California’s AB-1263 Becomes Law: An Update on New Restrictions

We’d rather be posting about the latest pistol or AR accessories, but unfortunately we need to talk about a bill that was recently signed in California and the impact that it will have on us in the year ahead. In a move that has outraged many, on October 11, 2025, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1263 (AB-1263) into law. Authored by Assembly member Mike Gipson (D–Carson), the bill was originally introduced in February 2025 to address peace officer standards.

Unfortunately, it was substantially amended in March 2025 to include extensive new regulations on firearm accessories, gun barrels, digital manufacturing files, and related distribution practices. The law is now Chapter 636 of the Statutes of 2025 and takes effect on January 1, 2026.

Furthermore, the California Department of Justice (DOJ) is authorized to issue additional regulations to implement and clarify certain provisions of the law.

So, just what does all this mean?

Identity Verification and Shipping Requirements

For starters. Every sale or transfer of a firearm, accessory, or gun barrel must now include identity and age verification using a government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license. The purchaser must also provide written acknowledgment of a notice that lists prohibited uses of the item, including any use that would result in an “assault weapon” or unserialized firearm under California law.

For shipped items, the delivery address must match the address confirmed during identity verification. All shipments must require adult signature confirmation.

The result is that these requirements will increase costs and complexity for retailers, especially smaller online and out-of-state vendors. Many are expected to stop shipping to California or raise prices to cover compliance. We will have to wait and see.

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Definition of Firearm Accessory

So, what is a “firearm accessory?” The law defines firearm accessories by reference to Penal Code Section 30515, which identifies features associated with so-called “assault weapons.” Covered items include pistol grips, thumbhole stocks, folding or telescoping stocks for rifles or shotguns, flash suppressors, forward pistol grips, grenade launchers, flare launchers, threaded handgun barrels, second handgrips for handguns, and handgun shrouds, whatever that is.

Unfortunately, the bill also applies to gun barrels. These are subject to the same verification and shipping rules as accessories. Senate Bill 704 (SB-704), signed on October 10, 2025, separately requires that all firearm barrels be sold only through licensed dealers with background checks, effective January 1, 2026.

https://www.nraila.org/articles/20251013/california-governor-newsom-signs-gun-control-bills-into-law

Civil Liability Provisions

Even wilder than these definitions is the idea that lawsuits could now be on the table. The law expands civil liability under the Firearm Industry Responsibility Act. Manufacturers, importers, wholesalers, distributors, and sellers may face lawsuits if a firearm accessory is used in a way that causes injury or death, even if the item was legally sold and later modified or misused.

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Restrictions on Digital Files and Manufacturing Equipment

AB-1263 also prohibits the distribution of CAD, CNC, or 3D printer files that can be used to produce firearms, firearm accessories, barrels, or large-capacity magazines. Individuals who distribute such files and websites that host them are subject to civil penalties and private lawsuits.

The law expands the definition of firearm manufacturing machines to include equipment capable of producing firearm accessories. Knowingly using or providing such equipment to enable unlawful manufacturing is a misdemeanor. Conviction may result in a ten-year prohibition on firearm ownership.

Practical Impact and Compliance

Beginning January 1, 2026, California residents will likely face reduced access to out-of-state sources for firearm accessories and barrels. Shipping delays, higher costs, and limited vendor participation are anticipated. The DOJ’s forthcoming regulations may add further requirements.

At Dirty Bird Guns and Ammo, we maintain current stock of compliant accessories and encourage customers to address needs before the effective date. All purchases must comply with existing California law, including restrictions under Penal Code Section 30515.

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Next Steps for Gun Owners

This law adds significant regulatory burdens on law-abiding citizens and businesses. We recommend supporting legal challenges through the California Rifle & Pistol Association (CRPA) and the National Rifle Association Institute for Legislative Action (NRA-ILA). Contact your state legislators and stay informed as additional DOJ regulations are released.

The full text of AB-1263 is available at the California Legislative Information website: leginfo.legislature.ca.gov.

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