In a surprise move, San Diego Sheriff Bill Gore apparently read the 9th circuit Court decision and understood that his position against the bearing of firearms outside the home was unconstitutional.

He will not appeal the court’s ruling:

In an unexpected action, the San Diego County sheriff said Friday he will not seek a rehearing of last week’s federal appeals court ruling that would eliminate most local restrictions on concealed-weapons permits in California.

Although state Attorney General Kamala Harris or the court itself could still intervene, the decision by Sheriff Bill Gore increases the possibility of a proliferation of handguns on the streets of San Francisco and other urban areas that now severely restrict them.

“We’re concerned,” said Deputy City Attorney Christine Van Aken. If the ruling stands, she said, “San Francisco officials are going to have to grant more permits and won’t really have the discretion to make judgments about whether people should have concealed weapons.”

The Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled 2-1 on Feb. 13 that the Constitution’s Second Amendment entitles law-abiding citizens to carry handguns in public for self-defense.

The ruling would strike down the core of California’s permit system, which requires residents to show “good cause” to carry a concealed weapon. Most rural counties issue permits to anyone who claims a need for self-defense, but urban counties – including San Diego, the sole defendant in the suit – require applicants to show a special need for a handgun.

In a letter to San Diego County supervisors, Gore said he has no need to seek a rehearing because the ruling “provides clear guidance.”

If the court takes no further action, the ruling will become final and binding statewide.