Proper Vehicle Firearm Storage Options: How to Choose
Like most firearm enthusiasts, you probably have a few firearms that you like to take with you when you go out. While it’s fun to shoot at the range or in the woods, you need to ensure that your firearms are stored safely and securely in your vehicle when they’re not in use.
Today, we’ll discuss some of the best vehicle storage options for firearms and how to choose the most suitable for your needs. Keep reading to learn more!
Vehicle Storage Options for Firearms
There are a variety of storage options for firearms in vehicles. The most common and obvious option is to keep the firearm in a case or lockbox in the trunk. This is usually a good idea, as it keeps the firearm out of sight and out of reach of potential thieves.
However, there are other options to consider if you want to keep your firearm more accessible and secure. Some of them include:
In-holster
One option is to keep the firearm in its holster. This is a good option if you want to be able to access the firearm quickly, but it can be uncomfortable to wear a holster for long periods.
Trunk vault
A trunk vault is a great option for storing firearms in your vehicle because it is out of sight and out of reach of potential thieves. Most trunk vaults are made from sturdy materials like steel or reinforced plastic, making them difficult to break into. Additionally, many trunk vaults come with features like keyed locks or combination locks for added security.
The main downside of using a trunk vault to store firearms in your vehicle is that they can be difficult to access in an emergency. If you need to get to your firearm quickly, you may have to open the trunk first, taking precious time.
Locking drawer
A locking drawer is a popular option for storing firearms in vehicles. This storage option is great because it’s usually very secure and can be hidden away from view. However, the downside of using a locking drawer is that it can be difficult to access your firearms during emergencies. Plus, most locking drawers are shallow and may not be able to accommodate all types of firearms.
Hard case
A hard case is another common option for storing firearms in vehicles. Hard cases offer good protection for your firearms and can be hidden away from view. However, hard cases can be expensive and difficult to access in an emergency.
Vehicle firearm rack
A vehicle firearm rack is a great option for storing firearms in vehicles because it allows you to quickly and easily access your firearms in an emergency. However, vehicle firearm racks can be difficult to install, and they may not offer the same level of protection as other storage options.
Console vault
The console vault is a popular storage option for firearms because it’s out of the way and doesn’t take up much space. Most console vaults are made of steel and have a keyed or combination lock.
The benefit of a console vault is that it’s usually out of the reach of small children. Even if they somehow manage to get into the vault, they likely won’t be able to open it. Another advantage is that many console vaults come with a mounting plate to bolt it down—this makes it more difficult for someone to steal your firearms.
However, the drawback of a console vault is that it’s not always easy to access your firearms in an emergency. If you need to grab your firearm quickly, you might have to stop and unlock the vault first. Moreover, console vaults can be quite pricey. If you’re on a budget, this might not be the best option.
Firearm safe
A firearm safe is another popular option for storing firearms in your vehicle. Firearm safes come in various sizes, so you can choose one that’s big enough to hold all of your firearms. Most firearm safes have keyed, or combination locks, and some even have fingerprint scanners.
One advantage of a firearm safe is that it typically provides more protection than a console vault. If your car is involved in an accident, your firearms will be much better protected in a firearm safe. In addition, firearm safes usually have more room than console vaults so that you can store other items in them as well (ammunition, scopes, and attachments).
However, one disadvantage of firearm safes is that they’re often quite heavy and difficult to move. If you need to change vehicles frequently, this might not be the best option. Another disadvantage is that firearm safes can be quite expensive. If you’re on a budget, you might want to consider another storage option.
Hidden compartment
A hidden compartment is another great option for storing firearms in your vehicle. Hidden compartments can be installed in various places, such as under a seat, trunk, or glove box.
The advantage of a hidden compartment is that it’s usually effortless to access your firearms. If you need to grab your firearm quickly, you can reach for it and go. Another advantage is that hidden compartments are usually quite affordable. You can find many DIY kits online or at your local hardware store.
Nonetheless, the drawback of a hidden compartment is that it’s not always as secure as a console vault or firearm safe. If someone knows where to look, they might be able to find your firearms. Furthermore, hidden compartments can be difficult to install. If you’re not handy with tools, you might want to hire a professional to do it for you.
Safety Considerations for Storing Firearms in Vehicles
While it’s important to choose a storage option that meets your needs, there are some other safety considerations to keep in mind when storing firearms in vehicles. Here are a few tips to help you stay safe:
- Make sure the firearm is unloaded before storing it in the vehicle.
- Store the firearm in a locked compartment, safe, or container.
- Keep the ammunition stored separately from the firearm.
- Do not store firearms where they can be easily seen or reached by children or unauthorized adults.
What to Consider When Choosing a Vehicle Storage Option for Your Firearm
There are many reasons why you might need to secure your firearm in your vehicle. Maybe you’re a law enforcement officer who needs to transport a weapon to and from work, or maybe you simply want to keep your firearm out of sight and out of reach of children or unauthorized people.
Whatever the reason, it’s crucial to choose a storage option that will keep your firearm safe and secure while still allowing you quick and easy access when you need it.
Here are a few things to consider when choosing a vehicle storage option for your firearm:
- Ease of access – You’ll want to choose a storage option that allows you to quickly and easily access your firearm when you need it and keeps it securely stored when you don’t. A good option for this is a locking glove box or center console.
- Concealment – If you’re worried about someone seeing your firearm, you might want to choose a storage option that offers some degree of concealment, such as an under-seat lockbox.
- Mounting options – Some vehicle storage options need to be mounted to be used, so make sure you choose an option that can be easily installed in your vehicle.
- Cost – Vehicle storage options can range in price from around $20 to $200, so choose an option that fits your budget.
No matter your reason for needing to secure your firearm in your vehicle, there’s a storage option that will fit your needs. Just be sure to consider all of the above factors before making your final decision.
Tips for Keeping Your Firearms Safe in a Vehicle
In addition to choosing the right storage option for your firearm, there are also a few general tips you can follow to help keep your firearm safe in your vehicle:
- Keep it out of sight – If possible, keep your firearm hidden from view to deter thieves and prevent accidents.
- Unloaded and disassembled – When storing your firearm in a vehicle, make sure it is unloaded and disassembled (if possible) to reduce the risk of an accidental discharge further.
- Avoid hot cars – Never leave your firearm in a vehicle parked in direct sunlight or a hot environment, as this can damage the firearm and make it more susceptible to accidents.
- Know the laws – Be sure to familiarize yourself with the firearm laws in your state before storing a firearm in your vehicle, as there may be specific regulations you need to follow.
The Best Way to Store Your Firearms in Your Vehicle
The best way to store your firearm in your vehicle is a storage option that keeps your firearm secure and easily accessible in case of emergencies. However, regardless of the storage option you choose, it’s vital that you clean and lubricate your firearm properly before carrying it or storing it in your vehicle.
At Armory Den, we offer various firearm cleaning kits and solvent traps to help you clean and keep your firearms in proper working condition. We know the importance of firearm maintenance concerning the durability of any firearm, and we are committed to helping you ensure that your firearm lasts as long as possible.
If you have any further questions about firearms or vehicle storage options for firearms, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Notice: Please be advised that this article is for information purposes only and Armory Den, Inc., Armory Den, and/or Armoryden.com, does not accept liability for any negligence, injury, death or other personal or environmental consequences that occur from the sourced and unsourced information in this article.
