The Ultimate Guide To Handgun Storage And Maintenance

More people own handguns nowadays. According to a survey conducted in 2021, 42 percent of households in the United States (US) own one or more firearms. Among all the countries around the world, US civilians are considered one of the most heavily armed.

A handgun is a versatile tool for self-defense and recreation, so it’s crucial to store and maintain it properly. It takes a responsible adult to own a handgun. Because when either storage or maintenance is neglected, malfunctions and unsafe conditions can arise, putting the owner and others at risk. 

If you possess a handgun, it’s your obligation to know about the proper handling and understanding of security by storing your handgun(s) safely in your house or car. Understanding and carefully observing each safe gun handling rule is the first step in ensuring firearm safety. 

So, if you want to become a responsible handgun owner and wish to know more about ensuring your handgun’s safety, read this ultimate guide to storage and maintenance.

Handgun Storage

As a handgun owner, you must take all necessary precautions to keep your firearms in a way that prevents children or other unauthorized individuals from accessing them. 

Keeping a gun in a closet or drawer isn’t safe storage in your home. The curious nature of children may lead them to find a weapon that you thought was safely hidden or inaccessible in your home.

Finding the best option to keep your handgun has become overwhelming. Because there are many different types of firearms on the market, gun owners can store them in various ways.  

To give you a quick rundown, here are a few best practices for storing your handgun:

1. Use a gun box or lockbox: A gun box or lockbox can provide secure storage for your handgun. The most secure option is a safe. Safes are designed to prevent unauthorized access and are available in various sizes and security levels. Look for a safe made of solid steel with a robust lock mechanism.
2. Use a locking cabinet: If a safe isn’t an option, you can use a locking cabinet or trigger lock to secure your firearm. Locking cabinets and trigger locks are ideal for placing in a secure area, like against a wall or other solid surface, to prevent theft or accidental access. A wall-mounted option such as a Glock wall mount is an excellent choice for those who want quick access to their firearm while still keeping it secure.
3. Store your handgun unloaded: Store your handgun unloaded to reduce the risk of accidental discharge.
4. Keep your ammunition stored separately: Store your ammunition in a separate location from your handgun to reduce the risk of accidental discharge. Not having ammunition within reach of unauthorized users ensures safety. 
5. Store your handgun in a secure location: Store it in a safe place, such as a closet or a cabinet, where children or unauthorized persons cannot easily access it.
6. Consider using a trigger lock: A trigger lock is a device that attaches to the trigger of your handgun and prevents it from being fired.

Remember, it’s essential to follow all local, state, and federal laws regarding the storage of firearms. Proper storage of your handgun can help prevent accidents and ensure your family and others’ safety.

Protection from the environment is another factor you need to consider when storing a firearm. A handgun and its parts are susceptible to harm from moisture exposure and high heat or cold exposure. 

So, to keep your firearm safe from the weather, it must be kept in a climate-controlled space. If you don’t have a safe, a gun case or cover can protect it from the elements and help keep your firearm in top condition.

In cases wherein you need to bring your handgun to a shooting range, hunting trip, or other shooting recreational activities, you need to store it properly in your vehicle. 

Here are some guidelines for storing handguns in a vehicle:

1. Use a lockable container: The most straightforward approach to safeguarding a handgun in a car is to keep it inside a lockable container like a gun safe or lock box. These containers can be affixed to the center console, trunk, glove box, or vehicle frame. Keep an eye out for containers with solid construction and reliable locks.
2. Hide the container: You should hide the lockable container to prevent theft. To accomplish this, the container can be stowed in the trunk, beneath a seat, or in a secret compartment. The container can be targeted for theft if it’s on display.
3. Store ammunition separately: The weapon should be kept in a lockable, separate container from the ammunition. This lessens the possibility of accidentally firing the gun and makes it more difficult for a thief to utilize it.
4. Follow local laws: It’s crucial to be informed of and abide by any local laws or rules governing the stowing of handguns in automobiles. While some jurisdictions place tight limitations on where firearms can be kept in a vehicle, others have particular standards for secure containers.
5. Consider a quick-access container: For those who may need to access their handgun quickly in an emergency, consider using a quick-access container. These containers allow for quick access to the handgun while still providing a high level of security.

It’s important to remember that securing firearms when not in use is the best way to prevent firearm theft, accidents, and misuse.

Handgun Maintenance

There are many reasons people purchase and operate handguns. Some people visit shooting ranges to interact with others, enjoy sharpshooting as a hobby or sport, and many practices it as a means of self-defense. Owning a handgun involves maintenance, no matter what the purpose may be.

Keeping your handgun in top working condition requires proper maintenance. Regular cleaning and lubrication of your firearm will prevent malfunctions and ensure reliable operation.

Here are some tips for maintaining your handgun:

1. Clean after each use: You should clean your firearm by removing any dirt, debris, or powder residue. To clean the gun, use a gun cleaning kit that contains a solvent, brushes, and patches. Clean your firearm according to the manufacturer’s instructions, as each has different cleaning requirements. This includes removing any residue or debris from the firearm’s barrel, chamber, and other parts. Use a soft cloth, a cleaning kit, and a quality lubricant to keep the gun in good condition.
2. Lubricate: Lubrication is also an essential aspect of handgun maintenance. Lubricating the gun will help prevent corrosion, reduce friction, and ensure smooth operation. It’s important to use a high-quality lubricant compatible with your firearm and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for lubrication. Lubricate the gun according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, focusing on areas such as the slide, barrel, and other moving parts.
3. Check for wear: Regularly inspect the gun for signs of wear, such as cracks, chips, or damage to the barrel, slide, or other parts. If you notice any damage, take the gun to a qualified gunsmith for repair. Don’t use it under any circumstances.
4. Store properly: When not in use, store the gun in a dry and secure location, such as a gun safe, to prevent damage and theft. Avoid exposing the gun to extreme temperatures, moisture, or direct sunlight, as these can cause corrosion and other damage.
5. Know how to disassemble: Understanding how to disassemble and reassemble your firearm will enable you to clean and maintain it properly. It’d be best if you familiarized yourself with the gun’s manual and practiced disassembling and reassembling it in a safe and controlled environment. Avoid handling your gun in a place where other people are in proximity. Even so, be very careful and focused as you could also hurt yourself if distracted. 
6. Use the correct ammunition: Use only the manufacturer’s approved ammo for your firearm. The incorrect ammo can harm the weapon and present a safety risk.
7. Regularly inspect the safety features: It’s also essential to regularly inspect your firearm for signs of wear or damage. Regularly check the safety features of your gun, such as the trigger, magazine release, and other components, to ensure that they’re functioning properly. Regular checking can include checking the barrel, action, and other components for signs of wear or damage and checking the gun’s sights and trigger to ensure they’re functioning correctly. If you notice any issues, take the gun to a qualified gunsmith for repair.

Maintaining your gun is one of the actions you can take as a responsible owner. 

In Conclusion

Proper storage and maintenance of your handgun are essential to ensure its safe and reliable operation. On top of the gun laws imposed by the government, following the guidelines outlined in this article can keep your firearm in top condition and reduce the risk of malfunctions or unsafe conditions. 

To keep your handgun in top working condition, you must invest in proper storage and maintenance, regardless of whether you’re a recreational shooter or need it for self-defense.