Handgun storage in car when not carrying into business

[dwsintxs]

I've had my CHL for a couple months now, carrying the S&W M&P Shield 9mm or the Ruger LCP.

My question is in regards to storage of the firearm when disarming to go inside a business that does not allow CC. I bought a small gun safe, it's flat, sit's on the floorboard behind the driver's seat and has a combo lock and is attached to the seat frame. But, it is a hassle to unholster, and then open the safe, put the gun in, make sure it's locked etc and then go through the motions of re-arming when getting back to the vehicle after leaving the premises of the business where I can't cc. (I know I shouldn't be giving these establishments my money in the first place, but sometimes it's unavoidable and I will not go in armed and breaking the law.)

However, I have seen a YouTube video of a carry holster modified to wrap around the steering column to allow the gun to be carried on the underside of the steering column just around the area where the knee is when driving.

Looks like a good easy way to carry inside the vehicle, without the discomfort of the carry holster on the side or 4 o'clock position while strapped in the seat belt, and would offer much quicker easier access if needed in a hurry.

The YouTube video was done by someone in another state, and I was wondering if anyone could clue me in as to whether this is legal/illegal in Texas?

[bayouhazard]

It sounds like you're asking two different questions. One is safe storage when you are not in the vehicle. The other is the merits of a car-carry holster.

As far as Texas law is concerned, if it can't be seen from outside the vehicle then I think it's not in plain view.

[Keith B]

There are no laws in Texas as far as what is considered secured in the vehicle. However, as stated it must be concealed and cannot be seen from outside the vehicle through the windows or when you open the doors. Personally I believe it is important to try and secure your handgun as best possible so even if access to the vehicle is gained it takes additional effort to remove the handgun. Is it a hassle to disarm and lock it away? Yes. Is it better than someone stealing it and commiting a crime with YOUR handgun? Definately YES!

[AF-Odin]

Personally I use the small Nano-Vault attached with the steel cable to the underside of the seat. Simply slip out of the holster and secure in the vault under the seat. In the car prefer to have on my body.

[jbarn]

However, I have seen a YouTube video of a carry holster modified to wrap around the steering column to allow the gun to be carried on the underside of the steering column just around the area where the knee is when driving.

As has been stated. If the handgun can be observed by someone looking in the vehicle it is a violation. A dude in Houston was arrested with that very holster design a year or so ago.

[brucesw2]

I have the steering wheel holster your talking about and it works very good you can just put one of those winter stocking caps over it and its concealed...if yu check further into getting one they also have a small box type holster with a flap that buttons and is fully cushioned inside....I also have a lock box under the seat for times when im going to leave the weapon in my vehicle and go in to a business without it...

[rdcrags]

I am always in the minority on this one, but this is what I do. There is a hand towel in the door pocket hanging halfway out. I set the holstered weapon in there, flip the towel over it so none of the towel is hanging out, and exit the car.

[RetNavy]

having a center console is great for me.... put the gun in holster and lock in the console.... bought the nano safe mentioned in another post but didnt do my homework.... wont fit under my truck seats due to the seats being motorized... do now lock gun in vault then in the console