I have some basic questions that need clarification. I've been told conflicting answers so I'm seeking the expertise here to help. I'm sure these questions have been asked before but I'm posting anyway to get help.
1. When open carrying, I've been told that you cannot have a round chambered. Is this true or can you have it loaded?
2. When in your own vehicle, do you have to have it unholstered or is it considered concealed if you don't?
I apologize if these are redundant and have been asked many times before, but I just want to be sure I'm following the law.
Thank you for your advise.
Welcome to OCDO (Open Carry (Dot) Org). Grapeshot has given you some good links.
What interests me is who told you that (in general, not asking for a name)?
You may open carry in Virginia with some restrictions (Federal buildings, Post offices, State Wildlife areas (as posted), Federal Parks and Wildlife areas (as posted) and so forth). It's weird in churches as there is a caveat. At those locations is it not required you have a permit to conceal carry (there is no law addressing this making it not illegal). Some LEO will tell you that you can't OC in a bank but their cite is erroneous as a bank, though protected by FDIC, is not a federal site.
Signage has force of law and you may be trespassed but not arrested, in general.
There are no 'rules' about carrying in a car, carrying chambered or not it's up to your experience and ability. You do not need a permit to carry in your car, but you must not have it concealed on the seat, though it may be put in a secured container, including the glove compartment.
The rule on being stopped in traffic is, if asked, you must state you have a permit to conceal carry (CHP) but if you are not carrying, you do no not have to answer this question. At no time does the law require you talk about your firearm, answer questions about if you have one, where it is or anything like that. The law talks about your permit only. Obviously if you do not have a permit you are not required to talk about it either as long as your firearm is not concealed about your person.
The LEO may ask you or even demand you talk about, produce, give up your firearm but it's a request, generally speaking. If they do and if you are inclined it's not a good idea to touch your firearm or take it out, because touching it or reaching to touch it may get you perforated by the LEO's partner who may be watching you at an off angle.
IOW, it's pretty lenient but it's complicated in Virginia which is a 'shall-issue' state and a large percentage of the population do carry permitted or otherwise.
Take 'er easy and enjoy the site.