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Before buying a gun, you need to educate yourself on the gun laws in your state or municipality. Laws vary from state-to-state or town-to-town. What might be legal in one area could be illegal in another. You don’t want to risk breaking the law.
How Should Firearms Be Stored?
Many gun owners prefer to keep their firearms locked up. Since most criminals acquire guns by stealing them, it can help prevent your firearm from getting stolen. If you have children or grandchildren in your home, it can also help keep your firearms out of curious hands.
Only a few states have laws that require you to do so, however. For example, Massachusetts is the only state that requires gun owners to store their firearms with a locking device in-place or inside a locked container. Keep in mind, though, that some states have laws that will hold you liable if a child gets ahold of your firearm and is injured or killed as a result.
Can You Keep a Gun in Your Automobile?
There are valid reasons why you may need to transport your gun:
- You're going to the shooting range
- You're buying/bringing a gun home
- You're going hunting
- You have a permit to carry your gun
You are always required to keep your gun secure and under your control. For instance, if you're going to the shooting range, you should have your handgun locked in a portable gun vault. Don’t leave the vault in plain view on your seat.
What Kind of Permit Do you Need to Carry a Gun on Your Person?
There are two classifications for carry a gun: open carry and concealed carry. In the United States, individual states determine if they will issue carry permits. The laws vary from state-to-state, with some allowing open carry without a permit, with a permit, or not at all. Concealed carry laws fall in one of three categories:
- May Issue – A permit is necessary to carry, but the requirements make it difficult to qualify.
- Shall Issue – A permit is necessary to carry and the individual must meet the state’s legal requirements.
- Unrestricted/aka Constitutional Carry – No permit is required.
Where Can You Learn About Gun Laws for Your State or Town?
A reputable, local gun dealer can tell you what you need to do to legally purchase a gun and the restrictions there may be in your area. You can also go online and research which gun laws apply to your state.
If you're interested in learning more about gun storage options, we can help you find the perfect safe for you. Take our "Which Safe Is Right for You?" quiz to get started.
