Hey guys
Does anybody know if its legal to store a handgun (unloaded of course, but with an ammo box) inside of the compartment under a motorcycle seat? I'm talking about the state of California here..I was thinking about it earlier today and its really irking me...

Thought it might be nice if it were legal (if i had a compact size pistol, with a cheap cover and lock)

Any ideas?suggestions?

I think as long as the gun is unloaded and in a locked case separate from the ammo it should be ok.  Pretty sure your bike seat compartment has to be lockable.

I've also heard something like the mags can't be loaded but this is what I heard awhile ago.  I don't know if it's illegal or not.

Thanks, thats what i was guessing at..

Yes the bike seat is always locked...so thats a plus..

MAgs cannot be loaded if they're in the same locked case as the gun (pop in and shoot right?)

They can be loaded if theyre stored in a completely separate case though...

CA law doesn't directly address carrying a handgun on a motorcycle; however, it has to be in a locked container separate from the utility or glove compartment of a vehicle without a trunk.  Argument could be made that the seat is the "trunk" of a motorcycle since you can't access the compartment while on the bike.  Who knows?

I'd like to see a code reference regarding loaded mags.  Here's what I found.  It leads me to believe one could carry loaded mags in the same locked case, as long as they aren't inserted (attached to) the firearm.

12031.  (a) (1) A person is guilty of carrying a loaded firearm when
he or she carries a loaded firearm on his or her person or in a
vehicle ....
(g) A firearm shall be deemed to be loaded for the purposes of this section when there is an unexpended cartridge or shell, consisting of a case that holds a charge of powder and a bullet or shot, [b]in, or attached in any manner to, the firearm,[/b] including, but not limited to, in the firing chamber, magazine, or clip thereof
[b]attached to the firearm[/b] ....