Hunter Tip: How to Transport Firearm Gear Safely
Before you have a successful hunt, you have to get to your hunting spot safely. Do you know what to do when loading your firearm into your truck?
Knowing how to transport a firearm safely is a crucial aspect of successful hunting. Accidentally pointing a rifle you forgot to unload at another hunter can lead to an accidental discharge when walking back to the truck or putting the gun in the truck.
One of the most crucial aspects of hunter safety certification is understanding how to move rifles and shotguns safely from one location to the next. It's also essential to know how to hold your rifle in a safe position when walking through a field or woods with other hunters.
So, before you load up for your next turkey hunt or put other hunters at risk in the field, keep reading for our insights into safely transporting firearms!
How To Safely Transport Firearms
Always remember the primary rules of firearm safety: Keep your muzzle pointed in a safe direction, and treat every firearm as if it were loaded.
Before moving a rifle from one place to another location, be sure to know your state's regulations for transporting firearms. Then, follow these tips:
- Make sure the safety is on, and unload your firearm, remembering to check the action.
- Then, put your firearm in its case.
- Remember to store your rifle or shotgun in the back seat or trunk of the vehicle.
It's a bad idea to display your firearm in a window gun rack; you're just telling thieves what great gear you have!
See safe firearm handling in action when you watch the video below!
What Kind of Gear Should You Use to Transport a Firearm?
On the topic of gear, consider the kind of case you will use. Each type has advantages and disadvantages.
- Gun socks are lightweight but offer minimal protection
- Padded, soft-sided cases are light but offer only a moderate amount of protection
- Hard cases are sturdy but heavy
Buy the right gear to match your needs and your firearm and ensure everyone's safety. A good case also helps keep your rifle or shotgun in excellent condition so it's ready for the next hunt.
Learn More About Firearms and Hunter Safety With Hunter-Ed
We want everyone to hunt safely and successfully every season! However, Moving a rifle from one spot to another is only one aspect of good hunter safety. Hunters need to understand how firearms work, which ammunition to use, how to clean and care for firearms, and the range of a shotgun or rifle to ensure an ethical shot.
In addition to safe firearm insights, hunters need a hunter education course that meets state requirements and helps keep everyone safe during hunting season. Hunter-Ed offers state-approved courses you can take online to be a safe and responsible hunter.
To prepare yourself as a new hunter or brush up on the latest safety insights as a seasoned hunter, find the course for your state and get started. You can take your course any time online, then take (and pass) your exam online, too! You'll be ready for opening day with your certification in hand.
Originally published September 11, 2015. Content updated September 11, 2023.
