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The intended use of a vehicle firearm is the biggest factor in determining what type of firearm to purchase or build. It also influences where and how that firearm can be stored within the vehicle.
Here in Michigan, for example, long guns must be transported in the trunk or bed of the vehicle, locked in a case and stored separately from any ammunition—regardless of whether the owner has a CPL (Concealed Pistol License). If the driver does not have a CPL, handguns must follow the same transport rules. This can be frustrating for hunters who want to keep a firearm prepped and ready while in the field, as it adds time and effort to access the gun.
When it comes to tactical or self-defense purposes, a vehicle firearm must be kept ready 100% of the time. One of the key factors in choosing a setup is the environment the firearm and vehicle will primarily be in. In urban areas like Detroit or Lansing, a handgun is typically the most practical choice. It allows the driver to engage threats if needed, while minimizing liabilities like over-penetration or stray rounds in crowded settings.
On the other hand, someone in a rural setting—such as a farmer dealing with nuisance animals—can afford to keep something a bit more powerful at the ready, without the same concerns about nearby structures or bystanders. That said, gun safety should always remain the top priority, regardless of location. But let’s be honest—there’s a lot less to worry about when you're out in an open field compared to the middle of a city.
As the owner of a custom gun shop, I’ve seen many customers settle somewhere in the middle by choosing a pistol-caliber carbine (PCC). These firearms provide the control and ergonomics of a rifle, while firing common handgun calibers like 9mm. That gives them solid performance with reduced liability, especially in urban or suburban environments. An added bonus here in Michigan is that these PCC-style pistols can often be carried under a CPL.
Here’s an example of an AR-9 chambered in 9mm that a customer sent in to get outfitted with one of our custom vehicle-ready packages.
Aero Precision EPC9 ready to outfitted with our Dominion package. Pic used with customer’s permission.
This is the big one: What are you legally allowed to do with a firearm in your vehicle?
Before you even consider what to build or buy, take the time to check your local and state laws—they can significantly affect your options. Like I mentioned earlier, here in Michigan, even with a CPL (Concealed Pistol License), long guns must be locked in a case in the trunk or bed of the vehicle, with ammunition stored separately. That may not be the case in other states, but don’t assume—research your specific area.
You’ll also want to know what type of license (if any) is required to carry a firearm in your vehicle—or on your person while inside the vehicle. This varies widely from state to state. For example, Michigan requires a CPL to legally carry a loaded handgun in the vehicle, and the gun must be concealed. In contrast, states like Alaska allow constitutional carry—even in vehicles—without a permit.
It’s also crucial to understand the legal difference between carrying and transporting a firearm. If you’re pulled over and claim you’re "transporting" a loaded 1911 found in your glove box—but you don’t have the proper license—you’re likely in serious legal trouble. Transporting typically requires the firearm to be unloaded, locked away, and separated from ammunition, while carrying refers to having immediate access to a ready-to-use firearm.
If you live in a state where open carry is allowed, that might give you more flexibility—but it still doesn’t replace the need to understand your local regulations. Even if open carry is legal, I recommend having a secure and concealable way to store your firearm within the vehicle.
Don’t forget about ammunition and magazine laws. Some states limit the types of ammo permitted for concealed carry (e.g., hollow points or armor-piercing rounds), while others impose restrictions on magazine capacity—even for firearms classified as pistols like ARs, AKs, or PCCs.
If you're planning to run a high-capacity pistol-style platform in your vehicle, be sure it’s compliant with any local laws.
Here are a few example of different ammo types, from left to right FMJ, Hollow point, and Frangible.
Disclaimer: This blog does not constitute legal advice. Always verify laws through your state or local law enforcement or consult a qualified firearms attorney.
Your vehicle plays a major role in determining what kind of firearm setup is realistic. While many people figure this out naturally as they shop or build, it’s still a critical step that’s easy to overlook—especially when it comes to space, concealment, and mounting.
For example, a farmer driving a full-size truck likely has plenty of space to store a compact .22 bolt-action rifle for managing pests. That same truck is already equipped to carry tools and gear, so adding a firearm is a natural fit. In contrast, someone commuting in a compact car may find space more limited. In that case, a smaller handgun or pistol-caliber firearm might be more practical.
You’ll also need to think about how the firearm will be stored or mounted in the vehicle. Are you keeping it in a glove box? Under a seat? Mounted behind the rear window or under the dash? These decisions can limit the types of firearms you shop for, especially when factoring in length, weight, and shape.
If you're using a modern firearm like an AR-style pistol or compact shotgun, there are often vehicle-specific mounting systems available. However, if you're trying to mount something more unique—say, your great-grandfather’s old side-by-side shotgun—you might be looking at a custom job. Either way, the goal is to ensure the firearm is secure, concealed, and easily accessible when needed.
Another key factor is how secure the firearm will be when the vehicle is unattended. Leaving a gun loose or poorly secured can create serious legal and ethical issues. In fact, here in Michigan, if a firearm is stolen from your vehicle because it wasn’t properly secured, you can be held liable—especially if that weapon is later used in a crime.
To reduce liability, consider:
Lockable storage compartments or safes
Tamper-proof mounting brackets
Quick-access biometric locks for handguns
A stolen firearm isn’t just a loss—it’s a potential tragedy, and it’s your responsibility to make sure it doesn’t end up in the wrong hands.
One thing I’ve noticed from running a gun shop is that vehicle and house guns often receive far less care than carry guns, hunting rifles, or competition builds. I’ll admit—I’m guilty of this myself. It seems to come down to that old saying: “out of sight, out of mind.”
Firearms we carry or shoot regularly tend to get cleaned, oiled, and inspected more often. After all, they’re in our hands, in use, and part of our routines. But guns stored in nightstands or behind the truck seat? Those often sit for months, even years, without a second thought—until they’re needed.
This isn’t meant to be a lecture on firearm upkeep, but rather a reminder that your vehicle gun is more likely to face harsh and variable conditions than almost any other firearm you own.
Think about it:
Changes in temperature and humidity with the seasons
Dust, dirt, or moisture from daily driving or farm work
Potential damage from vibration or movement
Forgotten maintenance due to infrequent handling
In many cases, these firearms aren’t just neglected—they’re exposed. So if you’re building or buying a gun specifically for your vehicle, it’s crucial to choose one that’s:
Rugged and reliable
Corrosion-resistant
Simple to maintain
Proven to function under less-than-ideal conditions
This includes thinking through things like finish durability (e.g., nitrided vs. blued), parts availability, and how easy it is to disassemble and clean the weapon. Even the caliber matters—some guns run dirty or require tighter tolerances than others.
Before you buy, do your research. Look for reviews from real users in similar conditions. Prioritize platforms that are known for reliability over fancy features. Your truck gun may not see daily use, but if the day ever comes that you need it, you’ll want to be confident it’s ready to go.
Let’s talk about what might be the most important factor: your budget.
Working in the firearms industry for years, I’ve helped countless people find the right firearm for their needs. My number one piece of advice has always been:
“Buy the highest quality firearm you can afford—for the purpose it will serve.”
This principle balances performance, reliability, and responsibility.
If your vehicle gun is meant for self-defense, you don’t want to gamble on a budget firearm with a questionable track record. In a high-stress emergency, reliability is everything. A malfunction at the wrong moment could be fatal.
On the other hand, it’s not wise to spend thousands on a high-end custom firearm—no matter how great it is—if it’s going to live behind your truck seat or glove box. Why? Because if that firearm is ever used in a defensive situation, you may not get it back.
Here’s what usually happens:
The police arrive and seize the weapon as evidence.
Legal proceedings begin—potentially lasting months or longer.
The firearm sits in an evidence locker.
There’s no guarantee it will ever be returned, especially if charges are filed or if there's damage during the investigation.
That $3,000 custom pistol? It could be gone for good.
Your firearm purchase is just the beginning. Don’t forget to budget for:
Accessories (lights, optics, slings)
Mounting solutions (lockboxes, racks, brackets)
Extra magazines
Holsters or quick-access storage
Maintenance tools and supplies
Possible insurance premium increases
Legal coverage (CCW insurance or legal defense plans)
All of these contribute to the total cost of ownership—and should be factored into your budget from the start.
Now that you’ve worked through all the key considerations—from purpose and legal compliance to storage and maintenance—you can finally choose the firearm that fits your needs. With a clear plan in place, the possibilities are wide open.
But here’s the thing: owning a truck or vehicle gun isn’t just about having a firearm—it’s about being prepared.
Preparedness means:
Choosing the right platform for your environment
Storing it securely and legally
Maintaining it for reliability
And most importantly, training to use it responsibly
If you’re serious about self-reliance, protection, or just want a dependable setup in your rig, take the time to do it right from the start. You’re not just building a “truck gun”—you’re building a capability.
👉 Looking for the right platform to build on? Browse our selection of handguns and rifles to find a reliable foundation for your vehicle firearm setup.
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Truck Guns Done Right: How to Build a Reliable, Legal, and Purpose-Driven Vehicle Firearm
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