Cruiser Ready: How to Store A Home Defense Shotgun in 2025

Published on October 7, 2025
Duration: 8:03

This guide details the 'Cruiser Ready' method for storing a home defense shotgun, emphasizing safety and immediate usability. It involves keeping the magazine tube loaded (one round less than full), the chamber empty, and the action open, with the safety off. This configuration prevents accidental discharge if dropped while ensuring rapid deployment by pumping a round into the chamber when needed.

Quick Summary

The 'Cruiser Ready' method for storing a home defense shotgun involves keeping the magazine tube loaded (one round less than full), the chamber empty, and the action open with the safety off. This configuration prioritizes safety by preventing accidental discharge if dropped, while allowing for rapid deployment by pumping a round into the chamber when needed.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Cruiser Ready
  2. 00:31What is Cruiser Ready?
  3. 00:51Safety Benefits of Cruiser Ready
  4. 01:24Loading One Less Round
  5. 02:07How to Set Up Cruiser Ready
  6. 02:24Debunking the Pump Scare Tactic
  7. 02:40Chambered Round vs. Empty Chamber
  8. 03:15Alternatives for Sneaky Defense
  9. 03:28Considering Home Environment
  10. 03:50Long-Term Shotgun Maintenance
  11. 04:12Humidity and Gun Care
  12. 04:23Cruiser Ready for Semi-Autos
  13. 04:31Ghost Loading Explained
  14. 04:42Importance of Practice
  15. 05:04Training Like You Act
  16. 05:07Child Safety and Quick Access
  17. 05:20Shotgun vs. Handgun for Defense
  18. 05:30Real Break-ins vs. Movies
  19. 05:51Time vs. Safety in Emergencies
  20. 06:04Benefits Recap: Empty Chamber, Full Mag, Open Slide
  21. 06:20Practicing Cruiser Ready
  22. 06:45Responsibility in Firearm Ownership
  23. 07:09Historical Law Enforcement Use
  24. 07:23Reloading Strategy with Side Saddle
  25. 07:53Loading Technique Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 'Cruiser Ready' method for storing a shotgun?

The 'Cruiser Ready' method involves storing a shotgun with its magazine tube loaded (typically one round less than full), the chamber empty, and the action open. The safety is usually disengaged for faster deployment. This technique prioritizes safety by preventing accidental discharge if the firearm is dropped.

Why is keeping the chamber empty important for home defense shotguns?

Keeping the chamber empty in a 'Cruiser Ready' shotgun prevents accidental firing if the gun is dropped or mishandled. Unlike safeties that only block the trigger, an empty chamber ensures no round is present to be discharged by impact, significantly enhancing safety.

Should I load my home defense shotgun to full capacity in 'Cruiser Ready' mode?

It's recommended to load one round less than full capacity in the magazine tube for 'Cruiser Ready' storage. This reduces prolonged pressure on the magazine spring, helping to maintain its effectiveness and ensuring reliable feeding over time.

How do I prepare a shotgun for 'Cruiser Ready' storage?

First, ensure the shotgun is completely unloaded. Then, close the action, turn the safety off, point in a safe direction, and pull the trigger. Finally, load the magazine tube with one less round than its maximum capacity.

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