[GunLawyer001]

Here's the deal: Without a PA LTCF (or a recognized out-of-state permit), carrying a firearm (loaded or unloaded) in a vehicle is a criminal offense.

There are limited exceptions, for direct travel from the place you bought it, for travel directly to and from a target range, while moving residences, etc. If you don't fall squarely within one of the listed exceptions, you commit a crime. There is NO general rule allowing you to travel with it in a vehicle if it's unloaded and separate from the ammo, unless you are within an exception.

Here's the argument you'd have to use in the scenario described: The non-LTCF guy can lend his firearm to someone with a current PA LTCF. The LTCF-holder can transport it in a vehicle. He can return it when they get to where they're going.

In practice, it's not an argument that will persuade your average cop that it's all kosher, but it should prevent a conviction, as long as the firearm is under the custody & control of the LTCF-holder while driving (it can't be on the hip of the non-LTCF guy, for example.) As for the wisdom of open carry in a shopping mall, under the current political climate I'd avoid it, but then again somebody has to push the envelope.