Let me clear up some FUD. (smile)
Any handgun can be brought into California as long as it doesn't have any assault weapon features. Like a threaded barrel or magazines over 10 rounds. No SBRs etc. The Safe Handgun Roster only applies to FFLs in California selling to private citizens.
The California Highway Patrol website addresses the issue of transport in California:
http://www.chp.ca.gov/html/answers.html (cut and paste below)
I will be traveling to California and want to carry my weapon. I currently have a concealed weapon permit. How can I
legally transport my weapon while driving through the state?
Answer:
California law does not recognize concealed weapon permits from other states; therefore, they would not be held valid. If you wish to
transport a handgun during your California visit, it should be carried unloaded in a locked container. In the absence of a suitable container, you may secure the unloaded handgun in the locked trunk of a passenger car. Ammunition may be kept in the same container or trunk, but the handgun must remain unloaded with no rounds in the cylinder and no loaded magazines in the magazine well.
*****
So the best way is to own a locked container and transport the handgun in that locked container. I personally use a $27 Briefcase that I bought at Staples. Inside is my GLOCK and a couple of loaded magazines, as well as a towel, some papers that are a copy of the CHP website.
In California you can carry this locked container (with the gun unloaded) on the front seat if you desire. Probably the best way is to just shove it with the other baggage while driving around the State. Also, remember that you don't want a locked container that screams GUN INSIDE, like a GLOCK box or a RANGE BAG with a padlock. No need alarming others is my opinion. A briefcase with dual combo locks looks just fine.
Be polite, be professional and always refuse a search. This is your right and a few hours watching COPS or 48 hours will convince you that most citizens are ignorant of their right to refuse a search. Even if the police searched the VAN and pried open the Briefcase, you have broken no laws.
(Have that copy of the CHP website above in that briefcase)
To protect your rights you have to be assertive. No consent for a search. Ever.
The AG Check points are not a problem. They are concerned with Fruit that has bugs. Don't bring any with you. Simple solution.
Oh...and never transport in the GLOVE BOX or Center console, against the law. Have the registration and proof of insurance at the ready on a plastic chip clip; hand it over if pulled over.
Welcome and have a safe trip.
Be well
Bob