California has some of the most complex firearms, parts, and ammunition laws in the United States. These laws do not just regulate complete firearms—they also apply to parts, accessories, tools, and ammunition. For an out-of-state online retailer like Arm Or Ally, the compliance burden and legal risk make selling into California impractical.
What is AB 1263 and why is it an issue?
California Assembly Bill 1263 (AB 1263), effective January 1, 2026, expands both criminal and civil liability related to firearm manufacturing and parts. The law allows prosecutors or private parties to claim that a seller “facilitated” or “aided” unlawful firearm manufacturing, even if the seller never built a firearm or intended misuse.
Official bill text:
https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/.../AB1263
Could Arm Or Ally face criminal charges?
Yes. Under California Penal Code §29186, a business can face criminal liability if it is accused of knowingly or willfully helping, encouraging, or facilitating unlawful firearm manufacturing. Even defending against such claims can be extremely costly.
Penal Code reference:
https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/.../29186
Are there civil lawsuits involved?
Yes. California’s Firearm Industry Responsibility Act (FIRA) allows civil lawsuits—including private lawsuits—against firearm industry members. A business can be sued if it is claimed that it did not maintain “reasonable controls,” even if no crime occurred.
FIRA reference:
California Civil Code – Firearm Industry Responsibility Act
Do these rules only apply to firearms?
No. California law can apply to firearm parts, accessories, barrels, certain tools, and ammunition. This makes it difficult to clearly determine what is allowed to ship and creates a high risk of accidental noncompliance.
What about ammunition?
California generally does not allow direct-to-consumer ammunition shipments. Ammo must go through licensed California vendors, adding cost, delays, and legal risk for out-of-state sellers.
California DOJ ammunition rules:
https://oag.ca.gov/firearms/apfaqs
Are more restrictions coming?
Yes. California has already passed laws that will require eligibility checks for firearm barrels beginning in 2027, signaling that regulations will continue to expand.
California DOJ bulletin:
https://oag.ca.gov/.../ghost-gun
Is this a political decision?
No. This is a business and risk-management decision. Complying with California law would require separate systems for checkout, verification, shipping, legal review, and ongoing compliance—while still exposing Arm Or Ally to lawsuits or prosecution.
Will Arm Or Ally ship to California in the future?
At this time, no. Until California law becomes clearer, more stable, and less punitive toward out-of-state retailers, Arm Or Ally has chosen not to sell or ship to California residents.
