Tag: Gun laws

  • 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.

  • 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.