Archive for September, 2025

Understanding Firearm Laws for Nonimmigrant Aliens: A Guide for Gun Ranges and Owners

Understanding Firearm Laws for Nonimmigrant Aliens: A Guide for Gun Ranges and Owners

The United States has strict federal regulations governing firearm possession, particularly for nonimmigrant aliens—individuals admitted to the U.S. on temporary, nonimmigrant visas such as tourist (B-2), student (F-1), or work (H-1B) visas. Under 18 U.S.C. 922(g)(5)(B), nonimmigrant aliens are generally prohibited from shipping, transporting, receiving, or possessing firearms or ammunition. This restriction has significant implications for gun ranges, firearm retailers,…read more →

22 Sep, 2025
California’s Firearm Background Check System: Databases Used

California’s Firearm Background Check System: Databases Used

In California, purchasing a firearm involves a rigorous background check process designed to ensure public safety while adhering to state and federal laws. Governed primarily by California Penal Code Section 28220, the Department of Justice (DOJ) conducts these checks to determine if a prospective buyer is prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm. This article explores the key databases involved,…read more →

19 Sep, 2025
Common Causes of Delays, Denials, or Undetermined Transactions in California Firearm Purchases

Common Causes of Delays, Denials, or Undetermined Transactions in California Firearm Purchases

Purchasing a firearm in California requires passing a background check through the Dealer Record of Sale (DROS) process, managed by the state’s Department of Justice (DOJ) Bureau of Firearms. This system verifies a buyer’s eligibility based on state and federal laws, cross-referencing criminal records, mental health flags, and other prohibitions. While many transactions are approved quickly, others can result in…read more →

17 Sep, 2025
Understanding Background Check Processes and Standards Under the NFA and GCA

Understanding Background Check Processes and Standards Under the NFA and GCA

The National Firearms Act (NFA) of 1934 and the Gun Control Act (GCA) of 1968 form the backbone of federal firearms regulation in the United States. While the GCA focuses on general firearm commerce and prohibits certain individuals from possessing guns, the NFA imposes stricter controls on specific “Title II” items like suppressors, short-barreled rifles, machine guns, and destructive devices…read more →

15 Sep, 2025
Minimum Age to Purchase Firearms in California

Minimum Age to Purchase Firearms in California

California has some of the strictest firearm laws in the United States, with age requirements that generally align with or exceed federal minimums. These laws are governed by the California Penal Code and enforced by the California Department of Justice (DOJ). Below, I’ll break down the key age restrictions for purchasing different types of firearms from licensed dealers (which is…read more →

12 Sep, 2025