Hi,
I’m new to the firearm world – thought it might be something interesting to get into. I know that in CA, you need a Handgun Safety Certificate in order to PURCHASE a handgun, but do I need any type of certification in order to be in posession or operation of one? I thought it would be nice to start out by going to a shooting range, but I wasn’t sure if I need any type of license.
Thanks!
Hunting, shooting and target practise are some of the most popular pastimes in the USA, but make that you learn all about the rules and regulations regarding firearms and their safe use.
There are many questions being asked about firearm license, find some of the best answers on this site, so be sure to checkout the other posts about firearm license
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If you are just going to a range with a friend and using their firearms there is no license is required, though I highly suggest you take a NRA safety course, or at least read some firearm safety books to familiarize yourself with the shooting sports. You may want to do some research on the operation of the various types of firearms as well (Semi-auto, single action, for pistols). At any rate, as long as you go with someone who is in legal ownership of the pistols, and they are present at all times, you can use them with their permission.
*Keep the gun pointed down range, or in a safe direction ALWAYS. Don’t point it at anything you don’t want to blow to hell.
*Keep the gun unloaded until you are ready to shoot it at your target at the range.
*Keep your finger outside the trigger guard and away from the trigger, until you are ready to take your shot.
Have fun, stay safe.
you need a license in any state.
If you are talking about a concealed weapons permit, that mean to carry a gun around on your person out in public then the answer is yes. I used to live in California and in order to get such a permit is very difficult, you must have a certain reason why you want to have a firearm like that. I myself applied for the permit because i worked in a dangerous area and they turned me down. In other states it is easier to get a permit it just depends, but California it is difficult to get one.
The following link will most likely be able to give you all the information you need (and more) regarding the relevant laws in CA.
From the quick look I just had, in regard to handguns, you don’t need a permit to purchase one, however your purchase will be recorded with the relevant police department (registration in other words). You do not need a "license" however if you intend to carry concealed, you will need a permit.
California, as far as guns go..and a lot of other things, is much like the Peoples Republic of Anywhere. Cali is not a "shall issue state" . Actually..I could rant and rave here…but that’s not going to help you..or me..so just check this site out…
http://www.packing.org/state/california/
To carry it on your person you need a concealed carry permit, which you will not get unless you are a rich businessman or movie star. (In the Socialist Republic of California)
I’m in Ca and own several ones:
1) Yes, you do need a Handgun Safety Cert.
2) No, you don’t need a licence to own one, unless you plan to carry it in the streets (good luck getting one)
3) For trasportation to & fro the gun range, handgun in the front seat in plain view & ammo in the trunk. Ammo & gun arre never to be trasnported side by side.
4) If you’ve a felony in any state, forget it. Can’t get one, even a DUI.
5) Entering the range, gun case open and gun uncocked and opened.
6) No need to present anything at the gun range, just your driver’s license.