Is Glock 17 illegal in California?

Asked by: Kelly Sawayn IV  |  Last update: March 20, 2025
Score: 4.6/5 (66 votes)

For instance, the Glock 17 Gen 3 is legal in California, but the Glock 17 Gen 4 is NOT.

Can I have a Glock 17 in California?

As long as you're not a felon or other person not allowed to own firearms and are a citizen of California (or have a green card) then you'll be allowed to buy a GLOCK.

What glocks are banned in California?

Gen 4 and Gen 5 Glocks are illegal in California because that are not on the approved list.

Can anyone own a Glock 17?

I own a Glock 17. It is not illegal.

Can you carry a Glock 17?

It is possible to conceal carry a Glock 17, but there are several considerations if attempting to do so. The Glock 17 is a full-sized 9mm handgun, which means its physical dimensions (length, height, and width) are larger than those of compact or subcompact handguns.

New gun laws take effect in 2024 in California | Here's what you need to know

40 related questions found

Is the Glock 17 considered compact?

The Glock 17, while still a relatively compact pistol, is slightly larger and may be more difficult to conceal, especially for those with smaller frames. However, the Glock 17 offers more carry options, including the ability to carry it in a duty holster or on a belt.

Is the Glock 17 being discontinued?

Overview of the Glock 47 and Glock 17

With a 17-round magazine, it is a staple for military, law enforcement, and civilian use worldwide. Sadly, the Glock 17 is now a discontinued pistol model.

What Glock can civilians not buy?

While it is easy to understand why the Glock 18 is banned, it isn't as clear with the Glock 25 and Glock 28—but this comes down to the Gun Control Act of 1968, which set new criteria for the importation of guns.

Is a Glock 17 a good first gun?

The Glock Auto Pistol is easily disassembled for cleaning

But it's only ahead by a nose, all previous generations are good-to-go! A G17 was the pistol I bought my wife when she was learning to shoot. Comfortable and easy to shoot with total reliability, it's my #1 pick for a beginner.

Why are glocks illegal?

A Glock pistol with an illegal conversion device, sometimes referred to as a Glock switch. The small piece, which is illegal and not manufactured by Glock, can convert a semi-automatic pistol into a fully automatic one.

Is Glock 19 or 17 better?

In many ways, the Glock 19 is seen as the more versatile and useful handgun. While the G17 has spawned a number of variants and separate models (like the Glock 34) and mods that make it a fantastic competition pistol, the Glock 19 has proved better suited for tactical and defensive roles.

What firearms are illegal in California?

For example, California bans the following assault weapons by name: Beretta AR-70, Springfield Armory BM59 and SAR-48, Steyer AUG, Sterling MK-6, and the Bushmaster Assault Rifle. (Pen. Code, § 30510.) These are often referred to as Category One assault weapons.

Why is a Glock 17 gen 4 illegal in California?

If Glock wanted to add the Gen 4 and Gen 5 models, they would have to have microstamping, as well as a loaded chamber indicator and a magazine disconnect. These three things are not part of the Glock design and would be too costly for manufacturers to make one specific line of handguns for California only.

Can you use a Glock 17 for hunting?

Use a Glock to Hunt in the Right Situations

The compact size, reliability, and firepower of a Glock make it versatile and practical — when combined with the right ammo. Be sure to know your local laws before hunting with your handgun. Take the time to practice, plan your shot placement, and always prioritize safety.

Can I modify my Glock in California?

Modifications are allowed for approved CCW listed firearms so long as all parts/modifications are legal in the State of California. All firearm modifications must be inspected at the time of training to ensure the firearm is in safe working order.

Is Glock 17 legal?

For instance, the Glock 17 Gen 3 is legal in California, but the Glock 17 Gen 4 is NOT. Why? Mostly timing and politics. Or, maybe the dangerous-looking finger grooves in this photo of the Gen 4.

What Glocks can you buy in California?

You can only buy a Gen 3 glock in California brand new from a FFL. If you wanted to get a newer generation glock you would have to buy it from a private seller and have a FFL complete the sales transaction.

Do cops use Glock 17 or 19?

While the Glock 17 is the premier pistol for uniformed American law enforcement, the Glock 19 is not far behind and is the top choice for non-uniformed cops. Both are also incredibly popular with individual gun owners and obviously, both are outstanding pistols.

Why is the Glock 17 so popular?

A report by the anti-violence organization Everytown for Gun Safety says criminals often choose Glocks because they're relatively cheap and easy to operate and modify. But the brand is perhaps best known for its popularity among law enforcement officers, who almost exclusively carry Glock handguns.

Is the GLOCK 47 basically a Glock 17?

The Glock 47 is a full-size gun that is identical to the Glock 17 in size but uses the recoil spring of the Glock 19. The G47 slide is cut for Glock's MOS (modular optics system) optics mounting plates.

Why choose Glock 45 over 17?

The choice largely boils down to personal preference. With the Glock 45 having a slightly smaller profile, it may be slightly better for concealed or plainclothes carry. The Glock 17, with its longer barrel and sight radius may be slightly more accurate and better for duty carry…but we are really splitting hairs.

Why do seals use Glock 19 instead of 17?

It's smaller than most duty-sized handguns, like the M9, M17, and M1911. The Glock 19 is a good in-between size that allows it to serve as both a duty handgun and a concealable firearm. The CIA and Marines specifically wanted a concealable pistol with the Glock 19.

What is the most popular Glock?

Sharing much of the same utilitarian features that popularized the full-sized G17, the sought after Glock 19 is the most widely sold Glock pistol on the market today.