[Mike-SoCal]

I'm going to try and sell a handgun and ammo at a regional gun show, this weekend, here in SoCal. I realize that by law in CA, any legal sale of a firearm at the show has to be done using an FFL on the premises. My question is: Can a propective buyer simply look and handle the merchandise in the parking lot or entrance to the event, prior to entering the show without violating a law? Thanks for your comments.

Mike

[QuarterBoreGunner]

No problem; I managed a gunshop in Kali for seven years so I think I'm safe in saying this.

All you're doing is letting another person handle or inspect your firearm. If legal ownership is being transferred, then yes, you're correct; you need to go through an FFL- either at the show or elsewhere. The location isn't important as long as the FFL holder is current and does all the needed paperwork.

A very slim case could be made for 'brandishing a firearm' if you were spotted in the parking lot, so I'd retire to a vehicle in your case... or some other out-of-the-way place.