When it comes to owning firearms in the U.S., safety is paramount—not just for yourself, but for those around you. Owning a firearm is a serious responsibility, and using the right accessories can make all the difference in ensuring safety and efficient use.
I’ve put together this guide to walk you through some essential protective firearm accessories, so you can feel secure and well-prepared as a gun owner.
1. Holsters for Safe Carry
If you carry a firearm, a good holster is as essential as the gun itself. A holster keeps the firearm secure, allows for quick access, and, most importantly, prevents accidents.
- Inside-the-waistband (IWB): For concealed carry, IWB holsters are popular. They’re discreet and tuck the gun close to your body for easy concealment.
- Outside-the-waistband (OWB): Not as discreet as IWB, but more comfortable and often easier to draw from. Great for open carry situations.
- Retention holsters: These come with an extra security feature, like a latch or button that needs to be released before you can draw the firearm. Retention holsters are perfect for preventing unauthorized access.
Choosing the right holster depends on how you plan to carry and what level of security you’re comfortable with. It’s always worth testing different styles to see what fits your needs.
When selecting holsters or other firearm accessories, it’s also worth checking out specialized equipment like the RXArms M-LOK handguards and heat shields to enhance both safety and functionality.
2. Firearm Storage Solutions (Safes, Cabinets, and Lockboxes)
You need a safe place to store your firearm when it’s not in use. Whether you have children at home or simply want to prevent unauthorized access, a secure storage solution is crucial.
- Gun safes: These are your heavy-duty, go-to option. Many now come equipped with biometric locks or keypad entries. You can have fast access while ensuring your firearm is secure from theft or tampering.
- Lockboxes: Smaller and more portable, lockboxes work great for handguns. They’re light and often locked with a key or combination—perfect for those who need mobility and security.
- Trigger and cable locks: Not full-on storage solutions, but great for an extra layer of safety. These locks disable the trigger or action, making it impossible for someone to fire the gun until the lock is removed.
Storing your firearm securely isn’t just about best practices. In some states, it’s a legal requirement. A secure storage solution can prevent devastating accidents and keep your mind at ease.
3. Hearing Protection (Earplugs and Earmuffs)
Anyone who’s been to a shooting range knows how loud firearms can get. Constant exposure to gunfire can cause permanent hearing damage, so protecting your ears is a no-brainer.
- Earplugs: Small, easy to carry, and affordable, earplugs are a simple way to protect your hearing. While they don’t block out as much noise as earmuffs, they’re a convenient solution.
- Earmuffs: If you’re looking for better protection, earmuffs are the way to go. Some models even allow you to hear instructions or conversations while blocking out the loud sounds of gunfire.
- Double Protection: For those really noisy environments, consider combining earplugs and earmuffs. This setup, often called double protection, gives you an added layer of security for your hearing.
It’s amazing how something as simple as ear protection can preserve your hearing, and it’s an investment every shooter should make.
4. Eye Protection (Glasses and Goggles)
Think about it: firearms create explosions of gas, send debris flying, and ricochets can happen. All of that can wreak havoc on your eyes, making eye protection an absolute must.
- Polycarbonate lenses: These lenses are incredibly durable and resistant to impacts, which is exactly what you need when stray particles are flying through the air.
- UV protection: Shooting outdoors? Make sure your glasses block out UV rays, too.
- Anti-fog and scratch-resistant coatings: You want your vision to be clear at all times. Anti-fog coatings help in humid or moist environments, while scratch-resistant coatings keep your glasses looking fresh.
When you’re on the range or out in the field, good eye protection is like armor for your vision.
5. Firearm Maintenance (Cleaning Kits and Lubricants)
A well-maintained firearm is a safe firearm. Regular cleaning prevents malfunctions, which could put you at risk during use.
- Bore brushes and jags: These tools are designed to clean the inside of your gun’s barrel, helping to clear out carbon buildup and fouling.
- Solvents and lubricants: Solvents break down dirt, grime, and debris, while lubricants keep all the moving parts of your firearm running smoothly.
- Cleaning rods and patches: Use these to run solvent or lubricant through the barrel, making sure it’s clean and ready for action.
Making time to clean your firearm after use is one of the best ways to ensure it functions when you need it most and to extend its lifespan.
6. Concealment Accessories (Discreet Storage Solutions)
Sometimes, you might want to store your firearm in a place that’s not only secure but also hidden. Concealment furniture is designed to blend seamlessly with your home décor while keeping your firearm accessible in an emergency.
- Quick-access features: Look for furniture that has hidden drawers or biometric locks, so you can get to your firearm fast if needed.
- Stealth designs: Couches, tables, or bookshelves with secret compartments allow you to store your firearm without it being obvious to visitors or intruders.
It’s all about balancing discretion with accessibility when you’re looking for concealment accessories. Quick access could make all the difference in an emergency situation.
7. Training and Practice Tools (Dummy Rounds and Laser Training Systems)
Even if you have all the best accessories, proper training is key to being a responsible gun owner. Practice makes perfect, and training tools like dummy rounds and laser systems can help sharpen your skills.
- Snap caps: These inert rounds allow you to practice cycling your firearm without using live ammunition. It’s a safe way to work on your technique.
- Laser training systems: With laser systems, you insert a laser module into your firearm’s barrel. It provides instant feedback on your aim, so you can see exactly where your shots would land.
Practicing with tools like these builds muscle memory, so you’re more confident and precise when it counts.
8. Firearm Transportation (Travel Cases)
Whenever you need to transport your firearm—whether to the range or across state lines—using a travel case is essential for both protection and legal compliance.
- Hard cases: These provide maximum protection for your firearm. Many come with locks to prevent unauthorized access during transport.
- Soft cases: Lighter and more portable, but with less protection than hard cases. Soft cases work well for shorter trips or local travel.
Travel cases keep your firearm safe from damage and make sure you’re following the law when transporting across different regions.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Owning a firearm is a big responsibility, and choosing the right accessories can enhance safety, protect your investment, and give you peace of mind.
If you’re storing your firearm, practicing at the range, or carrying it for personal protection, using the right tools can make all the difference.
At the end of the day, being a responsible firearm owner means staying informed and making smart choices.
Invest in high-quality protective accessories, and you’re not only keeping yourself safe but also contributing to the safety of everyone around you. And that’s something we can all feel good about.
