Yes, a .45 caliber handgun can physically fit through a car door opening. A standard car door opening is typically 36 to 40 inches tall and 30 to 36 inches wide, while a typical .45 pistol like a 1911 is only about 8.5 inches long. The physical dimensions are not the primary concern; the critical issues are the severe legal and safety consequences of handling a firearm in this manner.
Transporting a firearm in a vehicle is highly regulated. Federal law and most state laws, governed by the ATF, require that any firearm being transported in a vehicle be unloaded and stored in a locked container, such as the trunk or a dedicated lockbox. The glove compartment or a center console often does not qualify as a "locked container" unless it can be securely locked. Simply handing a gun through a car door window or placing it on a seat is illegal and dangerous. This act could be interpreted as brandishing or even an attempted transfer under dangerous circumstances, leading to felony charges.
For safety, the only correct method is to have the firearm unloaded, actions open, and secured in a locked case before you even enter the vehicle. The case should then be placed in the trunk or as far from the occupants as possible. This prevents accidental discharge and ensures you are compliant with local laws, which can vary significantly by state and municipality.
| Key Consideration | Data / Specification |
|---|
| Typical Car Door Opening Height | 36 - 40 inches |
| Typical Car Door Opening Width | 30 - 36 inches |
| Length of Common .45 Pistol (e.g., 1911) | ~8.5 inches |
| Legal Requirement (Federal Guideline) | Unloaded & in a locked container |
| Common Locked Container | Trunk or dedicated vehicle lockbox |
