Gen 4 Glocks, popular handguns manufactured by Glock, have been the subject of controversy in California due to their legality. Understanding why Gen 4 Glocks are illegal in California requires an examination of the state’s strict firearm regulations and the specific features of these firearms that do not meet the state’s requirements.
California’s Firearm Regulations
California has some of the strictest firearm regulations in the United States. The state’s laws aim to control the availability and use of firearms to enhance public safety. These regulations govern various aspects of firearm ownership, including the sale, purchase, transfer, and possession of firearms.
California law requires all new handgun models to undergo a process called the Safe Handgun Roster testing and certification. This means that firearms must meet certain safety and functionality requirements established by California’s Department of Justice to be legal for sale and purchase in the state. Unfortunately, Gen 4 Glocks did not pass the certification process and are therefore considered illegal in California.
The Magazine Disconnect Feature
One specific reason why Gen 4 Glocks are illegal in California is the absence of the magazine disconnect feature. This feature prevents the firearm from being fired when the magazine is removed. California law mandates the inclusion of this feature for all handguns sold in the state. Since Gen 4 Glocks lack this particular safety mechanism, they do not comply with California’s requirements and, therefore, cannot be legally purchased or sold in the state.
The Microstamping Requirement
California law also imposes a microstamping requirement on new handgun models. This means that firearms must have the ability to imprint specific identifying information on expended cartridge cases when fired. Gen 4 Glocks, unfortunately, lack this microstamping feature, leading to their non-compliance with California’s regulations and, consequently, their illegality in the state.
The “Drop Test” Safety Certification
Another aspect of California’s firearm regulations is the “drop test” safety certification. This certification ensures that handguns can withstand accidental drops without discharging. Gen 4 Glocks, although designed and manufactured to meet high safety standards, did not pass this specific drop test certification required by California law. As a result, these handguns are deemed illegal in the state.
The Odd Handgun Roster Process
California’s handgun roster process, as outlined earlier, requires all new handgun models to undergo safety and functionality testing for certification. However, once a handgun model is certified and included on the roster, manufacturers are required to pay a fee to maintain its eligibility on the list. Unfortunately, Glock did not submit their Gen 4 models for roster certification, which led to their absence on the list and their consequent illegality in California.
Here is a table summarizing the key reasons why Gen 4 Glocks are illegal in California:
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Lack of Magazine Disconnect | Gen 4 Glocks do not include the required safety feature that prevents firing when the magazine is removed. |
| Microstamping Requirement | Gen 4 Glocks do not possess the ability to imprint identifying information on expended cartridge cases as required by California law. |
| Failed Drop Test | Gen 4 Glocks did not pass the specific drop test safety certification mandated by California’s regulations. |
| Absence from Handgun Roster | Glock did not submit their Gen 4 models for certification and, therefore, they are not included on California’s handgun roster. |
The Closing Thoughts
California’s stringent firearm regulations enforce specific safety requirements that all handguns must meet to be legally sold and possessed in the state. Unfortunately, Gen 4 Glocks do not comply with these requirements, leading to their illegality in California. It’s important to understand and respect these regulations to ensure the safety and compliance of firearm ownership in the state.