June first marks the beginning of the National Shooting Sports Foundation’s (NSSF) Gun Storage Check Week, which provides an opportunity for all gun owners to review their firearms storage practices, while also creating an easy opening to remind others to check theirs. Though it may sometimes feel like an intrusive question, for those who have children who spend time at friends’ and relatives’ homes, this reminder may facilitate discussions about firearm storage.
Multiple options are available for storing firearms, which is great because firearms owners have so many different lifestyles. I found the following list on the NSSF’s website. Although it’s not an exhaustive list, it is a great way to get started.
Cable Lock
A cable lock runs through the barrel or action of a firearm to prevent it from being accidentally fired. All Springfield Armory firearms are shipped with a logoed cable lock that requires a key to unlock it. Other cable locks may have a combination lock attached. Free firearm safety kits and gun locks are available through Project ChildSafe. Find out where you can get yours at the Project ChildSafe website.
Gun Case
Gun cases offer a variety of uses, including protecting and legally transporting firearms. When locked using an external device, they also add a layer of safe storage. Springfield Armory carries a variety of Nanuk hard cases that hold single pistols, a pistol with an optic, four pistols, an AR 15 (with eight magazines) and a two-scoped rifle case. These waterproof, lightweight cases also come with a lifetime warranty.
Lock Box
Lock boxes have integrated combination or keyed locks. Because of their smaller sizes, they are a great choice for both home and travel, but you may want to confirm that they are TSA approved.
Electronic Lock Box
An electronic lock box may use a PIN code, biometrics, Bluetooth and more to open the device. The Springfield Armory store has four versions of Vaultek smart safes designed for quick access.
Full-Size Gun Safe
A full-size gun safe allows those who have multiple firearms to store them all in one place. They are available in all sizes and have various ways of opening, from keys and combination locks to biometrics, key fobs and more.
Vehicle Storage
Storing a firearm in your vehicle requires a little research, depending on the make and model of your car. Some fit alongside your console, inside the console or in other discrete areas.
Cargo Storage
Cargo area storage units are also available for transporting larger firearms and keeping them secure. Again, it is important to find the style that fits your specific vehicle.
Note: If you choose to store a gun in your vehicle, make sure to check your local laws about any liability related to firearms in vehicles.
Final Thoughts
A crucial aspect of being a responsible firearms owner is understanding how to safely store your firearms. We need to keep them out of the hands of children, those who do not understand how to handle firearms and those who may be in crisis. It’s up to you to help prevent unwanted access to your firearms.
Michelle Cerino (aka Princess Gunslinger) is a freelance writer and Managing Editor at Women's Outdoor News. Michelle entered the firearms industry in 2011 as co-owner, president and instructor at a national training company. She quickly began competing in 3-Gun and NRA Action Pistol events and became a sponsored shooter. Michelle also manages social media for Vera Koo as part of the DISA LLC team. In March 2013, she attended Ohio's first armed staff course, which later became the FASTER Saves Lives program. Since then, she has contributed as an instructor and managed the program’s social media and monthly newsletter. For the past 15 years, Michelle has focused on personal safety, sharing her expertise through writing, public speaking and hands-on instruction. Learn more about Michelle Cerino, also known as “Princess Gunslinger,” by visiting her website. View all posts by Michelle Cerino
