A good, quick-access safe can keep your handgun secure, but also readily accessible. There many factors to consider when buying a small, rapid-access pistol safe: reliability, locking mechanism type, case metal strength/thickness, need for battery, ease of installation, internal capacity, built-in lighting, attack resistance, and overall quality. If you are considering getting a small handgun safe, we recommend you watch the videos below. Each shares some valuable observations, and the videos cover a wide selection of pistol safes with many different features.
Quick-Access Handgun Safes Reviewed by Lucky Gunner
Not all small handgun safes are created equal. In this 11-minute video, Lucky Gunner reviewer Chris talks about what to look for in a small pistol safe, setting out the pros and cons of the seven safes with which he has done “hands on” testing.
Fort Knox Original Pistol Box
Fort Knox handgun safes feature 10-gauge Uni-body construction and reliable Simplex mechanical locking mechanism. Low-tech but reliable. The vertical lid PB01 Pistol Box is $299.00 at Amazon.
V-Line Hide-Away Two-gun Pistol Safe
The V-Line safe with Simplex mechanical lock and slide-out drawer holds two handguns. Sold with mounting bracket, this is designed for under-tabletop or under-shelf installation. It is $260.84 on Amazon.
ShotLock Handgun 200M Solo-Vault
Shotlock’s 200M Solo-Vault, reliable mechanical lock, and mounting plate costs $198.75 on Amazon. This can be set up horizontally or (preferred) in a vertical orientation on the side of a desk or wall.
Vaultek VT20i Biometric Pistol Safe
This is a modern two-handgun safe with electronic lock and Biometric (fingerprint scan) instant-access system. Crafted of 16-gauge steel, the VT20i has a rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery. $289.99 on Amazon.
Hornady RAPiD Safe 2600KP
The Hornady RAPiD 2600KP safe offers very fast RFID access for a modest $139.99 on Amazon. This small safe meets TSA requirements for handgun storage in checked luggage. Good choice for travel.
Stack-On PDS-1500-B Drawer Safe
This is a basic safe with biometric electronic locking mechanism. Just 4.5″ high, it can store in a drawer easily. Good value at $119.99 on Amazon. If you don’t need biometric access, consider the Amazon Basics Drawer Safe for $46.84, which has a programmable electronic keypad plus key access.
Ten Handgun Safes Reviewed by Survival Gear
This video is titled “TOP 10 Best Gun Safe”, but it should be more accurately titled “10 Pistol Safes”. None of these safes will hold a long-gun, and most will hold just two handguns. The largest safe reviewed, the Vaultek MX high-capacity, will hold six pistols on the lower level, and a couple more on the upper, internal shelf. This is a well-made, professionally-produced video that shows “hands-on” operation of 10 safes.
SentrySafe QAP1E Handgun Safe with digital keypad. Top-opening gas-strut supported lid. Circular key override. Single pistol safe $79.99 on Amazon. Larger model with 2-gun capacity and interior light $220.77 on Amazon.
Konig Safe “Smart” Motion Sensor Gun Safe. Modern exterior design. Safe has audible motion alarm that sounds if moved. This unit has keypad, RFID, and fingerprint funtionality. $239.99 from Konig SAfe.
Titan Pistol Vault Safe with mechanical, push-button lock, 14-gauge steel with mounting brackets for vehicle or home installation. $348.52 on Amazon.
Vaultek VS10i Biometric Smart Pistol Safe with Auto-Open Lid and Rechargeable Battery and backlit keypad, $269.99 on Amazon.
Verifi Smart Safe S5000. Worth a look if you want a Biometric pistol safe. This has the largest and only FBI-certified fingerprint sensor. There is back-up key access, but no keypad. $299.99 on Amazon.
BILLCONCH Biometric Gun Safe. This offers four access modes: keypad, biometric, phone App, and keyed entry. User reviews have been good. If you want a biometric safe on a budget, this is a logical choice for just $139.99 on Amazon.
Vaultek MX WiFi High Capacity Smart Handgun Safe. Auto-open Door and rechargeable battery. This 15″x 11.5″x 11.6″ safe can hold up to 8 handguns on two levels. Available as Biometric ($629.99 on Amazon with WiFi connectivity — receive instant alerts for safe activity on your phone.
Handgun Safes for Bedside at Home — Pew Pew Tactical Reviews
A rapid-access bedside safe is a great way to keep your pistol secure, but also readily available, close at hand. Not all rapid-access pistol safes are created equal, however. In this video, John of Pew Pew Tactical explains what to look for in a small pistol safe, and points out the pros and cons of the four safes tested:
Fort Knox FTK-PB Simplex Pistol Box
Strong case, reliable no-battery locking system. This was a very good safe, but has been superseded by the Fort Knox PB1 handgun safe ($299.00 on Amazon).
Vaultek Electronic Pistol Safes
Multiple styles, thin profile, 5-button electronic ($159.99 on Amazon), or Biometric VT10i + 5-button ($269.99 on Amazon), both with rechargeable batteries.
GunVault SpeedVault Handgun Safe
Designed for vertical mount under desk on vehicle, one gun only, requires batteries, $222.00 on Amazon.
Quick Summaries of 2023 Model Pistol Safes (Rapid Access Focus)
Here are a couple more handgun safe reviews. These are mostly collections of manufacturers’ promotional materials, but these two videos do showcase some of the most recent models. In addition, the first video covers rapid-access, biometric-activated safes.
Smart Advice for Handgun Safes from AccurateShooter
With any small pistol safe, there are some important points to remember.
1. Keep the safe out of plain view — Don’t place it on top of a bedside table. Burglars often go straight to the bedroom looking for valuables. We recommend attaching your pistol safe to a secure surface using bolts. Or use a steel cable.
2. With electronic handgun safes, you should change/charge the batteries regularly. It is pointless to have a self-defense pistol in a safe you can’t open because the battery is dead. Electronic safes should always have back-up key-locks!
3. Don’t put important valuables such as car keys, credit cards, and jewelry in compact pistol safes. Even when screwed down, these small safes are known targets for thieves.
4. Remember the KISS principle. Some of the latest pistol safes are WiFi enabled so they can talk to a smart-phone APP. This may provide entertainment for tech types, but simpler may be better. You want a safe that will open/close without WiFi and without a battery.
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Hornady recently unveiled a variety of new products for 2023. There are new ammo and bullet types, new firearms storage products, a new ammo storage locker, and an impressive new Precision Lab Scale with a 0.01 grain readout and hi/lo sensitivity settings. Among Hornady’s new ammo products, the new 7mm PRC is the most notable. This new 7mm magnum cartridge will initially be offered with three bullet types: 160gr CX Outfitter, 175gr ELD-X Precision Hunter, and 180gr ELD Match.
The new ammunition, bullet, reloading and security products will be available from stocking dealers, major retail sporting goods stores and their websites.
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A good, quick-access safe can keep your handgun secure, but also readily accessible. There many factors to consider when buying a small, rapid-access pistol safe: reliability, locking mechanism type, case metal strength/thickness, need for battery, ease of installation, internal capacity, built-in lighting, attack resistance, and overall quality. If you are considering getting a small safe for handguns, we recommend you watch all three videos below. Each shares some valuable observations, and it’s good to have three different reviewers covering wide selection of pistol safes with many different features.
Seven Quick-Access Handgun Safes Reviewed by Lucky Gunner
Not all small handgun safes are created equal. In this 11-minute video, Lucky Gunner reviewer Chris talks about what to look for in a small pistol safe, setting out the pros and cons of the seven safes with which he has done “hands on” testing.
Fort Knox Original Pistol Box
Fort Knox handgun safes feature 10-gauge Uni-body construction and reliable Simplex mechanical locking mechanism. Low-tech but reliable. The vertical lid FTK-PB Pistol Box is $257.00 at Amazon.
V-Line Hide-Away Two-gun Pistol Safe
The V-Line safe with Simplex mechanical lock and slide-out drawer holds two handguns. Sold with mounting bracket, this is designed for under-tabletop or under-shelf installation. It is $272.76 on Amazon.
ShotLock Handgun 200M Solo-Vault
Shotlock’s 200M safe with slide-out drawer, reliable mechanical lock, and mounting plate costs $165.75 on Amazon. Also available is an electronic version for $134.99 on Amazon.
Vaultek VT20i Biometric Pistol Safe
This is a modern two-handgun safe with electronic lock and Biometric (fingerprint scan) instant-access system. Crafted of 16-gauge steel, the VT20i has a rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery. $269.99 on Amazon.
Hornady RAPiD Safe 2600KP
The Hornady RAPiD 2600KP safe offers very fast RFID access for a modest $151.86 on Amazon. This small safe meets TSA requirements for handgun storage in checked luggage. Good choice for travel.
Stack-On PDS-1500 Drawer Safe
This is a basic safe with electronic locking mechanism. Just 4.5″ high, it can store in a drawer easily. Good value at $97.93 on Amazon.
GunVault MicroVault XL
A top-seller for many years, the Gunvault Microvault XL is offered in standard ($169.99) and Biometric MVB1000 versions. There have been some negative reviews of the $299.99 biometric version.
Smart Advice for Handgun Safes from AccurateShooter
With any small pistol safe, there are some important points to remember.
1. Keep the safe out of plain view — Don’t place it on top of a bedside table. Burglars often go straight to the bedroom looking for valuables. We recommend attaching your pistol safe to a secure surface using bolts. Or use a steel cable.
2. With electronic handgun safes, you should change/charge the batteries regularly. It is pointless to have a self-defense pistol in a safe you can’t open because the battery is dead. Electronic safes should always have back-up key-locks.
3. Don’t put important valuables such as car keys, credit cards, and jewelry in compact pistol safes. Even when screwed down, these small safes are known targets for thieves.
4. Remember the KISS principle. Some of the latest pistol safes are WiFi enabled so they can talk to a smart-phone APP. This may provide entertainment for tech types, but simpler may be better. You want a safe that will open/close without WiFi and without a battery.
Ten Handgun Safes Reviewed by Survival Gear
This video is titled “TOP 10 Best Gun Safe”, but it should be more accurately titled “10 Pistol Safes”. None of these safes will hold a long-gun, and most will hold just two handguns. The largest safe reviewed, the Vaultek MX high-capacity, will hold six pistols on the lower level, and a couple more on the upper, internal shelf. This is a well-made, professionally-produced video that shows “hands-on” operation of 10 safes.
SentrySafe QAP1E Handgun Safe with digital keypad. Top-opening gas-strut supported lid. Circular key override. Single pistol safe $107.11 on Amazon. Larger model with 2-gun capacity and interior light $169.99 on Amazon.
GunBox 2.0 “Smart” Motion Sensor Gun Safe. Modern exterior design. Safe has audible motion alarm that sounds if moved. $299.99 from Gunbox.com.
Titan Pistol Vault Safe with mechanical, push-button lock, 14-gauge steel with mounting brackets for vehicle or home installation. $379.00 on Amazon.
Vaultek VT10i Biometric Smart Pistol Safe with Auto-Open Lid and Rechargeable Battery and backlit keypad, $244.99 on Amazon.
Verifi Smart.Safe. Worth a look if you want a Biometric pistol safe. This has the largest and only FBI-certified fingerprint sensor. There is back-up key access, but no keypad. User reviews are good so far. $329.99 on Amazon.
BILLCONCH Biometric Gun Safe. This offers four access modes: keypad, biometric, phone App, and keyed entry. User reviews have been good. If you want a biometric safe on a budget, this is a logical choice for just $139.99 on Amazon.
Vaultek MX WiFi High Capacity Smart Handgun Safe. Auto-open Door and rechargeable battery. This 15″x 11.5″x 11.6″ safe can hold up to 8 handguns on two levels. Available as Biometric ($559.99 on Amazon or non-Biometric $489.99 on Amazon.
Liberty HDX-250 Smart Vault Biometric handgun safe. We like the large Liberty gunsafes and this is a new Biometric safe that holds up to 15 fingerprint codes. $219.99 on Amazon.
Handgun Safes for Bedside at Home — Pew Pew Tactical Reviews
A rapid-access bedside safe is a great way to keep your pistol secure, but also readily available, close at hand. Not all rapid-access pistol safes are created equal, however. In this video, John of Pew Pew Tactical explains what to look for in a small pistol safe, and points out the pros and cons of the four safes tested:
Fort Knox FTK-PB Simplex Pistol Box
Strong case, reliable no-battery locking system. Very good safe, but expensive ($257.00 on Amazon).
Vaultek Electronic Pistol Safes
Multiple styles, thin profile, 5-button electronic ($139.99 on Amazon), or Biometric VT10i + 5-button ($244.99 on Amazon), both with rechargeable batteries.
GunVault SpeedVault Handgun Safe
Designed for vertical mount under desk on vehicle, One gun only, requires batteries, $121.00 on Amazon
GunVault NanoVault Handgun Safe
Small, thin, lightweight — designed for travel or vehicle use. Simple combination lock. Not recommended for home. $56.38 on Amazon.
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At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
1. Midsouth — RCBS Chargemaster Combo and CM Lite Sale
⏺ Classic Chargemaster and CM Lite are both excellent units with good controls
RCBS Chargemaster electronic powder dipsensers are exceptional bargains right now. For a limited time, you can pick up the RCBS Chargemaster Combo for $244.49 after $75 RCBS Rebate. Or get the RCBS Chargemaster Lite for $179.49 after $50 RCBS Rebate. These are crazy low prices with RCBS Rebates. IMPORTANT: This RCBS Buy Green Get Green Rebate expires Monday, August 31, 2020! Purchases on September 1, 2020 or later do NOT qualify for the rebate! Got That?
2. CDNN Sports — T/C Compass $289.99 with 3-9x40mm Scope
⏺ Three popular chamberings, killer deal includes scope, rings and sling
Here’s a great deal for a basic hunting rifle. CDNN is offering Thompson Center Compass bolt-action rifles in 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Win, or .300 Win Magnum for only $289.99. That’s a killer deal by itself, but this package includes a FREE 3-9x40mm scope and neoprene sling. Just add ammo to your cart and you’re off to your favorite hunting spot.
3. Amazon — All Teslong Digital Borescopes 20% OFF
⏺ Excellent image quality, choose flexible or rod-type borescopes
Teslong borescopes have become the go-to instrument of choice for serious shooters who need to look INSIDE their barrels. Teslongs are affordable yet they produce remarkably clear and sharp images. Teslong now offers a wide selection of borescopes that will work with your computer and mobile devices. SEE the Teslong Borescope Line HERE, including both flex-cable and rigid models. Use Code THXJM15P for 20% SAVINGS on all Teslong models.
4. Graf & Sons — Berger Ammunition and Bullet Sale
⏺ Berger bullets win matches. Berger loaded ammo is made with Lapua brass
Berger is known for its excellent projectiles. But did you know Berger also produces outstanding hunting and target ammunition. Right now Grafs.com has Berger hunting bullets and ammunition on SALE. You’ll find a wide range of bullet calibers, plus loaded ammo for 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Win, .338 Lapua and other popular cartridge types. Grab a few boxes before your next hunt.
⏺ Very versatile for guns, hobby use, made in USA, nice case
When working on your guns or reloading hardware, you need good drivers. This Chapman 28-piece tool kit boasts 24 bits plus midget ratchet, screwdriver handle, extension, and a handy case with slots for each tool. You get Phillips, Metric, Slotted, and Standard Hex Bits all milled from tool steel in the USA. If 24 drivers isn’t enough, Chapman offers other larger sets with 30 pieces ($59) and 57 pieces ($112).
⏺ Get three (3) pistol racks, plus barrel hangers for 50% OFF!
If you have a sizeable handgun collection, jump on this great MidwayUSA pistol package deal. For just $24.99 you get one 8-pistol rack, one 6-pistol rack, and one 4-pistol rack — but that’s not all. You also get a 4-pack of Hornady Pistol Hangers. All these safe accessories are made of PVC-coated hardened steel which accommodate heavy 22 caliber and larger handguns. The SnapSafe Pistol rack will hold virtually all pistols and revolvers. The hangers work with shelves that are 1/2 to 1 inch thick. BONUS: If you buy two sets, you get FREE Shipping! MidwayUSA is offering free shipping right now for all orders over $49 Total.
⏺ Rapid Access, no key required, holds two handguns, bargain price
You want your handguns secure, but also quickly accessible. For home security, a rapid-access gun safe is a good option. Ktaxon Quick Access Pistol Safe is one-third the price of some similar handgun safes. With a programmable 3 to 8 digit finger entry combination code you can instantly open the safe’s spring-loaded door. And yes, this pistol safe can be bolted down for greater security. IMPORTANT: The Walmart page mentions fingerprint recognition. This $49.99 safe does NOT have fingerprint recognition — got that? You need to tap with your fingers on the pads or used the supplied metal key.
8. Amazon — Motion-Sensor LED Interior Light, $14.99
⏺ Activates when door opens, Rechargeable, 3 LED Light Levels
Here’s a great accessory for your Gun Safe or closet. This rechargeable LED lamp turns itself on when you open the door, and off when you close the door. Select three brightness levels: 10LED, 20LED, 30LED. With the supplied 3M adhesive magnetic strip you can easily attach the light to the inner walls of your gun safe. And then quickly remove the unit for charging with a standard USB cord (no batteries to replace!). It works, it’s handy, and it’s inexpensive — just $14.99 on Amazon. These motion-sensor LED lamps can also be used in garages or stairwells. NOTE: this is Amazon’s choice for rechargeable LED Motion-Sensor lights.
9. Amazon — Pro For Sho Shooting Ear Protection, $16.45
⏺ Very affordable, tapered design, nine color choices
Always wear hearing protection at the shooting range. We recommend double protection — earplugs under a full-protection set of earmuffs. ThePro For Sho Shooting Ear Protection muffs provide good protection at minimal cost. These lightweight earmuffs are tapered for more clearance on your stock. Pro For Sho muffs, with claimed 34 dB noise reduction (not the same as NRR), come in 9 different colors. At this price you can grab muffs for yourself and another backup set for guests.
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At the request of our readers, we have launched a “Deals of the Week” feature. Every Monday morning we offer our Bargain Selections. Here are some of the best deals on hardware, reloading components, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
1. Amazon– Vortex 1-4×24 Crossfire Scope
A big change is coming in the Service Rifle game. Starting next year, Service Rifle shooters will be allowed to use optical sights with max magnification of 4.5X. Here’s an affordable option if you want to upgrade your service rifle with a scope. The Vortex 1-4x24mm Crossfire II Scope with V-Brite Reticle is now just $221.95.
2. Southern Shooters — 17 HMR Ruger American Rimfire Rifle
With ballistics far superior to a .22 LR, the 17 HMR is ideal for Prairie Dogs and small varmints out to 180 yards or so. Now you can get a reliable, name brand 17 HMR rifle for under $250.00. That’s right, Southern Shooters is selling the 17 HMR Ruger American Rimfire, with 22″ barrel, for just $244.21. FFL required. For other vendors with this rifle, CLICK HERE.
3. Bruno’s — 5% Off In-Stock Inventory and FREE Shipping
Here’s an awesome end-of-year special from Bruno Shooters Supply. Right now, Bruno’s is offering 5% off nearly all in-stock items. On top of that, through the end of the year you can get FREE ground shipping in the mainland US (Hazmat charges still apply). If you need hardware (barrels, stocks, actions), optics (scopes, LRFs, spotters), or reloading supplies (powder, primers, bullets, brass), you can find it at Bruno’s.
4. Midsouth — Hornady L-N-L Auto Charge Scale/Dispenser
The RCBS ChargeMaster is more widely used than the Hornady Auto Charge, but the Hornady unit works fine and is quite a bit more affordable. Now, with this Midsouth special, you can grab an Auto Charge for less than HALF what an RCBS ChargeMaster costs these days. That’s a bargain in our book.
5. Bullets.com — Handgun Safe $49.95
This pistol safe keeps your handguns secure while still permitting instant “push-button” access. The three-button lock can be personalized with 3- to 8-digit codes, and there is a key override. This safe will hold two (2) full-sized pistols and can also store passports, cash, or other valuables. The spring-loaded door gives you near-instant response. The all-steel case also includes mounting holes for fixing the safe to floor or shelf.
6. Sinclair International — Last Chance for 2015 RCBS Rebates
Get $50 back on $300 through December 31, 2015. Customers who purchase $50 of RCBS tools and accessories can receive a $10 rebate, or those who buy $300 in RCBS products will receive a $50.00 rebate. All RCBS products qualify for this rebate program. But you have to act quickly– qualifying purchases must be made before midnight on December 31, 2015. LINK: RCBS Products at Sinclair International.
6. GTD Distributors — Ruger LC9S Pro Carry Pistol $339.95
The Ruger LC9s Pro is a compact 9mm carry pistol that weighs just 17.2 ounces. It is one of Hickok 45’s favorite CCW guns, and he’s tried just about everything. The LC9s was a striker-fired upgrade of the original LC9. It has a smooth, short-travel trigger that breaks at about 5.5 pounds (compared to 8 pounds for the original LC9). This latest LC9s “Pro” model has the same enhanced trigger as the LC9s plus a simpler manual of arms. The LC9s Pro dispenses with the thumb safety and annoying magazine disconnect. LINK: Hickok 45 LC9s Pro Review.
8. Amazon — $4.95 Handgun Hangers 4-Pack
Save shelf space with these handy Handgun Hangers. These hangers provide the most efficient way to store a large handgun collection. Pistols hang below the shelf, opening up all the space above the shelf for other items. A four-pack of hangers costs just $4.95. WARNING: Before putting pistols on hangers, make sure your handguns are UNLOADED, with no round in the chamber.
9. Amazon — Howard Leight Electronic Muffs (Best Seller)
Every shooter should own a pair of Electronic muffs — they are great when you are doing spotting duties or are working near the firing line. They allow you to hear ordinary conversations while still providing vital hearing protection. Right now Amazon.com has the Howard Leight Impact Sport Electronic Muffs on sale for just $39.86. These NRR 22 muffs are currently Amazon’s #1 seller in the category. NOTE: For regular, sustained shooting we recommend muffs and/or earplugs with a higher NRR rating.
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