View Full Version : DIY: Under the Dash “Holster” Mount


cjrx8
12-02-2004, 06:23 PM
I hope this doesn’t offend anyone, this is just informational.

I did this for myself because I have my CHL (Concealed Handgun License) and always have it with me. I used to have a Mazda 3 with the big center console cubby, very convenient. Well that is not the case in the RX8 so I came up with this convenient MOD.
Note that this mod could be done for all sorts of cases too, such as a PDA or Cell phone case, etc.

(Read all before attempting)

cjrx8
12-02-2004, 06:27 PM
First I used a Fobus Roto Holster I got from www.productwizard.com it was about $23.00 plus shipping.

cjrx8
12-02-2004, 06:28 PM
Next I unscrewed the screw in the back to disassemble the holster.

You will only need the holster part and screw. The paddle can be kept somewhere if you ever want reassemble later.

cjrx8
12-02-2004, 06:28 PM
Now get a drill and drill bit for the size of the screw. I used a 7/32” bit (just right!) Don’t use to big of a bit or MOD may come loose later.

cjrx8
12-02-2004, 06:29 PM
Now go position the holster under the steering column in the middle some where convenient to get and idea of where to mount.

cjrx8
12-02-2004, 06:30 PM
Next pop the panel off under the steering column. (Top first, then bottom.) Again, position the holster on the panel where it was convenient in the middle some where to get and idea of where to drill your mounting hole. Then drill hole through panel. Mine ended up being directly between some lettering on the back of the panel. Notice if you ever remove the MOD you would not see this small hole.

cjrx8
12-02-2004, 06:31 PM
Next you will need the screw. Mine had a tapered head so I had to recess the hole from the back.

Next put the screw through the hole from the back.

cjrx8
12-02-2004, 06:32 PM
Then put the back of the holster to the screw and use a screwdriver (powered or non-powered) to screw in the screw snugly.

cjrx8
12-02-2004, 06:33 PM
Then put the panel back on and you’re done!

cjrx8
12-02-2004, 06:34 PM
You can’t notice this unless you are looking for it, especially if you have tint.

cjrx8
12-02-2004, 06:35 PM
Now you see it:

cjrx8
12-02-2004, 06:35 PM
Now you don’t!

cjrx8
12-02-2004, 06:36 PM
Hope this helps solves someone else’s issues.

mysql101
12-02-2004, 06:42 PM
heh. Now I just need a spot for my shotgun..

Ninja
12-02-2004, 07:50 PM
But how do I mount my stealth rocket launcher? Errr as soon as I get that permit of course! :)

XDEEDUBBX
12-02-2004, 07:55 PM
im calling the cops

RX3+5
12-02-2004, 08:11 PM
Nice work!

Vince

Omicron
12-02-2004, 08:13 PM
Very nice little DIY, cjrx8!

The only thing I might caution people about is that a CHL (aka a "CCW permit" in other areas) is usually for carrying on your person, and different laws apply to your vehicle. For instance, in AZ and CO, the weapon has to be more than 2 motions away for access... such as 1 motion to open glove box, 1 motion to remove the weapon is not enough. If you had it holstered in the glove box, removing it from the holster would constitute a 3rd motion and you'd be ok.

At any rate, check your local laws before considering this. :)

jenkins-crew
12-02-2004, 08:13 PM
Great DIY..Thanks!!!

Zaku-8
12-02-2004, 10:07 PM
maybe installing a snap cover would add an extra motion

Nemesis8
12-02-2004, 10:30 PM
You'll shoot your eye out :eek:

Omicron
12-02-2004, 10:47 PM
maybe installing a snap cover would add an extra motionNope, this mod would make it a 1-motion draw. Adding a thumb break holster would still be 1-motion. Adding a snapover holster would make it 2-motion. Nice try though! :D

Butthead
12-02-2004, 10:51 PM
Nice mod homey. 'Bout damn time somebody had the balls to post something like this!

Zoomie
12-02-2004, 10:59 PM
Purchase a decent IWB holster and take it with you all the time. Luby's Cafeteria, Killeen, TX, 1995, 23 dead - a gun left in someone's car could have saved many lives. Yeah, they're big. Yeah, they're bulky... Cold, wet, tired? Tell it to the mortician. Sorry for the exteme point of view; but if you're going to have a CHL, use it. Don't leave you're gun in the car under the dash. Also, training, training, training. OK, enough off-topic (which I believe was RX-8).

cjrx8
12-02-2004, 11:25 PM
I never said I left it in the car. I just wanted a place to put it while driving in the car. It is usually behind my back, so more comfortable/convienent there......just for clearation.

staticlag
12-02-2004, 11:58 PM
What does it take to get a CHL permit? Usually?

Omicron
12-03-2004, 12:09 AM
What does it take to get a CHL permit? Usually?Varies from state to state and sometimes even city to city. At a minmum, it usually involves a background check and some sort of training/proof of competency, plus a fee to the issuer. Check http://www.packing.org/ for info on your state.

army_rx8
12-03-2004, 12:15 AM
i just drive around in my full battle rattle:) no one tries to jack your car then ;)

czr
12-03-2004, 12:29 AM
Just looking at thumbs, I thought it was a "cell phone holster" at first... lol.

David Wiggins
12-03-2004, 01:23 AM
NICE job on the sidearm holster mod. I was looking for a way to mount ye olde blade tech holster under there but came up with nothing. I'll pick up an appropriate fobus tomorrow at lunch.

truemagellen
12-03-2004, 01:31 AM
what is the probability this becomes a huge political thread...maybe it would be a good idea to clear out the extra responses after omicron's 'check your laws' post

then close up shop

Omicron
12-03-2004, 01:47 AM
what is the probability this becomes a huge political thread...maybe it would be a good idea to clear out the extra responses after omicron's 'check your laws' post

then close up shopOdds=slim to none, because I'm keeping a close eye on this one. This is a DIY forum and thread. If people want to debate guns, they can take it to the lounge.

jenkins-crew
12-03-2004, 08:04 AM
Amen!

azben
12-03-2004, 05:07 PM
Omi, where did you get your information on "2 motions" and its legal etc. For Arizona, I am certain you may put a gun anywhere (including concealed) in your car as long as it is holstered, with or without a CCW. I believe Colorado is more liberal and allows a gun to be carried anywhere (even concealed) in a private vehicle (even without a holster as mentioned in AZ). However, your point is well taken that other states have varying laws.

Omicron
12-03-2004, 07:50 PM
Omi, where did you get your information on "2 motions" and its legal etc. For Arizona, I am certain you may put a gun anywhere (including concealed) in your car as long as it is holstered, with or without a CCW. I believe Colorado is more liberal and allows a gun to be carried anywhere (even concealed) in a private vehicle (even without a holster as mentioned in AZ). However, your point is well taken that other states have varying laws.
Because I used to be a cop in both states. While this 2 motion thing is not the direct law in either state, it is the standard that district attorneys in the counties that I worked have set for the law enforcement community for an arrest or citation. Anything more than 2 motions to access the weapon they will not prosecute. It was also pretty much observed state-wide in both cases.

It's also worth noting that weapons violations like this are not usually prosecuted unless there is some other charge, like DUI, etc.

jenkins-crew
12-04-2004, 12:55 AM
I didn't know you were a cop...My wife has been a cop.

cjrx8
12-04-2004, 09:21 AM
"The TSRA strongly encourages citizens to obtain a Texas Concealed Handgun License. The license allows for the concealed carry of a handgun on one's person and in one's vehicle. The Texas Department of Public Safety currently has reciprocity agreements with Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kentucky, Florida, Louisiana, Arizona, and Tennessee (OAK FLAT) and now Wyoming. Other states may also recognize the Texas license, including Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Utah, Vermont and Wyoming."

- http://www.tsra.com/traveling.htm

azben
12-04-2004, 04:33 PM
interesting points omi, guess i'm on the otherside of the law, I'm an attorney, the two motion rule wouldn't hold up in court, but i'm not surprised a district attorney would over run the law, sad state of affairs

Omicron
12-04-2004, 06:40 PM
interesting points omi, guess i'm on the otherside of the law, I'm an attorney, the two motion rule wouldn't hold up in court, but i'm not surprised a district attorney would over run the law, sad state of affairsNope, it wouldn't, but DAs only want to take cases they think they can win. :mad:

AQA101
02-17-2005, 01:09 PM
After watching Kill Bill once too often (see also -> avatar) I discussed mounting a samurai sword on the dash with my more technically skilled friends. Unfortunately we didn't come to a genuine concept, so the project is at rest.

I'd gladly appreciate any weapon mounting expert input.

PUR NRG
02-17-2005, 01:36 PM
I can appreciate the stealth aspect--at least from a cursory examination outside the car. What about viewing through the passenger side? Seems like daylight or a surefire would make it visible.

From a tactical standpoint, is it really a good access point? Reaching under the wheel like that is pretty noticable to someone standing next to the door. It seems like mounting it on the door panel would provide a stealthier way to draw. 'Course you have to practice southpaw but you should be doing that already.

PS. That single screw looks like it allows the holster to pivot. I'd recommend using a couple pop rivets on either side to prevent that.
________
Ship sale (http://ship-sale.com/)

Battousai
02-17-2005, 03:21 PM
Sweet DYI, I'll keep it in mind for when I actually move to a country where defending yourself isn't a crime :D

Unfortunately we have nothing close to CHL or CCW in Canada, well at least not as easy to obtain.

IIRC you can get a permit to carry if you transport large sums of cash or jewlery etc.

Photic
02-17-2005, 10:01 PM
After watching Kill Bill once too often (see also -> avatar) I discussed mounting a samurai sword on the dash with my more technically skilled friends. Unfortunately we didn't come to a genuine concept, so the project is at rest.

I'd gladly appreciate any weapon mounting expert input.

Right after reading your comment, I had a vision of using the large center console that runs down the middle of the car (silver plastic portion), If it's not too small of an area for the sword. I'm sure it would be expensive, to add some sort of push release cabinet type thing for a sword. Kinda like robocops leg heh heh.

AQA101
02-18-2005, 02:25 AM
Interesting. ;)

MyRxBad
02-18-2005, 11:13 AM
Just curious as to what's going to happen in case of an accident?
It's bad enough when your knees hit the panels and bruise up, but I wouldn't want to be shooting myself in the process. Just something to think about when positioning the holster for this type of "shoot..." I mean do it yourself thead :)

jenkins-crew
02-19-2005, 01:05 AM
I think 20% tint would take care of outside viewing.....

PUR NRG
02-21-2005, 11:28 PM
Just curious as to what's going to happen in case of an accident? It's bad enough when your knees hit the panels and bruise up, but I wouldn't want to be shooting myself in the process.I'm curious how you think an impact on a holstered pistol is going to make it discharge when the hammer's cocked and safety is on.
________
The Cigar Boss (http://thecigarboss.com/)

jenkins-crew
02-21-2005, 11:40 PM
uhhh, that's pretty impossible holstered, cocked or not......

Gyro
02-22-2005, 12:32 AM
I'm curious how you think an impact on a holstered pistol is going to make it discharge when the hammer's cocked and safety is on.

Good point.
And to add to that.....

A pistol's manual safety (if so equppied) is designed to prohibit a round discharge from a trigger pull. A double action trigger pull is typically 8-12 lbs from a trigger that has very little mass. A gun in a car during a collision would not cause a trigger pull.

The gun manufacturers did however think of the scenario of outside trauma to the pistol causing a round discharge on a chambered and cocked weapon;



Most modern pistols have a "firing pin block". This is a safety feature that prevents a negligent discharge from a firearm during impact or mishandling (like dropping it down a flight of stairs). It is impossible for the gun to fired unless the trigger is pulled. Even a cocked hammer will fall short before striking the firing pin if hit with a sledgehammer.

jenkins-crew
02-22-2005, 12:37 AM
and there it is, sorry I was lazy....

Chevy
02-22-2005, 02:41 AM
Good to see. Looks like a small hand gun, maybe a Kel-Tec, or simular 2.5" barrel handgun?

I don't know about the other states, but in Wyoming, that is perfectly legal as you have you CCW. In Wyoming its legal have a fully loaded firearm, but if you don't have a CCW, then it is suggested to keep it in the open, and open carry is also perfectly legal, because of this it is legal to walk in stores with a firearm, but there are some placees you can't take them, like schools, courtrooms, churches, or bars CCW or not. Just some information for anyone traviling through Wyoming.

I agree, the person that did this is pretty safe, and since he has his CCW its assumed he knows proper safe handling of his firearm.

jenkins-crew
02-22-2005, 07:50 AM
It's a Sig

Omicron
03-01-2005, 02:32 AM
Jag and others, if you want to discuss gun control, take it to the Lounge please. This is a DIY thread and the topic needs to stay to that subject. Thanks.

redcivic
12-12-2006, 05:14 PM
Great mod!!!

jenkins-crew
12-12-2006, 05:30 PM
THANKS! Still works great!

1stgen8
12-12-2006, 06:44 PM
Now when someone car jack him they will get his car and a loaded gun.....cool. Just joking.....is it that bad where you live? If someone steals my ride it will just give me a reason to buy that supra I've always wanted. I'd tell my wife that a supra with a very large turbo is the only thing that will calm my nerves.

jenkins-crew
12-12-2006, 09:03 PM
No not that bad at all. Just a place for comfort while in the car. The ride is more enjoyable without a gun in your back :)

jd pilot
12-12-2006, 11:07 PM
Ain't that the truth. jenkins-crew, did you do the mod? Does the one screw allow it to rotate?

Very cool mod though. Old threads are great :D

jenkins-crew
12-13-2006, 09:25 AM
Yes I did. It is able to rotate and stay in whatever position you want, it is snug.

tony_673
12-31-2006, 05:36 PM
Where's the DIY thread for the "Self Destruct/Detonation" button? I don't want someone stealing my ride and chopping it up for parts, so I'll blow it up into tiny bits myself! :rl: