Question RE: Buying a Handgun in California

[SoCalGeek]

I was just wondering, on top of the cost of the gun itself, what are the various fees and charges involved in purchasing a handgun? I'm thinking of buying one through a PPT. I know there's a fee for that, a fee for a Handgun Safety Certificate, and i'm guessing there's probably something else. Could somebody give me a ballpark of what it would cost (minus the cost of the gun)? Thanks for your help!


Alex

 

[Otony]

Handgun Safety Certificate comes first, $25. The PPT transfer is another 20-25 bucks, depending on the dealer. Can't go any higher than that though.

Another fee. If you don't have a safe, you will have to buy an APPROVED gun lock to take that puppy home. The lock must be purchased no earlier than 30 days before you pick up the weapon. You must have a receipt for the lock. Just buy one when and where you do the transfer.

Sick, huh?

 

[natedog]

You have to leave the store with a gun lock and pistol, but you can lock the pistol in your car and come right back in and return the gun lock. Also, if you have documentation of ownership of an approved safe you won't have to buy the gun lock.

 

[Penforhire]

Some stores have a stronger policy. "Here's your lock. It is included in the price of everything we sell." Extra-silly when I walk in with a spare lock in hand.

 

[Daniel L]

Even though it is against the law to charge over a certain amount ($25?), several FFLs I've called seem to still be charging over $50 for a transfer.

 

[rayra]

There is an affidavit you can sign attesting to your ownership of a safe, in leiu of a lock.

http://caag.state.ca.us/firearms/index.html

 

[bountyhunter]

But, the safe has to be on the "approved list" and believe me, some very fine safes are not on that short list (like the safes I own).

 

[bountyhunter]

Even though it is against the law to charge over a certain amount ($25?), several FFLs I've called seem to still be charging over $50 for a transfer.

That would be right if it includes the background check. The $25 limit is for their fee on processing the paperwork to do the deal, the background check is a separate item and usually costs about $25 - $30 out here.

 

[DNA]

Oh yeah, the lock is good for 30days...
Some places (Turners) also charge for the "safety demonstration" and a "handling fee"
and as for the FFL's that charge freakishly high amounts for transfers... they have "FFL Rental fees" that amount from $50-80

Dan