If you’re a daily carrier, it’s just a matter of time before you’ll encounter a place you cannot walk inside with your pistol. For instance, a lot of employers have no problem with an employee locking up his or her firearm in the vehicle – so long as it’s not visible by any passersby.
In general, that’s a fantastic idea from the get-go. Never leave firearms visible to someone who passes by. Thieves, when they break in, go for the glove box, center console, and under the seats if they suspect a firearm to be in the vehicle. If they have time, they’ll check the trunk as well.
This leaves us in the unfortunate predicament of having to be creative in where we leave our firearms.
Ideal: Locked, Concealed Container Fixed To Interior
Companies like Conceal Pro (and others) specialize in custom design concealed compartments which are opened by mechanical means. This means, when closed, they appear no different than any other facet of the vehicle – giving thieves no outward idea that a firearm is stored inside.
The companies that specialize in this work generally work with the specific model of your vehicle to ensure that the compartment is flush with the other panels. These compartments are generally opened by a secret button or code. They’re not meant to store your concealed carry pistol while you’re driving – when you may need fast access. Quite literally – they’re for when you need to exit the vehicle and either legally or practically can’t take your firearm with you.
For long-term everyday carriers who plan on keeping their vehicle for a while, this option makes the most sense. It’s an investment in responsible storage.
Also Ideal: Locked Safe Box
If it’s not practical or possible to install a custom concealed compartment in the vehicle, it’s still affordable to install a vehicle-mounted gun safe perfect for storing a pistol or revolver, such as a Console Vault. While it could still be detected in the event your vehicle is broken into, the thief will consume an inordinate amount of time trying to get that safe out.
There’s also the convenience of knowing that when you go to a place where firearms are forbidden – such as a courthouse or a postal office – you’re able to store your pistol safely for that duration.
These compartments are also great for storing backup pistol magazines or quick-loaders for revolvers. While it’s generally suggested you always carry a backup pistol magazine for your daily carry concealed pistol, this compartment can also serve as the location for another backup.
Not Ideal: Locked Glovebox, Locked Trunk
The glovebox and trunk are not ideal. Both the glovebox and the trunk can be broken into rather easily. A crowbar should be sufficient, in most cases. We do not recommend leaving a gun in any of these places even if it is for a short period of time while you run into the bank, post office or other area that you cannot carry. I hear news reports every week about car robberies where the thieves ran off with someone firearm that was left in the car.
Vehicle firearm storage is not for the benefit of your draw or self-defense – it is for the safe, concealed storage of your firearm. If you are in the vehicle, you should have your firearm on you at all times. If you are exiting the vehicle, you should have a locked, secure container to place it inside.
