The statute requires the gun to be unloaded when stored in a vehicle.
2C:58-4.6 Prohibited areas, carrying, firearms, destructive device.
7. Places where the carrying of a firearm or destructive device is prohibited.
…
b. (1) A person, other than a person lawfully carrying a firearm within the authorized scope of an exemption set forth in subsection a., c., or l. of N.J.S.2C:39-6, who is otherwise authorized under the law to carry or transport a firearm shall not do so while in a vehicle in New Jersey, unless the handgun is unloaded and contained in a closed and securely fastened case, gunbox, or locked unloaded in the trunk of the vehicle. [1]
(2) A holder of a valid and lawfully issued permit to carry a handgun shall not leave a handgun outside of their immediate possession or control within a parked vehicle, unless the handgun is unloaded and contained in a closed and securely fastened case, or gunbox, and is not visible from outside of the vehicle, or is locked unloaded in the trunk or storage area of the vehicle.
A violation of paragraph (1) or (2) of this subsection is a crime of the fourth degree.
This is absolutely the safest way to do it, and which is what I do when I’m outside of NJ. The law here needs to change, but it seems that there are so many other areas of the law that need to be addressed that this does not get any attention.
That’s great if you carry in a kydex paddle holster but for those of us who use leather holsters with loops for your belt(the way god intended it ) It’s not an option.
That’s why I never unholster in the car. I get out go to the rear hatch unholster unload and place in the safe.
) It’s not an option.