If you’re a gun owner, you may be wondering about the legal and safe ways to store firearms while you’re traveling in your car. Carrying a concealed weapon is not only a right, but it is also a responsibility. You must make sure that your firearm is safe and secure, not only for yourself but also to comply with the law. But what are the legal issues surrounding car gun storage? In this blog, we will discuss the various solutions and the legal considerations for storing firearms in a vehicle.
Gun laws in cars
Before diving into the different means of car gun storage, let’s discuss the legal implications of doing so. Laws regarding firearms in vehicles vary from state to state. Federal laws prohibit anyone with certain criminal records from owning a firearm. Besides, local laws regulate carrying no-gun zones and storage requirements. It is essential to familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations regarding firearms storage in your state of residence.
Gun safety in cars
Gun safety should always come first, no matter what. Gun storage in a car should always be concealed, secure, and out of sight. This helps minimize the temptation of theft and reduces the risk of accidental discharge. You can invest in a vehicle safe, which can be installed in the trunk or under a seat. This safe is lockable, heavy-duty, and ensures that you are the only one with access to it. You can also invest in a gun holster that can be mounted on the car seats.
Considerations for long trips
If you plan to travel across the state or country, you must ensure your firearm is secure and legal throughout the journey. Check the laws of each state you will pass via. Some states require that the loaded firearm be transported in a separate compartment, and the unloaded firearm is stored in another. A good car gun safe with a cable lock can securely store your firearm while you travel. Better yet, parking in a secure garage is safer than leaving your car on a public street.
Consider the passengers
If you have passengers, especially children, it is essential to ensure that your firearm is locked in a secure car gun safe. This can also help minimize liability in case of any accidents involving firearms. Keep the key to the safe away from children and inform the other adults in the vehicle about the presence of a firearm. Also, if you pick up a hitchhiker, make sure that this individual is aware that you have a gun and where it is stored.
Practice gun safety
Lastly, it is important to keep up with good gun handling practices. Before storing, unloading the firearm and confirm that it is empty. When handling your firearm, keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot. Also, ensure that the firearm is pointed in a safe direction, which means away from people or anything you don’t intend to shoot.
Conclusion
Owning a firearm comes with a responsibility, and part of that responsibility is ensuring safe storage. Car gun storage presents various legal and safety challenges. You need to ensure that the firearms are securely stored, concealed, and always out of sight. With the different available options, you can be sure of a safe and legal means of storage. Remember to acquaint yourself with state laws, invest in a secure gun safe, and always follow good gun handling practices. By doing so, you can reduce the risks associated with carrying a firearm in a car and uphold your responsibility as a gun owner.
