need of a pawn loan and have been wondering if a firearm is something you can pawn, we’re here to help explain not only that you can, in fact, pawn your firearm, but also what to expect from the process in our area, including what to bring along with you when you take in your firearm for valuation.

    gun consignment in Whittier CA

    Can I Pawn my Firearm in California?

    Pawn shops must be federally licensed to offer pawn loans for firearms. While there are not too many restrictions on the type of firearm that a pawn shop will deal with, there are a few guidelines to follow when bringing your firearm in as collateral.

    • Call ahead to be sure that the pawn shop deals with firearms.
    • Bring your firearm to the pawn shop in its locked case, unloaded along with any accessories you have for the gun.
    • You must provide a state-issued photo ID and be over 18 years of age.
    • Be prepared to complete a background check at the shop before pawning the firearm OR before having the firearm returned to you after fulfillment of the loan agreement. This step is dependent on your pawn shop and may or may not be required.

    There are no heavy restrictions on the types of firearms that qualify for pawn loans other than, of course, the firearm being street legal. Below are the 3 most common categories of firearms considered for pawn loans.

    • Mechanically functioning quality handguns or rifles will typically be considered as collateral for a pawn loan.
    • If your firearm is brand new or “like new”, it will likely be considered and its collateral value will increase.
    • Antique firearms are especially popular, specifically rifles from the Civil War. If you have an antique firearm, your local pawn shop will follow their standard process for guaranteeing the authenticity of the piece before making an offer.

    As with any pawn loan, expect the offer on your firearm to be 30-60% of the current market value. If you decide to accept the loan offer, make sure you fully understand the parameters of the loan (i.e. loan term, payments, etc.).

    Please be sure to use the best firearms handling standards, and you’ll be all set.

    Have a question about pawning your firearm or want to stop in with yours? Here’s all our contact information for you.

  • What You Need to Know about Firearms Consignment

    What You Need to Know about Firearms Consignment

    Get money for your firearms from Lambert PawnIf you own firearms, you may wonder about selling firearms on consignment. There are many lines of thinking about this, but if you’d like to sell your guns for a fair price, consignment can often help you get the best price for your guns.

    Before you get started, there are a few things you should know in order to make sure you enter into the firearms consignment process as informed as possible.

    How Does Firearms Consignment Work?

    First, it’s important to understand how consignment works in general. A consignment sale is one where the owner of the item (you) remains the owner until the piece is sold to a third party. What that means is that you take your firearm to a consignment store and make an agreement that they will sell it on your behalf since they have access to more people interested in purchasing firearms than you do. You go home but retain ownership of the gun. When the shop sells the gun to a third party, you receive relinquish ownership and receive payment.

    3 Things to Know about Gun Consignment

    • Consignment Fees Since the gun consignment shop is doing work to bring your gun to a new owner, they receive a portion of the sale price. This consignment fee is not paid until the firearm is sold. There should be no upfront costs to firearm consignment. However, consignment fees can range from 15-25%. Make sure you know what the consignment fee is and why. A lower fee is not always better – it may mean you get a lower price for your firearm or it takes longer to sell since the shop does not intend to work hard to sell it. Alternately, a high fee is not always better. It may simply mean the shop wants more money. Make sure you know whether the fee is fair for the work that’s being done.
    • Firearm Promotion In order to sell well, it’s important to understand how your firearms will be promoted. Some shops take high quality photos and get a full, detailed description of the firearm to provide to potential buyers. This can increase the likelihood that buyers will come in to see your item. Some shops have a special rack designed for guns that are on consignment. Regardless of what their practice is, it is important that you understand how your item will be promoted and how likely it is to sell.
    • Licensed Dealers There are plenty of people who are willing to take a cut of your profit in exchange for selling your firearm. However, if these shops are not properly licensed on a local, state and federal level, this can spell trouble for your consignment deal. Make sure you’re working with a professional firearms consignment shop that is properly licensed at all required levels.

    Firearms consignment can be an excellent way to get the best value for your firearms. However, it is not something you should jump into uninformed. If you still have questions about firearms consignment, we’re happy to help. Feel free to contact us to learn more about firearms consignment in your area.