shotguns in storage

To Hide Or Not To Hide | Shotgun Storage Solutions 

Owning a gun of any type has its fair share of responsibilities. One of these important responsibilities is designating a storage spot to protect it from unauthorized access.

Proper storage helps prevent accidents and injuries. And, given that not everyone knows how to properly and safely handle guns, appropriate storage should be staple for every homeowner.   

smoking shotgun

The responsibility of your gun safely lies with you. Be sure that you not only know how to properly handle your firearm, but how to safely store it as well.

Remember, the law holds you responsible for your firearm. If someone steals it and uses it to commit a crime, you may be charged with inadequate preventative measures to safeguard the weapon.  

Types Of Shotgun Storage Solutions

The good news is that there are several storage solutions.

Notably, you can embark on a do-it-yourself (D-I-Y) project and create one. Alternatively, you can buy sophisticated storage solutions that involve technological features such as biometrics sensors.

On that note, let’s take a look at some shotgun storage solutions you’d want to consider: 

Wall Mounts

Wall mounts are a safe way to store your gun and easily access them. They’re perfect for gun owners who want to display their collections.

wall gun mount for shotgun and firearms

The beauty of a wall mount is the numerous design options available. You can create a vertical or horizontal rack and then anchor your mount. (Note that the wall mounts work best on concrete walls.) They also work best when you need to save on floor space. You can use any room for a wall mount installation without interfering with its primary purpose. 

Since a gun on a wall mount is still visible, choosing a secure location for a wall mount is best. You may want to place it behind the door. This way, one can only access the gun if they’re inside the room.

Before securely attaching the wall mount, you’d want to test whether the space is ideal depending on your gun’s length. This way, you won’t do all the work of installing the mount, only to realize you have insufficient space. 

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Smart Safes

One of the safest ways to secure your gun from everyone else is by keeping it in a lockable safe. There are numerous smart safes whose features vary significantly.

Some advanced smart safes feature biometric locks that can only be opened with your fingerprints, while others comprise electric locks or passcodes that guarantee no one else can get in the safe unless they know the access details.  

Safes vary in size. The larger safes can contain more than one compartment, to allow you to store more guns. So, choose a safe with as many compartments as the number of shotguns you have. Also, consider preserving other compartments for ammo or gun-cleaning supplies.  

Some smart safes have notification systems that alert you when someone tries to tamper with them. Typically, you’ll get notified on your smartphone about an attempted break-in. You can quickly go and check what the matter is before more damage is done. 

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Lockable Gun Drawers 

Like the safes, shotgun drawers are lockable, hence limiting access. The drawers can be created in not-so-obvious places so that no one can know that they are in fact for gun storage.

Some excellent locations to attach the gun drawers include the following:  

  • Inside other drawers 
  • Bedside drawers  
  • Beneath your dining table  
  • End table drawer  

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The drawers act as hidden spaces to store your guns. Unless someone is very observant, it’s not easy to predict that the drawers are gun storage. Always ensure that the drawers have locks and keep the keys far from reach. 

Gun Storage Cabinets 

If you have enough space, it’s best to have standalone storage cabinets to keep your guns in.

Additionally, ensure the cabinets are fitted with security features such as locks and heavy gauged doors.

gun storage cabinet

The beauty of storage cabinets is that they can be modified using the correct measurements so that the gun fits perfectly (photo credit: American Concealed Furniture).

And, you can have high cabinets to ensure they’re not easily accessible, especially by children.  

You can modify the cabinets by installing alarm systems to notify you if someone tries to tamper with the locks. These features make it hard for thieves or unauthorized personnel to get to the guns. 

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Rented Gun Safes 

A rented gun safe offers an offsite storage location if you’re not comfortable storing the shotgun in your house.

Rented gun safes are excellent for hunters because you can take the shotgun to storage when the hunting season is over.

Concealment Shelves 

conealed gun shelf

With a concealment shelf, you can place the firearm inside the shelf and arrange several books on it for a disguise. This storage idea facilitates a quick reach for the gun in case of a home invasion (photo credit: American Concealment Furniture). 

Another way you can store your gun in the house is by using shelves. Luckily, these can be homemade. However, it’s not ideal to keep the firearm in visible areas.

Concealment shelves, on the other hand, are discrete, so it takes work to notice the weapon. You can do a better job at hiding the guns by using bookcases or dummies.

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Hidden Storage Step 

Another discrete way to store your gun is in a hidden step.

The hidden step functions normally, except that it can open and close. This can be an excellent place to hide your firearm in the house. However, you should ensure the step doesn’t open accidentally or appear odd, as someone could be tempted to check. You should also be sure that doesn’t make a squeaking sound when opening, as it could catch someone’s attention.  

hidden storage step for shotgun

Hidden storage built into stairs can be an effective place to secretly store your shotguns or firearms (photo credit mymydiy.com).

Alternatively, you can make drawers under the stairway to avoid the opening being directly on the stairs.

Note that the storage step design only works with wide-enough steps. It’s the only way your shotgun can fit perfectly without any adjustments on the steps. 

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Final Thoughts On Shotgun Storage Solutions

Storing your shotgun securely is an essential precautionary measure against accidents. As such, it’s vital to have a reliable storage solution for your rifle.

Without proper shotgun storage, you put everyone at risk by leaving the gun where anyone can access it.

shotgun and shell

It’s always safe practice to unload the firearm before storage to prevent accidental discharge. Also, consider fitting the gun with a trigger lock to ensure no one can intentionally, or accidentally, pull the trigger.

Innovative solutions like sensors and smartphone notification systems are also helpful in remotely monitoring your stored shotgun. You’ll know whenever someone tries to tamper with the locks in your absence and quickly spring into action.

So, hopefully these shotgun storage solutions provide you some helpful information on how to safely and securely store your guns!

handgun and camo holster

Handgun Hunting 101: Gun and Gear Basics

If you’re looking to get started with handgun hunting, you’ll want to be sure you have the proper equipment and skills. So, let’s cover the basics and some tips that will help you lead you to positive results.

Choosing The Right Handgun And Gear For Hunting

minnesota whitetailed buck

The first step in handgun hunting might sound simplistic, but it’s true… you need to select the right gun and gear.

Here are a few factors to consider when choosing a handgun:

  1. Weight And Size

First, you ought to select a handgun that’s the appropriate size and weight for the type of hunting in which you’ll be engaging. Too heavy of a handgun can be difficult to shoot accurately, while one that’s lightweight may be more difficult to control.

If you are building your firearm or accessory, choosing the right polymer frame is important as well.

Various Polymer 80 Frames and those for other pistol types are in the market, so ensure to choose the most suitable ones for your needs..

  1. The Type Of Handgun

When choosing a hunting handgun, consider the type you want. Handguns come in many styles, such as revolvers, semi-automatics, and single-shot pistols.

  • Revolvers
loading revolver

Revolvers are reliable, but can also be somewhat difficult to shoot accurately when hunting.

Revolvers are the oldest and most reliable type of handgun. They have a cylinder that holds the ammunition and a trigger that rotates the cylinder when pulled. Generally, they’re the most reliable type of handgun, although they can be more difficult to shoot accurately.

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  • Semi-Automatic Handguns

Semi-automatic handguns are the most popular type for handgun hunting. They use a magazine to hold the ammunition and the trigger pulls the slide back to chamber a round. They’re more accurate than revolvers, but require more maintenance and can be more difficult to handle.

  • Single-Shot Pistols

Single-shot pistols are often used for small-game hunting. These guns are lightweight, easy to maneuver, and offer a range of ammunition choices. They’re the least expensive type, as well as the least powerful, but they can still be effective when used correctly.

It’s important to use the right gun for the job. Smaller caliber handguns are great for smaller game hunting, while bigger game, such as deer or elk, will require a larger caliber handgun.

  1. Grip
pistol grip

Another factor to consider in choosing the right handgun for hunting is the grip. It’s necessary to select a gun that’s comfortable to handle. It should be the correct size for your hands and the type of hunting you’re doing.

 Here are several ways you can determine the right grip size for your handgun:

Top shotgun storage solutions HERE!
  • Feel The Grip

One of the most straightforward ways to determine the right grip size for a handgun is to feel the grip. It should comfortably fit in the palm, and you should be able to wrap your fingers around it with minimal effort.

  • Measure The Hand
hand holding pistol

Measuring the hand to be sure it’s a good fit for the manufacturer’s specs is an important step in choosing the right hunting handgun for you.

And remember, no matter what type of handgun you go for, regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary to ensure its reliability and accuracy during hunting trips.

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Other Equipment Necessary For Handgun Hunting

In addition to the gun, several other pieces of equipment are necessary for successful handgun hunting. These include:

  • Ammunition
handgun in bullets

Ammunition refers to the projectiles and cartridges used in firearms. It typically consists of a bullet, primer, powder, and casing.

There are different types of ammunition suitable for handguns and game animals.

For example, hollow point ammunition is a great choice for small game hunting as it’ll expand upon impact and cause less damage to the meat. On the other hand, full metal jacket ammunition is better for larger game as it’ll penetrate deeper and cause more damage.

If you are hand gun hunting for deer, some cartridge choices to consider are:

  1. 9mm Luger
  2. .327 Federal Magnum
  3. .45 Auto
  4. 10mm Auto
  5. .357 Remington Magnum
  6. .44 Remington Magnum
  7. 40 Smith & Wesson
THIS is why ammo is so expensive right now!

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  • Holster

A holster is a type of accessory typically worn on a belt or any other clothing piece around the waist and is used for carrying a handgun. It’s designed to provide a quick and secure way of carrying and concealing a firearm. 

gun in holster on hip with camo shirt

A holster should be comfortable and secure, allowing easy access to the handgun when needed. It should also be compatible with the gun and the type of clothing worn.

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  • Protective Gear
protective shooting equipment

Eye and ear protection are also a must. Eye protection will help prevent debris from getting in your eyes that may kick up when firing your handgun. This particular activity can also be loud, so it’s important to protect your ears to avoid hearing damage.

  •  Jig

A jig is used to help with precision and accuracy. It ensures the handgun is held in the same position each time, allowing the shooter to make consistent shots. 

The jig typically consists of a base, an adjustable arm, and a clamp to secure the handgun. It also helps reduce muzzle rise and can be used to mount optics and other accessories.

These are the basic items you’ll need to get started with handgun hunting. But, depending on your needs, you might also require other tools, such as a rangefinder for determining the distance to your target, a scope for longer-range shooting, or a bipod for more stability.

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Tips For Successful Handgun Hunting

Here are ways you can ensure successful handgun hunting:

  • Practice Your Shooting

Handgun hunting requires a high level of accuracy, and you’ll need to shoot accurately and quickly to take down game successfully. That said, constant practice is essential to become proficient with your handgun.

man shooting handgun on range

Ensure that your are familiar with your handgun and comfortable with safely aiming and firing it before you ever go hunting with it.

Since you never know what situations may arise when hunting, you should always practice shooting from different positions, such as from a bench, a tree stand, or the ground, while considering the target’s distance, size, and wind direction.

elevate stand fixed position tree stand

Hunting from a treestand can help conceal you from your target animal’s normal line of sight.

One effective technique for handgun hunting is to use a tree stand or blind to help conceal your presence and get closer to the game. This can help you get within range for a successful shot without spooking the game.

Additionally, ensure the gun is always pointed in a safe direction and never loaded until you’re ready to shoot.

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  • Adopt The Right Mindset

When hunting with a handgun, approach the hunt with the right mindset. Unlike rifle hunting, where you can take longer shots, handgun hunting requires a closer proximity to your game.

This means you’ll need to be stealthy and patient to get close enough to the game for a successful shot. And, always remember that wind direction is critical to having the best chance to harvest your target animal.

  • Know And Follow All Firearms Laws

Finally, as a hunter, it’s your responsibility to follow all applicable laws and regulations concerning the use of firearms. Make sure you understand and abide by them.

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Final Thoughts on Handgun Hunting

Handgun hunting is both challenging and rewarding. It’s important to select the right gun and gear, and understand the basics of the activity before heading out.

With the right knowledge, equipment and practice, you can have a successful, unforgettable, and enjoyable handgun hunting experience.

how loud is a 22 rifle

A Boom Or A Whisper? | How Loud Is a .22 Rifle?

Shooting firearms recreationally can be an enjoyable hobby, but it can also come at a price to your hearing.

Firearm noises can be especially harmful as they have high and low frequencies that can damage your hearing, mainly when the frequencies are sustained at increased volumes.

Exposure to loud sounds over a long period may result in permanent hearing damage. This is why wearing ear protection is essential when shooting any gun type.

How Loud Is A .22 Rifle

But, let’s zero in and discuss one popular gun in particular… the .22 rifle.

The .22 rifle is often used for hunting small game and is common among recreational shooters. .22 caliber firearms produce noise levels ranging from 120 to 140 dB (decibels), meaning they’re louder than everyday conversations, which emit about 60 decibels of sound.

Is a .22 rifle louder than a shotgun?

.22 rifles aren’t as loud as shotguns. A shotgun can go up to 160 decibels, while a .22 rifle goes to around 130-140 decibels.

man shooting shotgun

A shotgun is louder than a .22 rifle, as the air blast it releases is greater when the gun is fired.

Long-range shooting tips for greater accuracy HERE!

How loud is a 9mm vs. a .22?

A .22 caliber bullet is quieter than a 9mm, the most common firearm round.

While a .22 emits about 120 sound decibels, a 9mm produces up to 160 because a .22 has smaller rounds than a 9mm. As a result, the kinetic energy it possesses when fired isn’t as much, resulting in less noise.

9mm bullets

9mm rounds are louder than a .22 rifle, due to their size.

A .22 rifle is an excellent option for those looking for relatively quiet but powerful guns. It’s ideal for small game hunting and target shooting and won’t bother your neighbors as other bigger calibers might.

Although .22 rifles are quieter than other guns, it’s still vital to take measures to protect your ears when shooting one.

Using hearing protection can shield you from the high-pitched noise they produce as it may potentially damage your ears.

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How far can you hear a .22?

How far you can hear a .22 varies depending on how sound travels and the environment.

Under perfect conditions, you can hear it from up to two miles away. Nevertheless, in an urban setting with many noise sources and buildings, the distance can be reduced to a few hundred yards.

A classic .22 caliber round emits sound that is comparable, in decibels, to a an ambulance siren or a rock concert.

A .17 HMR cartridge is a quieter option that produces around 100 decibels of noise.

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How loud are .22 subsonic sounds?

The decibel scale measures sound intensity. And while a a .22 caliber round is considered a low-intensity round, the decibel level can vary based on the ammunition and gun types being used.

For instance, a suppressed .22 pistol could have around a 95 dB noise level, while the unsuppressed one could go up to 135 decibels.

.22 subsonic round

If you want a quieter round that won’t bother your neighbors, a .22 caliber subsonic round can be the way to go. These rounds move at speed lower than a standard round, significantly reducing noise levels.

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How to Protect Your Hearing From Firearm Noise

While you may love hunting, enjoying it without hurting your hearing should be a main focus.

People who use firearms are at a greater risk of experiencing tinnitus, hearing loss, and other hearing problems.

Exposure to more than 85 decibels may result in noise-induced hearing loss. The loud sound can permanently destroy the hairs in your ears that stimulate the auditory nerve fibers.

Learn how to mount a rifle scope step-by-step right HERE!

Other factors contributing to harmful noise levels when using a firearm may include gun modification mechanisms like muzzle breaks or discharging the firearm where sounds can echo or reverberate.

Hearing loss also impacts how you hunt, and may be tied to cardiovascular disease, depression, cognitive decline, balance issues like falling, isolation, social withdrawal, and other challenges.

Good hearing promotes situational awareness, which is crucial in the field. Hearing protection ensures that attention is present when you need it the most.

Understanding hearing protection and hearing enhancement will help you better protect your ears. Outlined below are ways to protect your hearing from firearm noise.

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Use earmuffs

Earmuffs are personal protective gear meant to protect you against excess noise pollution. They’re made of sponge and thermoplastics and have a pair of cups. The cups are usually attached to a steel or plastic headband’s outer ends to fit over your ears’ top while covering them tightly.

You can wear acoustic earmuffs alone or with earplugs, reducing dangerous noise that can potentially damage your hearing.

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Try earplugs

Earplugs come in various types, and this is why you should consult a professional to identify a proper hearing protection solution. Some may include:

  • Custom earplugs: They contain special filters for an accurate, even noise reduction level. You can have custom earplugs programmed to lessen sounds by the necessary amount and filter specific sound types more than others. They’re made with molds of your ear by a skilled professional, ensuring they’re a perfect fit and seal your ear better than standard earplugs. They’re comfortable and ideal for wearing for longer hours  
  • Electronic shooter earplugs: Electronic earplugs can listen to the noises around you, offer automatic protection from impact noises like gunshots, or gradually turn up a reduced protection noise reduction rating in response to background sounds slowly increasing to hazardous levels. They offer you the protection you require from one moment to another without removing or fiddling with your earplugs. Electronic earplugs can let lower decibel sounds pass while blocking harmful noises.
  • Reusable shooter earplugs: They’re an effective way to reduce sound levels, protecting from high shooting decibels. When looking for reusable shooter earplugs, note that various reusable earplugs have different noise reduction ratings. The higher the ratings, the better the noise reduction level provided it’s a good fit for your ear. Reusable shooter earplugs are durable and can be used multiple times

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Tips to improve your shooting accuracy HERE!

Endnote

While a .22 is not as loud as many other rifles, it can still be pretty loud, impacting your hearing. So, consider using hearing protection each time you use any gun, to prevent permanent hearing loss and other impairments.

Safe and happy shooting!