Safe Gun Storage After Hunting Season

With the close of deer seasons, many hunters have stored their firearms. While the basics of gun safety are covered in hunter education programs, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) recently issued a reminder that storage out of season should be reviewed by sportsmen.

“The location in which a firearm is locked can vary, and there’s not a single correct method of storage,” the MDNR press release stated. “Many hunters prefer to store their firearms in a safe, which is preferred over a cabinet or wall rack. The visible options should be avoided to prevent access by children, thieves and at-risk individuals.”

“Many factors must be considered when deciding where and how to store guns,” NRA’s Gun Safety Rules explain. “A person’s particular situation will be a major part of the consideration. Dozens of gun storage devices, as well as locking devices that attach directly to the gun, are available. However, mechanical locking devices, like the mechanical safeties built into guns, can fail and should be not used as a substitute for safe gun handling and the observance of all gun-safety rules.”

Now’s a great time to purchase a safe, too. “While the new tariffs are intended to encourage companies to manufacture in the USA, we are proud to say that building safes in the USA has always been the primary focus at Liberty,” said Dave Foley, CEO at Liberty Safe. “And we’d like to recognize the customers that support us with a special limited-time offer that will be applied across our safe line up and can be used in addition to our other offers.”

Liberty Safe produces more safes in the USA than any other safe manufacturer. While most safe companies import their products, Liberty remains committed to domestic production.

To show appreciation for its customers, Liberty Safe is providing a limited-time offer. By using the code MADEINUSA during checkout at libertysafe.com, customers can take advantage of an additional 5-percent discount on their full lineup of safes—on top of current sales and promotions. When combined with Liberty's current Tax Season Sale, that’s up to 15 percent off.

Other Alternatives

“While safes are typically the most secure option, it’s not always the most feasible,” according to the MDNR press release. “Smaller, less conspicuous lockboxes may require a key, combination, or fingerprint to unlock. They can also be permanently mounted to prevent theft. Quick access options are available such as biometric scanners or RFID chips, for those that have firearms for home protection.” Hornady carries a popular line of RAPiD safes with the feature, along with full-size modular safes and more. 

If the budget’s tight, MDNR reminds readers that free cable locks are often distributed by local law enforcement through the National Shooting Sports Foundation’s Project Childsafe. Clamshell-style trigger locks available at many retailers are another option.