I come from an era when people left their houses unlocked – as they did their cars, often leaving the keys in the ashtray or under the floor mat. Dad did that and I asked what prevented someone from taking his car.
“Why would they do that?”
Because people steal things, routinely and historically. Imagine how much mischief has resulted – as well as human injury – from “no one will steal my car.”
It’s the same with firearms. I recall, with some fondness, when people displayed their long guns in exposed cabinets and racks. I remember seeing shotguns and 22 rifles in the widow racks of old pickup trucks … in the lot of the high school.
That’s not today. Today, Rule 5 rules: Maintain control of your firearms.
Arising from the early days of the development of the “shall issue” permit system in Arizona, it’s meant to keep people safe – as well as shortstop legislative efforts to criminalize not locking up the guns.
Too often, we see tragic stories of a child getting ahold of a gun, causing self-injury or injuries to others. We also see too many cases of guns taken from cars (“Your car is not a holster.”) passing through various hands before being recovered in a criminal case.
The National Shooting Sports Foundation has an operation to help, Project ChildSafe. Their position is “Secure gun storage can prevent access by children, theft or unauthorized use by a person who may pose a danger to themselves or others.”
Couldn’t say it better myself.
So what about having guns “stashed” around the residence in case of need?
Let’s keep it simple. If you’re like me, your memory is such that one will get left behind; alternatively, if they’re left out, a four-minute residential burglar will have a good time playing “Scavenger Hunt.”
Not having a gun quickly accessible at home can be a problem. I’m not sure of data proving that home invasions are increasing but one is too many. Having one while disarmed is a problem.
So wear the gun. A holster is a holster. Wear the gun.
The question, “how much gun do you need,” is meant for another day.
How about the trendy electronic and biometric lock boxes? I still use those that are combination locks or lock with a key. Some people close to me use the newer types of lock boxes and seem to work out quite well.
The cost of tragedy exceeds any state criminal law or potential civil litigation; it’s something you have to live with for the remainder of the time you have in this life. Don’t take the chance.
The following list is not all inclusive and there are other providers of lock boxes and gun locks. I’d avoid using anything that intrudes inside the trigger guard.
Keep them locked, keep the youngsters and idiots safe.
— Rich Grassi