In some cases, failing to safely store a firearm has led to fatal accidents. When people choose a gun like the AR-15 Rifle featured here for hunting and survival but a common worry among people who wish to own or already own firearms is how to store them. There are some tips you can follow to ensure you are being as responsible and safe as possible with your firearm, even when you are not physically holding it which you can find featured here.
The first thing you must remember any time you are handling a firearm is safety. To avoid any type of accident, safety procedures must be followed. As a review, below are some basic rules to keep in mind:
– Always assume the handgun is loaded and treat it as such.
– Never point your muzzle at anything you are not willing to destroy. Aim only if you are planning to shoot.
– Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.
– Before shooting, be sure not only of your target, but also what is behind it (bullets go through things!).
There are varying options for keeping your firearms safe. The most common ways are to keep the firearm and ammunition separated, or to have a gun lock box. Both things are noteworthy and will do the job of keeping your firearm out of the way of little hands or of people who may not be familiar with firearm safety. A common concern with these solutions is whether you can quickly arm yourself in the case of an emergency.
The trick here is knowing where your weapon and ammunition is and being familiar with how to load and unload it. Practice makes perfect in all things, so you want to be sure to add time in your schedule to practice getting your weapon and loading it. Your body will remember what you practiced in an emergency; it will “follow the motions” in a crisis if you have practiced normally.
1. Trigger Locks
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One option to have on hand when safely storing your firearms are trigger locks. Trigger locks should only be used when you are sure the weapon is empty of ammunition since it handles the trigger. They are simple to use and are affordable at about $12 to $15. Most new guns today are sold with a trigger lock provided either by the manufacturer or the gun dealer. Some community programs even provide people with trigger locks for free. Do some research in your local area to see what is available.
There are a couple of several types of trigger locks. A trigger shoe is one that houses the trigger so that it cannot be manipulated. Cable locks are also popular trigger locks. They typically go through the grip or the barrel to prevent the weapon from being either loaded or discharged, depending on the type of firearm it is used on.
2. Gun Cases
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There are many diverse types of gun cases on the market, all ranging from an affordable $10 to a pricier $150. The type and quality of the gun case varies between options, but each gun case provides the same general peace of mind. A simple pad lock can be added to these cases, making them good for both keeping the weapon free from damage and keeping it away from the hands of children. This is not the best option to keep the firearm safe from thieves, though, as gun cases are manufactured to be easily totes from one place to another, making them easy to break open with the proper tools.
3. Strong Boxes and Security Cases
Strong boxes and security cases are most often created and sold by the same manufacturer as the fun. This is their attempt to provide a portable storage case that can asked help prevent theft. They can be expensive, ranging from about $50 to $300. Despite the price, these are the best options for those who want quick and easy access to their weapon while also providing protection from physical harm and thievery.
There are varying types of locks on each box or case, depending on the technology used. Some have a keypad; some have a thumb print detector. These are also neat to have, as many can be mounted to a wall, a desk, or even the trunk of a car. This can make the weapon very safe to travel with, but also very easily accessed in the case of an emergency. Strong boxes and security cases are the best of both worlds when it comes to safety, portability, and ease of access.
4. Locking Steel Gun Cabinets
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These cabinets can be pricey, ranging from $150 to $450. They are made of lightweight material, making them easier to maneuver in apartment buildings and other areas where a traditional gun case may be more difficult or even impossible to move around. These cabinets can be mounted to the floor or wall for extra stability. They can house multiple weapons and have multiple types of locks for added security.
5. Gun Safe
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For the standard gun owner, a gun safe is the most popular and safest option for storing weapons. Gun safes are secured by weight and a complex locking mechanism. They can also be bolted to the ground or wall. They can create a safe environment against thieves, but also a barrier between natural elements and your weapons. Floods and fires often cannot penetrate your run of the mill gun safe. Since they provide such protection and peace of mind, gun safes can range from $500 to $2500. It is important to do your research on gun safes and find what will work best for your needs.
Safely storing your firearm can be a challenge at first, but it is not as difficult as it sounds. You can safely store it away while also having quick access in case of an emergency. Remember, practicing for a crisis will help train your mind and body to follow a certain procedure if things go wrong. Do your research, practice when you can, and you will be set.
