As we head into 2026, California continues to lead the nation in tightening firearm regulations. While many gun owners are already familiar with the state’s strict stance on ghost guns and assault weapons, a new law called Assembly Bill 1263 (AB 1263) officially went into effect on January 1, 2026.
This isn't just another minor update. AB 1263 introduces sweeping changes to how firearms are manufactured, how parts are sold online, and, perhaps most importantly, who is allowed to own a gun in the first place. For many Californians, this bill creates a misdemeanor trap that could lead to a 10-year loss of firearm rights for crimes that previously didn't carry such a heavy penalty.
At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we focus on helping people navigate the complex world of firearm rights restoration. If you are concerned about how these new laws affect your ability to protect yourself and your family, here is what you need to know about AB 1263.
1. The 10-Year Firearm Ban: Expanding the List of Prohibited Crimes
The most significant impact of AB 1263 for the average person is the expansion of California Penal Code Section 29805.
Previously, a 10-year ban on owning or possessing firearms was reserved for felonies and a specific list of violent or serious misdemeanors (like domestic battery or assault). Starting January 1, 2026, AB 1263 adds several new misdemeanor convictions to this list. If you are convicted of any of the following on or after today, you will lose your firearm rights for a full decade:
- Unlawful Manufacture of Firearms (PC 29185): Using a 3D printer or CNC milling machine to create a firearm without a proper license.
- Aiding or Abetting Unlawful Manufacture (PC 29186): This is a brand-new crime created by AB 1263. It targets anyone who knowingly or willfully helps another person manufacture an illegal firearm.
- Possession of an Assault Weapon (PC 30605): Even if charged as a misdemeanor, a conviction now triggers the 10-year ban.
- Possession of a .50 BMG Rifle (PC 30610): Similar to assault weapons, misdemeanor possession now leads to a decade of prohibition.
- Large-Capacity Magazines (PC 32900): If you are convicted of a misdemeanor involving magazines that hold more than 10 rounds, your right to own any firearm is gone for 10 years.
- Short-Barreled Rifles or Shotguns (PC 33215): Convictions for these NFA-style items as misdemeanors now carry the same 10-year weight.
Why this matters: Many people agree to plead down to a misdemeanor to avoid jail time, thinking they are protecting their record. Under AB 1263, a misdemeanor plea could still result in a total loss of your Second Amendment rights.
2. The Crackdown on Ghost Guns and DIY Manufacturing
California has been targeting ghost guns (unserialized firearms) for years, but AB 1263 takes it a step further by targeting the process and the information used to build them.
Digital Files and CAD Code
The law now makes it easier for the state to sue or prosecute people for sharing digital firearm manufacturing files. This includes CAD (Computer-Aided Design) files or instructions for 3D printers and CNC machines. If you operate a website that encourages the distribution of these files to unlicensed individuals in California, you could face massive civil penalties and criminal charges.
Aiding and Abetting
As mentioned above, the new Penal Code Section 29186 makes it a crime to facilitate illegal manufacturing. This is intentionally broad. It could potentially target people who sell specialized tools, provide technical advice, or even prompt others to engage in DIY builds that don't comply with California’s strict serialization laws.
Similar Post: Can Law Enforcement Seize Your Guns? Understanding Search and Seizure Laws in CA
3. Buying Firearm Parts Online: New Restrictions and Hurdles
If you’ve tried to order parts for your AR-15 or handgun online recently, you may have noticed that many retailers are suddenly refusing to ship to California. This is a direct result of AB 1263 and its Identity and Age Verification requirements.
As of January 1, 2026, any firearm industry member (including online retailers) selling firearm accessories, manufacturing machines, or unattached barrels to a California resident must:
- Provide a Legal Notice: The seller must give you a clear warning that manufacturing certain firearms in California is a crime.
- Obtain Your Acknowledgment: You must sign or click to confirm you understand the law.
- Verify Your Age and ID: You must provide proof that you are at least 18 years old.
- Adult Signature Required: The package must be shipped to the address on your ID, and an adult must sign for it upon delivery.
What counts as an accessory? The definition is incredibly wide. It includes pistol grips, folding stocks, flash suppressors, thumbhole stocks, and even shrouds that encircle the barrel. Because of the legal risk and the vague nature of what qualifies, many out-of-state companies have simply stopped shipping these common parts to California altogether.
4. Can You Restore Your Firearm Rights?
With the expansion of the 10-year ban, more Californians than ever will find themselves prohibited from owning a gun. However, there is hope. Restoration of firearm rights is a major part of our practice at The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney.
Depending on your specific situation, there are several legal avenues to explore:
- Expungements: While an expungement doesn't always automatically restore firearm rights in California, it is a critical first step in many cases.
- Reducing Felonies to Misdemeanors: If you have an older wobbler felony conviction, we may be able to have it reduced to a misdemeanor, which can sometimes clear the path to restoration.
- Petitions for Relief: In certain cases involving the 10-year ban, we can petition the court to restore your rights early, though this is a highly technical process.
It is important to remember that once the 10-year period for a misdemeanor conviction passes, your rights are generally restored automatically under California law, unless you have other prohibiting factors (like a felony or a domestic violence restraining order).
Similar Post: California Launches New Pilot Program Allowing Prosecutors to Seek Gun Violence Restraining Orders
5. Why You Need an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney
The laws surrounding AB 1263 are dense and full of traps for the unwary. A simple mistake like sharing a 3D printer file with a friend or buying the wrong accessory online can now lead to a criminal record and a decade-long ban on your Second Amendment rights.
If you are facing charges related to firearms, or if you are interested in seeing if your past convictions can be cleared so you can legally own a firearm again, you need a lawyer who understands the nuances of the California Penal Code.
At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we provide:
- Aggressive Defense: We fight to keep firearm charges off your record from the start.
- Rights Restoration Expertise: We have a proven track record of helping clients regain their legal right to bear arms.
- Bilingual Services: We represent clients in both English and Spanish throughout Los Angeles, Orange, and Ventura Counties.
Facing Firearm Charges in California? Contact Us for a Free Consultation
Don't let a new law catch you off guard. If you’ve been affected by AB 1263 or have questions about your firearm eligibility, contact us today. We offer free initial consultations to help you understand your options and protect your future.
Call The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney at 818-330-5198 or submit our online contact form to learn more.
Disclaimer: This blog is intended for informational purposes only and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. It should not be considered as legal advice. For personalized legal assistance, please consult our team directly.
