10-21-2021, 07:29 AM | #1 |
Private
113
Rep 78
Posts |
Firearm storage
I hope this is an appropriate topic, however, I would like to ask those who have firearms, where they store while driving. My 2021 540i M Sport has a center console that is much too small. That is typically where I've stored in past vehicles since it allows easy reach if the unthinkable occurs, yet still fulfills the requirement (at least according to FL statutes) of having the firearm completely contained. I might add that I do not like to carry concealed on my person (legal in FL) while driving. Yes, the holster protects the trigger but a pistol is a mechanical device and in the event of a catastrophic crash, having a firearm attached to my body with a round in the chamber makes me uncomfortable. Yes, the firearm is close in the center console if it fits, but not attached to me so the risk of being inadvertently shot is reduced in the event of a discharge caused by a catastrophic crash.
I was thinking of purchasing a vehicle safe box that mounts to the side next to the driver's seat. However, that would require drilling which makes be cringe. Thank you |
10-21-2021, 07:47 AM | #2 |
Lieutenant
630
Rep 433
Posts |
It's something I've pondered too (a location without making any modifications)
The console by the driver's left knee seems to be rather tiny (maybe a sub-compact could fit, but that's not my preferred choice of weapon) The passenger side console is surprisingly small too, but may take a closer to full size handgun. So far, all I've been able to think of as a potential location for a full size handgun is the driver door compartment behind the cup holder - it's lined with felt too. Whether that complies with FL statute is not something I've had a chance to discuss with my local law enforcement folks yet. |
Appreciate
0
|
10-21-2021, 02:11 PM | #4 | |
Second Lieutenant
99
Rep 216
Posts |
Quote:
|
|
Appreciate
1
540iSUP703.00 |
10-21-2021, 04:41 PM | #5 |
Private
113
Rep 78
Posts |
I can fit my P365 XL in the center console but not while in a holster. And the holster I have is not big. FL statutes states that the firearm must be in a holster and enclosed while in a vehicle. As for the compartment in the door, that is against the FL statutes since the firearm needs to be totally in an enclosed compartment or case.
Many firearm owners in FL don't follow the statutes and do keep their firearms in the door panel or without a holster. I prefer to follow the rules since I love my life and freedom. I appreciate the suggestions! |
10-21-2021, 05:01 PM | #6 | |
Enlisted Member
16
Rep 34
Posts
Drives: 2021 M550i
Join Date: Sep 2020
Location: Laredo, TX
|
Quote:
|
|
Appreciate
0
|
10-21-2021, 05:08 PM | #7 | |
Second Lieutenant
99
Rep 216
Posts |
Quote:
|
|
Appreciate
0
|
10-21-2021, 06:40 PM | #9 |
Second Lieutenant
226
Rep 272
Posts |
Guns should never be left in a car, that is not secure. I have had friends install a lock box, and the car was still broken into and the weapon stolen. Carrying on your person is the safest option (dominant side holster) and the gun will always be under your direct control. Guns do not go off in a crash, especially if in a proper holster with a covered trigger guard. All guns are designed to be "drop safe" from considerable heights. You could put a primed case in the chamber and demonstrate it to yourself. You can throw it against a wall, drop on the ground and any number of things. As long as nothing depresses the trigger, the gun will not fire.
The problem I have with storing guns in various places in the car: 1) You forget and leave it there. (then stolen or unauthorized access) 2) You intentionally leave it there, and unauthorized people access it...parking valet, vehicle service personnel, children, friends, family members... 3) Placing and removing it from the location, entails additional unnecessary handling of the gun. It if is stored in a holster, that will minimize the risk, but if it is not, there is a much greater chance of fumbling and causing a negligent discharge. Don't scoff, I know trained police officers and military special operations folks that have had a negligent discharge in their vehicle because they were "fiddling" with their gun unnecessarily when it should have been in the holster. 4) Any sort of "off body" carry option entails additional risks over carrying on your hip. Security and retention are the primary concerns. I've worked as a firearm instructor for over two decades. I'm also certified by my state criminal justice training commission (police academy) as a firearms instructor. Last edited by 430Scud; 10-21-2021 at 06:57 PM.. |
10-21-2021, 06:47 PM | #10 | |
Second Lieutenant
99
Rep 216
Posts |
Quote:
|
|
Appreciate
0
|
10-22-2021, 01:35 PM | #12 |
Private
113
Rep 78
Posts |
I wouldn't leave a gun in a car unattended. Absolutely not. In my posting, I was referring to a place in the vehicle to store while driving since I do not like it attached to me during that time. I clip it on while in the vehicle before I exit in a very inconspicuous manner. As for a firearm inadvertently firing when dropped or subjected to similar forces, I am not willing to take that chance. In 1994, I was a passenger in a severe crash that killed the driver and can attest how a vehicle just comes apart in a violent crash. Wouldn't want a gun attached to my belt during something as violent as that.
As for the possibility of guns firing when dropped? Just as one example, perform a web search on the Sig 320. |
Appreciate
0
|
10-22-2021, 01:35 PM | #13 |
Major General
7039
Rep 6,516
Posts
Drives: '18 M550i|'21 X5|'03 540i
Join Date: Apr 2021
Location: Boston
iTrader: (1)
Garage List 2013 VW Tiguan [0.00]
2015 Infiniti QX60 [0.00] 2021 BMW X5 [0.00] 2003 BMW 540i [0.00] 2018 BMW M550 [10.00] |
The question for me is, where do I put my crossbow:-) ??
__________________
2018 M550ix|Carbon Black|Dinan Modifications|2003 540i|Jet Black|M-Sport|2021 X5 Mineral White
Prior BMW's: 1987 325e|1993 740i|1998 740il|2001 530i|2002 745li|2007 750li|2006 750li|2001 530i|2012 535xi| |
10-22-2021, 02:22 PM | #14 |
Private
95
Rep 72
Posts
Drives: 2018 540i xDrive
Join Date: Sep 2021
Location: Omaha, NE
|
|
10-23-2021, 07:35 PM | #15 |
Private
23
Rep 71
Posts |
Laws are different here in MA. If I have the gun in the car and get pulled over and the officer asks me to exit, then the gun is no longer under my control, and unless it's in a locked location, I am in trouble.
I keep it in my cc holster with the safety on… yes for you the p365 doesn't have a manual safety, but it's required for it to be sold in MA… or it's my p229 with the hammer down for DA. If you really want, there are vehicle holster options you can use. I've never used one so can't recommend, but I've seen them in use |
Appreciate
0
|
10-23-2021, 09:39 PM | #16 |
...
932
Rep 4,323
Posts
Drives: M340
Join Date: Aug 2006
Location: Seattle, WA
|
Only in Murca where we need to shoot people and stuff or to “protect” ourselves but wait, we have “freedom”, right?
__________________
2020 G20 M340 xDrive - Portimao Blue - ZDA|ZPP|ZPX|1CR|1PE|6NW|6WD
2016 F10 535i xDrive - AW - Retired 2011 E92 M3 - AW……………....ED April 29th, 2010 - Retired 2007 E92 335i -Space Gray.....ED Oct 19th, 2006 - Retired |
Appreciate
0
|
10-24-2021, 01:56 PM | #19 | |
Second Lieutenant
99
Rep 216
Posts |
Quote:
99% of the time in my car, it's still IWB..if it's a longer drive I'll put it on my left ankle or in my center console..I don't prefer ankle carry at all, but it's always an option. Typically my 4 o-clock is most comfortable, I've flown 72 hours like this. |
|
Appreciate
1
paquet629.50 |
10-24-2021, 07:37 PM | #20 |
Private
102
Rep 65
Posts
Drives: 2017 BMW 540i
Join Date: Nov 2020
Location: Mooresville, NC
|
I also carry everywhere legally allowed to, in every state I'm allowed to. I'm the same as Tactical I keep it IWB around 4 o'clock unless it's a long drive. We recently drove from NC to FL on vacation and I made sure to carry something that fits comfortably for both the drive but the warm summer weather also. During the drive, I did pull off the holster and it fits in the center console (Sig P365 with 12 round magazine). In the winter I use the glove box if required on longer drives because I'm carrying a P226 Legion then.
I'm of the opinion that I'd rather have it and not need it than need it and not have it.
__________________
|
Appreciate
0
|
10-24-2021, 07:54 PM | #21 | |
Lieutenant Colonel
1696
Rep 1,610
Posts |
Quote:
He lost several thousand of dollars of vintage stuff. To include octagon barrel 0.22 rifles which are extremely rare and valuable. |
|
Appreciate
0
|
Post Reply |
Bookmarks |
Thread Tools | Search this Thread |
|
|