Solar Tactical - Castro Valley

I've only had two experiences at this gun store.

The first was years ago when I needed copper bullets in .243 for hunting and they looked at me like I was crazy. It does say tactical rather than hunting, so I'll give them a pass on this.

The second experience was earlier this week when I did a PPT, after selling a shotgun to one of my buddies. The transaction went very smoothly, and while we were there another party was also conducting a PPT. They had plenty of staff on a Tuesday morning to handle everyone.

Since I wrote this review, I've conducted three additional PPTs at this establishment, and maybe because I get there early, the process is always quick and easy. Jesus is friendly, fast and accurate in processing the paperwork. Especially if you're in the Castro Valley area, this is definitely a good option.

Won't PPT AR pistol lowers unless the word PISTOL is engraved on the lower itself. Prices are pretty high, and they were also price gouging during the pandemic, selling plain jane Gen3 Glocks for over $1000. Never forget.

Did a PPT here a few months ago. They're only open for PPTs from 10-11am on Saturday, first come first served, no appointments taken. If you don't manage to get in before 11, you're SOL.

They require you to purchase a lock ($15) for each pistol you're transferring unless you have a receipt showing you bought a lock in the past 30 days. I understand this is basically a "cost of doing business in CA" measure, but it's basically a hidden fee for PPTs above the state mandated pricing.

Regardless, people know their stuff and are efficient about doing the PPTs.

Next time ask to sign the safe affidavit instead of buying another lock

I did a PPT at Solar Tactical - Castro Valley here roughly a week ago and the transaction was extremely smooth.

It's a small physical shop so I recommend coming early (at least 15 - 20 minutes) before they open and getting in line (especially on Saturdays). They do check IDs at the door (first time for me at a FFL), but once you're in, the staff was super helpful. PPT went without a hitch and was in-and-out within 25 minutes. I wish I got the employee's name, but he was lightning quick with the DROS process!

PPT on Saturdays are limited to the first hour (10a - 11am).

Decent selection - I saw a promo on their rifle wall where if you spend a certain amount, you get a built Del-ton AR-15 with RDS (CA compliant of course) free with purchase!

Excellent	2	50%
Good	1	25%
Average	0	0%
Poor	0	0%
Terrible	1	25%

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Solar Tactical - Castro Valley

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