Got my FSC, Debating between 3 rifles

Fellow Californian!

First things first, if your local gun stores don't have them in stock, see if you can arrange for them to order one. My gun store has a binder where you can write down a gun's manufacturer and model number, and they'll call you back with how much they would charge you for it.

As for the 3 guns you mentioned I'd recommend the Ruger 10/22. It's the cheapest and has good aftermarket selection. Tech sights are solid and will make using an AR familiar if you decide to go that route.

Since it is an ar style gun, would I need a bullet button even if I buy the CA compliant version?

No. Rimfires of any kind aren't covered by the state's AWB. You're free to put all the evil thumb hole stocks, and pistol grips on them.

Would buying it online and shipping it to a FFL be the best option? - I've never experienced that so I'd need to talk to a FFL and research that a bit.

In general there are 5 steps:

1) Buy gun online 2) E-mail or call your local FFL to have them send a copy of their FFL paperwork to the online retailer. 3) The retailer ships the gun to that FFL 4) You go to that FFL and fill out some more paperwork. This is when the 10 day waiting period starts. You'll also get a chance to inspect the gun to see if there are any defects. 5) After 10 days you pick the the firearm, unless you failed to pass your background check.

Leaning on the M&P but should I stick to a more standard rifle than hop onto the ar style?

I'd advise you to stick to a more standard rifle. If you want an AR style rifle, then buy an AR. Those .22 LR rifles styled as ARs, AKs, and whatnot are sort of... mall ninja-ey

/r/guns Thread