Question:
We are spearfish divers and are wondering if bang sticks or power heads are legal to use in self-defense against sharks approaching us? They are like a fold-out stick with a bullet at the end. You press the stick against a shark if it comes in too short, and it fires. There are many companies that will ship them to California but I heard they are a firearm and must be registered. I've also heard that because of what they are used for, they are legal and don't need to be registered. I've called a few local police departments to ask but they have no idea. (Christopher)

Answer:
California Fish and Game law does not prohibit possession of these devices. However, according to Department of Fish and Game (DFG) retired Captain Phil Nelms, bang sticks and/or power heads that use an explosive cartridge are firearms. Firearms are not a legal method of take for sharks and can't be used to take or land sharks, or any other species of fish.