Need to keep your guns out of the hands of unauthorized family members and burglars?
Then you need a gun safe.
There are A LOT of them out there…from $30 to over $10,000.
We’ll cover the different types (handgun safes to bigger long gun safes) and give you a few options for going affordable, best bang-for-the-buck, or high-end.
Old-school mechanical and even newer biometric and WiFi versions.
Summary of Our Top Picks
BEST OVERALL HANDGUN SAFEUses mechanical Simplex lock, making it super fast and easy to use in the dark and reliable. No need to charge or batteries.
BEST UNDER-THE-DESK PISTOL SAFEDoesn't need RFID keys or biometrics, just a simple code. However, this does not fit a revolver or extra mags.
BEST FOR CARFits a full-size Glock 17 and 2 mags and has holes for securing a cable.
BEST TRAVEL HANDGUN SAFEDiscreet, quick access, and can be tethered to something. Has option for their slingbag making it easy to travel with.
BEST BUDGET BIOMETRIC SAFESturdily built and great fingerprint accuracy. Can't beat it for the price.
Table of Contents
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How Much Should I Spend?
The best answer I’ve gotten for this question is, “If you lost everything in the safe…how much would you spend to recover it all?“
Guns are expensive.
But if you only have a few that are mass-produced…you can choose a smaller number that makes sense for some piece of mind.
But if you have heirloom items that cannot be replaced…I’d up the price even more.
Think of your safe as insurance for the stuff inside (plus, it should lower your insurance rates too).
Electronic or Mechanical Lock?
I’m a little old school. So for important safes, I go strictly mechanical. Important as is, I hear a bump in the night, and I need access NOW.
No batteries to replace and less potential for hacking.
But I still think there’s room for electronic locks (even Bluetooth & biometric ones) when ease-of-use is the primary concern.
You can set up multiple combinations, have a running log of access, and use your fingerprints.
Important Numbers & Ratings
You’ll see “gauge” come up soon, and it’s a measure of how thick is the steel used in a safe. Like a shotgun gauge…a smaller numerical number is actually thicker.
More affordable safes are in the 14- to 12-gauge range for steel walls.
There’s also going to be talk of “RSC” (Residential Security Container), coined by Underwriters Laboratory (UL), which develops standards for consumer products.
There are different categories within but basically…RSC means the unit was tested to protect against hammers, chisels, wrenches, pry bars, punches, and screwdrivers for at least 5 minutes.
Still with me?
Types of Gun Safes
We’re going through a lot of safes below and are breaking them down by type.
Handgun/Pistol Safes
These are smaller and likely portable gun safes for you to keep on your nightstand, hidden away, or bring along with you for travel.
Most will have some way to either bolt or tie down with a steel cable.
I’ll also cover some high-tech and biometric options as well.
Long Gun Safes
We’ve got the smaller safes for handguns…now it’s time for larger safes for long guns like your AR-15s and bolt action rifles.
These will range from “cabinets” to more full-blown safes.
Hidden Safes
These are gun safes hiding in plain sight…
Car Safes
Lastly are some safes optimized for the car, although many handgun safes can make do in a jam. Because the last thing you want is to have to put your gun in your glove compartment.
Best Gun Safes
Let’s start with some handgun or pistol gun safes…
1. Fort Knox FTK-PB
Pros
- Durable and sturdy
- Fast and easy to use
Cons
- Heavy
- Pricey
My personal “bump in the night” safe, and what I recommend to all my friends, is the Fort Knox FTK-PB.
Not the cheapest at ~$300, but it’s heavy (20 lbs, 10 gauge thickness), boltable, and uses the mechanical Simplex lock, which is super fast and easy to use in the dark.
Check how fast I can unlock it in this video clip:
Setting the combo is super easy if you follow the instructions.
Plus, it holds 2-3 pistols plus some mags, depending on how you want to stack them.
One negative is that there are only 1081 combinations, so if you have a teen that knows how to Google and has patience…you need to work on concealing it or teaching them to respect your firearms.
I got a second one that has upgraded features, such as a thick metal plate behind the Simplex lock to prevent smash attacks.
Here’s the original.
And the upgraded one.
Another upgrade that basically removes all my complaints besides the inherent low number of combinations is that they cut the foam better to fit the hydraulic lift…which is also stronger!
See the full review and more choices in our Best Bedside Quick Access Safe.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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And boom…we have a full video review of the Fort Knox plus some other handgun safes.
If that helped, please subscribe to our YouTube channel since we’re adding new videos every week!
2. GunVault SpeedVault
Pros
- Great for the office
- Easy to hide under a desk
Cons
- Doesn't work with revolvers
- No spare mag space
If you’re at a desk most of the time…this nifty safe from GunVault doesn’t need RFID keys or biometrics.
After inputting your code…your handgun drops down easy to grip. Check out how forceful it opens up:
One downside is that it won’t hold a revolver or extra magazines for your semi.
Perfect if you’re at your desk a lot and you don’t want an exposed small handgun safe.
I’m using one right now…somewhere…
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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3. GunVault NV300 NanoVault
Pros
- Perfect for travel
- Fits full size Glock 17
- Lightweight
Cons
- Dial lock is slower
Another GunVault…I use the NV300 for travel, so it’s legal in the car…and an extra layer of security where I’m staying.
Tightly fits a full-size Glock 17 and two mags and has holes for securing a cable. Since it’s a dial lock you’re going to be slower than other options.
However, for me, it’s a light and easy option to bring my handgun around, and if I think I might need it once I reach my destination…I end up unlocking it beforehand.
Plus, it’s easy to stash in the car and tie with a steel cable.
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4. Vaultek LifePod & LifePod 2.0
Pros
- Great for traveling
- Discreet design but protects guns
- Fits compact gun with light and spare mag
Cons
- Not suitable for bigger handguns
- Pricey
The Vaultek LifePod is now my go-to travel case when I’m driving and also staying over somewhere.
Discreet, enough protection, quick access, and still able to be tethered to something sturdy.
Check it out in action:
Buttons work well even when wet since they are capacitive. I like having the latches undone but still locked when I go down for the night.
There’s also the option for their sling bag which is pretty nifty.
Capacity is just right for me…compact gun with light and a mag.
Great for trips where you only need one gun.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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And now a larger version with the LifePod 2.0 that can hold a LOT MORE stuff and also comes with trays if you aren’t transporting a handgun.
And if you are…the larger size lets you carry two guns. Here is a full-size and micro.
Or even some other goodies…
And even some special editions with different colors, additional foam, and lid organization.
I use mine for holding my holstered CCW gun at the end of the day. Its main purpose is to keep it away from little ones and wandering eyes.
I end up placing my holstered gun face down so the Kydex is in the foam and doesn’t get in the way of the lid closing.
Did I mention the camo looks awesome?
Check ’em out for a larger travel solution or for keeping two guns (or a holstered CCW) safe at home.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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5. SentrySafe QAP1Be
Pros
- 3 ways to open: button, fingerprint, backup key
- Thick 12 gauge steel
- Can hold two smaller guns or one full-size and two mags
Cons
- A little heavier
- Pricey
- Has some noise to it when opening
The QAP1BE has 3 different ways to open up this highly-rated safe…buttons, fingerprint scanner, or backup key. Also pretty thick steel at 12 gauge.
Can hold up to two guns, but I think one full-size and two mags might be the realistic max without stacking.
I like that it’s pretty quiet when opening.
Easy to bolt down, and of course, you can tie it down with a steel cable for travel.
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Are fingerprints your thing? See more of the SentrySafe and others in our Best Biometric Safes article.
6. Awesafe Gun Safe
Pros
- Feels sturdy
- Can fit full size and micro compact guns
- Easy to understand set-up instructions
Cons
- Biometric isn't always reliable
- Tiny gap in side that screwdrive could be slipped into
Move over SentrySafe…Awesafe is in the house as what might be the most popular biometric gun safe on Amazon.
We’ve gotten a lot of requests to try it out, and we like it as the best bang-for-the-buck biometric.
It’s built sturdily-feeling enough and looks nice. Although you’re probably going to be hiding it away from prying eyes!
There is a tiny gap on the sides where you can slip in a screwdriver and go to town. But remember if given enough time, you’ll probably get into any safe out there.
Otherwise, the capacity is really good…I can fit a full-size and micro-compact gun in there. If you’re only having one gun you can definitely fit 2-3 mags as well.
Biometric setup and use are great.
Easy instructions, and it seems to be at 90% in terms of accuracy. But of course, when there’s excessive moisture, it starts to fail (like all the other ones).
See me try it out:
Buttons were good as well.
The main selling point is its price…it’s hard to beat.
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We also tested their Slider Safe variant…and didn’t love it as much.
But mainly because when you unlock it, there’s not too much force to push the drawer out to a usable level.
Here’s a video of it…I know it’s on something, but it does the same thing when suspended in the air (as if attached to the bottom of a desk).
However, it’s much larger than the regular gun safe and even more affordable at $119 if you know the drawbacks.
7. Vaultek VT20i & VT10i
Pros
- Key, electronic button, fingerprint, and Bluetooth phone app entry
- Holds larger pistols
Cons
- Rough 90% reliability on biometric
- High end in price
We’re moving up in tech!
These Vaultek bad-boys have key, electronic button, fingerprint, and Bluetooth phone app ways of opening up. They look and feel great, too, if that matters to you.
We tested the biometric reader and had a rough 90% reliability factor. Good for when you don’t need it 100% in a hurry.
The VT10i holds a full-sized pistol and two mags.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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While the larger VT20i can hold even larger guns (maybe 2 compacts).
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Check out the full review with plenty of gifs.
Plus, an overview of their other models, which don’t have biometrics (saving you money), and their new flagship…the PRO MX Series.
We have a full review of the Vaultek MX line here.
Now let’s move into the Best Long Gun Rifle Safes…
These are what you probably traditionally think of as “gun safes.”
They can hold long guns and are much bigger (and more expensive) than their handgun-only counterparts.
You also don’t need to spend TOO much to get everything you want. After a while, you just get better aesthetics.
How Big of a Gun Safe Should I Get?
When looking at a traditional safe…the rule of thumb is double what you think.
It’s not because you’ll likely buy more (ok…it’s a little that), but because the number of guns that manufacturers quote a safe can hold is for un-scoped rifles stacked on top of each other.
You should also definitely measure wherever you’re going to be placing that thing. It’s likely a couple of hundred pounds and hard to move without a bunch of friends and some extra maneuvering space.
Now let’s get to it!
8. Stack-On 8-Gun Cabinet
Pros
- Keyed lock
- 18 gauge steel
- Graet starter safe
Cons
- Small so you can easily run out of room
The Stack-On is what I would suggest as a starter “safe” since it’s technically a cabinet with a lock. No RSC rating on this one.
It has a keyed lock, but with 18 gauge steel sides and weighing in at 64 lbs…it’s not going to resist a lot of prying (even with it bolted down). 10″ x 21″ x 55″ dimensions.
I had a 5-gun cabinet as my starter safe when I only had a handgun and rifle.
It quickly became too small to hold more than 3 rifles with optics. So if you have any inkling to buy more guns…start with an 8-gun safe, at least unless space is the primary factor. A few of my buddies really like theirs.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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If you need something bigger but still in the affordable price range…check out their 18-Gun Cabinet, which comes recommended by some of our readers.
9. Liberty ProVault or Centurion
Pros
- Good customer service
- Heavy and sturdy
- Room for several rifles, pistols, and accessories
Cons
- Could be put on a dolly, so bolted down is best
- Pricey
I opted for the largest 24-gun (59.5″ x 28.25″ x 22″) Liberty ProVault since it was going to be an overflow safe for my newer guns. Mechanical lock since I didn’t want to deal with batteries.
There are also the 12 and 18-gun models, which is what I actually recommend after my experience.
The ProVault version is a special color edition made by Liberty (probably the largest safe manufacturer) for Cabela’s. It had awesome reviews, so I wanted to see it for myself.
Flex means an upgraded interior that can hold other stuff and be re-configured.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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The problem was that the combo didn’t work.
I gave Liberty a call, and they had great customer service. The guy walked me through everything and even called me back when he said he would. But in the end, the combo didn’t work.
So he found a local dealer to come pick it up (free of charge) and swap it with their Centurion. Which is the same exact thing except in a different color.
Which…did work. The Liberty rep said this was the first time the combo didn’t work for the ProVault…and the same with the local dealer. I really am the best at breaking stuff.
Here’s the inside (with Flex Interior that you can somewhat reconfigure). With scoped rifles, I’d estimate I could fit maybe 12 total in both of the long gun segments.
375 pounds, so it’s not walking away…but determined people with a dolly can still move it. I’d recommend bolting it into the concrete, which is what I did.
- Exterior: 59.5″(H) x 28.25″(W) x 22″(D)
- Interior: 57.4″(H) x 26.7″(W) x 15.6″(D)
- Weight: 370 lbs.
- Fire: 30 minutes at 1200 degrees
Or simply up my budget a little higher to get something RSC-rated (up next)…which the ProVault/Centurion is not.
10. SecureIt Agile Model 52
Pros
- Good value
- Easiest way to set up own gun safe
- Great for apartments or rentals
Cons
- Have to assemble
- Only holds 6 long guns with scopes
And when the day came…I realized there was no way I was able to move the 375 lb safe into my closet without destroying stuff.
Enter…SecureIt’s Agile Model 52, which is delivered flat…and can be assembled quickly.
Plus, all the assembly is internal, so there are no screws or anything to take apart on the outside.
It has a depth of 15 inches and weighs 105 pounds, so it’s easy to store anywhere (and likely out of sight). I’d definitely still bolt it down though, even if it’s hidden.
The disadvantage is you give up capacity…to the tune of only holding 6 long guns with scopes. BUT…they are nicely held in almost any configuration due to the modular Cradle Grid backing.
But if that’s enough…the Agile 52 might be the easiest solution to setting up your own gun safe.
Mine is set up with 6 long guns (hardware included…I really like the bungee retention system for the barrel).
And I also got the optional bins…yellow bins for stuff on top and two metal trays that fit in nicely behind the long guns.
Plus…the Agile 52 might be the cheapest to ship solution…I was testing zip codes and got results from around $30 if you’re on the East Coast to $70 on the West Coast.
And yet another Agile 52 in our stable with a slightly different setup.
Check out our new YouTube review.
And our standalone written review if video isn’t your thing.
Plus, now we’ve secured a 10% off coupon PEW10 for Pew Pew Tactical readers.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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What’s your take on the SecureIt? Rate it below!
11. SecureIt Model 84 – 24/24
Pros
- Locker-style safe
- Heavy but sturdy
- Can hold 24 rifles
Cons
- Might be too big for smaller spaces
- Pricey
We covered the Agile 52 above, but what if you want something bigger…
Look no further. SecureIt’s Model 84 is one of the biggest. But it’s still not that monster-sized safe down in the basement.
The Model 84 is a very sturdy locker-type storage solution with two doors.
At 84 inches tall, 36 inches wide, and 15.5 inches deep, this unit has dimensions more similar to a bookcase.
Made from heavy gauge steel, the Model 84 features multiple anchor points for bolting to your room. Plus, the bi-fold doors can swing out or fold up to save space, best fitting the environment.
The entire back wall of the locker is covered with the same Cradle Grid louvers used in the Agile 52. In this configuration, the user can stack 12 rifles above and 12 rifles below a middle shelf.
Long guns are held in place with angled feet at the base and cradle arms. A bungee strap on these arms ensures a snug fit so guns don’t shift.
Under the shelf, space exists for rows of bins that also come with the Model 84. These bins come with a divider and are great for storing up to 24 pistols, magazines, or other accessories.
The whole thing closes up with a 9-point locking system using two large handles that rotate together to accept a padlock. This is a great, spacious solution for a secure facility.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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12. Liberty Cabela’s Outfitter
Pros
- Best for large collections, holds 48 long guns
- 11 gauge steel
- Good quality
Cons
- Very big, so won't work for smaller homes
Now we’re getting serious…
The Cabela’s Outfitter by Liberty is the #1 selling line of safes in the US. The Cabela’s Outfitters is what I recommend for large collections of 48 long guns. Or, realistically, half of that if you’re going with optics.
Made from thick 11 gauge steel…it is RSC rated along with its locks.
Here’s my buddy’s current loadout…he’s working hard on filling it up!
Everything feels quality, and if you don’t have a place to put it…it’s pretty enough by itself to be a decoration piece!
- Exterior: 42″ (W) x 25″(D) x 60.5″(H)
- Interior: 38″(W) x 14.5″(D) x 56″(H)
- Weight: 760 lbs
- Fire: 40 minutes at 1200 degrees
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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13. American Security BF6032 18
Pros
- High security
- Longest fire safety rating
- Looks nice
Cons
- Very expensive
Research enough, and “Amsec” will keep coming up. They are one of the best in the biz for higher security and beautiful safes.
One of their most popular is the BF6032 18-Gun Safe ($3379) which is RSC rated with thick doors (.375″ solid steel), body, and bolts. Also the longest fire rating yet.
And like a fine 1911… there are tons of options to customize…so it’s likely to cost you even more.
But what price can you put on peace of mind?
- Exterior: 59.25″(H) x 30″(W) x 21″(D)
- Interior: 52.8″(H) x 26″(W) x 14″(D)
- Weight: 913 lbs
- Fire: 120 minutes at 1200 degrees
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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We’re done with our list of long gun safes…but what if you didn’t get the $5,000 safe with all the fixings?
14. Vaultek RS500i
Pros
- Wifi alerts
- Keypad, fingerprint scanner, backup key entry
- Modular design
Cons
- Electronics can fail
Want something super hi-tech and looks great as a decoration piece?
Check out the Vaultek RS line…and here specifically is their medium-sized RS500i.
Everything you can think of…the RS has it:
- capacitive keypad
- fingerprint scanner
- Wi-Fi to get alerts and receive commands
- smart key for quick access
- manual keys
- super modular interior
Check ours out in action:
The RS500i has an interior of 13.75″ L x 9.75″ W x 53.25″ H which places it in the middle of the series.
We can comfortably place around 3-4 rifles with optics in there and some handguns with the added rack.
It’s our go-to safe for stuff we use on the regular, and even after 3 months, the battery is still going strong. It’s easy to keep plugged in as well.
If you’re spending over a grand for a nice electronic safe with all the fixins…I’d start at least with the RS500i, if not the larger RS800i.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Now…let’s move on to some hidden safes…
Best Hidden Safes + Job Site Boxes
Sometimes you don’t want your safe to be easily found…we’ll cover a few options.
15. Tactical Walls 1450 Sliding Mirror
Pros
- Doesn't look like a safe
- Great for staging in main areas of home
Cons
- Can be difficult to mount
- Limited space
Want to feel like you’re out of a spy movie?
Take a look at Tactical Walls’ concealment mirror. Useful day-to-day…while also harboring some awesome firepower when needed.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Want more?
Check out our full review of Best Hidden Gun Safes.
And finally…Best Car/Travel Safes
If you’re going bare bones…I like the NanoVault from earlier. A couple of the electronic safes fare well as vehicle safes too.
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But if you want quicker access…
16. V-Line Top Draw
Pros
- Simplex lock
- Good for the car
Cons
- Top open might require some patience
Enter V-Line’s lightweight entry into the Simplex lock category.
I have one in my car when traveling that is chained to my car seat. You’ll have to practice a little since it’s top open…gravity is working against you.
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Gun Safe Upgrades
Now that you’ve got your safe…you can start to upgrade it! It never ends in the gun world…
I would recommend getting a Gun Safe Panel Organizer that fits your long gun-safe door. One of the best upgrades that let you store a lot of handguns and miscellaneous items.
If you’re only wanting to expand your pistol storage…get some Handgun Hangers.
Or Pistol Racks that come in wire or foam…I opt for the wire since I’m not sure how the foam will handle long periods of time against my pistols.
If your safe doesn’t come with lights…I really like the new LED Light Switches. I’ve put them in my safes and my car so I’m not wasting the car battery when I’m rustling through stuff at night.
And if you’re in even a semi-humid area…I highly recommend getting a dehumidifier.
These can recharge in an outlet when there’s too much moisture, shown with a color change to green.
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But there are also plugin-heated models that are less of a headache and have stronger power.
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Check out our Best Safe Dehumidifiers if you want more research.
You can see it along with the light and handgun hangers too in my Centurion.
Final Thoughts
We’re almost done!
Your gun safe should be the last line of defense against unauthorized access to your guns. How do you make it harder to reach that last line?
This advice is after talking with some police officers that see a lot of stolen guns…
- keep your home/car doors locked
- get an alarm system (or at least a sticker)
- don’t advertise you have guns (I’m sorry…this means stickers for NRA, gun logos, etc)
- teach your kids not to touch your guns
And keep in mind no safe is impenetrable given enough time and tools…you just want to make it annoying enough so that baddies give up or don’t even try.
To sum it up… here are our best picks for each safe category.
Summary of Our Top Picks
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BEST OVERALL HANDGUN SAFE
Uses mechanical Simplex lock, making it super fast and easy to use in the dark and reliable. No need to charge or batteries.
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BEST UNDER-THE-DESK PISTOL SAFE
Doesn't need RFID keys or biometrics, just a simple code. However, this does not fit a revolver or extra mags.
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BEST FOR CAR
Fits a full-size Glock 17 and 2 mags and has holes for securing a cable.
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BEST TRAVEL HANDGUN SAFE
Discreet, quick access, and can be tethered to something. Has option for their slingbag making it easy to travel with.
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BEST BUDGET BIOMETRIC SAFE
Sturdily built and great fingerprint accuracy. Can't beat it for the price.
Any other safe categories or info you’d like to see? Let us know in the comments below. Want more…look at our specific Best Beside Safes and Best Biometric Safes.
91 Leave a Reply
the Fort Knox FTK-PB is not available from Amazon or from Fort Knox so I assume it's been discontinued. I don't want a gun safe that depends on batteries or electrical power so the simplex lock is preferred. But if the gun safe isn't available, what else do you suggest?
Electronic locks are fine provided they are UL type 1 - with an outside battery compartment and EMP rated and over 1 million combinations it is quite secure and will take a fraction of the time to open.
A dial lock - if you still have thieves who know how to operate them and can feel the clicks - they will be inside of your safe within 15 mins.
Granted most people aren’t combo crackers on dials……
Any recommendations for a vertical 1-3 long gun ? I guess I am asking for a 12-20 inch width that's not a cheapo.
Personally I would recommend the Stealth UL14 or Premier 14
Should have included SnapSafe which I believe may now be owned by Hornady. While I must admit that I am getting close to outgrowing it. It was a perfect solution for my two story home. It is also Modular (all panels connected internally). It is fire rated as good as most solid vaults and can be bolted to the floor.
In spite of my criticism, in my mind, you guys are still one of the best resources this type of information. I have followed your recommendations several times and never regretted it.
Keep up the good work.
BQ
Thanks for the suggestion and for reading!
Just want to point out something about these small safes that people will use to secure the gun in a vehicle when you are not in the vehicle.
Some states require the 'container' to be affixed to the vehicle. For example, Tennessee requires that "The firearm or ammunition being transported or stored in the motor vehicle: ... (if a 'container' is used e.g. gun safe) " that the 'container' is "securely affixed to the motor vehicle if the person is not in the motor vehicle" [Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-17-1307(g) and § 39-17-1313(a)]
So if you are going to use one of these portable safes in the car, you may be required to "securely affix" it to the car. So keep that in mind when purchasing, like does it have a means for you to do this - and don't just shove it under the seat or put it in the trunk.
I picked up a “sturdy” safe about 20 yrs ago. great safe and company.. make sure your safe is not “skip weld” and a constant bead . My door is 3/8 and mechanical. Make sure your door recesses into the frame and you should not be able to fit a penny into it. That’s where pry bar would get in. Mine weighs 950lbs empty, so they’re not just walking away with it.. also make sure you’re safe has really good fire proofing.. a safe has to withstand the cooldown time. After a fire your safe is 1000° and it takes hours to cool down. Without good fire proofing your stuff and so will just cook slowly.
recommend Vault Pro (Santa Fe Springs, CA) "vaultprousa"
The key is when you close the safe, the whoosh of air coming out and letting you know how good it seals. That and not being able to fit a quarter in the door jamb! If you live in SoCal, take a tour of the facility, if they still allow it, or
Search on youtube: "Gun Safe, The Facts. The Truth About How A Gun Safe Is Built" WeaponsEducation
Vaultek no longer has MX series on their site. When updating an article one would think all of the links would be checked... SMH
Just to point out that a gun safe a thief can pick up and walk/run away with does nothing to keep a gun from being stolen. So keep that in mind when you buy that very portable NV300 NanoVault or that Vaultek LifePod & LifePod 2.0 or the other similar ones in this article.
Of all the 18 gun thefts from car break ins we have had here in the last six months, 16 of the firearms were in this articles portable gun safes.
Of all the 7 gun thefts from home break ins we have had here in the last six months 4 of them were in these types of portable gun safes.
The thieves just pick these portable safes up and walk/run off with them to open later when they have plenty of time to apply brute force. When that thief is rummaging around your house or through your car nothing says "take me, I'm yours' better than a easily portable locked container that looks like it could contain something of value or something that needs to be secured to keep others from getting to it.
The link to the American Security BF6032 18 says it is discontinued.
The Fort Knox pistol safe is outstanding; I have three. As for long gun safes, I cannot believe you didn't mention Zanotti, much less highlight it. An excellent safe, very configurable, and the only choice (IMHO) for those who want exceptional security and features in a solution that can be put just about anywhere. It was the only option for my two hundred year old house with a tiny stairwell (enabling me to assemble it in an appropriate place in my basement) and I couldn't be happier. The Zanotti team is the best, too, which is icing on the cake. (Made in the USA, too, which is all the better.)
Shocking waste of money. LPL can crack any of these in 30 seconds or less and will show you how. Some are downright fraudulent in their security claims and shouldnt even be in the market. Yes, some will stop a casual toddler but thats it. Before PewPew or others tout safes, they should be proven to be good and these are not. But there is a sucker born every minute, right?
prices dont match what you have listed, some are several $100s dollars more than what you state here. and coupon codes no longer work
Hey Rod, we're working on updating articles with new products and prices. Hang tight! Thanks!
Rod, learn how to read article stamps. It's from over 7 months ago, of course pricing has changed because we're experiencing inflation rates we haven't seen in 40 plus years.
In December I picked up 124 gr 9mm ball ammo from SMKW (Smoky Mountain Knife Works) $16.99 for 50rd box brass case . Fast 2 day shipping. I think shipping was $12.99 for 1000 rds. They threw in a couple of carabiner knifes, small pliers combo tool with knife screwdriver, nice Unbranded Case knife, gun cleaning mat and knife sharpener. Great customer service.
Is there a new code for the secureit safe?
I got a 47” FastBox verticle with kit. They had it on sale and codes are not suppose to work on sale items. I told them I was a disabled veteran and they took 10% off the sales price. I did have to provide proof of VA disability. If your a vet or first responder drop them a call or email
No mention of Browning? Buy your safe from a "Safehouse" and have it professionally installed, including being bolted down. You can set your own combination if you like. Just remember that a concrete saw will go through a safe like a knife through butter. It can only slow down professional thieves.
Spend some time on YouTube with the Lock Picking Lawyer and Bosnian Bill before you spend any money on ANY of these "Safes". The little pistol boxes can be picked open almost as fast as if you had a key. I can verify that from personal experience, you get what you pay for.
A nice closet with a fake wall end of about 6’ has served me well….
How can the Fort Knox be classified as a safe at all, at least the version without the steel reinforcement under the Simplex lock? One punch strike against the buttons and the lock is defeated in less than 60 seconds. Also no information on testing of these electronic “safes” by simply dropping on the side or using a zip tie to simply shimmie the spring loaded “lock”. This site usually has good reviews but do your own research on these “safes”.
If you’re going to spend over 800.00 to 1200.00 I would say you need to go to tractor supply and see what they have sorry guys but I think a 20Lb.pound sledge hammer and a couple Good hard licks and you’re in. That’s my opinion everybody has one but I have bought a few size and they all look very superior to those accept for the liberty it’s getting close to what I got.
Good article but these are not budget gunsafes unless you have a large house and have a budget for $600 and up safe witch are still budget midrange safes but not low end budget safes. It would be nice to see a dozen 10-24 gunsafes reviewed at a price range of $500 and under. Would really helppeople with apartments or small homes.
Great information, I’m in the market for larger safe, as my Vaultek RS500 has quickly become filled. I will add that customer service for Vaultek is absolutely horrendous.
Do you need to plug it in all the time? Or plug it in to charge it?
My thought was purchasing this to make sure kids do not get into guns, if not my kids (as they are firearms safe), but their friends that might be over. Not too worried about theft. I was going to try to hide it in my closet, no outlets inside the closet.
Awesome review. Much needed and much appreciated. I would recommend that with EVERY large safe, use a dehumidifier!! I own an excavation company. I tore down a house once that was burned in a fire. The safe was still standing. All the paperwork in the safe was untouched and in perfect condition. The guns, on the other hand, were all trashed even though they were never touched by the fire. The heat of the firearms attracted ALL of the moisture that was in the safe and rusted up ALL the firearms and pretty much destroyed them! Just food for thought....
Might want to check out The Lock Picking Lawyer on YouTube. Some of these safes aren't. You can defeat the LifePod with a fork, for example.
True for the original version of the LifePod. But Vaultek had one of the fastest responses I've ever seen and sent out fixes to everyone. Now the new versions are protected against that attack.
Wow a great article and research is through..
Dollars per pound is fun way look at products. Firearms cars bikes etc. Good lunch room conversation.
Some 25 years ago I bought a Browning safe. $1100, 750 pounds. I am not near my safe at this the size is about 24/24/60. It has been a little crowded from time to time.
It has a mechanical lock. With a key option for daily use. Great safe.
Eric, thanks for the review. I think you might have missed StillWater. Any thoughts?
Hi Eric,
Great safe reviews but you should include Champion safes in the group. I have a “24 long gun” safe that is awfully sweet. It’s worthy of a review.
I've had my eye on Sports Afield safes- waiting for a good deal. They have the best fire ratings I've seen, they're available in several capacities, and the weight seems to be heavy enough to discourage thieves. Anyone have any experience / thoughts about Sports Afield gun safes?
I like the Winchester safes with electronic locks. Very good warranty (never have to try to use it though). Testimonials from actual victims of fire, theft attempts, etc seem legit. I am in my safes too often to put up with a mechanical lock; got rid of a mechanical lock safe because you had be absolutely, precisely on the number, period. Person I sold it called and complained that they could not open it. I reiterated that I had told them about the absolute precision required, which allowed them to open it. I trust electronic over mechanical. The high end locks on my Winchesters have been great with batteries lasting at least two years before I decide to change them; this is with much higher than normal access (safes are used for more than just firearms). Good fire ratings and theft deterrence with free replacement clause.
Eric,
You should have reviewed a Champion safe as part of the “large safe” group. I have a 24 long gun that still will hold 20 with optics and at least a dozen handguns plus supplies. Cost me $1500 for a one year old safe but with 7 one inch bolts and a locking dial, I love it. Keeps the grandkids and mosey neighbors out of my collection.
Good info but you missed snap safe.
Thank you for all the information...much appreciated.
Just one comment...from the moment you pick up a safe (of almost any kind), but ESPECIALLY a safe that has to be DELIVERED and INSTALLED, you are quite possibly LESS safe then ever before ? Why ? Because delivery drivers and especially installers have been known to keep records, and either sell them to others, or on occasion, act on that information themselves.
Seek...How right you are. Me having been recently robbed by an "inside" job. Perps specifically targeted me. I had a large #700 Redhead brand safe. The robbers opened the safe in 10 minutes! using a large prybar. Worked around the door, easily bent the frame around the door (like bending the 2x4 & wood molding frame around an entrance door).
The entire door fell out in just a few minutes. Ridiculously easy. This safe company should be sued for not disclosing how vulnerable their product is.
As to your issue, a safe in the home has to be further secured by the owner against an attack.
1. Install a hard wired (avoid wi-fi - it is easily jammed - another rip off, like my "secure" safe) motion detector, siren and pay the bill for a monitored system. The key is to stop the robbers BEFORE they escape with your property. According to the police detectives working my case, the majority of robbers are meth heads, will only strike when the house is unoccupied. They do not want to confront an owner and risk being charged with a 1st degree felony/20 year sentence. Simple theft of property usually ends in a light sentence. The perp is back out in months and returns to the same crime. If they escape with your possessions, chances are they are gone forever. I lost $20,000 of possessions, including irreplaceable family heirlooms.
DON"T BE COMPLACENT! A SAFE ALONE WILL NOT STOP THEM. You must install the monitored system to detect and stop them IN THE ACT. Period.
2. Anchor the safe to the floor. This discourages removal of the safe. My perps walked out with an entire #700 pound safe. Used my own hand truck! Took it to a house and opened it at their leisure. Disgusting.
3. Photograph and list details of everything in the safe. Do not store this file in the safe!
4. Make sure you have insurance riders to cover you in a worst case.
These are lessons I learned the hard way. I'll never completely recover from the emotional trauma and the sickening loss. Hope sharing this helps you avoid the worst of the worst.
You set your own combination up though. Unless you are alluding to people breaking in your residence because they know you are the proud owner of a safe.
I'm looking for under bed safes...any you can suggest? Long guns & pistols
I too would like info on under bed safes for long guns.
If you run bluetooth, you may as well just leave the device unlocked. Seriously. Just say no to BlueTooth.
Buddy of mine is IT and I was pretty shocked to see his safe had WiFi, but he told all it does is let him know if somebody is tampering with it, the Bluetooth has no connection to the lock
Gunvault nv300. Is an absolute horrible safe. I was in a hotel when the combination decided to no longer work. Locking my gun inside. I was able to break it open with a leatherman and key chain pry bar. While it may appear safe, it only took me 30 minutes with tools not designed to do what i did
I had a safe with an electronic lock. When it failed for no reason, the locksmith told me,( after he cut a giant hole in my door ) that most electronic locks at some point just die. With my safe not being one of the "top brands" he couldn't just drill a small hole, so he cut one about four inches square, opened it up, and told me to have a nice day. I hang targets on that damn safe now.
Opps, forgot about your mentioning AMSEC (American Security) as some of their safes are pretty good but like Sturdy safe, they are not cheap as you get what you pay for in a safe !
Sturdy safe should be mentioned (long guns), I went with them as the most affordable safe that is closest to a real safe, most of the ones mentioned here and in stores are junk if you do your research. Go with the stuff in this article if you cannot afford better or just have kids to keep out of your safe.
I'd like to see a review of the Hornady Rapid Safe Night Guard. I've been eyeing this thing for months but I can't find a review of it anywhere, nor have I been able to find out if it works as a functioning alarm clock.
Too many ads stuck between the choices of safes, and it was difficult to distinguish which was what YOU were suggesting and which was an ad!!!!
Hello! Those are actually affiliate boxes for the items we're recommending. None of them are ads and they are all items we are suggesting.
I will never have another electronic lock on a gun safe. I had my safe for almost a year when just for kicks, the lock decided to retire. Called the safe guy, he came out took a look, gave last rights, and cut a giant hole in my safe to open it! He said, yeah these electric boogers sometimes just die for no reason.
Looking for a safe for my 2016 f150 extended cab , any suggestions
Not sure what happened with shipping for the SecurIt Agile 52. I'm 46038 and the shipping quote is $108!
How is it the American made Graffundner didn't get mentioned? The starting security level dwarfs ever full-size safe on this list.
Please consider reviewing additional modular gun safes. My own situation is that the only good place for a long gun safe is in my basement. In older houses like mine, sometimes the steps to the basement are narrow and not built to take a very heavy, fully assembled safe. Thanks for these very informative reviews.
For best handgun safe, I recommend looking at the FAS1 series of safes. Similar to the Fort Knox Pistol Box, but 7 gauge steel and an optional supplemental lock. It also has a gas strut that opens the door, allowing it to present the holster to you quickly. Very high quality, made in the USA, but a little more expensive than the Fort Knox. Available in several sizes. I have two of them.
You need to include the line of cylindrical, automated, internally illuminated, humidity controlled firearm safes from Pendleton. We are have used their safes for decades in our gun shop. Wonderful!
L & M Enterprises USA LLC
The lack of research here is glaring - you call 10 gauge thick when really thats garbage that can be cut through with a skilsaw. The best deal in safes today is hands down Sturdy Safe. Their Most Popular package features a 4 gauge body, 3/8" door and a stainless plate welded over the lock box. They're not cheap 6ftx4ftx2ft model costing a little over $3000 without fire lining and roughly $4000 (everything with Sturdy is pick and choose - want a bare metal interior? They can do that. Want all shelves made of 1/4" plate and welded in? They can do that. Whatever you want, they can do) and it weighs over 1300lbs. Weight matters. It makes stealing the whole safe much more difficult. Their locking system is superior in its simplicity and strength. Think of what you're securing now and what you'll have in the future. I make high end guns. I have a few that are over $3000 and my latest was over $4000 for one gun. Then I have a few grand in optics too, plus ammo and all my important documents. Look into what drywall insulation does to your guns and rethink the few hundred dollars you'll save by going with a Liberty model. Watch some safe attack videos on youtube. 10 gauge is barely an obstacle and most safes do not withstand a fire.
Wow! THIS, exactly! I was getting ready to type the same thing, then saw you just wrote what I was thinking. I ordered my Sturdy a few days ago. If you're just interested in security, not shiny paint and fancy LED lighting, Sturdy is the only way to go.
Sturdy Safe is the best out there by far. No other safe comes close IMHO. Own the best.
Really? I guess I should sell my Superior Untouchable with its 1/2" door and 1/4" walls plus a pane of glass that prevents drilling the door so I can get a Sturdy Safe.
Yes Joe, that is exactly what he meant...to tell YOU to sell your safe. Its all about you.
This article is awesome. You can really see the level of time and care you put into the content. I learned something of value, my questions were answered, and I’m ready to make a solid informed purchase that fit my needs and budget. I just got done looking at a similar article on a different firearm-focused website, and I was shocked by how awful it was. After reading a bit of that copy-pasted, generic garbage, I had to come back here and show some love.
Thanks for what you do!
The GunVault NV300 NanoVault is garbage. The combo lock will break quickly and if you contact the company about a replacement you'll be told, "yeah that sometimes happens" and left to wonder what you're going to do with your new 3 pound paperweight. If you want something this size for transporting your handgun in your car purchase a lock and key version. While a little less convenient you'll be happier with a product that works for more than a few months.
Really surprised not to see a Zanotti Armor safe in the list, especially instead of the SecureIt safe.
I own two of the Sentry safes QAP1BE. Great at the beginning, but plan on replacing the gas cylinder every 12 konths at $20 plus s+h each. I am not the only one. Check the reviews on Sentry's site. Not recommended.
Stack-on ammo cabinet, secureit agile model 52 with door organizer and pistol pegs/bins/trays/shelf and a hornady rapidsafe 4800k for the bed that has rfid tags works for me.
I like snap safe, it is made with 9 gauge steel, and can be brought in through narrow doors and hallways and assembled into a large safe. The super titan XXL is Exterior: 59"H x 46"W x 30"D and has double doors Opening: 52"H x 37”W.
holds up to 56 long guns
Sturdy Safe has been the brand I've been planning to buy. I think Amsec has some excellent products but in my research they seemed more expensive and less configurable than Sturdy Safe. Eric, I'd like to see a review of Sturdy Safe. Personally, I'm digging the Model #6028-6 at 60"x28"x72". They're located in Fresno so shipping to you should not be too expensive.
You didn't mention Stack-On also makes an in the wall cabinet. It works great behind the bedroom door for quick easy access when you think you here something. Great for a shotgun and an AR. I started with a Stack-On 18 gun convertible cabinet until I got a Fat Boy Jr. They brought it in the house for an extra $300. Money well spent with a 700 lb safe and steps.
I decided RSC was not good enough, even though my firearms have sentimental but not so much dollar value. RSC is 5 minutes protection to assault by a determined thief. If you really want to protect your gear, look for a real safe. What I ended up with is not quite in that category, but close. Graffunder Castle series, with 1/2" steel walls and a fire rating. I agree about electronic locks - convenient, but susceptible to dead batteries and EMP if there IS a nuclear blast. However, I made the mistake of going for a Group 1 lock. This is supposed to be more secure, but requires you to be VERY close to the actual combination when opening the safe. I usually have to try 2-3 times before getting it. Group 1 requires you to be within 1/2 division of each number. Group 2 is within 1 division. I don't think there are that many safecrackers out there, so a Group 2 would have made my life easier.
Think about lighting. If you are hiding your safe away, it will probably be dark. I put a lighting kit in mine, activated by motion of the door opening, or by me if I leave the door open and go back to the safe. It really helps, and it is such a pleasure to see all of the safe contents lit up when I open the safe.
Eric is spot on about capacity. I have 14 long guns in a safe that is supposed to fit 24, and it is packed to capacity.
When you are getting a real safe, you are talking about serious weight. I do not think I would have had any problem with the weight of a RSC, to put it anywhere I wanted. Granted, I do not have a 2 floor home. My Graffunder weighs 2500 lbs. I initially wanted to put it in a guest bedroom closet, but feared the weight would mess up the tile floors, so it is in the garage, bolted down (necessary? given the weight). I was able to do it all by myself, using a pallet jack and some come-alongs to tilt it enough to get it off the pallet.
After having gone through the agony of getting this safe (DO NOT ask me about Lone Star Gun Safes), I realize that what I really needed was to keep the guns safe from children. The RSC probably would have been adequate. I think the risk of theft, at least in my neighborhood, would be low. Even so, I like my Graffunder, especially feeling the heavy vault-like door opening, and seeing all the contents lit up.
Couple of additional points:
1) I own two of those sentry handgun safes you have as #2. A bio-metric version you have pictured and a non-biometric in the same exact line with the same parts except the biometric pad. BOTH have failed due to a known and well documented problem with the gas strut. I loves these safes for every other reason. you say the ft knox is easy to open in the dark? It is not at all. The sentry is 100x easier. Even for the base keypad model on the sentry the first button you push doesn't count in your sequence so in a completely dark room you just put your hand on top and just push any button to have the lights that illuminate the buttons turn on. Everything about the sentry is great except a FATAL flaw. Sentry knows about this flaw since they now sell the strut $30 shipped. But you are not paying $30 randomly on the chance you have a bad strut. The strut will ALWAYS wear out in a couple of years and that safe will not open unless you turn it upside down which if it is an emergency or you have it bolted down denies you your firearm when you need it.
2) the ability to hide a safe is ten times more important than ANY of the strength criteria you have mentioned since all safes under $2,000 can be broken into.Every single small pistol safe you have reviewed here can be broken into with a large screwdriver. A 12 year old girl can open that #1 rated FT knox with a foot long standard screwdriver
As far the large safes if the safe is rated in gauge instead of fractions of an inch it can be opened with a $50 small angle grinder, it can have titanium bolts and you can still open the side like a can opener with that small power tool.
That is why totally hiding the safe is the #1 issue. If someone has seen it and or told a burglar they know the safe acts as an ATTTRACTANT to burglary. someone hearing a safe is in a home elevates your risk of being burgled and that the burglar/s will head right for the safe and have brought an angle grinder. Instead of looking around for your tablet, going to your wife's dresser to look for jewelry -- they are going to go right for the safe.
Experienced successful burlars befriend HVAC guys, general contractors, electricians, plumbers, etc to get info on places that are good for burglary. If you have a large safe in your basement scores of your kids friends over the years, hVAC guys, painters, plumbers, caterers, cleaning people, electricians, dog walkers/cat sitters and lots of others may have seen your safe. sure some people will have had no one see their safe, but most people have several people in those classes in their home at some point. I would spend more time thinking up and construction a way to hide a safe (false freezer front, false card board storage boxed front, if in a basement etc) than I would worrying about how it is rated.
I love my Sturdy Safe. It has a 4g body and 3/8” door, which is way thicker than the safes I’m seeing listed here, and it’s the same price range. Let me know what you think of them!
I've heard of them but haven't had the chance to see or use one yet!
Seems to me, everyone always misses the obvious.. No matter what safe you have, HIDE IT as the first lie of defense, bolt it down, & don't use easy combinations. The easiest way to get into a safe, is not through the door, it's through the side, back, or top with a drill and a Sawzall or torch. Make these difficult to get to.
If they don't see the safe, they may never even know it's there. Don't show ANYONE loose lips sinks ships.
Yea...what safe?
Exactly!
The speed vault listed as the best hidden gun safe actually holds a pistol, extra mag, and spare key to my main gun safe. Fits full size pistols just not revolvers.
Thanks, Roy, that should be really helpful for our readers!
I strongly recommend the Stack-On 18 gun convertible cabinet. You can set up one side with shelving, and the other with room for (theoretically) 9 longguns. I say theoretically because manufacturers still build gun safes with traditional hunting rifles in mind, and ARs and the like tend to take up a bit more space.
But it’s a great beginner cabinet to hold up to 6 rifles and a dozen pistols, as well as several thousand rounds of ammo, or set up to hold up to a dozen ARs. Best part is, you can find one for $150 without much shopping around. I’d suggest changing your suggested beginner safe, as it’s only $20 more than your quoted price on the 8-gun cabinet, and has about double the interior space.
Agreed.
I've got a safe large enough to hold my complete rifles, but I've got nearly a dozen AR upper receivers that won't fit in the safe. Since these are not complete firearms, I don't need them to be super secure, but would like advice on storage around 25" long.
A dozen spare uppers is a good problem to have ;P I’m also interested in the answer to this question, since the length is so much less than what a safe/cabinet typically is built for.
What do you think about the Secureit safes/stack-ons they have available?
Depends on what you need, but keep in mind that they really aren't safes - they are high school lockers with better locks. If you just need something to keep firearms out of reach of children, they are decent options. But any thief with even a modicum of will can break into them without a lot of trouble.
I use a Stack-On to store ammo, but I rarely keep firearms in one.
I live in a 2 story house, where would the best place to bolt the safe down? Garage, master bedroom, or downstairs extra bedroom? Thanks for the advice!
You'll have to weigh two things...the type of floor (concrete is best) and where it can be hidden the most.
Whichever safe you buy, it's critical that you securely bolt it down to the floor & walls! It's much easier for a thief to open a safe by brute force (large pry-bar, sledge, etc) if they can tip it over & get it lying on the floor. Many of the less expensive models with thinner steel can be opened fairly easily with the right tools and room to get leverage. Also, if it's not bolted down and it's one of the lighter ones, a thief can just wheel it away with a hand truck and worry about how to open it later.
Great advice, Mark. I only touched on the topic here...will add in an article specifically about bolting down.