I live in So. California (working right now in Pleasanton) and I hear what you're saying. I would try Gun Broker for buying. I have experienced the same thing. I have seen 30-30 carbines at Turners in the past. Turners is a chain in the state. I have bought several older Cowboys on GB ( kind of pricey). from sellers with good feed back on GB. I have also gone on line and found out of state gun shops with great prices, but today, buying a Remington / Marlin, I think I would pass on that. You'll find it all on Gun Broker. Oh, by the way if the descrpition says "no sales to California" email them and question their reason. There are no laws prohibiting sales of Calif legal rifles from private parties out of state and the DOJ rules clearly state that. I bought 3 rifles, all from sellers saying no sales to Cal., and after I eduucated them, I bought their rifles!!!misfire said:I live in San Jose Ca., I have been calling and looking at gun shops all over the SF bay area to no avail.
Thanks for listening to me whine
Bill