Due to the rising rate of burglary these days, it has almost become a necessity to keep a gun at home for protecting yourself. If someone does break into your house, you will have only a few seconds to react. And in some situations, calling the cops is not an option.
It is because of situations like this that most people these days choose to keep a firearm at home nearby. But keeping a gun out in the open is not exactly safe either, especially if you have small children running around the house. Besides, keeping a gun in plain sight also gives the intruder a chance to get to it.
That is why, if you own a pistol, you should strongly consider getting the best pistol safe to store your weapon. That way, you can get to your gun whenever you need to and even if the intruder manages to get to it, he will not have any luck breaking into it before you call the cops.
In this article, we will give you a quick rundown of everything you need to know about buying a safe for your firearm.
Top 10 Best Pistol Safe reviews
If you decided that you want a new pistol safe for your home, you are on the right track of being a responsible gun owner. However, buying any old units on the market is not really a good idea when it comes to pistol safes. If you are buying one for the first time, there are many different elements you need to know.
As a beginner, however, going through all the tedious research can be a bit overwhelming. That is why we want to start with quick handgun safe reviews of the top 10 units that are available on the market. So, without any delay, let us get started.
1. Fort Knox PB1 Handgun Safe
If you want a truly impenetrable pistol gun safe, you can hardly do any better than the PBI by the brand Fort Knox. It is a simple and straightforward unit that does not fuss about any modern electronic features. But when it comes to security, it offers plenty in that department.
This device comes equipped with the Simplex mechanical combination lock system that has proven its effectiveness over and over again. Since it is a mechanical lock, it does not require any batteries. All you need is to access the input combination and you can instantly access the safe.
Thanks to the Gas strut compressor on the door, it opens the moment you enter the correct combination. The small pistol safe features 10-gauge steel construction and the 3/16-inch heavy-duty wraparound door are fully protected against any sort of tampering or break-in attempts.
There is thick rubber padding on the interior of the door to protect your belongings. You can easily store one or two handguns inside it along with some extra small items without struggling for space. Despite its smaller appearance, the interior of the unit is deceptively spacious.
Pros:
- Heavy-duty, tamper-resistant design
- Does not require batteries since it is a mechanical safe
- Gas strut assisted door opening
- Fast and efficient Simplex locking system
Cons:
- A bit on the pricy side
2. SentrySafe QAP1BLX Biometric Gun Safe
If the previous unit we reviewed was a bit too simple for you, and you want a few modern features with your safe, then take a look at the QAP1BLX by the brand SentrySafe. It is another big name in the industry, and this single pistol safe embodies all the nice qualities that you can expect from the brand.
This device comes with a state-of-the-art biometric scanner featuring a responsive scanner for quick access to your weapon. In addition, it has a backup electronic keypad where you can input an access code to open it up. The electronic and biometric features on the unit however require four AA-sized alkaline batteries.
If the power runs out and you need to access the safe, you can use an override key to gain entry inside. The door of the unit is made using solid steel and has concealed hinges to enhance protection against any prying attempts. The efficient design of the unit lets you access it using only one hand if you ever need it.
Keep in mind, this is a smaller gun safe and if you want to store multiple handguns, this might not be for you. At best, you can put a gun and some other small items inside it. The interior of the unit features LED lighting for better visibility which is a great addition if you ever need to access it at night.
Pros:
- Small and portable design
- Gas strut doors and solid steel construction
- Three different modes of access
- Interior LED lighting
Cons:
- No apparent cons
3. Stealth Handgun Hanger Safe
Coming up next on our list is a safe that is suitable for people who want to store multiple handguns and pistols securely. The Stealth Handgun Safe is actually a hanger safe with slots to hold your weapons without any sort of wobble providing easy access when you need it.
There are two ways to gain access to the safe. The primary method is a four buttons keypad that allows you to set up an access code of up to six digits for quick entry. However, that requires power and if the power runs out, you can use the backup override key to open it.
The door in the unit is made using 3/8 inches of solid steel and the locking latch is extremely well made. It is completely impervious to lockpicking attempts and unless the person has the code or the key, he will not be able to crack it. this unit can run via 9v batteries, or a power adapter connected to the wall socket.
This unit is designed specifically to holster your weapons at the ready. There are three hangers where you can store combat-ready pistols that you can bring out whenever you need them. You can also store two extra weapons inside it if you lay them down on the floor of the safe.
Pros:
- High-strength locking latch and door
- Interior red LED for better visibility
- Can hold up to 5 handguns
- Spring-loaded door makes it a quick access pistol safe
Cons:
- Not a practical choice if you want to store other small items.
4. Awesafe Gun Safe with Fingerprint Identification and Biometric Lock
A brand that is often compared to the quality and performance delivered by SentrySafe is Awesafe. The great thing about this company is they make their vaults much more affordable than many other brands that make a comparable product. Each of their creations offers an extremely high value to the user.
This unit features both an electronic keypad and a biometric fingerprint recognition sensor as its locking mechanism. The keypad comes with four buttons and allows for up to six-digit combination codes. You also get a set of keys to access the unit manually if you ever need it.
The main idea of this unit is discretion. Sure, the unit comes with decent material construction, but if a perpetrator gets their hands on it, they can break into it given enough time. If you are quick, however, you can usually catch him before he gets the chance to open it up completely.
It features a sleek and low-profile design making it well-suited to be a hidden pistol safe. Despite the smaller nature of the unit, you have enough space on the inside to store at least two handguns along with ammunition. Since it is quite lightweight, it can also work as a pistol safe for a car.
Pros:
- Three different modes of access
- Discreet and low-profile design
- Gas strut compressor on the door.
- Can store two handguns
Cons:
- Not the most secure option as a visible gun safe.
5. VAULTEK VT20i Biometric Handgun Bluetooth Smart Safe
For people with impeccable taste and no intention to compromise when it comes to weapon security, there is one brand out there that stands out from the rest, Vaultek. The VT20i is a smart gun safe with many nifty features to ensure the utmost security for your weapon. However, it does cost fair few dollars so keep that in mind before going with this one.
This unit features four different modes of access. Not only do you have the option to use the biometric features or five buttons electronic keypad, but you can also use your smartphone to control the safe remotely. Apart from that, you get a backup key to access it manually if the power runs out.
Constructed using 16-gauge carbon steel along with a powder-coat finish, you should have no doubt concerning the durability and strength of the device. It comes loaded with anti-pry bars, dual anti-impact latches, and concealed hinges on the inside to make sure that no one can get into it without your authorization.
Despite featuring such a robust set of features, the unit itself is quite lightweight and low-profile. The interior features a discreet LED light that lets you peek inside the vault without alerting anyone. You can store up to two handguns inside it along with some documents or magazine rounds.
Pros:
- Extremely sturdy construction
- Comes with many security features
- Four different modes of access
- Interior LED light for better visibility
Cons:
- Not very affordable
6. RPNB Gun Safe,California DOJ Certified Gun Safe
Similar to how SentrySafe and Awesafe are comparable brands in terms of quality, there is only one brand out there that can go toe-to-toe with Vaultek, and that is none other than RPNB. However, this particular unit is a toned-down lockbox suited for people who want something simple yet adept at keeping your weapon secured.
The access options in this unit are designed cleverly. You have a typical three-button electronic keypad and a set of backup keys as the primary and secondary modes of access. In addition, the unit comes with RFID key fobs that you can use to open it up if you do not want to take the hassle of remembering the access code.
This tiny little gun safe features a solid steel construction completes with anti-theft features like anti-impact latches and pry-proof hinges. It is a worthy adversary to even the most competent lockpickers. The body of this safe is made using 16-gauge carbon steel similar to what you would find on the V20Ti by Vaultek.
The interior of the unit is extremely simple and suits only your essentials. You can store a single handgun, some cash, and one or two extra magazine rounds inside it at best. The interior comes with a good amount of padding and since it is so portable, you can move around with it easily without damaging the items inside it.
Pros:
- Excellent build quality
- Offers a great value for the price
- Seamless welding on the body means increased pry-resistance
- RFID access method available with the included key fob
Cons:
- Tight interior space
7. First Alert Portable Handgun Safe
When you are on the market for a gun safe, the brand First Alert might not be your first choice. Compared to other giant brands out there, this one rarely gets picked up. But those who do decide to give it a chance, it will make sure that you will never go with another safe ever again.
The unit comes with a four-button keypad molded into the shape of fingers to give it a unique touch. You can set up an access code between three to eight digits to open up the safe. In addition, the included security key acts as a backup method of access if you forget the code or run out of power.
Sure, the locking system in the unit is nothing special, but the same cannot be said for the construction quality. This unit is made using heavy-duty 18-gauge steel so brute-forcing through the safe is never an option. The door is spring-loaded for quicker access inside when you input the correct code.
One setback of the unit is the tight interior compartment. At best, you can only fit a single pistol and a few small items. However, the interior is fully lined with soft foam to make sure your items remain scratch-free. You can take out the foam if you want a bit of extra space, but we would not recommend that.
Pros:
- High-quality 18-gauge steel construction
- The electronic keypad lets you set codes between three to eight digits
- Spring loaded door for faster access
- The interior is lined with soft foam
Cons:
- Tight interior space
8. RPNB Gun Safe,California DOJ Certified Quick-Access Pistol Safe for Multiple Handguns
The last unit that we reviewed by the brand RPNB was a simple and pretty much barebones gun safe. However, if you desire a bit more interior space and a better set of security features, maybe this one would be more to your liking. Naturally, it costs a bit more, but the quality it offers is that much better.
This unit gives you four modes of entry. So, you can access the gun safe using your fingerprint, the access code that you set up on the electronic keypad, the included key fob that comes with RPNB safes, or the set of backup override keys that comes with your purchase. With so many different options to get in, you will always have quick and easy access to your weapon.
As with all RPNB units, this one is also crafted by experts using materials that offer unprecedented durability and security. The unit comes with pry-resistant doors, two layers of steel, and a pry-proof body that acts as an impenetrable barrier against forced entry.
The interior spacing of the unit is also quite good giving you an ample space to store two of your favorite handguns. A gun safe is often used as a secondary way to store sensitive items like cash or credit cards, and this unit gives you the ability to do so without any issues.
Pros:
- Four different methods for entry
- Excellent security features
- Well-designed interior with soft padding
- Lightweight and discreet
Cons:
- A bit on the expensive side
9. V-Line 2912-S Top Draw Security Case
The next product on our list shares a lot of similarities with the one we reviewed by Fort Knox. Yet, there are enough unique features in the V-Line lockbox that we felt it necessary to include it on our list. If you are a fan of a simple yet secure design, then this is a great option to pick up.
This unit comes with the Simplex combination locking system. So you have five different buttons and a dial to set up an access code that you can use to open the safe. This method is extremely efficient at ensuring the security of the safe remains unblemished and you get quick and easy access to your weapon in your time of need.
The gun safe is made using Metallic-fiber and features a seamless design to prevent any break-in attempts. Since there are no keyholes, picking the lock is never an option for an intruder. Besides, because of its mechanical nature, you do not need any batteries to keep it running.
Although it is well-suited for a single handgun, you can, in fact, store two different handguns or revolvers inside it without any issues. The foam lining on the interior keeps your weapons free from scratches. Whether you are using it for home defense or you are just an avid gun collector, this is a great purchase.
Pros:
- KABA Simple combination locking method
- Metallic-fiber construction gives it enhanced strength
- Can hold two handguns
- Looks quite stylish
Cons:
- A bit too expensive considering the features
10. VAULTEK MX Series Safe High-Capacity Smart Handgun Safe
Let us end the list of reviews on a good note with another great offering by none other than Valutek. If their last unit that we checked was any indication, this one comes loaded with smart features and a robust security system to ensure your weapon stays out of reach of anyone but yourself.
Of all the products on our list, this is the smartest one. It comes with Bluetooth and WIFI-enabled, and you can pair it up with your smartphone to control it remotely. You can even check access logs for your safe from your smartphone and check for any strange incidents.
Apart from smartphone controls, the unit comes with biometric, electronic, and keyed access. So, opening up the safe quickly for you should never be an issue. And to go with the excellent security system, the unit also features a sturdy 14-gauge carbon steel body.
The door of the unit is made with 12-gauge steel and has a powder-coated finish to enhance its strength. It has a spacious interior space where you can store up to eight handguns along with any other small items you want. If you want a smaller safe with excellent storage, then this one is the obvious winner.
Pros:
- Excellent build quality and construction
- Includes many smart features
- Four different modes of entry
- Large interior space
Cons:
- Not suitable for people on a budget.
Things to Consider When Buying The Best Pistol Safe
Going through our list of reviews should already give you a vague idea of the critical elements in a handgun safe. However, having a rough idea is not enough when you are actually investing in one for yourself. Pistol safes come with many different features, and it can be difficult to know which one is more important than the other.
That is why we have compiled a list of some short features that are crucial to the quality of a safe. After knowing about these key aspects, you will have a better idea about what you need to look for when buying a handgun safe for your home or office space.
- Locking Mechanism
In many cases, the first thing you should check in a gun safe is the locking mechanism that comes with it. Most pistol safes should give you one or two means of access, but some models out there can feature up to five different access methods. But typically, you get four different locking mechanisms in the gun safe.
We will give you a quick overview of the different locking mechanisms to help you figure out which one is better suited to your needs. The four different locking systems are:
- Biometric Sensor Lock
Often considered as the best locking system out there for gun safes, a biometric sensor is extremely fast and adept at preventing your weapons from falling into the wrong hands. This type of safes come with a fingerprint sensor that scans your finger and gives you access to the safe if the prints match its database of authorized users.
A biometric security safe lets you store different profiles in its database. So if you want to give access to someone else apart from you, you can do it without any issue. This form of locking system is a good choice if you want an easy way to open up the safe quickly to take out your weapon.
- Electronic Keypad Lock
Another popular locking system is the electronic keypad. Basically, you get a digital keypad with your gun safe where you can input the access code that you have set beforehand to open it up. The digital keypad can feature as low as four buttons to up to 12 buttons in some units.
The effectiveness of a digital keypad locking system depends on how many digits you can use to set the access code. For instance, if your unit only lets you set a three-digit code, people can easily guess or brute force their way through it. However, any good digital lock will let you set at least six to eight digits of a passcode.
- Mechanical Combination Lock
Although both biometric and electrical locks are excellent locking mechanisms in their own rights, they have one common issue. Both of these locking systems require power whether in the form of batteries or a power adapter. However, if your gun safe comes with a mechanical combination lock, you do not need to worry about power at all.
Since this type of safes is completely mechanical, as long as you remember the combination code, you can always access your weapon. These days a popular type of combination locking system is the Simplex lock which is much more secured and harder to crack compared to simple three-digit combination locks.
- Keyed Lock
Finally, there is the simple key system locking mechanism. Typically, keys are used as a backup method if any of the primary locking systems fail. Although there are gun safes out there that feature only a simple lock and key, they are not as secure as a unit with other locking mechanisms.
Some older models of gun safes even feature a padlock system. However, we would recommend staying away from them since a padlock is quite susceptible to prying or tampering. Padlock gun safes should rarely be your first choice when you are deciding on which locking mechanism is better for you.
- Size and Storage
When it comes to small pistol gun safes, size is almost directly responsible for the interior storage options. If you get a larger unit, you can store more handguns along with other items. On the other hand, a smaller unit might only let you store one or two handguns at best.
Before making a choice, make sure you understand your specific requirements for the gun safe. If you do not own more than two handguns, it makes no sense to go for a bulkier unit. Besides, a smaller gun safe is much easier to conceal. You can even use it as a hidden gun safe if you want.
- Material Thickness
The element that mostly accounts for the sturdiness of a pistol safe is the material selection and the thickness of the material. Almost every gun safe you find should come with steel construction. But the thickness can vary between one model to another. The thicker the steel, the better the security.
Typically, with pistol safes, you want to make sure that the unit comes with at least 8-gauge steel construction. Going with thinner steel might be better if you want a lightweight and portable gun safe. However, it will not be as protected against impact damage. If security is an issue, make sure you go with a high-gauge steel gun safe.
- Access Speed
If you cannot access your weapon quickly in your time of need, there is no point in putting it inside the gun safe. The access speed of a safe largely depends on the locking system and access method. Biometric locking systems typically offer the fastest way to access your weapon in a gun safe.
However, there are some models out there that take different approaches to make it even easier to access the safe. For instance, some units out there come with Bluetooth features, and you can use your smartphone to track and access the safe remotely. This type of gun safes is great for people who want the fastest access to their firearms.
- Mounting options
The best thing about pistol safes is that they are typically lighter, and more discreet compared to a full-sized gun vault. Because of this reason, you can get creative with how you use it. Some models give you the option to mount it in different ways which can help you get the most out of your investment.
For instance, you can find some great units that you can use as a wall mount gun safe or even as a weapon safe for your car. The more mounting options you get with the safe, the better are the possibilities. However, if you just want a safe nearby to store your weapon, versatile mounting options might not be that important for you.
- Price
Not everyone has the luxury of a limitless budget when buying something. In fact, most of the people who are shopping for a gun safe are on a tight budget. Although it is not a good idea to skimp out when buying a lockbox for your gun, there are ways you can save a few bucks and get better value out of your investment.
If you take a look at our list of highlighted products, you should find some pretty decent options at an affordable price. Going with the most expensive gun safe might not be the better choice for you all the time.
Frequently Asked Questions
You have seen our list and gone through our extensive guidelines on buying the best pistol safe. Here are a few extra queries answered that you may have regarding this type of device.
Do I really need a pistol safe?
If you own a weapon and keep it at your home, you should always consider buying a pistol safe. Not only does it ensure that your weapon is secured, but it is also a common courtesy to keep it out of sight. Even if you keep your weapon unloaded, you should make sure it is locked up safely inside the gun safe.
Besides, remember why you got your weapon in the first place; to protect your home. If your weapon itself falls into the hands of intruders, there is no point in buying it. Getting a simple handgun safe means that you and only you can access your weapon if the need arises.
What happens if I forget my access code in an electronic keypad safe?
If you are the forgetful sort, then this is a valid thing to worry about. However, if you are the owner of the safe, you should be able to regain entry into the safe before too long.
Usually, all electronic or biometric safes come with backup keys to override the lock. If you have your keys with you, you should be able to open up the safe without any trouble.
Besides, most gun safes require you to fill out some personal information while buying. So even if you lose your backup keys, contacting the manufacturers and verifying that information should help you reset the code and get back into the gun safe.
Do I need a dehumidifier for my pistol safe?
A dehumidifier is typically kept in a small, confined space to regulate humidity and moisture. So, using a dehumidifier with your gun safe is actually a good idea, especially if you live in a humid environment. That way, you do not need to worry about any moisture damage on your weapons.
Final Thoughts
The first step to making your home safe is to get a proper lockbox to keep your weapons. Keeping your pistols or handguns outside the safe is extremely risky. There is always a chance that someone else might stumble upon it by accident.
We hope our comprehensive guide on the best pistol safes could help you figure out which unit you need.