Safe Storage of Firearms
Handgun Locking Devices: Which One is Right For You?
There are dozens of devices to lock your handgun. Many experts recommend using lock boxes, safes, or gun vaults with a push button, combination, or digital keypad lock.
No matter which security device you choose, ensure that it meets the California Department of Justice safety standards. Check the Approved Firearms Safety Devices web site for a list of approved firearm safety devices. The five main types:
Remember: All firearms not in use should be stored, locked and unloaded with ammunition locked up in a separate location.
Lock Box
What it is: A small safe designed to store a handgun.
How it works: Your handgun is locked inside the box. A push-button, combination, digital keypad, or key opens the lock.
Features: Most models have holes in the bottom to allow permanent mounting. Some have lighted locks for access in the dark. Most have padded interiors.
Price: $40 to 200+
Advantages:
- Quick access if the lock is push-button or digital.
- Difficult to steal if permanently mounted.
- May allow storage for more than one handgun.
- Keeps gun out of sight.
Disadvantages:
- Costs more than trigger locks or chamber locks.
Gun Vault or Safe
What it is: A safe in a variety of sizes designed to store long guns, handguns, and other valuables.
How it works: Your firearms are locked inside the vault. A push-button, combination or digital key pad opens the lock.
Features: Varies by type and model.
Price: $100 to $2,000
Advantages:
- Difficult to steal
- Allows storage of numerous long guns and handguns
- Allows storage of other personal items
- Usually fire resistant
- Keeps valuables out of sight
Disadvantages:
- Costs more than chamber locks or lock boxes
- Heavy and difficult to move
Cable Lock
What it is: A device that blocks the chamber to prevent a cartridge from being fired.
How it works: Chamber locks are inserted in or through the magazine well or chamber, or are inserted through the gun barrel and chamber to block a cartridge from moving into position. A comination lock or key opens the lock.
Features: Metal cylinders, vinyl covered wire cables, or other designs. Locks may be "universal" or may only fit certain revolver or pistol models. Some models have anti-tamper alarms.
Price: Free to $20+
Advantages:
- Long cables may be threaded through several guns.
- Inexpensive
Disadvantages:
- Thin cables could be cut
Trigger Lock
What it is: A two-piece lock that fits over the trigger guard.
How it works: A rigid cylinder fits behind the trigger so the trigger cannot be pulled. A push-button keypad, combination, or key opens the lock.
Features: Some models have battery-operated locks, lighted keypads and anti-tamper alarms.
Price: $5 to $35+
Advantages:
- Inexpensive
- Widely available
- Quick access (keypad models)
Disadvantages:
- Some models will not prevent access by older children or teens.
- May not prevent theft, as some locks may be removed later.
- May break easily.
Personalized Lock
What it is: A safety device permanently installed on a gun by the maker or owner.
How it works: These types of locks vary. Some have a built-in key or combination lock. Others are guns specially designed with a magnetic or electronic lock that only the owner can fire while wearing a special ring or bracelet.
Features: Locks are a part of the gun by design or as an after-market add-on. May contain magnetic or electronic components. These locks are somewhat new and usually costly. For more information, talk with a federallylicensed firearms dealer or a gun manufacturer.
Purchasing Firearm Locks
Firearm locking and storage devices can be purchased wherever guns or firearm accessories are sold: gun stores, sporting good stores, firing ranges,locksmiths, and some discount stores.
View a list of stores that accept the downloadable coupon in King, Pierce and Snohomish Counties.
Free Firearm Cable Lock
For a free approved firearm cable lock(s) you can contact Officer Henry Cannon at the Regional Justice Center in Kent, Washington. You can contact Officer Cannon at Henry.Cannon@metrokc.gov or (206) 391-9095 or (206) 851-5317.
You will need to pick up the cable locks at the RJC in Kent. The RJC is at 620 West James St. in Kent. These locks are courtesy of Project ChildSafe.