By within your control is simply, can you reach it from your seated position. An example would be a guy with a loaded .45 ready for use in the door pocket, center console, or under the seat. Unloaded in a case would be fine, I wouldn't have the slightest problem with that. You'd be amazed at the amount of folks we arrest for UCW in a vehicle. If you want to carry a pistol everyday, get a CHL. If folks don't want the hassle of a CHL, carry a long gun. Would you rather have some punky .40 cal, or a pistol grip 12 gauge? As an aside, you'd be amazed about how many people had no idea there was a pistol under their car seat. Had to cry over one, 17 yr old with an engraved silver inlaid customized Gold Cup. Not listed as stolen, no way to connect it with a proper owner, and cannot be resold per dept regulation. It's gonna be torched. Easily a 2500$ gun. The punk stated he had never seen it before. Odd coincidence that he had 13 extra rounds in his pocket. BTW: what part of Texas are you in?