Jeffrey, Restricted features and the acceptance by CA AGO to get on his list. California compliant guns generally fall under two categories: long guns and handguns. ... As such, a semi-automatic rifle in California cannot have the following features: A detachable magazine and any one of the following: Pistol grip that protrudes conspicuously below the stock. Thumbhole, telescopic or folding stock.

with handguns the main difference is that the manufacturer paid the state of CA to test and certify that the gun is CA certified in other words the makers paid the CA blackmail to be allowed to sell a legal product in CA