As a responsible gun owner, I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about the best and safest way to carry my firearm, especially while driving. Let’s be honest—cars can be one of the most vulnerable places we find ourselves in. Whether it’s a potential carjacking, a threat at a gas station, or simply needing to have quick access to your weapon, carrying correctly in your vehicle can literally be the difference between life and death.
🔎 Side Note:
Before practicing any of the carry methods, it’s critical that you know your state and local gun laws.
Over the years, I’ve experimented with different carry positions and storage setups in my car. From the three o'clock position on my hip to glove compartments and center consoles—I’ve tried it all. But for me, appendix carry (AIWB – Appendix Inside the Waistband) is the one that’s proven the most practical, especially when I’m behind the wheel.
Why Appendix Carry Is My 'Go-To' In The Car
Here’s the thing—when you're driving, you’re strapped into a seatbelt. If you're carrying at the three o’clock position (on your right hip), accessing your gun quickly is difficult. You’ve got to twist your body, fight your seatbelt, and potentially expose yourself to more danger in the process. That’s not very ideal in a life-or-death scenario.
Appendix carry keeps the firearm front and center, just below your belt buckle. That means when you're seated, you can access your weapon with very minimal movement. The seat belt should be placed behind your gun between you and the pistol. This is important because you don’t want the seatbelt pushing your pistol into your lower abdomen, if you find yourself in a car accident. This can cause serious bodily injury. Also, it makes accessing your gun way easier.
Granted, it may not be the most comfortable way to carry in your car but you can definitely get used to it. Carrying a smaller compact or micro compact gun that holds a good amount of rounds helps as well.
Other In-Car Carry Options That Work
Now, appendix carry is my go-to, but there are other solid ways to store a firearm in your car, provided you do it safely. If you choose not to keep your gun on your person while driving (maybe for comfort or legality reasons), it’s crucial that you still prioritize access and trigger safety.
One method I’ve used in the past is placing the firearm inside the glove compartment. This is a classic option, especially for longer, highway trips. This works as long as the gun is secured inside a proper holster. Too many people just toss a loaded gun in the glove box, where it can bounce around, shift position, or worse, get tangled up with other junk. The holster protects the trigger and keeps it from any accidental discharges.
Another great option is the center console. Like the glove box, you’ve got to keep the firearm inside a holster. You can use a Kydex-style holster that’s velcro-mounted to the side wall of the console, so the grip is always facing up and ready to go. It’s quick, discreet, and safer than letting it float around loose.
I’ve also tried storing my gun between the seat and the center console, again only in a holster. It’s surprising how that little gap can be a natural fit for a firearm, and with the right setup, it can be both secure and accessible. I reiterate; no loose guns in the car. Without a holster, a trigger can snag on a seatbelt, bag strap, or even a water bottle, which could lead to disaster.
Mounted Devices: A Creative And Functional Option
Another solution is using a mounted holster device. I’ve seen mounts that attach inside your vehicle in specific, reachable spots like under the dash, on the side of the center console, or next to your seat.
Some mounts, like I mentioned before, use velcro, which is great because you can install them without modifying your vehicle. Make sure, though, that it’s a good, high-quality hook and loop velcro with good adhesion. That’s honestly what I prefer, since I’m not a fan of drilling into my interior. But I know some folks who don’t mind using screw-mounted holsters for extra security and peace of mind. It really comes down to how much you’re okay with that. Personally, I lean toward solutions that are removable but still reliable.
Just like every other method I’ve mentioned, the key here is making sure the firearm is in a proper holster that protects the trigger and keeps the gun stable. Mounted devices are great because they can be positioned exactly where your hand naturally rests while driving, making access super fast.
Speed of Access = Survival
For me, everything comes down to accessibility. If I can’t get to my firearm quickly and reliably, I might as well not be carrying it. That’s why appendix carry is my top choice—it’s fast, it’s secure, and with the right holster, it’s safe.
I’ve trained drawing while seated, practiced one-handed access, and drilled scenarios like being approached at a red light or attacked while pumping gas. The more I train, the more convinced I am that carrying in a way that prioritizes speed and safety is absolutely essential.
No Matter What...
No matter how you choose to carry in your car—on your body, in a compartment, or in a mounted holster—always prioritize safety, retention, and accessibility. Use a holster, always. Keep the gun secure, and train for real-world scenarios.
Being armed is about being prepared. And in the confined space of a vehicle, the decisions you make about how and where to carry could make all the difference.
Stay safe, train smart, and carry responsibly.
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