How secure is the storage location for the gun safe key?

The Higher Administrative Court (OVG) NRW in Münster ruled yesterday (Az.: 20 A 2384/20) on how the key to a gun cabinet should be stored.  "It should be stored in a container that meets the legal security requirements for the storage of weapons and ammunition in the cabinet," explained the DJV.

In a typical case, a plaintiff stored the gun key in a 40 kg heavy double-walled steel safe during his vacation. Many media outlets reported on this.  During a break-in, this safe was cracked by thieves, who then easily opened the gun cabinet and stole two handguns.

As a result, the local authority revoked the plaintiff's licenses, as he had violated the storage regulations.

The plaintiff unsuccessfully challenged this revocation at the VG Düsseldorf (Az.: 22 K 3002/19) and filed an appeal.

Although the OVG confirmed the improper storage location, it did not see it as a gross violation and ruled in favor of the plaintiff by deeming the license revocation unlawful.

The Forum Waffenrecht finds this regulation too restrictive. There are no clear guidelines for the storage of gun keys, and the legislator does not explicitly require a combination lock for gun cabinets. Previous legal texts and comments also do not demand that the key be stored in an equivalent container, and the legislator allows responsible owners some discretion.

It is noteworthy that a robust but uncertified cash box was considered appropriate elsewhere in the house.

Ensure Security

On the other hand, storage under a sink or unattended on a key ring in the office was deemed inappropriate.

By following the instructions of the OVG Münster, gun owners ensure security. This type of storage may not be mandatory, but it is considered advisable, as it will certainly receive more attention in the future.

It is essential to ensure that no unauthorized person has access to the key.