While concealed carrying a compact handgun is a sound approach to your self-defense needs, there may unfortunately be some scenarios where one could still feel ill-prepared.
That’s where the term truck gun (or vehicle gun) enters the chat. A truck gun is exactly what it sounds like: a gun kept in your vehicle. More specifically, a truck gun is traditionally one that offers increased capacity, greater long-range capabilities, and in some cases, more stopping power than your EDC gun.
At its core, it bridges the gap between your daily carry and a loaded SHTF gun.
What to Look for in a Truck Gun
Of course, where you live, the places you frequent, and your vehicle play an important role in determining which firearm makes the most sense personally. Still, several characteristics are rather universal.
First is reliability. It won’t matter what gun you have if it doesn’t work when you need it. As you would with your carry gun, be sure to run an appropriate number of rounds through your truck gun to gauge its reliability. I recommend 500 rounds as a decent determining sample size. Most importantly, make sure that some of those rounds are the same type of defensive ammo you plan to keep in it.
Next is size and concealability. This should come as common sense, but you’d be surprised. Even though your vehicle allows for a much larger firearm than your waistband, a 20” 7.62 AR is not necessarily going to be your best bet.
Consider the barrel length and utilize items such as folding braces or collapsible stocks to enhance your setup. Your setup should be short enough overall to maneuver with ease, but also able to conceal in your vehicle to keep away from prying eyes.
How about capacity and caliber? You can always carry a spare magazine with your EDC pistol, but it’s hard to compete with a firearm that comes standard with a 30-round (or more) magazine (state permitting), such as the Kuna or SAINT Victor Pistol.
In addition to capacity, caliber is also an essential consideration. Many opt for a caliber that packs a harder punch than their EDC pistol, and sticking with 9mm and above seems to be a good rule of thumb. You’ll also need to consider the availability of your chosen ammunition. For example, you’ll have a much harder time finding .300 BLK in a pinch than you will 9mm or .223.
And lastly, there’s accessory integration. An often-overlooked feature is the ability to host a wide variety of accessories. From lights to optics to suppressors, your ideal gun should be able to utilize them all. It’s better to have the ability and not need it than the opposite.
Why I Chose the Kuna
Taking into account the four primary considerations I mentioned above, ask yourself if the Kuna checks all of them. Hint: it certainly does for me.
In the time I’ve owned the Kuna I’ve put just shy of 800 rounds through it, consisting of a nice mix of range and defensive ammo. Over that span, I’ve experienced a whopping zero malfunctions. And since it’s chambered in 9mm just like my carry guns, I will almost always have access to some additional rounds if need be. Plus, if you ever have to find ammo quickly, what’s the most common you’ll likely stumble upon? 9mm.
Thanks to the roller-delayed operating system and multi-port muzzle brake of the Kuna, I’ve found it to be an extremely flat-shooting and easy-to-control pistol, lending itself well to being shot within tight spaces.
Speaking of tight spaces, when it comes to compactness and concealability, it’s obvious as to why the Kuna suffices. Between the 6” barrel and the Strike Industries folding pistol brace, you should be able to find plenty of places to store it in your vehicle securely.
Once you start mounting accessories like an optic, light and suppressor, you begin to add to the overall setup’s footprint. However, the fact that you can add these accessories is just another reason why the Kuna is an ideal defensive pistol.
I believe I made my point regarding why I chose the Kuna as my truck gun, but with a truck gun comes additional responsibilities that must be taken into account.
Added Responsibilities
Just like with carrying a handgun, there is more to protecting yourself than simply having the firearm on your person. You must train with it and maintain it properly. You may not have access to a range where you can shoot from your vehicle, but you can take your truck gun to the range and put it through its paces. Afterwards, clean it, lube it up, and ensure everything is ready to go should you ever need it.
You’ll also want to have a plan in place for securing your truck gun. If someone breaks into your vehicle to steal your wallet or radio, the last thing you want is for them to also walk away with your gun.
Last but certainly not least, the laws are constantly changing so you’ll have to stay up to date on all of your local, state and federal regulations regarding transporting and traveling with a firearm. I’m far from an attorney, so this part is 100% on you!
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the hope remains that you never have to deploy your truck gun for anything other than some fun at the range. However, if you find yourself in a situation that you do, you’ll sure be glad you had it.
It comes down to being prepared and able to protect yourself and your family. So, would the Kuna fit your needs if you were to keep a truck gun? If not, maybe the SAINT Victor Pistol would? Only you can decide, but I hope this article helps get the brainstorming started.
As always, stay safe, train hard and have fun.
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