Sidearms While Hunting

April 8, 2021

Question: My friends and I are planning a turkey and pig hunt in Madera County, D7. Can I carry a sidearm with lead ammo? Two of my friends won’t be hunting—can they carry sidearms?

Answer: As you may know, nonlead ammunition is required when taking any wildlife with a firearm anywhere in California. Prohibition on the use of lead ammunition for taking wildlife is covered in California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 14, section 250.1(c). The regulation does not prohibit the possession of concealable firearms containing lead ammunition provided the firearm is possessed for personal protection and is not used to take or assist in the take of wildlife. It’s important to note that with the exception of ammunition for concealable firearms possessed for personal protection, hunters may not possess lead ammunition along with a firearm capable of firing that ammunition when nonlead ammunition is required. With regard to your friends, they may carry a sidearm as long as neither is a felon or otherwise prohibited from possessing firearms, per California Penal Code Section 29800. Finally, note that this response only addresses CDFW laws specific to the hunting scenario you described. Be sure to familiarize yourself with general firearm laws related to concealed weapons, transportation, storage, etc.