Clarifying “Loaded” Gun

December 16, 2010

Question:Please clarify the definition of “loaded” gun that you gave in a recent column. By DFG law, is it okay to have the clip or magazine loaded if no round is chambered? (Will B., Palmdale)

Answer: Yes. Under DFG law, a gun is “loaded” when there is a live round in the firing chamber but not when there are rounds just in the magazine. Penal code laws are more restrictive though when you’re on a public road or in an incorporated area.