California gun owners experienced what many have dubbed “freedom week” after a recent ruling by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals struck down the state’s ammunition background check requirement. The decision prompted a surge of ammunition purchases online and in-store, as residents sought to take advantage of the moment before any potential reversal.
Although the court’s decision signals a major legal shift, background checks remain in place until the state Department of Justice officially updates its procedures.
From Proposition 63 to the 9th Circuit
The background check mandate began with Proposition 63, passed by voters in 2016. The law required a permit for ammunition purchases, banned direct online sales to consumers, and forced buyers to undergo an in-person background check each time they purchased ammo.
Proponents claimed the law was aimed at curbing illegal gun trafficking. However, opponents argued it unfairly burdened law-abiding citizens, limiting their access to ammunition while doing little to prevent crime.
Legal challenges began almost immediately, and in 2020 a district court blocked the law. After years of back-and-forth, the 9th Circuit has now reaffirmed that the measure unlawfully restricts Second Amendment rights, citing the Supreme Court’s 2022 Bruen decision as precedent.
Gun Owners React
The ruling triggered an immediate response from the state’s firearm community. Gun shops reported significant increases in sales as customers sought to restock supplies without the hassle of repeated background checks. Some celebrated the decision as a victory for gun rights and a blow to California’s strict firearms regulations.
Still, many dealers cautioned that until the state formally implements the court’s decision, background checks are technically still required — creating uncertainty for buyers and sellers alike.
Political and Public Safety Fallout
California officials wasted no time voicing their disapproval. Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the decision as a setback for public safety, while Attorney General Rob Bonta vowed to defend the law as a common-sense measure.
Gun rights advocates, including competitive shooters and sportsmen’s organizations, hailed the ruling as a major win for the Second Amendment. They argue that responsible gun owners should not face unnecessary hurdles to exercise their constitutional rights.
Why This Matters
For gun owners, especially those in rural areas or heavily involved in shooting sports, the ability to purchase ammunition easily and affordably is essential. The court’s ruling could make it easier for lawful citizens to maintain the supplies they need for competition, hunting, and home defense.
Whether this “freedom week” becomes a lasting reality or just a brief window of opportunity will depend on the state’s next legal move — and whether higher courts choose to intervene.
