a stand secures a loaded firearm in an inoperable condition for quick release to an authorized user in the event of an emergency . a housing serves as a base for the stand . a mechanism fixed to the housing prevents the firearm from firing . for example , a rod fixed to the housing is inserted through the muzzle and into the bore until it extends into an empty chamber of a revolver or into the receiver of an automatic pistol . another mechanism mounted on the housing is operable between a first position in which it permits engagement of the firearm on and disengagement of the firearm from the rod and a second position in which it prevents disengagement of the firearm from the rod . the operating mechanism may be actuated manually by a key or electronically by a key pad , a fingerprint recognition pad or the like .