Rifles are valuable and dangerous at the same time, which necessitates responsible handling and storage. As a rifle owner, understanding the importance of proper storage is crucial. You may use the gun for home defense, recreational shooting, or hunting, but how you store it matters significantly. Proper rifle storage ensures the firearm’s safety and security while preventing unauthorized access, theft, and accidents.
Whether you are a first-time rifle owner or a seasoned enthusiast, it’s essential to understand the following dos and don’ts of rifle storage:
Dos Of Rifle Storage
Man puts the weapon in the safe.
Invest In A Quality Rifle Safe
Owning a rifle means you should invest in a high-quality rifle safe. A quality gun safe ensures secure storage. When shopping for a rifle safe or a rack like a AR 15 wall rack, look for durable materials, a reliable locking mechanism, and ample space for your rifles.
Some people may overcrowd their guns in a safe, causing dings and nicks. Therefore, choose one that is spacious and appropriate for your rifles. Additionally, place the safe in a secure location, inaccessible to children and unauthorized individuals.
Store The Rifle Unloaded
Always unload rifles before storage. Firearms should only be loaded in the field or shooting range. When not in use, it’s vital to unload them, even if they are in a gun safe. Remember to store the firearm separately from the ammunition to prevent unauthorized users from causing accidents.
Regular Inspection And Cleaning Of Rifles
A well-maintained rifle is safer to handle and more reliable in performance. Regularly inspect the rifle for rust, damage, or wear. If any issues arise, have a qualified gunsmith handle the repairs. When cleaning, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure the proper functioning of the rifle.
Continued attention to your rifle’s upkeep is essential to maintain its accuracy, longevity, and overall performance. Develop a routine cleaning schedule based on the frequency of use, type of ammunition, and environmental factors such as humidity or exposure to dirt and debris. Utilize proper cleaning tools and solvents, ensuring they are compatible with your rifle’s specific materials and components.
Also, disassembling and reassembling the firearm carefully during the cleaning process will help prevent any potential damage or malfunctions. By taking the time to consistently inspect and clean your rifle, you’ll not only be ensuring its optimal performance but also promoting responsible firearm ownership and safety.
Source: libertysafe.com
Educate Family Members About Gun Safety
Education is a critical aspect of responsible rifle ownership. You and your family should know how to handle a rifle safely. While a firearm may be confidential, it’s essential for your family members, except for children, to know how to handle it in emergencies. Educate them on secure firearm storage and handling.
Discuss the potential dangers associated with firearms and the importance of following proper gun safety protocols. Emphasize the significance of never pointing a rifle at anyone, even if it is unloaded, and never putting the finger on the trigger until ready to shoot. Finally, encourage family members to always wear appropriate ear and eye protection when handling a firearm.
Invest In Trigger Locks
Trigger locks are simple security methods for rifles. The lock obstructs the rifle’s action by pulling the trigger, rendering the gun inoperable. This versatile method can enhance firearm safety. For increased security, use trigger locks in conjunction with gun safes.
Follow Local Laws And Regulations
Ensure that you familiarize yourself with the local regulations concerning firearm storage. Some jurisdictions are strict and have specific requirements for firearm storage, such as particular locking devices or locations for rifle storage. You must comply with laws to ensure that your rifle’s storage is appropriate and legal.
Don’ts Of Rifle Storage
Automatic pistol hand gun with Locked disarmed and secured on white background , Gun Safety concept
Don’t Store Rifles In Plain Sight
Leaving firearms unattended or visible is inappropriate. When transporting a firearm, it’s essential to use a locked case to prevent unauthorized access. Keep the case locked and place it in a trunk or an area that is not easily seen or accessible in the car.
Avoid locations like under the bed or behind doors when storing in the house, as this makes it significantly easier for unauthorized users, like children, to access the rifle. Instead, store rifles in a locked place.
Firearms are personal tools. You should not share any access information about rifles with unauthorized persons, as they may attempt suicide, cause damage, or accidentally harm household members. Don’t share access codes and keys unless it’s an emergency and the person is authorized.
Don’t Store Rifles In Humid Environments
When you own a rifle, avoid storing it in humid places, as this can lead to damage and rust. Damp locations like garages or basements should be avoided. Instead, invest in dehumidifiers or consider moisture-absorbing cases or locations to keep the gun safe.
Source: pbs.org
Don’t Store Rifles With The Intent For Quick Access
You might be tempted to store the rifle for quick access in case of self-defense. Although it may be crucial to access the rifle quickly for self-defense, it can be hazardous, especially when there are children in the household. Securely store the rifle and consider using other safety measures for self-defense.
Don’t Neglect Fire Prevention Measures
Fire prevention is an essential aspect of firearm storage because fires are common in homes. Ensure that the gun safe can withstand high temperatures for extended periods.
Some gun safes are sold with a fire rating determined by measuring the internal temperature, which can help you identify the appropriate temperatures for gun storage. Also, store firearms away from flammable products or areas prone to fire, like the kitchen.
Conclusion
Proper rifle storage is crucial for the safety and security of firearms and the people in the environment. By storing a gun in a high-quality gun safe, regularly inspecting and cleaning the rifle, educating family members, and storing firearms unloaded and out of sight, you make it easier to prevent unauthorized access, accidents, and damage to the gun. Also, by following the dos and avoiding the don’ts, you become a responsible rifle owner.
