Mounting a firearm in your vehicle isn't just about convenience. It's about being prepared when every second counts. Whether you're commuting through tight city traffic or heading out into remote areas, how and where your firearm is stored in the car matters.
Magnetic gun mounts offer that quick-draw ability many drivers are looking for, but larger or heavier firearms demand more careful adjustment. Without the right setup, your firearm can shift, fall, or get stuck when it matters most. Getting it right means your firearm stays secure but ready. Here's what to know when adjusting magnetic gun mounts for heavier gear.
Understanding Magnetic Gun Mounts
Magnetic gun mounts work by using powerful magnets to hold your firearm in place. There’s no latch or strap involved, which keeps the draw fast and smooth. Most quality mounts come with a layer of rubber or coating that prevents scratching and protects the firearm finish.
You'll find several types of mounts depending on the setup you need in your vehicle:
- Flat surface mounts install under the dash, along the center console, or on side walls. These are easy to reach without needing to twist or stretch.
- Low-profile vertical mounts offer a tighter hold by limiting movement. They're perfect for mounting to interior panels like doors or underneath the steering column.
- Multi-mag mounts are designed for people carrying more than a sidearm. They can handle knives, magazines, utility tools, and heavier duty gear.
When deciding on a mount, consider how it's secured. Magnets alone may not be enough for heavier firearms. Adhesive-backed mounts might hold briefly, but most won’t stand up to heat or weight for very long. For reliable security, bolted or screwed-in mounts are the better choice. It’s also important to make small angle and position adjustments to keep the firearm from moving while the vehicle is in motion.
We’ve heard plenty of stories where a driver used a smaller magnet to mount a heavy pistol under the steering column, only for it to slide down while turning. Not only does that throw off your focus on the road, it puts your weapon in an unpredictable spot. Better setups avoid those issues altogether.
Factors to Consider for Heavy Firearms
When you’re setting up a mount for a larger firearm, two things really stand out: weight and access. Picking a mount that’s designed to hold the full weight of your gun is step one. Check the specs. A compact pistol mount won’t be enough if you’re working with a full-size steel frame. You want something that says it’s rated for heavy-duty or large firearms. The stronger the magnet and the more firmly it's secured, the better.
Next, give some thought to where you’ll place it. Most folks want their firearm close to the dominant hand but hidden from plain sight. Somewhere near or under the dash, beside the center console, or even mounted under the steering column are all good options. Just make sure you're not putting it in a spot where it’s hard to reach or where your hand angle will make a smooth draw difficult.
The angle of the mount also plays a major role. A mount placed flat against a door panel can make drawing a firearm awkward, while one installed at a slight upward or sideways angle can make the motion cleaner and quicker. It might take a few practice runs to get it just how you want it, but an easy grab and pull is what you’re after.
Step-by-Step Adjustment Guide
Adjusting a magnetic mount to secure a heavy firearm takes just a bit of effort and the right tools. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Tools and materials: screwdriver, screws provided with the mount, measuring tape
1. Choose your ideal mounting spot. Use the measuring tape to explore flat, hidden but reachable locations—preferably somewhere your hand naturally rests.
2. Test each possible spot by pressing the unloaded mount against the surface. Wiggle it a little to see how stable it feels. Avoid flexible plastic or padded surfaces that might shift under pressure.
3. Once you pick your location, mark the screw hole spots using the mount as a guide. This helps align the mount cleanly.
4. Drill pilot holes at the marked spots. These smaller holes will guide the screws and prevent cracking or slipping during installation.
5. Secure the mount using the provided screws. Make sure you apply enough pressure and double-check that all screws are tightened completely.
6. Place your unloaded firearm on the mount to confirm its grip. Try simulating a few quick draws and rapid stops to see if it remains stable.
7. Adjust the angle slightly if needed and repeat the draw motion until it feels natural and sturdy.
By taking a little extra time now, you avoid a poorly held firearm that could become a problem in tight moments later.
Maintenance and Safety Tips
Even a great mount can wear down if neglected. Make it a habit to check your setup monthly. Look out for any loosening in the screws, scuffs on the magnet’s surface, or weakening in the grip. A quick wipe with a clean cloth every couple of weeks helps keep it clean of dust and debris that could reduce holding power.
Sometimes magnets lose a bit of grip over time with heavy use or exposure to extreme temperatures. If you notice your firearm shifting more than usual or any wobble in the mount, take time to recheck placement and consider replacing the hardware before it fails.
On the legal side, always be up to date with local and state firearm transport laws. Some areas may restrict how firearms are positioned in vehicles or may require locked storage while traveling. Always store your firearm unloaded unless you are lawfully permitted and trained otherwise. It’s about keeping you and everyone else safe and responsible at all times.
Building Confidence in Your Setup
Getting your magnetic gun mount adjusted right can make a huge difference in confidence while you’re on the road. If your firearm stays solidly in place, accessible from a natural hand position, and can be drawn smoothly, you’re already ahead of the game.
Take time with the placement. Think about the weight. Make regular checks a habit. By doing so, you’ll have a setup that isn’t just safe and legal, but also gives you peace of mind every time you get behind the wheel.
A well-mounted firearm becomes an extension of your preparedness. With the right adjustment, it’s always where you need it when you need it.
Keep your firearm secure and accessible wherever the road takes you by fine-tuning your setup with a magnetic gun mount for a car. At VULCAN Arms, we offer high-performance mounting solutions designed for strength and quick access, no matter your driving environment. Whether you're navigating city streets or backroads, having the right gear makes all the difference. Explore our collection of mounts to make your ride safer and more reliable today. magnetic gun mount for a car
Share:
Testing Your Rifle Case for Water Resistance
Storing Your AR During Humid Weather