Everyone should have a heavy-duty, thick-walled steel gunsafe for their firearms and valuables. Ideally this should weigh 400+ pounds and offer fire protection for the contents. However, a gun owner may also want more rapid access to defensive arms and security items, in a different part of the home. That is where the “hidden in plain sight” concept comes into play.

Freedom Cabinet Holds Long Arms and Pistols — RFID Access

The unique Freedom Cabinet, shown above, is a patriotic, wall-mounted Stars & Stripes Flag-themed concealment unit. Available in Wood, Steel, or Carbon Fiber, each secure Freedom Cabinet features inlaid steel and Invisible RFID or Biometric locking systems. The Freedom Cabinet regularly costs $229.95. Along with this flip-up Freedom cabinet, there is a “Slider” version priced at $284.95.

Get the 20% discounts this Memorial Day week with CODE “THANKYOU20″. Later, for Father’s Day week, save 20% with CODE “DAD20″

Tactical Walls Shelf Secure Storage Unit

TacticalWalls.com, producers of home security/concealment products, offers clever furniture item that hold defensive arms. We like the big model 1242 Top Locking Shelf. This will hold a long gun plus a pistol and other items, which can be accessed rapidly with magnetic keys. The foam-lined secret compartment measures 12″ Deep x 42″ Wide. Price starts at $540.00.

Tactical Walls also have a smaller model 825 Top Locking Shelf that holds two pistols and some small accessories. This model 82 has a 8″ x 25″ W foam-lined hidden compartment accessed by magnetic keys. The model 825 locking Shelf retails for $473.00 – $405.00, depending on wood choice.

Everyone should have a heavy-duty, thick-walled steel gunsafe for their firearms and valuables. Ideally this should weigh 400+ pounds and offer fire protection for the contents. However, a gun owner may also want more rapid access to defensive arms and security items, in a different part of the home. That is where the “hidden in plain sight” concept comes into play.

Freedom Cabinet Holds Long Arms and Pistols — RFID Access

The unique Freedom Cabinet, shown above, is a patriotic, wall-mounted Stars & Stripes Flag-themed concealment unit. Available in Wood, Steel, or Carbon Fiber, each secure Freedom Cabinet features inlaid steel and Invisible RFID or Biometric locking systems. The Freedom Cabinet regularly costs $219.95 but is discounted to $179.96 this Memorial Day Week (with coupon code). Along with this flip-up Freedom cabinet, there is a “Slider” version regularly priced at $254.95, but now $196.76 (with code).

Get the 20% discounts this Memorial Day week with CODE “THANKYOU20″. Later, for Father’s Day week, save 20% with CODE “DAD20″

Tactical Walls Shelf Secure Storage Unit

TacticalWalls.com, producers of home security/concealment products, offers clever furniture item that hold defensive arms. We like the big model 1242 Top Locking Shelf. This will hold a long gun plus a pistol and other items, which can be accessed rapidly with magnetic keys. The foam-lined secret compartment measures 12″ Deep x 42″ Wide. Price starts at $455.00.

Tactical Walls also have a smaller model 825 Top Locking Shelf that holds two pistols and some small accessories. This model 82 has a 8″ x 25″ W foam-lined hidden compartment accessed by magnetic keys. The model 825 locking Shelf retails for $405.00 – $435.00, depending on wood choice.

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. Sportsman’s WHSE — 12-gun Steel Security Cabinet, $189.99

⏺ Great Value on versatile security cabinet — good secondary safe

In addition to a heavy, primary gunsafe, many gun-owners can use a smaller security cabinet for another area of the house, for the garage, or even for an RV. If you’re looking for a good basic gun locker, check out the SnapSafe Premium 12-Gun Tactical Cabinet. It has a simple key-lock system and can fit in most closets. Purchasers praised this unit given the low cost: “For a gun case below $200 you can’t get much better than this” and “More of a light-weight gun locker … it is well made and sturdy though, and is much better than I expected for the price.”

2. Palmetto Armory — Black Aces 12GA Pump Shotgun, $349.99

⏺ Killer Deal on 12ga tactical with good sights, top rail, hard case

It’s hard to beat a good shotgun for home defense. However, many good defensive shotguns have been sold out, or the prices have been artificially inflated by sellers. Here’s a good defensive scattergun at a great price. The Black Aces Tactical 18.5″ Shotgun boasts 5-round capacity, and has large sights plus a rail for fitting a Red Dot optic. This matte black shotgun ships with 3 chokes, an accessory grip, and even a hard case, all for a low $349.99 price.

3. Amazon — Hornady Lock-N-Load Concentricity Tool, $134.99

⏺ This tool is easy to use — measures run out on case and bullet

Loading straight and true cartridges is the cornerstone of precision shooting. However, without some kind of concentricity gauge you’re just guessing. If you want to start measuring case neck and bullet run-out to assess the quality of your handloads, consider getting the Hornady Lock-N-Load Concentricity Tool. It features precise alignment of most bottleneck cartridges from .22 up to .45 Caliber, an easy-to-use precision adjustment knob, plus a sturdy frame that can be bolted to your bench.

4. Amazon — Kestrel 2000 Pocket Wind & Temp Meter, $134.99

⏺ Every shooter can use a Kestrel; this has key functions

Disappointed with cheap wind meters or tired of clunky cellphone impeller attachments that are time-consuming to set up? Save time and trouble by getting the Kestrel 2000 Pocket Wind and Temperature Meter. This quality unit features current wind speed, maximum wind gust, average wind speed, temperature, wind chill. It’s also waterproof, has an easy-to-read display with backlight, and it floats.

5. Creedmoor Sports — Deluxe 55″ or 60″ Rifle Case, $124.95

⏺ Truly one of the highest-quality soft rifle cases you can buy

Tired of poorly-made soft cases that wear out after one season? If you want to get a top-quality case that will last for years, check out the Creedmoor Blue Deluxe 55″ or 60″ Rifle Case. These hand-made cases provide an incredible level of protection with quality fabrics and padding. Smart design, high-grade zippers, and top-quality sewing make a noticeable difference. And right now you can get either the 55″ or 60″ model for $124.45 — a $25 savings off the regular $149.95 price. You will see many of the nation’s top Palma and F-Class shooters using these cases.

6. Natchez — Bushnell 2.5-10x44mm SFP Scope + Knife, $189.99

⏺ Great scope deal PLUS nice hunting knife with 5 blades

The Bushnell Nitro 2.5-10×44 SFP 30mm Rifle Scope is a solid, reliable optic. Right now, if you purchase this riflescope for the low $189.99 sale price, you get a FREE Havalon hunting knife with FIVE replaceable blades. This Bushnell Nitro optic features good light transmission and EXO Barrier lens coating that repels water, oil, dust, debris and scratches. Buyers have given this scope very good reviews: “This [scope] is way better than I expected for the money. I liked it so well I ordered another one.” This special saves you $160.00 on the scope PLUS you get a nice knife kit as a bonus.

7. Amazon — EEBOW Military-style Tactical Backpack, $33.99

⏺ Pack has many good features and is very versatile

Any range bag, bug-out bag, or hiking pack needs to be well-made and have ample storage capacity, with a variety of compartments for various types of gear. The EEBOW GEAR Military Tactical Backpack boasts multiple compartments, plenty of pockets, nice shoulder straps, plus MOLLE attachments. It is also hydration bladder compatible. It’s hard to beat this tactical pack for the money. Grab one while it’s on sale.

8. Amazon — MTM TMC15 Tactical Mag Can, $29.79

⏺ Good way to carry loaded mags securely — case has handle and lock hasp

Storing P-mags or other AR-style mags is never easy. They don’t stack well and bags don’t make it any easier. Now with the MTM TMC15 Tactical Mag Can you can safely and easily store and travel with up to 15 magazines and never worry about damage. This is also a great way to transport loaded magazines in states where ammo needs to be locked up while traveling.

9. Amazon — Silicone Gun Socks with Multiple Sizes, From $4.39

⏺ Long guns should be in gun socks or borestores when in gunsafes

Most people think that once you put firearms in a gunvault they are safe from corrosion but that’s not true. It’s not uncommon for folks to stow guns in a safe only to find rust on them months (or years) later. Avoid future disappointment by using these affordable silicone treated socks. Offered in assorted sizes for pistols, rifles, and shotguns, prices range from $4.39 (pistol) to $7.39 (tactical rifle). We also recommend using Eezox or other good corrosion inhibitor on metal parts. With that and a good treated gun sock and a Goldenrod, rust should not be a worry anymore.

At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every 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. RCBS 2019 REBATE Program — Get Up to $100 Back

RCBS just announced its first Rebate Program for 2019. Get up to $100 back on select RCBS® products. If you need an electronic Scale/Dispenser, Progressive Press, a Case Prep Center, Ultrasonic Machine, or Power Case trimmer you’re in luck. Here are the Rebates available for purchases made between 2/1/2019 and 3/17/2019. NOTE: The DEADLINE for mail-in or online submissions is 4/16/2019.

$50 REBATES: ProChucker 7 (88911) or ProChucker 5 (88910) Progressive Presses

$40 REBATES: Ultrasonic Case Cleaner 2 (87056), Universal Case Prep Ctr (90370), Trim Pro-2 Power Kit ( 90367), or Chargemaster Combo (98923)

$20 REBATES: Ultrasonic Case Cleaner (87055), or Chargemaster Lite (98940)

Credit EdLongRange for this RCBS Rebate Tip.

2. Natchez — Optics Clearance Sale

Looking for a new riflescope, spotting scope, binoculars, or tripod? Natchez Shooters Supply is running a pretty compelling optics clearance sale on just about any kind of optic you can imagine, along with accessories. Brands include Leupold, Swarovski, Nikon, Burris and more. If you need a new optic, check out this clearance sale.

3. Bruno Shooters Supply & ArmOrAlly — Nosler Bullet Blowout

Nosler bullets are loved and appreciated from hunters to target shooters alike but finding them on sale isn’t always easy. Bruno Shooters Supply and ArmOrAlly.com are both running some of the best prices we’ve seen on Nosler bullets in a long time. Guaranteed that if you shoot Nosler you’ll find something you can’t live without between these two sites.

4. Sportsman’s Guide — 5-Gun Security Cabinet, $127.49

If you already own a full-size gun safe, but need secure storage for a workroom, office, or RV, here’s an affordable option. This 5-Gun Security Cabinet can also serve as a bedroom closet safe, to hold a couple long arms and other valuables. The First Watch 5-Gun Security Cabinet from Sportman’s Guide costs just $127.49 (or $114.79 member price). This can also serve as a secure locker for vacation homes. We’ve even seen people bolt these units to their campers or truck beds while traveling. NOTE: Add another item to get your total up to $150 and you can use promo code SG3480 to get a FREE $50 gift card by mail. This gift card deal runs through 11:59 pm on 2/12/2018.

5. CDNN — Ruger American .22 WMR with Scope, $289.99

The .22 WMR (Winchester Magnum Rimfire) is an effective cartridge for varmints, with higher velocity and more range than the .22 LR. The barrel is easier to clean than a .17 HMR. If you’ve been looking to add a .22 WMR to your arsenal, here’s a great deal. Now you can pick up this .22 WMR Ruger American for just $289.99. That price even includes a 3.5-10X36mm Bushnell scope, rings, and scope covers. This is a nice little rifle with back-up iron sights and a decent trigger. If you figure the scope and rings are worth $90, you’re effectively getting the rifle for under $200.00. Sweet deal. By itself, without scope, this .22 WMR rifle sells for $320 elsewhere.

6. Walmart — Sportsman 2000 Watt Generator, $149.00

Have you been watching the news lately and wondered what you would do if bad weather hit your area and you found yourself without power? Do you wish you had a backup generator for the basics but can’t justify spending the money on a full-sized unit? Fear no more as Walmart has the Sportsman 2000W Generator for the amazingly low price of $149.00. It’s quiet, compact and has enough power just to keep the basic running that it’s tough to not grab one just in case you ever have a need. Read the reviews — buyers say this little unit works.

7. Midsouth Shooters Supply — Federal Pistol Ammo Rebate

Need pistol ammo? Want to save money? Then check out the latest promotion from Federal and other Vista Outdoor ammo brands. With this rebate you get $2.00 back for every 50-round box of centerfire ammo you buy, except for 9mm Luger (9x19mm) — that qualifies for a $1.00/box rebate. Now through March 31, 2019, rebates are offered for all these participating brands: Federal, Speer, Blazer, American Eagle, and Independence. You must buy at least 250 rounds (5 boxes) to qualify. Grab any of these pistol ammo brands and then submit the REBATE FORM. NOTE: Qualifying purchases must be made December 3, 2018 through March 31, 2019. The DEADLINE for mail-in or online submissions is April 30, 2019. To redeem online, visit Promotions.vistaoutdoor.com. MORE INFO here.

8. Amazon — Champion Precision Sight-In Target, $11.97

Have you ever been ready to run to the range and blow off a few rounds only to find that you’re out of targets? If you’re like us that’s one of the most frustrating things that can happen when heading to the club and nobody likes using printer paper and a marker to make a target. Pick up this 100 count set of sight-in targets and you won’t have to run to the store last minute or dig through the range trash cans hoping to find a barely-used target. This is a great value — only 12 cents per target! Great deal.

9. Amazon – Proster Wind Meter, $16.99

Wish you had a modern impeller-style wind meter but only shoot a couple matches a year and can’t justify spending $150 (or more) on one? This Proster wind meter has a very impressive 4.5 star overall rating (with hundreds of reviews), so buy with confidence. Now on sale for just $16.99, this is a very useful tool for a bargain basement price. Get this affordable Wind Meter to ensure you have reliable wind readings for ballistics calculations. And unlike a costly Kestrel, with this low-priced wind meter, you won’t feel too bad if it gets lost or misplaced some time.

Most Weekly Deals Sourced by F-Class John.

For self-defense in your home or shop, you want quick access to your handgun. This is possible with a security box that works rapidly with the touch of your fingers*. Such smaller safes can be opened in a couple of seconds, while still keeping handguns secure from kids or any unwanted visitors. Right now the two-level GunVault GV2000C-Deluxe is on sale for $117.90 at Amazon with Free Shipping. This is a good deal. This same dual-level safe sells for $155-$195 at most other vendors.

The MultiVault Deluxe (SKU: GV2000C-DLX) employs the Patented No-Eyes® Keypad and/or back-up security lock to open the safe. This GV2000C Deluxe unit includes a motion detector and a convenient interior light. It will also automatically block entry after multiple incorrect attempts. This GunVault can be secured via a heavy security cable so a thief can’t simply grab the safe and run. Interior dimensions are: 6″ High x 9″ Wide x 12.75″ Deep. We should note that there are other more expensive safes that employ RFID technology. That works well if you carry a fob or RFID ring. But for shop installation, we like the simplicity of the button keypad. RFID-equipped safes are also much more expensive.

There is also a smaller GunVault safe, the GV1000C-STD, shown below. This single-level model also opens with a finger sequence on the keypad. This smaller safe is also on sale currently on Amazon for $88.36 with free shipping. If you prefer the biometric version (that can also open with a fingerprint scan), that costs $214.64.

And for under-desk use in a workshop or business, GunVault offers the SV500 Handgun SpeedVault. This places a pistol in a vertical position under a counter or desk-top. Activate the four buttons in the correct sequence and the unit opens downward so you can quickly grab the pistol. This SpeedVault has multiple mounting options, and, like other GunVault safes, there is a back-up override key.

* This is NOT a biometric safe that opens by scanning a fingerprint. This safe uses a sequence of physical key presses with your fingers. “Learn Buttons” make it easy to program millions of user-selectable access codes. A built-in computer blocks access after repeated invalid keypad entries. GunVault does offer a biometric GVB2000 safe for $229.97 at Amazon. Honestly, we prefer the mechanical version at half the price. Less to go wrong.

If the battery on your safe’s electronic lock is more than a year old, or if it is not giving you the right voltage, replace it today!

This time of year, many readers are putting their guns away in a safe for the winter. It’s easy to just tuck the guns away and forget about them. But there’s something you should do before you shut the safe door. If you have a safe with an electronic keypad, you should replace the battery every year as a precautionary measure. Trust us, you don’t want to come back in a few months and find that the keypad memory is kaput, and you’re locked out. That can lead to an expensive locksmith visit.

Low Voltage Battery? You May Be Locked Out…
Here’s a true story. I have one safe with a Sargent & Greenleaf (S&G) keypad. A couple years back, in early December, I went to get into the safe. I punched in the correct combination, but all I got was a rapid “beep, beep, beep, beep” after I finished the last combination entry. I tried again to ensure I entered the combination correctly (I did). But again, the locking system responded with multiple rapid beeps indicating something was wrong. And the safe would not open. Now I was worried….

I popped out the battery holder (which slides in from the bottom of the keypad housing on the door). I removed the battery and tested it with a volt-meter. The 12-month-old Duracell 9-volt battery only registered 6.1 volts.

Low voltage was the problem. I went down to the store and got a couple new 9V batteries. I tested the new batteries and both measured 9.4 volts output. I slipped one of the new 9V batteries into the keypad housing, punched in the combination and everything worked OK again. Eureka.

Most electronic locks for safes WILL “remember” the combination for a period of time even when the battery is low (and the keypad’s “brain” should retain the combination when you remove the battery for replacement). However, a dead battery, or extended periods of low voltage can give you problems. Don’t rely on wishful thinking…