Often you need to look at the intent of the law. The intent on this one is that the firearm is not quickly ready for use. ie you need to get the bolt then the magazine then load the magazine and fit it. This all takes time in a heat of the moment situation and the intent is that hot heads will cool down a bit during this process. The other intent is if someone does get into your vehicle they cannot just grab the gun case and be ready to go. They might get the rifle but not the bolt or ammo, hence these must be separated in the vehicle.
It is all about what can be done with that firearm if it is just grabbed, is it ready to go or does someone need to rummage in vehicle to find bolt and ammo. AO told me the best way is gun in case, bolt in glove box and ammo in a separate bag. If you have any doubt at all about loaded mags etc just unload them, it only takes a moment. It's a bit like H&S, you need to take all practicable steps to secure the firearm from unauthorized use. If you had a firearm on back seat with loaded mag in the bag and bolt in the gun you haven't taken all practicable steps. If ammo is separate from mag which is separate from gun and bolt separate from gun and vehicle is locked you have taken all practicable steps.
The law does understand there are times like going to the toilet where the vehicle sits unattended. If you left vehicle unlocked you haven't taken all steps if it is locked you have. A quick stop for lunch with vehicle alarmed and in sight you are ok, if same vehicle is left while you go clubbing all night then probably not.
Just apply some common sense, think about what happens next if someone does get in your vehicle, follow the intent of the law and you will be fine.
Bookmarks