Where to Find Free Gun Locks

Cable locks and trigger locks are a simple, effective first step toward safe firearm storage. Multiple national and local programs distribute free gun locks to firearm owners across the United States. Below is a guide to finding free locks in your area.

Project ChildSafe

Project ChildSafe is the largest free gun lock distribution program in the country. Run by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), the program has distributed more than 40 million free cable-style gun locks since 1999.

• How to get one: Visit your local participating law enforcement agency. Project ChildSafe partners with thousands of police departments, sheriff's offices, and state agencies.
• What you get: A free cable lock and a safety information card
• No questions asked: You do not need to register, show identification, or provide any personal information
• Find a location: Contact your local police department's non-emergency line and ask if they participate in Project ChildSafe or have free gun locks available

Local Law Enforcement Programs

Many police departments and sheriff's offices distribute free gun locks independently or through grant-funded programs. Availability varies by location:

• City and county police departments often stock free cable locks at their front desks
• Sheriff's offices in many counties offer locks, especially in rural areas
• Community policing events and safety fairs frequently include free lock distribution
• How to find them: Call your local police non-emergency number and ask about free gun lock availability

Community and Nonprofit Programs

Various community organizations run free gun lock distribution events, often in partnership with hospitals, schools, and local government:

• Hospital-based programs: Many trauma centers and children's hospitals distribute free locks through their injury prevention programs
• Gun shops and ranges: Some retailers participate in free lock distribution as a community service
• Faith-based organizations: Churches and community groups in some areas host gun safety events with free lock distribution
• Gun buyback events: These events often include free lock giveaways alongside their buyback programs

State-Level Programs

Several states fund their own free gun lock distribution programs:

• Check with your state attorney general's office
• Contact your state police or highway patrol
• Look for programs through your state department of public safety
• Some states include free locks with firearm purchase permits or at the point of sale

Federal Programs

Federal law requires that every new handgun sold in the United States include a locking device. If you purchased a handgun and did not receive a lock, contact the manufacturer or retailer.

How Cable Locks Work

A cable lock is a flexible steel cable with a keyed or combination lock. To use one:

1. Unload the firearm completely — remove all ammunition from the chamber and magazine
2. Open the action (slide, bolt, or cylinder)
3. Thread the cable through the action so that it prevents the action from closing
4. Lock the cable and store the key separately from the firearm

A cable-locked firearm cannot be loaded or fired. While cable locks are not a substitute for a locked safe or cabinet, they provide an important layer of security, especially when used in combination with other storage methods.

Beyond Free Locks

Cable locks are a great starting point, but for maximum security, consider upgrading to a lock box or gun safe. See our Safe Storage Guide for a full comparison of storage options and recommendations.