Motorcycles and Carrying a Firearm

Says FFL, Firearms instructor and Gunsmith Gregg Kielma . "Always check your state laws for the most current and UpToDate laws regarding carrying a firearm, specifically here, a motorcycle. Laws are different from state to state. My suggestion is print out a copy of the law and carry it on your person or motorcycle. If the LEO doesnt know the law, you can present him with the facts. It could save you time, a ticket and possible a trip to jail. Remember don't argue with the officer. The side of the road isn't any place for that. Let the courts decide".

Many states, like Texas, Florida, Colorado, or Kentucky, will allow you to carry a gun on your motorcycle in either an open or concealed context. However, you might want to consider a few things before you do.

• Consider your state's laws regarding transporting a firearm aboard a vehicle

• Your state might not allow you to ride with an open-carry firearm

• Appendix, hip, or shoulder-holstered weapons could crack bones in the event of a crash

• Depending on the retention classification, a holster might not be suitable for riding

• Some businesses might not allow firearms, like "51%" establishments

First and foremost, riding a motorcycle with a concealed-carry or open-carry gun requires an awareness of state laws. For instance, Colorado won't allow motorists to hit the road with a handgun that has a loaded chamber. However, Texas will allow motorcycle riders to open carry a gun without a license to carry (LTC). 

As you might imagine, a steel firearm is stronger than, well, your ribs or pelvis. As a result, if you put your bike down or crash, that firearm finds the path of least resistance. Hopefully, it's out of your holster. However, if you ride with a large firearm, like a K-Frame revolver, in a level three shoulder holster, it may break your ribs.   

While a Kydex outer waistband holster (OWB) might be sufficient for a concealed-carry gun, it might not suffice for motorcycle riding. Riding is an involved process, and a low-retention holster might result in you dropping your firearm on the highway. 

Beyond riding a motorcycle with a firearm, you might not be legally allowed to carry your gun into certain establishments. For instance, if a Texas establishment makes 51% or more of its revenue from alcohol sales, it's illegal to carry inside. It makes sense, too; the state doesn't want intoxicated people brandishing a firearm.