Want the quickest access safe to protect yourself and your family?
Learn the top criteria I used in selecting my personal bedside gun safe so you can apply it to your home situation. Then followed by recommendations for all budgets.
Then see the safes in action with my actual home defense pistol.
And now we have a full YouTube video on our favorite safes that we cover in the article:
If that helped, please subscribe to our YouTube channel since we’re adding new videos every week!
Safe Selection Criteria
Selecting a gun safe might be actually harder than what you went through selecting your handgun.
There’s so much stuff out there across so many price ranges. I’ll try to make it easier by going through my top criteria when selecting my actual bedside gun safe.
- Quick Access: My home defense pistol will be going in this safe and in a defensive situation, I want to be able to access it in around 1-2 seconds.
- Reliable: I’ll likely be groggy and fumbling around in the dark. Is the safe 100% reliable and easy to use in that state?
- Adequate Protection: Expensive and less used guns go into my larger and more secure safe. This bedside version is just to deter smash & grab burglars or to stop a nosy guest. I’m not looking for extreme child or fire protection here.
- Space: Enough of it to hold a full sized handgun like my Glock 17.
- Mountable: I make sure that the safe is small enough to be mounted high the closet or nightstand drawer so it’s harder to access for small children and won’t just walk away with someone.
Best Bedside Quick Access Pistol Safes
1. Fort Knox FTK-PB
Through all my research and asking around, I ended up with the Fort Knox FTK-PB Simplex Handgun Safe after a less than optimal buy or two.
It met and exceeded all the criteria I had set out for myself. I do not regret my decision and I tell all my new gun owner friends to get their own.
And each and every one loves it after install.
Quick Access
“Simplex” means that instead of electronic keys, a rotary dial, or biometrics, it uses mechanical buttons that provide good feedback and allow me to open the safe in around 1.5 seconds.
*2018 Update*: 2 years worth of usage and going strong for my simplex safe.
All I do is put in my 2-stage code and turn the knob clockwise. An example of a 2-stage code would be pressing the 1st and 3rd button simultaneously, followed by pressing the 5th button.
I also like that I can previously input the code and turn the knob clockwise but not actually open the top. This means you can have super fast access to it at night if you open it before you go to bed.
Reliable
I wanted something that, like my self-defense gun, would “always go bang.” The Simplex lock is American made (as is the entire safe) and does not need batteries, like so many of the popular safes out there, need for electronic keys or biometrics. Also, no beeps and reading errors that could get you killed. There’s a lifetime warranty too.
2 years in of nearly weekly use…it’s still going strong with no messups. Plus the foam is still good even after some oil dripped out from my gun.
Adequate Protection
The safe is really heavy (~20 lbs) since it has 3/16″ steel doors and 10 gauge steel bodies. I feel confident if it ever fell off a truck, or got attacked by a crowbar, it would put up a good fight. I also like that the corners and sides are folded in to make prying much harder.
Space
Plenty of space for my full-size Glock 17 and extra mag.
There’s also two layers of foam underneath my gun and I feel confident that you could put at least one more full sized pistol in there if you wanted.
Mountable
4 pre-drilled holes on the bottom for easy mounting.
Cons
It’s not perfect, but it’s pretty close. The first few things I don’t like are nit-picky but the last one can be a deal breaker for you.
First is that it’s susceptible to water damage. My wife left a cold cup of something in the top left which formed condensation and left a pattern. I’m just glad it’s kind of cool looking.
The foam around the hinge gets in the way of closing but is easily addressed by just cutting it off. Here’s the finished product.
And the potential deal breaker is that it only has 1081 combinations that any smart child could try in a relatively short amount of time. However, if you don’t have kids yet, or plan on concealing the safe, it shouldn’t be that big of a deal.
What’s your take on the Fort Knox?
2. GunVault SpeedVault & 1000S
What I recommend to people who want pretty good quality but at a lower price point. The GunVault SpeedVault and the GunVault 1000S are top sellers with great reviews for electronic locking safes.
Because of the angle of the SpeedVault, it is the front-runner for mounting under a desk in a home office for example.
Quick Access: Quick access in the 2-second range. Video later shows slight speed reduction in taking out a handgun for the side opening models such as the 1000S.
Reliable: Not as reliable in my opinion as mechanical Simplex locks, but tons of people swear by them. I’d be comfortable using them if I were to unlock them before going to sleep. Can turn off the key entry sounds for “stealth” mode.
Adequate Protection: Tight fittings and thick steel meet my requirements for protection against burglars and nosy guests. 12 million combinations so the possibility of someone brute force trying all of them are much less likely. However, it still has a key override so keep it hidden.
Space: If it can fit a full-size 1911 style handgun, it will fit my Glock 17. Other GunVault models are available for smaller or bigger storage needs.
Mountable: Easy to mount and the SpeedVault defines what it means to be a bedside or desk side safe with its ingenious opening mechanism.
3. Stack-On PDS-500
What I first chose as my gun safe due to its immense popularity on Amazon and its great reviews. The Stack-On PDS-500 is a great budget safe but just be aware of its shortcomings.
Quick Access: Pretty quick access in the 2-3 second mark depending on your code. However, I found the top opening door is smaller than the base, you can have occasional hangups of your gun.
Reliable: Not super reliable in my opinion. I tested myself with late-night wake-up drills to try and open the safe and I found myself forgetting to hit the “*” key after my code. The knob also sometimes does not work if you immediately turn clockwise…I found I had to turn counter-clockwise until it reset and then turn it clockwise for 100% reliability. I’d only be comfortable unlocking it before I slept.
Adequate Protection: Decently heavy (~10 lbs) and seems pry-resistant. Includes backup key access when you pry off the “Stack-On” nameplate on top to keep it hidden. Older models seem to be easily picked with just a paper clip. You can protect against this by getting a new lock or just super-gluing the plate.
Space: Fits my full-size Glock easily with extra space for a mag or two.
Mountable: Has bottom mounts.
4. Vaultek V20i & V10i
Want a reliable fingerprint and Bluetooth accessible safe that looks sweet? Check out the Vaultek VT20i and VT10i.
We conducted a full review, but here’s the gist:
Quick Access: 4 easy ways to access your firearm: key, number code, fingerprint, or Bluetooth app.
Reliable: Fingerprint scanner was a little iffy when our fingers were wet. But the other options were 100%. If using this for your bedside gun safe…I’d stick with the number code.
Adequate Protection: Very robust feeling that resists drops and hits. Plus pry-resistant.
Space: The smaller VT10i will hold most handguns with a mag or two to spare while the larger VT20i will accommodate 4″ revolvers and full-sized handguns with 3+ mags.
Mountable: Comes with two pre-drilled holes and screws. Plus cable attachment.
We’ve also reviewed their newest and biggest version…the MXi Handgun Safe.
Conclusion
Hopefully, I helped you out a little in choosing the right bedside gun safe for your purpose. Here’s a video that compares the Fort Knox FTK-PB against the GunVault 1000S. It was the final research that steered me towards the Fort Knox.
Need help selecting the gun to put in your quick access safe? We can help in our Best Handgun for Home Defense. If you need home-defense ammo recommendations, we got you covered in 9mm and .45 ACP.
What did you end up choosing? Let us know in the comments! Or looking for larger safes…check out our Best Safes for Handguns & Long Guns. Or how about our fav Gun Lock?
35 Leave a Reply
Check out Zore.life rapidial. It’s not a safe , but a legal way to store your firearm(even in CA). It has a locking mechanism that fits in the barrel. To unlock, you can turn the dial either way to start. Oh yeah, the loaded magazine can stay in the Pistol, You can use it blindfolded and can feel the clicks. Once unlocked, rack the slide, the lock falls off, and a round is chambered. By far the fastest access to your firearm.
For sure, we included it in our Best Gun Locks article.
I have owned the Fort Knox safe for years. I agree with Eric--In my opinion, it is the best safe of its type/class out there. I also have the Stack-on, which is far less satisfying. You get what you pay for.
Woohoo!
Really? I have two of the safes mentioned and a Hornady Rapidsafe. The Hornady blows away the other two.. You can set it up with a wristband, keychain or even a decal(for your wallet) and open it in 2 seconds. Who’s gonna fumble with combination locks in the dark?
I suggest you read and then comment on the various Amazon negative reviews that claim the Gun Vault Speed Vault locks are defective and allow unauthorized entry .
I have owned a variation of the first one since 1986 and it still is my #1 bed side safe. I also own 2 of the Stack-on safe in specific areas around the house. I have the tumbler style for my vehicle s if I have to go in a court house or post office I store my carry piece in my car. They are all good. I don't yet feel the biometric safes are fool proof as discussed. I would probably try a biometric for my defensive long gun which is usually a back up once the long gun safe prices go down.
Thanks for this article. Was looking at the top two, and checking out reviews. Now, I know you're going to get negative reviews of everything - personal choices vary, but if you see a fair number of negative reviews with the same complaints, it lends weight. I'm leaning heavily towards the Fort Knox. I like the fact it doesn't require batteries, but there are several 1-star reviews saying the lock mechanism is cheap or faulty, and the customer service if/when lock fails is horrible. Gives me pause. For the number two product, there's a GunVault customer video on Amazon that shows it's pretty easily broken into: https://amzn.to/2OmWRJn Doesn't mean these safes are wrong for you, but do please do your own research before buying. Eric's reviews give you a terrific list to start from. He's narrowed things down and saves a lot of work, especially when there are so many overwhelming choices out there.
I'm appalled that you included the Stack-on safe in your list of 'best' bedside safes, when stack-on is considered one of the worst made, and even you have it a lackluster review. GunVault, Hornady, GunBox, SentrySafe all make better products than Stack-On by large margins.
So I wondering what your thoughts on the Hornady series of quick access safes, such as the Hornady RAPiD Safe 2600KP L Pistol Safe Electronic RFID Safe for instance?
Seeing as you prefer mechanical vs electric or key (as do I) I'd love to get your review of the stopbox. I like the access time, but a little concerned with child access. They've added some not so obvious safety features to keep unwanted people out.
Hey Eugene, I quickly checked it out and there's only 6 possibilities so it's probably not the best for keeping a child out.
Great article. I'd like to mention a quality safe that I thought for sure would make your list. The Hornady Rapid Safe4800kp. It uses electric and has several methods of entry. You can use a code using numbers1-4 in a 6 digit number. Or, you can use RFID on ur keychain, on a sticker you stick to the bottom of something close by, or a barrel key. It also has a battery backup. We have lost power 5 times since I bought this safe a year and a half ago and I always try the safe and it works Everytime. You can text it by simply unplugging it. Also has a cable that you can use so the safe can't be taken. I really love it and they have a rebate right now. https://www.midwayusa.com/product/756827/hornady-rapid-safe-4800kp-lock-box-safe-with-rfid-lock-steel
FAS1 - Piston assist door open (with holstered gun attached and ready to go), simplex lock and a ton of sizes as well as holster options. What you reviewed was off the shelf big box store only.
I have two that has the combination system...have both for more than twenty years, I mounted one under my truck seat anywhere I went, it placed in that safe, and it was really handy that location.
I realize this article has been around a while, but I am just starting to look for a safe. I really appreciate the information here Eric, and I have read and enjoyed a few of your other articles. Thanks! I did want to warn people that the GunVault SV500 - SpeedVault Handgun Safe can be opened with a gum wrapper! Please see the video by Handgun Safe Research (it should be the first one in the Reviews on Amazon). It is pretty amazing. While doing research on other gun safes his videos have steered me away from a number of otherwise impressive looking products. [Edit] By the way, I did settle on this one Hornady 98172 RAPiD Safe 2700KP, its quick open NFC was a good selling point and it fits in my Harley's trunk :) Kind Regards, Jon
The Hornady 2700 with card reader. Key or code is supper fast also has cable lock and stew down holes inside if you want to use them. Comes with key fob. Phone stickers, and a card that you program. Also key lock is a barrel type! The key code can be up to Six numbers if need be. Around $ 130 dollars on sale at optic plantic
I have this model as well and very happy with it!! <1 second opening with RFID!
I personally chose the bedside bolt-on Gun Vault (two, large handguns) with finger placement coded buttons. The key is in the big safe and I don't have to worry about unauthorized access with an RFID key fob or bracelet. The Gun Vault also alerts the owner to tampering with a flashing light and locks down for a specified period of time. Another advantage because it completely encloses the handgun, an intruded will not know if it contains a weapon or not. Mine is literally bolted to the side of my bed. Easy access and secure containment...it can't be beat
Thanks for a very informative article. How about one on bedside/under bed safes for an AR-15? Consideration would be enough space to put in a handgun eliminating a separate safe for the pistol
I like your initial selection of the Fort Knox Handgun safe. As a firearms instructor for GreenOps, we get questions all the time about quick access gun safes. I've had several over the years and within less than a year, they have all become unreliable. Most folks drop their handgun in a safe and don't have reason to access. Because I use mine daily, I tend to find the flaws in them. Thank you for suggesting "Simplex" to your readers!
Thanks Michael!
Nicely written, easy to follow article; informative and to the point. Thank you for your research and for sharing.
Useful information on various models, thanks. I like the concept of a mechanical button lock ... but $230 for a one-pistol safe is not cost-effective for me. I did buy a GunVault 1000 on sale. My concern is grandkids, not thugs with crowbars. If my home were broken-into and they found the safe, it means we weren't at home and the gun wouldn't do me any good.
Great to hear various solutions, thanks Mark!
Just started shooting. Plan to get a pistol to use at the range. Many choices for home safes, but what about the car? Even if I have a CCW I think I want to be able to secure the pistol in my car so even if someone got in they could not take the pistol. Been looking for under the seat type safe, but have come up empty so far. The trunk is not an option, hatchback, with no steel to mount to. Any thoughts? Thanks, Tim.
Hi Tim, we'll have a car safe article soon. I use a smaller simplex safe with a thick cable that attaches to my chair rail. My G26 fits nicely with 2 mags. A 19 will probably fit as well.
Should I leave my gun cocked and loaded in the safe, just loaded and uncooked or none at all?
That's really up to you. I leave mine uncocked.
Unsecured guns take a terrible toll each year on innocent children and adults. Thank you for offering a path to greater firearm safety for your readers. I don't know how many guns are stolen and delivered to the criminal markets each year, but a good weapons storage system can help to keep criminals from getting their hands on our firearms. Thanks for your article.
You're welcome!!
As a relative new shooter I found the Handgun Caliber Guide to be interesting and informative. This is a meaningful subject for all of us. With Appreciation, Jay M. Newberger
Thanks Jay, glad it helped.
Thank you for your very informative articles. I can't tell you how much time you saved me.
You're welcome and glad I could help!