So I found out my car will be shipped to LA and I need to fly from Phoenix to LA and drive it back to AZ, is packing heat in CA or more specifically La legal, any military exemptions, I will be on terminal leave but otherwise active duty. All I hear is bad news from Cali and don't want to be caught without my heat, but want to do it legally, I also have a JPX jet protector that is an oc gun but not a firearm. It fires oc at above 400 mph. Any recommendations for self defense? Thanks!!!

Transporting Firearms in California

HANDGUNS

Pursuant to California Penal Code section 25610, a United States citizen over 18 years of age who is not prohibited from firearm possession, and who resides or is temporarily in California, may transport by motor vehicle any handgun provided it is unloaded and locked in the vehicle’s trunk or in a locked container. Furthermore, the handgun must be carried directly to or from any motor vehicle for any lawful purpose and, while being carried must be contained within a locked container.

Pursuant to California Penal Code section 16850, the term "locked container" means a secure container that is fully enclosed and locked by a padlock, key lock, combination lock, or similar locking device. This includes the trunk of a motor vehicle, but does not include the utility or glove compartment.

SHOTGUNS AND RIFLES

Nonconcealable firearms (shotguns and rifles) are not generally covered within the provisions of California Penal Code section 25400 and therefore are not required to be transported in a locked container. However, as with any firearm, nonconcealable firearms must be unloaded while they are being transported.

REGISTERED ASSAULT WEAPONS

California Penal Code section 30945, subdivision (g) provides that registered assault weapons may be transported only between specified locations and must be unloaded and stored in a locked container when transported.

Pursuant to California Penal Code section 16850, the term "locked container" means a secure container that is fully enclosed and locked by a padlock, key lock, combination lock, or similar locking device. This includes the trunk of a motor vehicle, but does not include the utility or glove compartment.

MD,

I apologize, my definition of packing heat would be a loaded pistol in my IWB holster.
That would be acceptable but, not ideal. I imagine California as being this gang Ms13 land where my gun in the trunk unloaded would be useless. I guess that will do, and I will load up and carry when I get across the AZ border. I could not find anything in the JPX jet and might keep that ready if legal. How about body armor like an 3a vest, I have a soft panel I can also keep in my backpack, I don't trust California and I am disturbed even having to step foot into that wasteland lol.

MD,

I apologize, my definition of packing heat would be a loaded pistol in my IWB holster.
That would be acceptable but, not ideal. I imagine California as being this gang Ms13 land where my gun in the trunk unloaded would be useless. I guess that will do, and I will load up and carry when I get across the AZ border. I could not find anything in the JPX jet and might keep that ready if legal. How about body armor like an 3a vest, I have a soft panel I can also keep in my backpack, I don't trust California and I am disturbed even having to step foot into that wasteland lol.

Honestly dude with that mindset you're going to attract trouble not repel it. California has some dumb laws but it's not some writhing mass of constant gangland activity. Use common sense, maintain awareness, and don't be a dick.

Gang violence is almost always gang on gang, and the odds of you getting in the middle of it randomly are pretty slim.

I don't think anything is allowed in CA.

Carry pepper spray.

If pepper spray isn't allowed, carry a knife.

If a knife isn't allowed, carry wasp spray.

Truth.  I've flown into LA, picked up a car, and driven to Palm Desert/Rancho Mirage/Indian Wells on more than one occasion.  Not a big deal.  The chances of you getting caught up in something are really, really slim.  Would I carry if I could?  Sure.  Would I have a panic attack if I can't?  Nope.  Don't let fear rule your life.