California-Legal Glocks: What’s on the Roster, Why Gen 3 Is Legal, and What AB 1127 Could Mean (2025 Update)

California-Legal Glocks: What’s on the Roster, Why Gen 3 Is Legal, and What AB 1127 Could Mean (2025 Update)

Posted by B on Aug 30th 2025

ast updated: August 30, 2025. Not legal advice—always verify via the CA DOJ roster before purchasing.


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Product availability shifts quickly. We mark “CA DOJ Certified” clearly on every product page. Always confirm roster status via DOJ before purchase.


Why Gen 3 Glocks Are Legal (and Gen 4/5 Generally Aren’t)

California’s Roster of Handguns Certified for Sale allows only certain models to be sold by dealers. Many Gen 3 Glocks were certified long ago and remain grandfathered. In contrast, Gen 4 and Gen 5 models were introduced after California’s 2013 requirement for microstamping, a ballistic ID technology that no manufacturer practically implemented—thus blocking newer models from joining the roster. YouTube+5CalMatters+5Facebook+5Wikipedia+2Wikipedia+2

While some legal challenges (like Boland v. Bonta) temporarily enjoined certain new-model requirements, no new Gen 4 or Gen 5 Glocks are currently roster-listed for standard dealer sale in California. Wikipedia


What’s AB 1127? And How Could It Impact Gen 3 Glocks?

AB 1127, currently pending, aims to close the loophole of “DIY” fully automatic Glock conversions. It would:

What this means for Gen 3 Glocks:

Here’s how further advocates describe it:

“…this bill would prohibit gun dealers from selling firearms that can be easily converted into fully automatic weapons ... Current gun owners and law enforcement won’t be affected ... It won’t be illegal to possess these guns … or sell them in a private sale…” Facebook+3Moms Demand Action+3Moms Demand Action+3


So — Gen 3 Glocks: Still Legit to Sell (for Now)

Timeline Dealer Sales? Details
Now – end of 2025 Yes, for roster-approved Gen 3 models Standard legal pathway remains unchanged.
Jan 1, 2026 – onward Only if Glocks are redesigned to block conversion or are grandfathered pre‑2026 inventory Dealer sales of Gen 3 models may be barred unless reforms occur.
Private sales Yes Transfers outside dealer channel remain exempt.

Gen 3 Glock: A Bit of Context

Introduced in the late 1990s, Gen 3 added the accessory rail, finger grooves, and improved ergonomics—building the icon California shooters still rely on. Gen 4 and Gen 5 brought more modularity and new barrel designs—but didn’t make the roster. Cash for Arms


2025–2028 Outlook: What Else Could Shift?

  • SB 452 (2023): Starting January 1, 2028, California requires microstamping for all new semi-auto pistols sold—another challenge unless technology is implemented. Wikipedia+2Senate Public Safety Committee+2

  • Ongoing litigation: Cases like Boland v. Bonta and Renna v. Bonta continue to shape whether new models can be added. For now, only rostered (mostly Gen 3) models are straightforward. Wikipedia

  • AB 1127 implementation: If passed, dealers may need redesign-compliant Gen 3 variants or transition inventory; timeline and legal appeals could delay enforcement.


Best Picks: Gen 3 Glocks That Are (Still) CA-Legal

  • Home Defense / Duty: Glock 17 Gen 3 or Glock 34 Gen 3

  • All‑Around Compact: Glock 19 Gen 3

  • Concealed Carry / Smallest 9mm: Glock 26 Gen 3

  • Stepping Up Caliber:

    • .40 S&W → Glock 23, 35 Gen 3

    • 10mm → Glock 20C, 29 SF Gen 3

    • .45 ACP → Glock 21C, 30SF Gen 3


California-Specific FAQs (Now with AB 1127 Notes)

Q: Are Gen 4 or Gen 5 Glocks legal for purchase in CA?
A: No—these aren't roster-approved for dealer sales; some private-party or exemption paths may apply. Gen 3 remains the clear route. CalMatters+12Cash for Arms+12Reddit+12

Q: Why is Gen 3 legal today?
A: Gen 3 models were certified before microstamping rules took effect and remain grandfathered. Newer gens never met requirements. Wikipedia+1

Q: What is AB 1127 and how does it affect Glock sales?
A: AB 1127 bans dealer sales of handguns that can be easily converted into machine guns (via Glock switch). Pre-2026 inventory and private-party transfers are exempt. Digital Democracy | CalMattersMoms Demand Action+1Everytown

Q: Will AB 1127 affect current Glock owners?
A: No. It doesn’t force surrender, limit use, or restrict private transfers or law enforcement. Moms Demand ActionCalMatters

Q: What happens in 2028 (SB 452)?
A: Microstamping becomes mandatory for new semi-auto pistol sales—another potential hurdle for Glock (and others) unless the tech is deployed. WikipediaSenate Judiciary Committee

Q: How do I verify roster status?
A: Use the official CA DOJ Handguns Certified for Sale lookup tool. We also tag product pages with roster compliance. Wikipedia