This page explains the most common ways to configure semiautomatic centerfire rifles for California compliance under Penal Code §30515 and DOJ definitions (11 CCR §5471). It’s an educational overview, not legal advice. Always verify configurations with your FFL/gunsmith.
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Fixed‑Magazine Path: AR Maglock Gen 2 + KingPin
A fixed‑magazine build lets you keep the typical AR features (pistol grip, adjustable stock, etc.) by making the magazine non‑removable unless the action is disassembled.
How it works
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AR Maglock Gen 2 replaces the mag‑catch so the mag cannot be released while the receivers are closed.
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An upgraded rear takedown pin (e.g., KingPin) allows the upper to hinge open quickly; once open, the mag can be dropped and swapped, then the receivers are closed.
Why builders like it
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Preserves ergonomics (normal grip/stock) and optics mounting.
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Faster, safer malfunction clearing than older “bullet‑button” era hardware.
Set‑up tips
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Follow the manufacturer’s install and standard method of operation to maintain compliance.
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Use 10‑round magazines only on centerfire rifles.
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Test lockup and bolt catch function with your lowers/uppers; tolerance stacking matters.
Good for: AR‑pattern rifles when you want the classic controls and don’t mind opening the action for mag changes.
Featureless Path (Keep Standard Mag Release)
A featureless rifle avoids “assault weapon” status by removing prohibited features. You keep a normal, one‑button mag release and reload conventionally.
Common changes for featureless:
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Replace/modify the pistol grip (see next sections).
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Use a fixed/non‑telescoping stock (or pin your adjustable stock in a fixed position).
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Replace flash hider with a muzzle brake/compensator.
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No forward pistol grip.
Good for: Simplicity, rapid reloads, less to remember under stress, and easy clearing of malfunctions.
Grip Fins & Kydex Grip Wraps
What they do: A fin or Kydex wrap blocks a thumb‑around grasp so your hand can’t achieve a “pistol‑style grasp with the web of the hand below the top of the trigger.” That prevents the grip from meeting the state’s “pistol grip” definition.
Implementation notes
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Choose wraps sized to your specific grip (A2, MOE, B5, etc.).
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Ensure the fin actually prevents a pistol‑style grasp when firing.
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Maintain safe trigger reach and control; add a thumb shelf if desired.
Pros
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Low cost, reversible.
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Works with many stocks/handguards.
Cons
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Less natural ergonomics than purpose‑built featureless grips.
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Aesthetics and comfort vary by maker; fitment matters.
Best for: Quick conversions, budget builds, or when you want to revert for out‑of‑state shooting.
Purpose‑Built Featureless Grips
What they do: Re‑shape the grip so the web of the hand stays above the trigger line and prevents a pistol‑style grasp—while improving comfort vs. a simple fin wrap.
Implementation notes
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Verify the geometry keeps the web of your hand above the top of the exposed trigger while firing.
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Pair with a fixed/ pinned stock for consistent length of pull.
Pros
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Better ergonomics than basic fins/wraps; cleaner appearance.
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Still reversible with one screw.
Cons
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Slight learning curve on grip technique compared to a standard AR grip.
Best for: Long‑term featureless setups that still feel good to shoot.
Muzzle Brakes vs. Flash Hiders (Featureless Requirement)
On a featureless rifle, you must not have a flash hider/flash suppressor. A muzzle brake or compensator is the typical replacement.
How to choose a safe device
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Look for products clearly marketed as “muzzle brake” or “compensator” with no flash‑reduction claims.
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Avoid hybrid devices with advertised flash‑hiding properties; labeling and function both matter.
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If you need a device permanently attached (see OAL/16" rules), use accepted permanent methods (blind pin & weld, high‑temp silver solder, etc.).
Pros (brakes/comps)
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Reduced recoil/muzzle rise; easier follow‑up shots.
Cons
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Louder blast and side concussion vs. a flash hider.
Best for: Any featureless build, and for OAL or barrel‑length compliance when permanent attachment is required.
Fore‑End: Forward Pistol Grips vs. Angled Foregrips / Hand Stops
For featureless rifles, a forward pistol grip is a prohibited feature. Most angled foregrips and hand stops are used instead.
What’s the difference?
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Forward pistol grip: A vertical (or near‑vertical) grip that allows a pistol‑style grasp forward of the trigger. Not allowed on featureless.
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Angled foregrip / hand stop: Provides index and control but does not enable a pistol‑style grasp. Generally used on featureless builds.
Implementation notes
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Choose low‑profile AFGs/hand stops that do not permit a vertical pistol‑style grasp.
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Ensure your hand position on the fore‑end does not mimic a pistol‑style grip.
Best for: Maintaining control on featureless rifles without creating a banned feature.
30" Overall Length on Bullpups — Pin/Weld Options
California defines a semiautomatic centerfire rifle under 30 inches OAL (measured in its shortest firing configuration) as an assault weapon. Many bullpups fall under this length and need an extension.
Typical solution: Pin/Weld
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Permanently attach an extended muzzle device or barrel extension to reach ≥30.0" OAL.
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If also counting toward 16" barrel length, the device must be permanently attached and counted per barrel‑length measurement rules.
Implementation notes
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Measure OAL with any stock collapsed/folded if it still fires that way.
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Use accepted permanent methods (blind pin & weld, 1100°F silver solder).
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Confirm both OAL and barrel‑length compliance when relevant.
Best for: Bullpup rifles (Tavor, AUG, etc.) that are otherwise too short in California.
Decision Guide & Comparison Table
| Path / Method | Keep Standard Mag Release? | Keep Classic AR Ergonomics? | Typical Cost | Speed to Reload | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed‑Mag (AR Maglock Gen 2 + KingPin) | ❌ | ✅ | $$ | ◼︎◼︎◻︎ | Open receivers for mag changes; preserves features |
| Featureless (fin/wrap) | ✅ | ◻︎ | $ | ◼︎◼︎◼︎ | Cheapest, reversible; ergonomics vary |
| Featureless (purpose‑built grip) | ✅ | ◼︎ | $$ | ◼︎◼︎◼︎ | Better comfort; clean look |
| Bullpup OAL pin/weld | ✅ (if featureless) / ❌ (if fixed‑mag) | ✅ | $$–$$$ | n/a | To reach ≥30" OAL; ensure permanent attachment |
*Legend: ◼︎ faster/more, ◻︎ less
Measurements & Permanency Basics (Quick Reference)
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Barrel length: Measure from closed bolt/breech to the muzzle or permanently attached device. Accepted methods include blind pin & weld or high‑temp (≥1100°F) silver solder.
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Overall length (OAL): Measure the rifle in the shortest firing configuration, from stock’s furthest point to the end of the barrel or permanently attached device.
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Fixed magazine: Magazine can’t be removed unless the action is disassembled (e.g., upper and lower separated).
FAQ
Can I keep my flash hider on a featureless rifle?
No. Use a muzzle brake or compensator with no flash‑reduction claims.
Are angled foregrips allowed on featureless builds?
Yes, provided they don’t permit a pistol‑style grasp (vertical forward pistol grip is prohibited).
Do I have to pin my adjustable stock?
If you’re going featureless, the stock should be fixed (or pinned) so it’s not telescoping.
Do I need to permanently attach a muzzle device?
Only if you’re relying on it for barrel length (to reach 16") or for OAL (to reach 30"). Use accepted permanent methods.
Is this legal advice?
No. It’s a practical guide. Consult a firearms attorney or your FFL for definitive interpretations.
Need help?
WBT Guns can configure rifles featureless or fixed‑mag, perform pin/weld services for OAL or 16" compliance, and source the parts you need. Contact us for a compliant build that fits your use‑case.