If it is legal in your state to carry a firearm inside a vehicle, there are several things you want to consider before taking to the road. You cannot take a concealed firearm everywhere, so there may be times when you want to leave it in your car temporarily. While some believe it’s okay to bend the law and carry a concealed weapon anywhere because no one will be aware of it, this is a flawed perspective and can result in severe consequences. Instead, always follow your state laws and make sure your firearm is secure at all times. At Soteria, we put safety first, so we want to share a few suggestions before you drive with a concealed firearm.
Keep it On Your Person
While you may be tempted to place a firearm in your glovebox or utilize car holster magnets for quick access, this may not be the best idea. First and foremost, you will have a quicker draw in an emergency if a gun is kept on your person. This is due to proprioception and body awareness; it is always easier access your gun when it is on your body than when it is in a different location.
It’s also important to keep in mind that if a collision were to happen, the firearm could become dislodged or fly out of the vehicle, making it unreachable and even dangerous. Similarly, if you separate yourself from your firearm while leaving your vehicle, even if it’s just to go inside a gas station, it won’t be on you when you need it. It could also be stolen straight from your car, which is one of the primary ways thieves obtain guns. Whenever possible, keep your gun on your person until you arrive at a permanent destination. Otherwise, disarm carefully and keep the firearm stored and locked in your vehicle in the meantime.
Know the Law
In the state of Maryland, concealed carry is legal for CCW Permit (Concealed Carry and Wear Permit) holders who have been properly assessed and permitted to carry a firearm openly. With a CCW, only handguns are allowed, and without a permit they can only be transported in a limited number of scenarios: between residences, a residence and a business you own, to and from a repair shop or to and from a gun sporting event. On highways, firearms must be unloaded at all times and enclosed in a case or holster with no ammunition available nearby or in the passenger compartment.
Laws vary state by state, so be sure to contact your local government agency to learn more about driving with a concealed firearm. Knowing the law is an unnegotiable first step in taking to the road with a gun in your possession.
Consider a Safe for Long Trips
On short trips, it’s easy to manage securing your firearm because you will be able to keep it on your person between local destinations. However, on longer trips this might grow too uncomfortable and depending on state laws (as with Maryland), different rules may apply on highways. Always be aware of this, especially if you are crossing state lines on your journey. If you have to separate yourself from your gun for a length of time while driving, the best method is a reliable safe or a vehicle vault. This way, your firearm will be secure for an extended period of time and safe from thieves if you have to make a stop or enter a government building.
Learn More About Concealed Carry with Soteria Training Academy
Soteria Training Academy provides expert pistol training with an emphasis on safety. Whether you’re a beginner in the world of firearms, or already have a wealth of experience, we look forward to helping your shooting skill set. Contact us today by visiting our website, or call us at (410) 216-3176 to learn more.