Where to Put Gun in Car Open Carry: Best Storage Spots

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Understanding the Intent of Open Carry in a Vehicle
3. The Three Pillars of Vehicle Firearm Placement
4. Best Locations for Open Carry in a Car
5. Gear for Vehicle Gun Storage
6. Step-by-Step: Installing a Vehicle Holster Mount
7. Comparing Vehicle Carry Locations
8. The Dangers of "Off-Body" Vehicle Carry
9. Myth vs. Fact: Vehicle Gun Placement
10. Transitions: From Car to Hip
11. How We Evaluate Gear for the Road
12. Final Considerations for Safe Carry
13. Conclusion
14. FAQ

Introduction

You are cruising down the highway on a long road trip, and that familiar pinch in your hip starts to set in. Your everyday carry (EDC) holster, which feels fine when you are standing, is now digging into your side or snagging on the seatbelt. Worse, you realize that if you actually needed to reach your firearm in an emergency, your seatbelt and center console have effectively locked it away. At BattlBox, we know that carrying a firearm is as much about accessibility and safety as it is about the gear itself. Deciding where to put a gun in a car for open carry is a challenge that requires balancing state laws, tactical speed, and physical security. This guide explores the most effective locations for vehicle carry to ensure you stay prepared and compliant, and if you want the rest of your kit handled too, choose your BattlBox subscription.

Understanding the Intent of Open Carry in a Vehicle

When we talk about open carry in a vehicle, the definition often shifts depending on your local jurisdiction. In many states, "open carry" means the firearm must be in plain view to any person looking through the window. In others, it simply refers to a firearm that is not concealed within a compartment like a glove box or a center console. For a related primer, see how to conceal carry in a car.

Before you decide on a mounting location, you must understand the "Plain View" doctrine. This typically requires that the firearm be visible from the outside of the vehicle without an officer or bystander having to open a door or move an object. Because these laws vary wildly from one state line to the next, your choice of placement is not just about comfort; it is about staying on the right side of the law while maintaining your ability to defend yourself. If you want the broader carry fundamentals, start with our concealed carry basics.

The Three Pillars of Vehicle Firearm Placement

Before diving into specific spots, we need to establish the criteria for a good mounting location. If a spot fails any of these three tests, it is not a viable option for a serious woodsman or prepared citizen.

Accessibility and Speed

If you cannot draw the firearm with one hand while seated and belted, the location is a failure. In a high-stress scenario, you may not have the range of motion to reach behind your back or dig under a seat. The draw must be clean, unobstructed by the steering wheel, and repeatable under pressure. If you are building the rest of your loadout, the EDC collection is a good place to start.

Retention and Security

A car is a moving environment. Sudden braking, sharp turns, or an actual collision can turn a loose firearm into a lethal projectile. Any "open" spot you choose must have a mechanical way to secure the gun. This could be a holster mounted to the trim or a high-strength magnet. Relying on friction alone between a seat and a console is a recipe for disaster. For broader vehicle readiness, our Emergency / Disaster Preparedness collection is worth a look.

Safety and Trigger Coverage

This is non-negotiable. Whatever mounting solution you use must completely cover the trigger guard. Many people make the mistake of using "universal" mounts that leave the trigger exposed. We always recommend using a dedicated holster or a mount designed to interface with a trigger shield to prevent accidental discharges during a bumpy ride or a hurried draw.

Key Takeaway: Proper vehicle carry requires a balance of legal visibility, physical retention during an accident, and a clear, unobstructed draw stroke.

Best Locations for Open Carry in a Car

Finding the right spot often depends on the layout of your specific vehicle. Here are the most common and effective locations used by professionals and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Steering Column Mount

Mounting a holster directly below the steering column is one of the most popular choices for open carry. It places the firearm between your knees, making it easily accessible for either hand.

• Pros: It is generally considered "in plain view" from the driver's side window. It stays out of the way of your legs while driving.
• Cons: Depending on the height of the vehicle, it may be harder to see from the passenger side, which could complicate "plain view" requirements in some states.
• Best for: Sedans and trucks with open lower dashes.

The Center Console Side Mount

Many people bolt a holster to the side of the center console, typically on the driver's side footwell. This keeps the firearm oriented toward your dominant hand.

• Pros: Extremely fast draw. It is very easy to see from the window, satisfying most open-carry requirements.
• Cons: It can take up legroom in smaller vehicles. If mounted too high, it might interfere with your knee while operating the pedals.
• Best for: Larger trucks and SUVs with wide footwells.

The Passenger Seat (Belted)

For those who do not want to bolt hardware into their vehicle, the passenger seat is the default. However, you cannot just toss a gun on the seat. Many companies make "seat holsters" that strap around the seat back or base.

• Pros: No permanent modifications to the car. Very visible to anyone outside.
• Cons: If you have a passenger, the gun has to move. It is also the most "exposed" location, making it very obvious to every passerby at a red light.
• Best for: Solo travelers and those who want a temporary solution.

The Dashboard Mount

In some strictly "plain view" states, the dashboard is the only place that satisfies the law. This usually involves a friction mat or a mounted holster on the top of the dash.

• Pros: Zero ambiguity regarding its visibility.
• Cons: It is a major distraction while driving. It is also exposed to direct sunlight, which can damage the finish of the firearm or cause it to become painfully hot to the touch.
• Best for: Extreme legal compliance in specific jurisdictions.

Gear for Vehicle Gun Storage

The gear you choose is just as important as where you put it. We have seen a wide variety of solutions through our work at BattlBox, and certain situations call for more than one layer of preparedness.

Magnetic Mounts

Magnetic mounts use high-strength rare-earth magnets to hold the slide of the firearm against a surface. These are low-profile and easy to install.

• Warning: Only use magnets that include a trigger guard cover. A magnet alone is not a holster.
• Retention: Look for magnets rated for at least 35–45 lbs to ensure the gun doesn't fly off during a pothole or a fender-bender.

Vehicle-Specific Holster Brackets

Many companies now make brackets that clip into the seams of your plastic interior or bolt onto seat rails. These are the "gold standard" because they allow you to use your existing Kydex (a durable thermoplastic) holster. This ensures the draw feels exactly the same as it does on your hip.

Seat Gap Fillers

These are padded inserts that fit between the seat and the center console. While some are designed for phones and coins, others are reinforced to hold a holster.

• Note: If you use a seat gap filler, ensure it is wedged tightly enough that the entire unit doesn't pull out when you try to draw the gun.

Quick Answer: The best place to put a gun for open carry in a car is usually the steering column or the side of the center console using a mounted holster. These spots offer a balance of visibility for legal compliance and easy access for the driver.

Step-by-Step: Installing a Vehicle Holster Mount

If you have decided to move your firearm from your hip to the car, follow these steps to ensure a safe installation.

Step 1: Check your draw clearance. Before drilling any holes, sit in the driver's seat and buckle your seatbelt. Hold your unloaded firearm in the desired spot. Practice drawing it to ensure your hand doesn't hit the steering wheel, the gear shifter, or the turn signal stalk.

Step 2: Verify "Plain View" from outside. Exit the vehicle and walk around it. Look through the driver's window, the passenger window, and the windshield. If the law requires "plain view," make sure the grip or holster is clearly identifiable as a firearm from at least one of these vantage points. A vehicle escape tool is also worth keeping close by for true roadside emergencies.

Step 3: Secure the mount to a rigid surface. If using a bolt-on mount, ensure you are drilling into a sturdy plastic panel or a metal bracket. Avoid mounting to "soft-touch" dash materials that might tear under the weight of a loaded gun during a sharp turn.

Step 4: Test retention with a loaded magazine. A loaded firearm is significantly heavier than an empty one. Test your mount with a full magazine (and a cleared chamber for safety) to ensure the mount doesn't sag or vibrate loose while driving.

Step 5: Practice the transition. The most dangerous part of vehicle carry is moving the gun from your hip to the mount and back again. Practice this "administrative" handling while the vehicle is parked to ensure you can do it without flagging yourself or touching the trigger. If you want a refresher on the basics, read our concealed carry holster guide.

Comparing Vehicle Carry Locations

The Dangers of "Off-Body" Vehicle Carry

While mounting a gun in the car is comfortable, it introduces risks that on-body carry does not. You must be aware of these before making the switch.

The Projectile Risk

In a 35 mph collision, an unsecured 2-lb handgun can strike an occupant with over 60 lbs of force. If your firearm is just "wedged" between seats, it becomes a flying hazard. Always use a mounting system that locks the firearm in place.

The "Smash and Grab"

If your gun is in "plain view" for legal reasons, it is also in plain view for thieves. Never leave a firearm in an open-carry mount when you exit the vehicle. You must either move it back to your person or lock it in a vehicle vault.

The Heat Factor

Cars act like greenhouses. In the summer, internal temperatures can exceed 140 degrees Fahrenheit. This can make a metal firearm too hot to touch and can even cause some plastic holster materials to warp over time. If you use a dashboard mount, be especially mindful of heat exposure. A compact rechargeable flashlight is also smart to keep in the car for nighttime problems.

Bottom line: Vehicle carry is a trade-off. You gain comfort and draw speed, but you take on the responsibility of securing the weapon against accidents and theft.

Myth vs. Fact: Vehicle Gun Placement

Myth: "It is safer to keep the gun in the glove box so I don't get in trouble." Fact: In many states, putting a gun in a glove box converts "open carry" to "concealed carry." If you do not have a concealed carry permit, this could be a felony. Open carry usually requires the gun to be visible.

Myth: "A strong magnet is all I need to hold my gun." Fact: Magnets provide zero trigger protection. Without a trigger shield, a stray finger, a drawstring from a jacket, or a piece of debris could cause a discharge while you are reaching for the gun or adjusting your seat.

Transitions: From Car to Hip

One of the most overlooked aspects of where to put a gun in a car for open carry is what happens when you arrive at your destination. If you are open-carrying, you likely need to move that firearm back to a belt holster before stepping out of the vehicle.

This transition is a high-risk moment. You are in a cramped space, often in public view, handling a loaded firearm. To do this safely:

1. Keep the holster on your belt. It is often easier to slide the gun into an empty holster already on your waist than to try and clip a holstered gun onto your belt while sitting down.
2. Maintain muzzle awareness. Ensure the muzzle is pointed at the floorboard or a safe direction away from your legs and any passengers during the move.
3. Do it before you open the door. Don't wait until you are standing outside the car to move your gun. This can look suspicious to bystanders and may lead to unnecessary confrontations. If you want a broader everyday-carry refresher, start with our How to Everyday Carry: Mastering Your EDC for Ultimate Preparedness.

How We Evaluate Gear for the Road

Our team at BattlBox spends thousands of hours in the field, which often means long drives to remote trailheads or bug-out locations. We look for gear that survives the vibrations and temperature swings of a vehicle environment. Whether it is a rugged holster for our Pro Plus subscribers or a simple magnetic mounting solution for a Basic mission, we prioritize "duty-grade" retention.

The best gear isn't just the stuff that looks good on a shelf; it's the gear that stays put when you hit a washboard road at 40 mph. We recommend building your vehicle kit starting with a solid foundation of retention and then layering on accessibility.

Final Considerations for Safe Carry

Practice the draw. Just like you practice at the range, you should practice drawing from your vehicle mount. Use a cleared and double-checked empty firearm. Sit in the driver's seat, put on your seatbelt, and practice drawing while looking straight ahead at the "road." You will quickly find if your mount is too low or if the steering wheel is in the way.

Consider your passengers. If you frequently have passengers, a center console mount might be better than a passenger seat mount. You don't want your firearm to be an obstacle for someone else, nor do you want it within easy reach of children in the back seat. A waterproof first aid kit makes just as much sense to keep within reach.

Maintenance. Vehicle mounts are subject to a lot of vibration. Check the screws on your holster mount once a month. Use thread-locking compound on any bolts to ensure they don't back out over time. A loose mount is a dangerous mount. Keeping an eye on your Medical and Safety collection can round out the vehicle plan.

Conclusion

Finding the right spot for open carry in your car is a vital part of your personal defense strategy. Whether you choose a steering column mount, a console-side holster, or a belted seat arrangement, the goal remains the same: immediate access, rock-solid retention, and legal compliance. Remember that your vehicle is a dynamic environment, and your storage solution must be able to handle the stresses of driving and the scrutiny of the law.

At BattlBox, we believe in providing the gear and the knowledge to make you more capable in every scenario. From everyday carry essentials to emergency preparedness tools, our mission is to deliver the gear you need to stay ready. If you are serious about your kit, choose your BattlBox subscription. Stay prepared, stay legal, and stay safe on the road.

FAQ

Is a gun on the passenger seat considered open carry?

In many states, yes, as long as it is clearly visible to someone standing outside the vehicle. However, it is the least secure method of carry. Without a mounting system or a strap, the firearm can slide under the seat or become a projectile during sudden braking, so a dedicated seat holster is highly recommended. For broader EDC options, check the EDC collection.

What is the safest place for a gun in a car for open carry?

The safest place is typically a holster mounted to the side of the center console or the steering column. These locations provide a secure mechanical hold on the firearm, cover the trigger guard completely, and keep the weapon in a consistent, reachable position. They also satisfy "plain view" requirements in most open-carry jurisdictions. For a broader vehicle-readiness setup, the Emergency / Disaster Preparedness collection fits the job.

Can I use a magnetic mount for open carry?

Yes, but you must ensure the magnet is strong enough to hold the gun during an accident and that you use a trigger guard cover. A magnet by itself leaves the trigger exposed, which is a significant safety risk. Many professional-grade magnetic mounts now come with integrated trigger shields for this exact reason. If you want a deeper everyday-carry overview, read our What is EDC Gear? A Comprehensive Guide to Everyday Carry Essentials.

Does the gun have to be loaded for vehicle open carry?

Legally, this depends on your state; some states allow loaded carry while others require the ammunition to be stored separately. Practically, for self-defense, an unloaded gun is often just a paperweight. If you choose to carry loaded, your choice of mount becomes even more critical to ensure the trigger is protected and the gun is secure. Keeping a Medical and Safety collection in the vehicle is a smart companion move.