"I'm not talking about other states. OP asked about California. I lived in Sacramento ca, and I can buy a real rifle and shotgun without a permit. So I dont understand anyone would think you need a permit in California to buy a airgun when you can buy a real firearm without it. In California, you only need a permit if you are buying a handgun. All rifle, shotgun, airgun, bow, xbow, slingshot, You do not need a permit."
A couple of things with the above statement;
1.) While a 'permit' is not needed, a Firearms Safety Card is. If you don't have one, you cannot buy ANY firearm in California. So, technically that Safety Card is a permit to purchase.
2.) The 10 day wait is universal, it's a wait no matter what firearm is purchased, long gun, shotgun, handgun. All require a 10 day wait. You cannot as you state, "buy an AR and walk out with it".
3.) You are correct for the bow, xbow, slingshot not needing a permit however.
The laws in California are tough, there is no doubt about that, but the OP was asking a legitimate valid question, you chose to flame with a "lmao" comment. Flaming is NOT what this forum is about, it's about lending a hand for a better knowledge base.
mike