If you’re a gun owner, you probably already know that there are numerous benefits to storing them in a safe location. Not only does it help prevent your guns from becoming damaged, but it also prevents them from being stolen or falling into the wrong hands. Here are some tips on how to properly store your firearms.

Invest in a Storage Cabinet

It’s important to invest in a gun locker, case or storage cabinet. There are several things to consider when choosing the right option. The most important is size. If you own various types of guns, you’ll want to check out universal weapons and gun cabinets. Rifle cabinets, on the other hand, are designed specifically for rifles.

No matter where you choose to store your guns, the important thing is to make sure that they’re not accessible to anyone who shouldn’t be using them. Your gun safe should have a working lock to prevent anyone from breaking into it.

Unload Guns Before Storing

The National Rifle Association (NRA) recommends only storing unloaded guns. In fact, the only time you should ever load a gun, according to the NRA, is when you are planning to use it.

This is one of the most important gun storage safety tips for a couple of reasons. It can protect you from accidentally firing a gun when you remove it from storage. It also prevents anyone who gets into your gun cabinet from finding a loaded gun.

Store Ammo Separately 

It’s important to have a separate storage cabinet for ammunition. The reason boils down to gun safety. If anyone manages to break into your gun cabinet, they won’t be able to load it as easily without ammo on hand.

Check Guns When Removing Them 

You should never assume your firearms are unloaded. When you remove a gun from your storage cabinet, it’s important to make sure it’s not loaded. Although you might remember unloading it before storing, there’s always a possibility that you forgot. Another family member might have removed your gun from your storage cabinet and loaded it. Always be cautious when handling a gun.

Hide Your Gun Cabinets

The less people who know where your gun cabinet is, the better. It’s especially a good idea to avoid telling your kids where you store your firearms. Your gun cabinets should be in an area of your home that your children can’t access, in addition to being locked.

If you have young children, you might think you don’t need to worry yet. However, keep in mind that a child as young as the age of three is strong enough to fire a gun.

In addition to keeping your gun cabinets hidden from kids, they shouldn’t be in plain sight of guests or potential thieves. The last thing you want is anyone thinking they could break into your gun cabinets.

So, where’s the best spot to keep your gun cabinet? Consider keeping it in a closet that’s not frequently used, a safe room or even the basement.

Make Sure Your Gun Cabinet Is Secure 

It’s important to make sure your gun cabinet can’t easily be moved. It should be bolted to a wall or floor. Securing it in a corner of a room also makes it more difficult for a thief to break it open.

These are just some things to keep in mind when it comes to storing your guns.  In addition to making sure they’re safely put away, it’s also important to talk to your kids about the dangers of firearms. They should know to never touch guns or ammunition no matter what.