FAQ

Sections

Rifles

Will non lead bullets hurt my barrel?

Not at all. Most non lead bullets are copper or brass which is actually softer than the guilding metal jacket material used on lead core bullets.

Why can’t I get non lead bullets to group well?

Accuracy problems with non lead bullets are usually due to the bullet being too long for the twist of your barrel. Copper bullets are longer than an equill weight lead core bullet so you will often need to use a lighter bullet than you used to. Don’t worry, copper penetrates deeper than lead bullets so you don’t need as much weight. Fouling may also factor into your groupings because copper bullets foul faster than conventionally jacketed bullets. This may be a greater issue if the barrel already has fouling from standard jacket bullets. We recommend de-coppering your barrel before making the switch to copper bullets and performing de-copper maintenance after every 100 rounds to keep accuracy at its maximum level.

Is it true that copper bullets wound animals?

Copper bullets have tremendous penetration but make a much smaller wound than most lead bullets, so one needs to shoot through the shoulder, rather than behind, in order for the bullet to impart maximum shock. The smaller wound doesn’t ruin much meat like lead core bullets can.

How Do i de-copper a barrel?

Most solvent companies now offer ammonia-based de-coppering products. Our favorites are Barnes CR10, Sweets 7.62, and JB bore cleaner. Foaming spray de-coppering solutions, such as Wipe Out, are very popular.

Will JB bore cleaner hurt my barrel?

No. While JB Bore Cleaner is an abrasive substance, it is softer than steel. This means it won’t cause any damage to your barrel and it will work faster than your typical ammonia-based solvent. Just keep in mind that you will need to check the bore for any remaining copper after using this product. On bigger jobs, I always start with an abrasive bore cleaner, followed by ammonia-based solvents.

Which companies make the best rifle scopes?

There are many excellent scope brands from many countries. If money is of no concern, then one of the German or Austrian brands, such as Zeiss or Leica, will provide the clearest and brightest scopes. The downside? The best comes at a cost. We personally prefer scopes from Leupold because, while they have German roots, all manufacturing is done in the United States.

What is barrel break in?

It involves cleaning your barrel after each round for a period of time to remove the microposic chips left over from machining. While we can’t prove it actually helps, most everyone in the gun industry agrees it should be helpful. What we can’t agree on is how many rounds it takes. It seems like each expert has their own formula, ranging from five shots to several hundred.

What is the most powerful rifle I can own?

In cartridges, the .50 BMG reigns supreme, but is unfortunately regulated in California. The .510 DTC is a California compliant replacement and was designed to duplicate the BMG’s power, but it must be custom made and you will need to load your own ammo.

Can i own or build a cannon?

Yes, muzzloader firearms have no size restriction so you can have as big a cannon as you can build. Our replica Civil War 12 pounder is on display in our shop.

Can i change bolts on my rifle?

Yes, but they will often need gunsmith fitting to correct the head space. Firing with incorrect head space is very dangerous.

Is dry firing bad for my rifle?

It depends on the model. Many modern guns can be safely dry fired, but best to reference your manual or check with a gunsmith to confirm.

what’s the best first time rifle for children?

Most agree that a .22 LR is the best gun for kids because it has low recoil and noise. I recommend using super low power “quiet” loads for ease of shooting and safety to start out a new shooter.

What is twist?

The rifling lands and grooves sprial in order to make your bullet spin, which give your barrel greater accuracy and the ability to use heavier elongated bullets which pack more energy.

explain black powder cartridge designations.

Popular US cartridge designations were the caliber, expressed in hundred’s of an inch and the powder charge, such as 45-70 and 44-40. Once nitro powder came around names changed as there are many different types of powder.

What is the meaning of the name 30/06?

It was a military desicion describing the bullet caliber and year it was introduced. The 30/06 was a modernized version of the earlier 30\\\\03.

What does Assault rifle compliance look like?

By carefully selecting one’s AR and semi-automatic rifle features, most weapons can be modified to remain compliant with California’s rigid restrictions. At this point in times, AR’s and semi automatic weapons must have a “fixed magazine” or “featureless” modification to remain compliant. We recommend speaking with one of our employees when looking at AR modifications as California laws are constantly changing.

Pistols

Are there non-lead bullets for handguns?

Yes, Barnes and Federal are currently offering pistol ammo loaded with non lead bullets. Other manufactures are likely to offer non-lead options in the near future.

Which way do I adjust my sights?

On all guns, just remember to move your rear sight the direction you want your groups to move.

What’s the difference between a misfire and a hangfire?

A misfire is where the cartridge doesn’t fire after being hit by the firing pin. A hangfire is where it fires after a few seconds. It’s rare but known to happen so treat all misfires like they could be a hangfire and keep them pointed downrange for 30 seconds, just in case.

How did I get the bulge in my barrel?

A bulge in the barrel is caused by firing with some obstruction in the bore. It could be a stuck bullet, cleaning patch, insect nest, even mud or snow.

Is it bad to leave my magazines loaded?

It’s never been proven that springs under tension wear out faster. I rather believe each particular spring has so many compression and relax cycles. If you are relying on a magazine for protection it’s always a good idea to rotate your ammo periodically by shooting what is in your magazine, then loading fresh.

Any tips for bettering my pistol shooting?

While handguns are increasingly more challenging to shoot with accuracy than their long gun counterparts, there are steps you can take to be a better shooter. We recommend heading out to the range at least once a month, dry firing often in a safe environment, and ensuring your target is larger than your sights and isn’t too far away. Try starting at seven yards and increasing your distance as your accuracy improves.

What is the most powerful handgun I can own?

If you like single shots then the TC Encore can be fitted with most any rifle cartridge other than 50 BMG. In revolvers then the Smith & Wesson 500 magnum is tops.

What is the best shooting semi auto pistol?

Most handgun enthusiast’s agree the 1911 is number one when it comes to ease of firing. Since the gun is narrow and uses only a single stack magazine, it has a very comfortable grip. Its 5″ barrel is longer than most other semi-automatics, and the all steel construction lends to an ideal weight. This single action firearm has a very light trigger pull, lending itself to greater shooting accuracy. While any pistol can be modified to fit these specs, these features are inherent to the 1911. The typical caliber is 45ACP, but if you ever have the opportunity to treat yourself, the 9mm is an absolute dream.

Is dry firing bad for my pistol?

Most modern handguns can be safely dry fired. Check your manual, contact the manufacturer, or ask one of our staff members if you aren’t sure. As a general rule rimfires shouldn’t be dry fired. Snap caps are a dummy cartridge affair that cushions the firing pin blow to prevent breakage and are available for most calibers. I personally use orange dummy rounds in my guns for dry firing, not to protect the pin but so a live cartridge couldn’t find it’s way into my chamber.

Are there different kinds of 9mm cartridges?

As “The World’s” pistol cartridge, many ammunition manufacturers have introduced their own version of the 9mm in the hopes of cashing in on its tremendous popularity. There are literally dozens of different cartridges that start with “9mm”, the most common one being the 9mm Parabellum (Also known as the 9mm Luger or 9X19). Other non-interchangeable cartridges are: 9X17, 9X18, 9X21, 9X23, 9X25, 9 Kurtz, 9 Corto, 9 Steyr, 9 Browning, 9 Federal, 9 Win, 9 Largo, etc.

Are there different Kinds of .38 cartridges?

Like 9mm, there are many .38 cartridges that are non-interchangeable. Our common .38 is the .38 S&W Special. Others include: 38 S&W, 38 Super, 38/40, 38ACP, etc. It is important to remember that these cartridges are not the same, so ensure you are purchasing the proper ammunition for your gun. Questions? Come down to the shop, we are more than happy to help you during the selection process.

What are metric cartridge descriptions?

The metric cartridge description is the newest method of classifying ammo in most of the world. The metric description gives rough dimensions of the bullet diameter and case length. Examples include 9X19 which equates to our 9mm Luger or the 9X17, equating to our 380ACP.

Hunting

Will my orange hunting attire ruin my chances at getting a buck?

Deer don’t see colors as brightly as we do, so your orange hat probably looks more like tan to them. Solid blocks of color are more noticeable than a broken field of color, like camo. However, other hunters can see the orange extremely well, so wearing bright colors is likely to keep you safer.

how long do i have to gut my buck after i’ve bagged it?

As soon as possible, but first fill out your tag. Even if it takes an hour or so to find it there should be no problem. Heat is what will spoil the meat and gutting greatly helps in cooling.

Why carry binoculars when I can use my riflescope?

Hunters will look through their binos many times a day while we should only need the scope once to shoot. Movement is often what catches our eye so we use our optics for a closer look. If you are using the scope then sometimes you are pointing your rifle at a fellow hunter, which is extremely dangerous. Binoculars have two lens so gather double the light as the rifle scope, so you can see much better. We should all be using binoculars that cost more than our rifle scope.

Where do you stand on the 270 vs 30/06 issue?

That has been a subject of debate for almost 100 years now. Being based on the same case they have very similar capability. There is so little difference between the two there’s not really much to debate. How about a 280?

What do you think of Long range hunting?

It’s all the rage these days. The equipment to make it possible is accessible to everyone like extremely accurate rifles, superb optics and laser rangefinders.While I often carry a rifle and equipment capable of shooting 800 yards I prefer to get as close as possible in order to make a clean shot. So far I haven’t had to shoot over 500 yards.

Should I try hunting out of state?

Only if you want to shoot some game. Many of us spend the time and money and head east to Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Montana or Wyoming because there are more Deer and Elk. It’s nice to see more bucks in a day than I see in a decade of local hunting.

What do you think about hunting in Africa?

Having been there and done that, I would say if you can then absolutely go for it. Africa has so many species and is about as exotic as it gets. You will rely on a guide (PH) and they will make sure you are hunting in safe areas.

you have my attention! how do i get started?

It helps to have a mentor. If we aren’t taught by our parents then try to find a friend who hunts and is willing to tutor. Most friends won’t mind a bit. Just remember they may have spent years finding their special hunting spots so don’t ruin it for them by showing them with other hunters.

Gunsmithing

Can I ship my own gun to its manufacturer for repair?

You can ship for repair and they can be returned to you. Handguns must be over-nighted by either UPS or Fed-Ex. Long guns can be mailed or shipped ground. Many gun companies prefer to have a certified dealer ship the gun on the owners behalf. We are happy to provide this service.

What is the difference between extractor and ejector?

The extractor is a hook like part that pulls the cartridge from the chamber. The ejector is the part that throws it clear of the gun. They work in conjunction.

What is the difference between a clip and magazine?

A clip attaches to the cartridge to aid in loading. A magazine encloses the extra cartridges, which is what most modern guns use.

What are night sights?

Night sights use radioactive Tritium to light small dots on your sights. During daylight they look like white dots but in low light they are visible. Night sights usually last about 10 years before dimming.

Re-loading

What is the difference between a bullet and cartridge?

The bullet is the projectile that exits the muzzle of the gun. The cartridge is comprised of a bullet, powder, case and primer.

What is primer sealer?

It’s a lacquer type liquid easily applied around the bullet and primer to seal out moisture. For target I don’t bother. When loading to hunt in inclement weather, I seal.

Is it cheaper to re-load?

In this day and age, common handgun ammunition is cheaper to buy than re-load. You can, however, save money re-loading large rifle ammunition. Avid re-loaders can often tweak their handcrafted ammo to result in better accuracy.

Is re-loading hard?

Re-loading is simple and safe if you follow the recommended manufacturing procedures. It can get as technical as you like if you want to win matches.

Optics

How are scopes sized?

Most scopes today are variables, meaning you can adjust the viewing power from low to high. The first two numbers are the low and high zooming capacity; an example is the super popular 3X9. The last number is the diameter of the front lens in millimeters. This is called the objective. The diameter of the scope gives you a relative idea of how much light it will transmit. Bigger=Brighter. The most common objective size is 40mm. The Leupold 3X9 40mm is the most popular scope of the century.

What is the first focal plane in scopes?

A first focal plane scope will magnify the rectile with the image. This makes your cross-hair consistent with the background, which is helpful when using a Mil Dot type system to judge distances and drop. Many hunters, however, want their cross-hairs to appear thinner when using high power so their target remains uncovered at long range. For this reason, many hunters prefer second focal plane scopes, which are standard in the United States.

How are binoculars sized?

Most binoculars are fixed power, so the first number represents magnification and the second number is the size of the front lens in millimeters. Popular sizes for hunting include 7X35, 8X40, 10X40.

Buying Process

What are acceptable proof of residence for purchasing firearms?

The currently accepted proof of residence documentation includes: Current DMV Registration, current utility bills, tax statements, rental agreements, a valid hunting or fishing license, certified change of address forms, or a current CCW. Please keep in mind that all handgun purchases require proof of residence documentation. When purchasing a long gun, proof of residence is only required if the address on your driver’s license does not match your current physical address or federal limits apply to your ID.

Why can’t I buy certain pistols?

California’s stringent gun regulations have birthed what is known as “the roster of approved handguns”. Certified dealers in California are only permitted to sell firearms on this roster. In order for a gun to be added to the roster, manufacturers must incorporate all of California’s safely regulations into their fabrication. Upon the micro-stamping mandate of 2013, manufacturers stopped attempting to keep up with California’s safety restrictions. As a result, very few guns have been added to the roster since 2013.

How many guns can I buy at once?

At the moment there is no limit on the number of long guns that can be purchased at one time. Handguns have a limit of one per month with the exception of private party transfers (including consignments) which have no limit. All limitations are subject to change at the discretion of the government.

Can I buy guns out of state?

Yes, however the gun must be California approved. All guns purchased out of state must be shipped to a certified dealer in California. We are happy to provide this service.

Can I receive a gun as a gift from a relative who lives out of state?

Yes. You may receive most any handgun, even guns not listed on the roster of approved handguns. If the hand-off is done in person, the gun can be legally added to your name in the California DOJ database with the form linked below. You can also have the gun shipped by the relative to a dealer for transfer. This type of transfer is called an intra-familial transfer. It is only applicable for firearms transferred between grandparents and grandchildren or parents and children. Loopholes the the approved gun roster, such as the intra-familial transfer, are subject to change at the state’s discretion, so check in with the shop often for updates.

https://oag.ca.gov/sites/all/files/agweb/pdfs/firearms/forms/oplaw.pdf

Are my guns registered?

Technically no. Our paperwork is called DROS (Dealers Record of Sale). It is a record of you purchasing it but later the state doesn’t really know if you still have it. Most manners of disposing of a firearm would be reported to the state, but if you gave your friend in another state your gun then California wouldn’t know about it. It is also legal for you to destroy your guns and you don’t need to report it. Either of those two situations are perfectly legal and mean the guns are in your name but aren’t actually in your possession. True registration means the state would know exactly what you have in your possession.

CCW

Is it hard to get your CCW?

It all depends on your Sheriff. Shasta county has always had a pro-gun Sheriff, and Tom Bosenko is as pro-gun as they come. For first time conceal carry applicants, you must take a 12 hour class. Classes at Jones’ Fort include 8 hours of instruction in a classroom and 4 hours of hands-on instruction at a gun range. After qualifying with the guns you wish to carry, you will fill out and drop off an application at the Sheriff’s office. When dropping off your application, you will need to bring your valid California ID, a current utility bill, and your unloaded guns in a locked container. You will pay a fee and consent to a background check before being fingerprinted. From there, the Sheriff’s office will contact you to schedule a ten minute interview. If all goes well, your permit will be issued on site after your interview. The total cost is around $300 and the CCW first time application is linked below:

https://www.co.shasta.ca.us/docs/libraries/sheriff-docs/ccw/ccw-app-2019.pdf?sfvrsn=874bfd89_2

What does the ccw renewal process look like?

The CCW Renewal Process consists of a four hour renewal class and a shooting qualification. You must also fill out the form linked below:

https://www.co.shasta.ca.us/docs/libraries/sheriff-docs/docs/ccw-renewal-december-18.pdf?sfvrsn=807ffa89_2

Can you tell me more about the shooting qualification process?

State law now requires some shooting to renew CCW’s. They leave it up to the issuing body, which is usually the Sheriff. Here in Shasta County the requirements are to fire 20 rounds. This consists of four 5 round volleys. You must draw from a holster with each of the guns on your permit, with a limit of five guns. We shoot a standard B27 Silhouette target from 7 yards and in order to qualify you must hit 16 of the 20 rounds in the 9-Ring or better. It’s not timed and you can use your laser sight. Not too not hard if you are practicing regularly.

What is a multi-state permit?

That is a generic term we sometimes use for a Utah CCW. Non-residents of Utah can get the permit and it’s recognized in 32 states currently. A four hour class is all the training required and it’s good for 5 years. After that, there is no extra training to renew it. It’s a nice deal if you ever travel. We offer the Utah course at Jones’ Fort once a month.

Can I still get an Oregon permit?

Yes, but Klamath Falls is the only county that will still issue CCW permits to Californians. You will need to call (541) 883-5130 and select option 3. For more information and a copy of the application, please visit:

http://www.klamathcounty.org/313/Civil-Records-Division and select the Conceal Carry Permits section.

Can I leave my ccw pistol in my vehicle when entering a place where I can’t carry?

State law now requires any handgun left alone be unloaded in a secure hard case attached to the vehicle. Cars are not secure so it’s to reduce the chances of theft.

What are the best carry pistols?

With California restrictions on handguns our choices are very limited. Our most popular semi-automatic for carry is the S&W Shield, which comes in 9mm or 40 S&W. Other good choices include the CW9mm, PM9mm, Ruger LC380, Sig P238 380, or lightweight .38 Special revolvers from Ruger and S&W.

are there any ccw pistols made specifically for women?

Most popular are either lightweight 38’s from Ruger or S&W, or Sig P238 380. All are excellent choices.

Should I take advanced handgun training?

Absolutely, besides being fun, it’s good to increase your skill. Most of us have taken a course equivalent to NRA Personal Protection in the Home to get our CCW. The next level is Personal Protection outside the Home where holsters and movement are employed. There are a few local instructors offering these courses. We offer inexpensive certificates to attend Front Sight’s excellent courses in Las Vegas. Ask Marshall at the shop for more details, or call 530-222-3223.

Legal Issues

Can I purchase guns if i have a federal limits apply driver’s license?

Yes, but you must provide a valid copy of your United States Issued Passport or a copy of your birth certificate.

Can i shoot at my house?

As long as you aren’t in the city limits and it’s safe then you can shoot. However, if the noise is bothering your neighbors then they will complain and the Sheriff Department will encourage you to stop.

Where can I go shooting?

We are hurting for places to shoot. You have public shooting areas on Iron Mountain Road and Spring Branch Road to the south. One indoor range in town (Nice Shot) and one outdoor range, Redding Gun Club in Bella Vista.

What do I need to do when moving into CA with guns.?

California requires you to notify them of any guns you are bringing with you. It’s a simple form you send to CA DOJ, (New Resident Report of Firearm Ownership (BOF 4010A), pdf) along with $19.00

Can I have High Capacity magazines?

It’s not illegal to possess magazines over 10 rounds as long as you had them legally prior to April 5th 2019. Which means you had to be at least 18 years of age before that date.

What is the proper way to transport guns?

Handguns are required to be unloaded and in some sort of locked container, but not your glove box or console. Loaded means ammo in the same container. With a CCW your handguns can be loaded but need to be concealed. Long guns have to be cased when in any sort of public area, which is most places you can drive. If you are within 1000 feet of any school then even the long guns need to be locked. When you drive through town you are likely to go by a school so it’s wise to just lock up the long guns just like your handguns.

What paperwork do I need to do when I receive a gun from a Family member?

If the family member is a direct descendant like your children, parent or grandparent then you can send in a simple form to CA DOJ along with $19.00. Report of Operation of Law or Intra-Familial Firearm Transaction (BOF 4544A), pdf

Modern Semi Auto Rifles

Are 80% receivers legal?

It is still legal for you to build your own gun, but you must first obtain a unique serial number from California DOJ so it’s in your name. You can obtain a serial number by submitting a unique serial number application. This application is found on www.cfars.doj.ca.gov. Your eligibility status will be communicated via your CFARS account or US mail.

Can I still register my gun as an assault rifle?

In short, no. The period for registration is long over. It is still important to ensure your weapon is compliant with California safety standards. There will likely be more registration periods in the future.

Can i shoot .223 in my 5.56?

.223 can always be fired in a 5.56, but 5.56 should never be fired in a .223. This is to avoid safety issues.