Gun Racks in Pickup Trucks?

[luvmystang67]

Why have these disappeared?  Are they actually illegal (with guns in them of course) or do people just not do it anymore out of fear of theft?  can anyone point me to the law that would discuss this or some widespread stupid law that would be applied to this?

I'm sure someone on here knows.  A little help?

[jackelope]

I will never advertise what sort of stuff I keep in my truck. Before dirtbags stole everything that wasn't bolted down I had a gun rack in my truck. After getting broke into once and my whole truck getting stolen never to be seen again, no more. I've got a Washington State Bowhunters sticker on the back window of my truck and I don't even feel good about that.
 

p.s. I don't think there's any law. I see people with guns in gun racks now and then. I just can't help but wonder what they do with them when they park to go into a store or something.

[Woodchuck]

I am about as redneck as they come and I wont put a rack in my window for the same reasons Jackelope stated. I however do have a Hunt Wa sticker in the back window and a "Ain't nothin in this truck worth dyin for" sticker as well.

[jackelope]

and a "Ain't nothin in this truck worth dyin for" sticker as well.

Maybe that's what I need.

I can understand a gun rack when you're hunting or doing something gun related like going shooting or something along those lines but, aside from "just because they can",  I could never understand why people drive around with a gun rack full of guns in their back window. There's a lot better places to store guns, even inside your truck.

[6x6in6]

Same here.
No law that I am aware of.
Prefer not to advertise with the rack in use or not, so it does not exist.  No stickers or other decorations either.  I'd just a soon do everything I can to fly under the radar.

[luvmystang67]

Thanks for the feedback all.  I might have to get one of those stickers.

[Woodchuck]

and a "Ain't nothin in this truck worth dyin for" sticker as well.

Maybe that's what I need.

I can understand a gun rack when you're hunting or doing something gun related like going shooting or something along those lines but, aside from "just because they can",  I could never understand why people drive around with a gun rack full of guns in their back window. There's a lot better places to store guns, even inside your truck.

I have the sleeves that hang off the back of the front seats for gun storage during the season.

[bobcat]

Some may not be old enough to remember this, but it used to be that most pickups were not extended cabs. If you had two or three people in your truck, there was very little room for guns. So a gun rack in the rear window was very handy.

Even in other vehicles with more interior space, such as Suburbans, I think a gun rack was just something you were expected to have if you were a hunter.

But nowadays, I agree, it's just not smart to advertise that you have guns. I also do not put any kind of sticker that would let someone know that I'm a hunter or a gun owner. So no NRA, RMEF, DU, MDF, or Hunt-Wa stickers for me.

[Skillet]

Just saw one with what looked like a mini-14 and a bolt action .22 on Sunday in Coulee City.  Uncommon enough nowadays to catch my attention, even  there. Thought to myself, "Well, you don't see that in Seattle at all"...

[6x6in6]

And in the school parking lot every truck had one with a gun in it.

I have fond memories of driving my 68 chev C-20 to school in the late 70's with a 30-06 and a 12 gauge in the rack.  Bailing out during lunch time to go duck or deer hunting. 
Nobody locked their car up either. 

[seth30]

I remember seeing them with axe handles in the racks

[snowpack]

Used to see them all the time, a rack with a saddle gun and a lariat.  I won't put one of the visible ones in the truck because it would just be too inviting for thieves. I could imagine being in the courtroom for shooting some tweekers and getting blamed because I put too attractive of a target out for them.  Somehow the lib lawyers would make it my fault.  Now a low profile overhead mount.......

[pianoman9701]

There is a law, at least with regards to leaving a concealed pistol, that it must be kept out of sight locked in the vehicle.

[CP]

I want the overhead model:

[pianoman9701]

And in the school parking lot every truck had one with a gun in it.

When I was in high school, I threw the .30-30 Model 94 in the back on the way to school so I could hunt after school. We'd be out in the lot showing each other our guns and talking about where we'd hunt. Imagine that today. 

[snowpack]

And in the school parking lot every truck had one with a gun in it.

When I was in high school, I threw the .30-30 Model 94 in the back on the way to school so I could hunt after school. We'd be out in the lot showing each other our guns and talking about where we'd hunt. Imagine that today. 

You'd probably be taken out by a drone or a SWAT team (more likely a SWAT battalion  ). Then the news shows would refer to you as right wing 2A nutjob and post your worst pictures all over.

[sirmissalot]

There is a law, at least with regards to leaving a concealed pistol, that it must be kept out of sight locked in the vehicle.

Pretty sure that law applies to all firearms, they aren't supposed to be left in plain open view unattended.

I would never leave one in the rack but it would be handy to keep one there while hunting, my Toyota doesn't have a lot of extra room for a rifle or bow. I looked for one for a while but gave up and bought one of the holders that goes on the back of my front seats.

[Special T]

The are still usefull for fishing poles.  But i don't fish anyomore except for carp and that is with a bow! 

I think its illegal in King county to have them displayed in a gun rack...

[pianoman9701]

And in the school parking lot every truck had one with a gun in it.

When I was in high school, I threw the .30-30 Model 94 in the back on the way to school so I could hunt after school. We'd be out in the lot showing each other our guns and talking about where we'd hunt. Imagine that today. 

You'd probably be taken out by a drone or a SWAT team (more likely a SWAT battalion  ). Then the news shows would refer to you as right wing 2A nutjob and post your worst pictures all over.

But I am a right wing, 2A nutjob. I don't have any bad pictures, though. I look awesome in everything!

[Boss .300 winmag]

I want the overhead model:

is this a custom gun holder? if not where did you buy it?

[boneaddict]

I heard they were illegal as well.   I went to look for one when I got a new truck.   I was told it was over a lawsuit with some intimidation factor.   Someone sued and won and next thing you know, no more gun racks.   no idea for sure.  I would love to know.

[JLS]

They are not illegal, nor are they very smart.  About as bright as leaving your wallet and your Iphone in plain view on the dash.

[Boss .300 winmag]

And in the school parking lot every truck had one with a gun in it.

When I was in high school, I threw the .30-30 Model 94 in the back on the way to school so I could hunt after school. We'd be out in the lot showing each other our guns and talking about where we'd hunt. Imagine that today. 

yep, that was me aswell back in the day!

[bobcat]

I've never heard of any law that says guns need to be hidden in a vehicle. Sure it may be a good idea to keep them out of sight, but let's not make up imaginary laws that don't exist.

[KopperBuck]

See them everyday round here.

Our ranch rigs still run them, but our drivers don't - extended and crew cabs.

[pianoman9701]

I've never heard of any law that says guns need to be hidden in a vehicle. Sure it may be a good idea to keep them out of sight, but let's not make up imaginary laws that don't exist.

Just because you've never heard of it doesn't mean it's made up.
RCW 9.41.050

Carrying firearms.

 (2)(a) A person shall not carry or place a loaded pistol in any vehicle unless the person has a license to carry a concealed pistol and: (i) The pistol is on the licensee's person, (ii) the licensee is within the vehicle at all times that the pistol is there, or (iii) the licensee is away from the vehicle and the pistol is locked within the vehicle and concealed from view from outside the vehicle.

And I did specify that the law applied to at least pistols.

[bobcat]

Pman- I know about that law. It only applies to CPL holders who have a loaded handgun in their vehicle.

[Caseyd]

Our ranch rigs still run them, but our drivers don't - extended and crew cabs.

Same here, mostly o rings, gate keys etc

[luvmystang67]

I've never heard of any law that says guns need to be hidden in a vehicle. Sure it may be a good idea to keep them out of sight, but let's not make up imaginary laws that don't exist.

Just because you've never heard of it doesn't mean it's made up.
RCW 9.41.050

Carrying firearms.

 (2)(a) A person shall not carry or place a loaded pistol in any vehicle unless the person has a license to carry a concealed pistol and: (i) The pistol is on the licensee's person, (ii) the licensee is within the vehicle at all times that the pistol is there, or (iii) the licensee is away from the vehicle and the pistol is locked within the vehicle and concealed from view from outside the vehicle.

And I did specify that the law applied to at least pistols.

This law is correct and applies ONLY to pistols kept loaded in a motor vehicle, enabled by owning a CPL.  To keep a loaded pistol in your vehicle without a CPL would already be illegal, so no law needed there.  I'm not sure what the law would be if you had an unloaded pistol in plain view without a CPL.  I think legally that is acceptable, but I'm sure you'd lose your court case, mostly for being dumb.

I have never seen a law pertaining to rifles or non-CPL pistols.

Thanks for your input.

[bobcat]

Kind of getting off topic here but just to clarify even further, it is legal to have a loaded handgun in a vehicle if you are going to, or coming from, any outdoor recreational activity (hunting for example.) A CPL is not needed in this situation.

[snowpack]

Kind of getting off topic here but just to clarify even further, it is legal to have a loaded handgun in a vehicle if you are going to, or coming from, any outdoor recreational activity (hunting for example.) A CPL is not needed in this situation.

I think it is legal to carry concealed when engaged in those activities when not in a vehicle.  Once it enters the vehicle a CPL is needed if it is loaded.

[NW-GSP]

Kind of getting off topic here but just to clarify even further, it is legal to have a loaded handgun in a vehicle if you are going to, or coming from, any outdoor recreational activity (hunting for example.) A CPL is not needed in this situation.

I think it is legal to carry concealed when engaged in those activities when not in a vehicle.  Once it enters the vehicle a CPL is needed if it is loaded.

WRONG- read bobcats post, he is correct. It is even written in the little green book they give you when you get your cpl.

[luvmystang67]

Kind of getting off topic here but just to clarify even further, it is legal to have a loaded handgun in a vehicle if you are going to, or coming from, any outdoor recreational activity (hunting for example.) A CPL is not needed in this situation.

I think it is legal to carry concealed when engaged in those activities when not in a vehicle.  Once it enters the vehicle a CPL is needed if it is loaded.

WRONG- read bobcats post, he is correct. It is even written in the little green book they give you when you get your cpl.

I second this motion, that is technically correct.  Now you just have to prove it in courts if you get caught.  I've seen the verbiage, that is what is written.

[csaaphill]

nice ya gun racks seem ot be a thing of the past. I'd do it still if I could get one mounted.

[Windwalker]

 Have a lifted  '84 extra cab Yota (too high to easily see into) 3 gun rack is under the rear window.  Which by the way is a real cluster getting things out of when a 'yote jumps out in front of you on a drag road-  it holds the guns real secure..just sayin'....

 Years ago was comfortable doing a fill up and if no one around, would lock it and do a quick in-and-out for junk food or whatever if I could keep visual contact while dodging into a 7/11 type store. - situational awareness is omnipotent as always -

 Now I don't feel comfortable doing it & won't leave guns without a look-out posted.

  I also leave a 'special' note visible when out hunting due to the electronics aboard that hasn't failed me yet. I don't have much confidence in it, but makes me feel a little better.

 - We may be out of sight but we are not out of range -

  Remember taking guns to school and leaving them in the rear window rack many times so we could light out on a hunt after school or show off our latest purchase and no one thought anything of it.

Times have sure changed so now-

Have two of these http://www.fas1safe.com/main.sc ( I highly recommend them - built like a tank)

And (can't have too much storage) pondering one of these http://www.consolevault.com/secret-safe.html & maybe a console setup in one of the rigs.

Now we are contemplating a more secure set up like this. http://www.truckvault.com/  Spendy but secure storage if done right and due to the recent break in's at matches down south think its time to step up.

I don't have the link handy but not to long ago at one of the high level match's vandals had permeated the area waiting for out of state competitors with expensive match guns to drop their vigilance, broke into quite a few vehicles and left them high and dry without guns for the match. Some were at restaurants and some ran into the store for a minute too long. Rated high on the suck factor scale.

[brush hunter]

http://www.ehow.com/list_6809942_truck-gun-rack-laws.html

It could be coming

[Bofire]

  I think Seattle or King county has an ordinance about "opaque" cases, but am not sure.
Carl

[CP]

I think Seattle or King county has an ordinance about "opaque" cases, but am not sure.
Carl

No.

RCW 9.41.290
State preemption.
   

The state of Washington hereby fully occupies and preempts the entire field of firearms regulation within the boundaries of the state, including the registration, licensing, possession, purchase, sale, acquisition, transfer, discharge, and transportation of firearms, or any other element relating to firearms or parts thereof, including ammunition and reloader components. Cities, towns, and counties or other municipalities may enact only those laws and ordinances relating to firearms that are specifically authorized by state law, as in RCW 9.41.300, and are consistent with this chapter. Such local ordinances shall have the same penalty as provided for by state law. Local laws and ordinances that are inconsistent with, more restrictive than, or exceed the requirements of state law shall not be enacted and are preempted and repealed, regardless of the nature of the code, charter, or home rule status of such city, town, county, or municipality.

[JJD]

And in the school parking lot every truck had one with a gun in it.

When I was in high school, I threw the .30-30 Model 94 in the back on the way to school so I could hunt after school. We'd be out in the lot showing each other our guns and talking about where we'd hunt. Imagine that today. 

You'd probably be taken out by a drone or a SWAT team (more likely a SWAT battalion  ). Then the news shows would refer to you as right wing 2A nutjob and post your worst pictures all over.

But I am a right wing, 2A nutjob. I don't have any bad pictures, though. I look awesome in everything!

   If the shoe fits, wiggle your toes and enjoy the walk.

[Gobble Gobble]

I personally would not have a window rack but a roof rack would be nice.

Had a friend growing up who's dad a a rifle stolen from one while at deer camp. they were all out hunting and someone came into camp, broke into the truck and took the rifle.

Continuing the off topic subject. There are four states that have laws against truck gun racks and Washington is not one of them. Washington is an open carry state. You can display a rifle or shotgun in a vehicle all you want, however, it CANNOT be loaded while the vehicle is in motion. If you ask some Game Wardens just leaning a loaded rifle or shotgun against a motorized vehicle of any kind it is a violation and subject to a ticket. From my readings the only loaded firearm that can even touch a vehicle is a handgun and the owner must be in possesion of a CPL.


Here a couple good websites for information, but they mostly pertain to handguns.
washingtongunrights.com
opencarry.org
carryconcealed.net

[ghosthunter]

Kind of getting off topic here but just to clarify even further, it is legal to have a loaded handgun in a vehicle if you are going to, or coming from, any outdoor recreational activity (hunting for example.) A CPL is not needed in this situation.

I think it is legal to carry concealed when engaged in those activities when not in a vehicle.  Once it enters the vehicle a CPL is needed if it is loaded.

Wow at least 3 or 4 threads on this this year and still comes up. Bobcat wins on this one.
 

[ghosthunter]

I think Seattle or King county has an ordinance about "opaque" cases, but am not sure.
Carl

Read the Preemption post in blue.
No one,city,state,county can pass any gun law stricter than state law.
The legislature is the only ones who can write gun laws.

[ghosthunter]

As for the OP topic. I no longer use the window racks but I do keep the hang on the seat rack in my truck.

As far as stickers I have pro gun stickers. I refuse to live in fear that some scum bag will break in to my truck. They win if you allow them to influnce your life.

[Special T]

I think Seattle or King county has an ordinance about "opaque" cases, but am not sure.
Carl

Read the Preemption post in blue.
No one,city,state,county can pass any gun law stricter than state law.
The legislature is the only ones who can write gun laws.

Thats why Seattle passes laws prohibiting guns from parks right? 

[Hermannr]

This law is correct and applies ONLY to pistols kept loaded in a motor vehicle, enabled by owning a CPL.  To keep a loaded pistol in your vehicle without a CPL would already be illegal, so no law needed there.  I'm not sure what the law would be if you had an unloaded pistol in plain view without a CPL.  I think legally that is acceptable, but I'm sure you'd lose your court case, mostly for being dumb.

I have never seen a law pertaining to rifles or non-CPL pistols.

Thanks for your input.

You can have a loaded pistol in your vehicle without a CPL, go look at RCW 9.41.060  especially ( as well as the others, but as we are on a hunting forum, ( would be most fitting.

[motg9_6]

mount them above your head on the cab. they are still easy to get the gun out but it doesnt advertise what you got either. WARNING a rem 700 7mm with not fit accross a toyota.  it has to be at an angle. 

[ghosthunter]

I think Seattle or King county has an ordinance about "opaque" cases, but am not sure.
Carl

Read the Preemption post in blue.
No one,city,state,county can pass any gun law stricter than state law.
The legislature is the only ones who can write gun laws.

Thats why Seattle passes laws prohibiting guns from parks right? 

You might read up a little bit. Seattle tried to ban carry in its parks. Got shot down by the state Supreme court shortly afterwards.

[KLR_Carl]

I just mounted this sucker in my Land Cruiser. Works great! Blocks the rear-view mirror a bit.
https://www.amazon.com/Great-Day-QD800-Quick-Draw-Rack/dp/B00B2SF5KO/ref=pd_sbs_263_1
Yes I added a lock.

Any ideas how to obscure the fact that these tall lumps next to my seat are rifles? Was thinking to sew up some sort of cover for when my buddies and I stop by a bar after a long day of chasing whitetails.