Renting a Handgun Needs?

[SlowDrifter]

Howdy kind folks. I'm in Texas but visit friends in California frequently. I usually bring my own toys, but I just had a thought. I know there's a requirement to have a safe handling certificate (please forgive me if I butchered that nomenclature) to purchase a firearm in California. Would I need the same certificate to rent something at a range I see interesting and want to take for a spin? Can a non-resident even get one? I was thinking about going to a gun shop just to get one the next time I'm in town just in case. This situation has never come up, but I don't want to be caught flat-footed if it should. And, are they specific to revolver/pistol, or is good for one good for all? Thanks in advance!

SSTG,

SD

[pancakes go]

anything you can have here you have in texas.

odd.

[SDnewbieshooter]

You don't need anything other than an ID to rent guns at ranges, but most ranges won't rent to anyone who show up alone (to prevent suicide). If you go with your buddy then you should be good to go.

[SlowDrifter]

You don't need anything other than an ID to rent guns at ranges, but most ranges won't rent to anyone who show up alone (to prevent suicide). If you go with your buddy then you should be good to go.

Thank you sir! I don't know why I just had that thought. I just can't stand being somewhere unprepared.

Edited to add: I apologize for assuming your gender. Some of my shooting buddies in California are chicks. I'd hate to appear misogynistic.

[Tarmy]

You don't need anything other than an ID to rent guns at ranges, but most ranges won't rent to anyone who show up alone (to prevent suicide). If you go with your buddy then you should be good to go.

[SlowDrifter]

I'll usually (well, always) have at least a few of my own with me, but I know lots of times ranges will have new guns that I'm interested in for rent and I wouldn't want to miss a chance at a test drive for lack of that certificate thingy.

[sonofeugene]

Where in California will you be visiting?

[SlowDrifter]

San Diego area. I really love visiting California. Y'all have a beautiful state.

Edited to add: For anyone visiting here, unless you have a rental car, do NOT stay at the Hampton Inn in Poway! It's a great hotel but OMG there is NOTHING around that hotel! I stay at the Staybridge usually. Costco right across the street, don't need to be a member to buy booze and their hotdog deal is awesome for a quick snack. Lots of decent to nice eateries within easy walking distance. My last trip Staybridge was sold out so they put me up at the Holiday Inns and Suites right up the 405, I think it was. Lots of stuff to do there, as well. Really fun Korean restaurant two doors down. Don't remember the name, it was past the Denny's, but they were fun.

[SDnewbieshooter]

Costco right across the street, don't need to be a member to buy booze and their hotdog deal is awesome for a quick snack

I know you can get anything at the food court without a membership but I thought you have to go inside to buy booze. In any case, if you manage to snag some good on you!

Since you are in Poway, head over to Poway Weapons and Gear. They have a very nice range and quite a few guns for rental. Also, if you happen to have your own firearm with you, then the range will still rent you a gun when you show up alone.

[SlowDrifter]

California law prohibits the requirement of a membership to any club to buy alcohol, so they have to sell it. I can't buy a shirt, but I can buy beer. I've been to PW&G a couple times. I think that's the place I had to take a computer course and a test to shoot at. Nice range! Looking forward to visiting it again soon.

[code_blue]

Note that most ranges require that you purchase THEIR ammunition when renting their guns. CA's new laws require a CA ID/DL to acquire ammunition. That will be your biggest hurdle.

Granted, your buddies can technically buy you ammo, but in the ammo law civil suit, it was looked upon as a "straw purchase".

[Quiet]

Note that most ranges require that you purchase THEIR ammunition when renting their guns. CA's new laws require a CA ID/DL to acquire ammunition. That will be your biggest hurdle.

Ammo acquired at a licensed target range is exempt from needing to be transferred through a CA licensed ammunition vendor, as long as the ammo never leaves the range. [PC 30312(c)(9)]

[n8vrmind]

And bring a friend with you to the range. Some ranges wouldn't rent guns to you if you are by yourself... (Suicide risk)

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[Marauder2003]

San Diego area. I really love visiting California. Y'all have a beautiful state.