Did California Ban Glocks?
November 21, 2025 | Nafiz M. Ahmed
Many people assume California banned Glocks altogether after hearing that certain models soon can’t be purchased in the state. However, the truth is more nuanced than that. California did not ban the Glock brand altogether, and it is still potentially legal to own one of these firearms in certain circumstances, such as when it is a used firearm acquired lawfully.
However, what is true is that the state will restrict selling new Glock models starting July 1, 2026, via Assembly Bill 1127. Lawmakers argued that current designs can be too easily modified with an illegal “Glock switch,” which converts a pistol into a fully automatic weapon. The law (at least in relevant part) targets that design feature, not the people who already own these firearms.
What the New Glock Law Actually Covers
The primary part of the law restricts retailers from selling new Glock models that could be converted with an illegal switch. It does not apply to firearms already circulating in the state.
The goals of the law include:
- Limiting access to new models that match the design targeted by the bill
- Pressuring the manufacturer to redesign future models
- Reducing the number of pistols that could be illegally modified
- Strengthening California’s existing firearm-safety framework
None of these goals involves confiscating any guns, nor do they prohibit current owners from keeping theirs.
What the Law Does Not Do
California has some of the strictest firearm regulations in the country, so the announcement led to confusion. However, several things remain unchanged.
Consumers may still:
- Own any Glock they already legally possess
- Transfer and purchase used Glock models through licensed dealers
- Lawfully store and transport their handgun according to state rules
The new law does not criminalize owning a Glock. It also does not alter the rules surrounding illegal conversion devices; Glock switches were already prohibited long before this bill was passed.
Why California Targeted Glock-Style Handguns
State officials pointed to cases where criminals used switches to turn semi-automatic pistols into weapons that fire multiple rounds with a single pull of the trigger. These devices remain illegal under both state and federal law, but legislators argued that making them incompatible with new gun designs would reduce the problem further.
Whether the policy will have that effect is still up for debate, but the legislature focused on design changes rather than possession bans. If Glock redesigns future models so that switches cannot be attached, those firearms could potentially be sold in California down the line.
What This Means for Gun Owners and Buyers in California
If you already own a Glock, nothing about your legal status changes. You can keep your firearm, follow normal storage rules, and transfer it through lawful channels if necessary. Used handguns can still be sold by dealers, so you may see changes in price or inventory, but the market remains open.
What you cannot do is walk into a store and buy a new Glock model unless and until the manufacturer releases a compliant version that passes California’s roster testing.
Call Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys, for a Consultation With a San Jose Weapons Charges Lawyer
California’s gun laws are among the most complicated in the country. If you’re facing charges related to Glock ownership or any firearm issue, getting legal advice early on can make a meaningful difference in how your case ultimately plays out.
Contact a San Jose weapons charges attorney today to learn more about your best course of action.
For more information, please contact our criminal defense law firm of Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys at the nearest location for a consultation.
Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys – San Jose Office
1625 The Alameda, Suite 405, San Jose, CA 95126
(408) 217-8818
Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys – Redwood City Office
600 Allerton St Suite 201G, Redwood City, CA 94063
(650) 299-0500