I recently asked ChatGPT about how to safely store a firearm, and it suggested using a trigger lock. After looking into it, i found two options available on Amazon:
Now I am a bit confused about which one is better, the key lock or the 3-digit combination lock.
Has anyone had experience with these? Do they ever get stuck or have issues over time, like difficulty unlocking or mechanical problems? And from a safety and reliability point of view, which type is generally considered better?
I am fairly new to firearm safety, so I am just trying to understand what actually works best in real use. Thanks in advance for any advice.
My experience for what you paid for it, is you can still pull the trigger with those installed. It’s not easy, but if that cross bar goes in front of the trigger, which it does, then a person with determination can pull the whole assembly back discharging the weapon.
My belief is that is why all pistols I have purchased come with a cable lock that prevents it from being loaded with the cable either locked thru the magazine well, barrel, or revolver wheel.
Not sure what trigger you want to lock. So depending on what it is, if you’re on a budget go to harbor freight and look at their hard cases and grab a couple padlocks or they have drawer safes.
IDK, good question. Never seen the combination trigger lock. Maybe try em both, one of each.
I like the combination on as it’s convenient, can be faster. However, if it’s dark or low light or if my vision is compromised or my hands too cold, if my dexterity suffers - I might fumble or take to long to unlock it.
A keyed entry, if fails, I guess I can take to a lock smith to “pick” it open with their unique tools and skills.
I bought a keyed one on Amazon, it works ok, I need them in my state which requires locks if in my vehicle - if not carrying on my person - if a rifle.
Of course there are cases/boxes which lock, if you not mind the bulkiness.
And for semi auto pistols, there are the cables with locks which can loop thru some chambers and magazine mag well/chambers.
I have the 3 digit lock that I was gifted a long time ago, as stated you could possibly still be able to engage the trigger with it on but if it is on tight, depending on the size of the trigger guard, it’s may/may not budge.
HTH
The real question is why are you locking up the guns in the first place? Just to meet a legal requirement, or because kids are in the house, or…??
For simple security requirements, just use a cable lock through the barrel instead. They are cheap and readily available. Some police departments even give them away for free.
Some “experts” say this can damage the barrel. I find this almost impossible to believe when compared to what the barrel goes through every time it is fired.
I would think, unless there are specific laws in your area that state you MUST use a trigger lock when storing firearms, use the lock that comes with “new” firearm purchases.
That is interesting and honestly something I had not considered. The cable lock does seem like it physically prevents the firearm from being loaded, which sounds more secure than just blocking the trigger. Since I am still learning, it is helpful to hear real world experiences like yours. Thanks for sharing.
That is a good point. I am mainly looking for an extra layer of safety, but a locking case may be a better option than a trigger lock by itself. Do you use hard cases for storage at home as well, or mostly for transport?
