Warp: No official source, other than a few posters' claims that this is the law back home in TN, or across the line in MS. Or at least that was my impression.
If it Is allowed in the overall Memphis area or Shelby County TN (Desoto County in n.w. MS), then how do we know that it would appear legal to an LEO during a traffic stop, if anybody were to spot a loaded SKS rifle in the trunk?
There may be something to that...not sure (except that it appears it certainly won't matter any more as of July 1) if it applies to those with a carry license recognized by TN though.
http://www.handgunlaw.us/states/tennessee.pdf
Notice: Until 7/1/2014 It is illegal to carry a loaded handgun in a vehicle without a valid permit/licenses to carry. Beginning 7/1/2014 if you can legally possess a firearm then Section (e) below becomes law on that date and if you can legally own a firearm and in a privately owned vehicle you can carry without a permit/license.
39-17-1307. Unlawful Carrying or Possession of a Weapon. —
(a) (1) A person commits an offense who carries with the intent to go armed a firearm, a knife with a blade length exceeding four inches (4), or a club.
(2) (A) The first violation of subdivision (a)(1) is a Class C misdemeanor, and, in addition to possible imprisonment as provided by law, may be punished by a fine not to exceed five hundred dollars ($500).
(B) A second or subsequent violation of subdivision (a)(1) is a Class B misdemeanor.
(e) It is an exception to the application of subsection (a) that a person is carrying or possessing a firearm in a motor vehicle if:
(1) The person is not otherwise prohibited from carrying or possessing a firearm; and
(2) The motor vehicle is privately-owned.
39-17-1308. Defenses to Unlawful Possession or Carrying of a Weapon. —
(a) It is a defense to the application of § 39-17-1307 if the possession or carrying was:
(1) Of an unloaded rifle, shotgun or handgun not concealed on or about the person and the ammunition for the weapon was not in the immediate vicinity of the person or weapon;