How does purchasing a pistol from a private sale out of state work?

[EOD Guy]

To do this legally in CA, you need FFL's on both sides because you first need your CA-FFL to send a copy of their FFL license to the out-of-state Seller's FFL.

Only after the seller's FFL has been received this can the firearm be transferred to the CA FFL. Only at this point can the DROS and wait period begin.

This is for private party transactions. To purchase firearms from out-of-state gun distributors, they can transfer new guns directly to your CA-FFL.

These are the only methods to legally purchase firearms into Califoria from out-of-state. Of course CA banned guns and items (hi-cap mags) are still not allowed. The good thing is that 'used' guns do not apply towards your 1-every-30-days limit for new pistols.

There is nothing in California law that requires an FFL to ship to an FFL in California. A private individual can ship to a California FFL, if they will receive it. Some require shipment from an FFL, but that is their policy, not the law.