Gun Tote’n Mamas is serious about women protecting themselves and their loved ones. Since this week, June 1 through 7, is the National Shooting Sports Foundation’s (NSSF’s) Gun Storage Week, we thought it would be a great time to remind everyone of safe ways to store their firearms when carrying off-body and perhaps even offer a couple more options to “Make Sure It’s Secure.”
We all know the importance of storing firearms safely in our homes, especially when there are children involved. Sometimes, though, it’s easy to become complacent, especially when rushing or, sadly, just being lazy. For example, you just brought in the 10 bags of groceries you spent over an hour purchasing and now have to put everything away before starting dinner. How easy is it to just take your concealed carry purse and toss it on the kitchen counter or throw it on that chair? That’s a bad habit, especially if there are children in the house. The following are some suggestions for quick, easy and safe storage of firearms, especially those carried off-body.
Depending on where your firearms safe is located, it’s super easy to toss your entire purse right in there. There is no need to remove the firearm; just grab it and go the next time you head out the door.
If you hang your purse in a cubby or closet, keep a lockbox on a shelf and place your handgun inside. Everything is in one place; it’s just an extra step to put it in your purse before you leave. Remember to always keep it pointed in a safe direction when removing it from or putting it into your purse.
Another option is to keep a gun lock in the same area where you store your purse. Although there are many different kinds of gun locks, you may be interested in Becky Yackley’s informative piece, “The Many Reasons to Obtain Project ChildSafe’s Free Gun Locks,” here at The WON. She explains how easy it is to get the locks and install them.
If you are traveling with a firearm, bringing your own lockbox or gun lock is helpful. When staying as a guest in someone’s home, find out where and how they prefer you store your gun. Likewise, when you have guests in your home, have a lockbox or gun lock available for them to use. It’s another bonus besides the coffee in bed and the chocolate on the pillow.
For more information on safe gun storage, take the time to browse the NSSF’s website. It offers a gun storage checklist and other storage options to help you determine what is best for your home. You will also find other safety resources, including the downloadable PDF list “Ten Tips for Firearm Safety in Your Home.”
Make safe gun handling and storage a ritual. Know and practice at all times the four firearm safety rules. Keep your concealed carry purse on your body at all times. When a cross-body strap is available, wear it cross-body. Also, make sure to check out Gun Tote’n Mamas’ Owners Manual for more safety information on off-body carry.
Visit Gun Tote’n Mamas to find your new favorite concealed carry purse.
Michelle Cerino, aka Princess Gunslinger, first entered the firearms industry in 2011 as co-owner, president and trainer at a national training company. She immediately began competing in both 3-Gun and NRA Action Pistol, becoming a sponsored shooter. Michelle is currently a columnist and Managing Editor of Women’s Outdoor News, as well as owner of Pervenio LLC. She also manages social media for Vera Koo and FASTER Saves Lives. Michelle encourages others to step out of the comforts of home and explore. View all posts by Michelle Cerino
