Smith & Wesson is the largest and oldest American firearms manufacturer still in operation, founded in 1852 by Horace Smith and Daniel B. Wesson. The company revolutionized handgun design with innovations like the first repeating firearm using a fully self-contained cartridge and the iconic Model 29 .44 Magnum revolver made famous by Dirty Harry. Today, S&W dominates the California roster with everything from compact M&P Shield pistols to full-size revolvers, making them the single most represented brand with over 240 approved models. Their M&P (Military & Police) line has become one of the best-selling polymer pistol platforms in the country.
Looking for a Smith & Wesson handgun you can legally buy in California? CaliRoster tracks every Smith & Wesson model currently approved on the California Department of Justice (DOJ) Certified Handguns Roster. There are currently 242 Smith & Wesson models approved for retail sale through licensed California FFL dealers.
Smith & Wesson offers 9 calibers on the California roster, with .357 Magnum being the most common (63 models). Prices range from $299 to $1,699 MSRP.
Yes — any Smith & Wesson model listed above with "On Roster" status can be purchased new from a licensed California FFL dealer. You'll need a valid Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC), must pass a background check, and complete the mandatory 10-day waiting period. All California handgun purchases must go through a licensed dealer, even private party transfers.
Models marked "Expiring" are still available but may be removed from the roster soon. Models marked "Removed" can no longer be purchased new at retail, but may be available through private party transfers (PPT), law enforcement exemptions, or intrafamilial transfers.