When must a firearm be stored with a trigger lock?

A firearm must be stored with a trigger lock when it is not in use to prevent unauthorized access. This practice is vital for ensuring safety, especially in households where children or individuals who should not have access to firearms may be present. Trigger locks are an effective means to inhibit the operation of the firearm, making it much more difficult for someone to misuse it.

This approach aligns with safety protocols designed to minimize accidental discharges and unauthorized handling. It emphasizes the responsibility of firearm owners to safeguard their weapons responsibly when they are not actively being used for shooting activities or practice.

While other contexts, such as transportation, cleaning, or storage in a safe, may have their own safety protocols, the primary focus of storing a firearm with a trigger lock pertains to its inactivity status combined with the goal to prevent unauthorized access.