A major firearms manufacturer has officially announced it is pulling out of the California civilian market, and the reason comes down to the state’s newest gun laws: AB 1263 and SB 74. As January 1, 2026 approaches, the real-world impact of these laws is becoming impossible to ignore.

While neither AB 1263 nor SB 74 explicitly bans barrels or accessories, both laws impose sweeping new compliance requirements and liability risks across the entire supply chain. Manufacturers, distributors, and sellers can now be held responsible if a product is later used to make a firearm non-compliant under California law. The threat of fines and even criminal prosecution has proven to be enough for some companies to walk away entirely.

On December 19, 2025, Geissele issued a letter stating that all sales and shipments of its arms and accessories to California residents will cease as of December 31, 2025, unless prior written approval is granted. Notably, the policy appears to apply only to the civilian market, continuing a familiar pattern where law enforcement remains unaffected by restrictions imposed on the general public.

This decision highlights a troubling trend. Rather than adapting to California’s laws to continue serving lawful gun owners, several major brands are choosing to exit the state while preserving government contracts. The result is exactly what critics warned about: everyday Californians lose access to products, while state agencies face no meaningful restrictions.

As more companies announce their departure, gun owners in California may be in for an unpleasant surprise come the new year. Whether viewed as corporate self-preservation or a betrayal of the consumer base that helped build these brands, the list of companies leaving California continues to grow—and that is a win for lawmakers pushing these policies.