That's a really good question, and you're right, California gun laws can be super complex! From what I understand, adding a compensator itself isn't generally illegal, but it's crucial to make sure it doesn't inadvertently turn your pistol into an "assault weapon" under California's definitions. Some things to consider are whether the compensator is permanently attached, and if it could be interpreted as a flash hider (which can be a big no-no on certain firearms). It really depends on the specific design of the compensator and how it's installed. I've heard that checking with a local FFL (Federal Firearm Licensee) or even a lawyer who specializes in CA gun laws is the safest bet before making any modifications. They usually have the most current and accurate information. Has anyone else here gone through this process in California? Any specific compensator models or attachment methods that are known to be compliant, or non-compliant, that we should watch out for?

Thanks for the insights! It's definitely a minefield navigating these laws. The point about it potentially being interpreted as a flash hider is a really good one that I hadn't explicitly considered. That "assault weapon" classification is what scares me the most. So, for those who have successfully added a compensator in California, what specific models did you use? And how was it attached? Was it pinned and welded, or did you go with a different method to ensure it wasn't considered easily removable or a flash hider? Any details on what to look for, or *avoid*, in terms of design features would be incredibly helpful for everyone trying to stay compliant. It feels like even a small detail can make a huge difference here.

This is exactly the kind of practical info we need! It's clear that the "assault weapon" definition and the flash hider interpretation are the main concerns for many of us trying to stay compliant while customizing our firearms. For those of you who have successfully added a compensator in California, could you really dig into the specifics? * **What exact compensator models did you use** that you're confident are CA-compliant? * **How was it attached?** Was it indeed pinned and welded, or did you find another attachment method that satisfied the regulations (e.g., considered a permanent modification)? * **Are there any specific design features** on compensators that are definite red flags, or conversely, features that make them clearly compliant in California? For example, is there a visual cue that distinguishes a "compensator" from a "flash hider" in the eyes of CA law? Sharing your real-world experiences and the exact products/methods you used would be invaluable for everyone else navigating this tricky landscape. It feels like we're all trying to avoid those small details that could lead to big problems. Thanks in advance for any detailed insights!