Your Car Is Not a Holster
“Your Car Is Not a Holster” ~ Pat Rogers
By Jeff Young
Many people keep a handgun in their car “just in case,” but this is a dangerous and flawed idea. The notion of running to your car, unlocking it, opening the glove box, retrieving a gun, and returning to engage in legitimate self-defense is unrealistic. In legal terms, this sequence could be interpreted as premeditated murder, not self-defense.
Beyond being impractical, leaving a gun in your car makes it an easy target for thieves. Vehicle break-ins are a primary source of firearms used in crimes. Consider these alarming statistics:
• In 2023, over 3,600 guns were stolen from cars in Nashville.
• In 2022, over 3,000 guns were stolen from cars in Memphis.
• In 2022, over 3,300 guns were stolen from cars in Houston.
That’s over 10,000 guns stolen from vehicles in just three cities. Each of those firearms ends up in the hands of criminals, and many are later used in violent crimes. If your unsecured gun is stolen and used in a crime, you could face legal liability, not to mention the moral and ethical consequences.
Fortunately, affordable solutions exist to secure a firearm in your vehicle. For example, you can purchase a reliable gun lockbox for as little as $34.00 at retailers like Amazon.
Be responsible. Either carry your firearm on your person or lock it up properly.
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