If you're looking for a reliable handgun safe that's both sturdy and affordable, here's my personal ranking of the best options for the money.
FYI, Prices and ratings are accurate as of time of writing.
1. VAULTEK Smart Station - Biometric Smart Safe with Built-in Wireless Phone Charger
Highlight: Fingerprint scanner comes with an LED backlight.
Helpful review: I've been keeping an eye on Vaultek for a super long time. They have a pretty big range of products I’m a fan of. The price tag on this smart safe initially put me off, but I decided to take the plunge and get one and man, I am so happy to report that this was a great decision. It's fantastic and worth every cent.
- The packaging was impressive and protective. You'll appreciate the care taken in this aspect.
- Setup was straightforward and clear, especially when programming fingerprints. No issues with setting combinations or fingerprints.
- The quality is top-notch. It's a very sturdy and well-built safe, sooo easy to use.
- The Bluetooth and biometric features are excellent.
- The phone charger on top works flawlessly.
- An extra USB port means I can also charge my watch using this system.
- It's spacious enough to hold most handguns. For example, it can easily accommodate two Glocks or a Sig with Holosun optics and two seventeen round magazines, with room to spare.
- The clock sets itself correctly when a phone is placed on the charger.
- It opens swiftly and silently.
- The interior lighting is beautiful and the app as a whole offers amazing features.
The product exceeds the advertisement. It's much more advanced and versatile than described. There are so many customizable features, like sound and lighting options. Having such a sleek product on my nightstand has genuinely upgraded my lifestyle. I love this safe so much that I'm considering buying another one.
BOTTOM LINE:
Don’t skimp on a cheaper safe to save money. This Vaultek is worth every penny. Their customer service is fantastic, and the follow-up is excellent. Based on this experience, I'll also be purchasing from Vaultek again, that’s for darn sure! — David P. McGillivray
Get it from Amazon now: $479.99 & FREE Returnss
2. Hornady RAPiD Night Guard - RFiD Wristband
Highlight: Constructed from fourteen gauge steel.
Helpful review: The safe has features that are literally the best of the best, just excellent. However, I found it a little odd that the instructions repeatedly say not to store a loaded firearm in it. Isn’t that the point of it?
RFID:
Programming the RFID keys is easy, though it didn't come with the advertised rubber wristband. It included a rubber sleeve for your watch band, two stick-on hard chips, and a teardrop shaped tag for your key ring, totaling four RFID keys.
FEATURES:
Setting the time is super simple. The drawer spring is strong, which I like, so it pops open easily, though it can shift the unit if not mounted securely. I used the mounting holes to secure it to my nightstand.
ISSUES:
Just a little one. There was no template for mounting, which was a time-waster. Drilling pilot holes and screwing from inside the unit was challenging due to limited space. I just wanted to anchor it so it didn't move every time I used it.
ALL IN ALL:
The security cable is really nice for securing the unit to a bed frame, but it's not long enough. It looks like a clock radio, but it doesn't function as one. I hope to dim the bright red clock numbers somehow. Overall, I recommend this product and seller.
HOWEVER, HERE’S MY NEIGHBOR’S REVIEW:
This thing arrived literally one day after I ordered it! It’s pretty heavy, but I can tell it’s sturdy. Set up was so easy, but you will need three triple A batteries. There’s like five ways to access it, which is cool, and I found no issue activating all of the different ways. You have to open it through one of those accesses, so keep that in mind. It’s a security aspect that I really appreciate about the product. I don’t really like how bright the clock numbers are, it’s a red light that I can see with my eyes closed, that’s how bright it is, so I’ll be trying to figure out how to dim that. Overall, this product is great, and you can tell the seller really cares about what they’re doing.
AND A FEW WORDS FROM A FRIEND:
Just can’t say enough good things about this. I’m so impressed. I love how the clock is just like an alarm clock and looks like an electronic device, which is really cool. Other brands offer similar protection, but this is really just the best out there. A lot of people who saw this, didn’t even know the clock was actually a safe for my guns, so that was cool. It fits my compact weapons, like my 9 and 22, pretty easily, and also had room for the magazines, so that was nice. I love that it comes with a key fob and a regular key. The combo was kind of confusing to set, but once I figured it out, it was no biggie. I def recommend this product! — Christopher A. Phillips
Get it from Amazon now: $242.79 & FREE Returns
3. VAULTEK - Best Drop-Down Safe
Highlight: Max firearm that can fit is just under nine inches, but also comes with room for spare mag.
Helpful review: It's a bit of a tight fit if you ask me, but this safe still manages to hold a full sized tactical weapon with a magazine, despite its height being just under six inches. It will definitely fit most handguns.
The biometric sensor on the Slider is more accurate and responsive than the smaller VT10i. The larger sensor detects fingerprints at any angle, and adding the same fingers multiple times increases readability. The app and web dashboards are pretty slick, and I have no issues with how it works. You even get notifications about the safe's status and fingerprint management.
The app can't open the safe remotely because it’s a security concern, which is probably for the best and actually something I like. I love the idea of the WIFI more than the actual thing. The features are kind of extra to the safe's primary function. The design shows thoughtful consideration, though. If cost is no object, then this is by far the best smart gun safe available on the market.
A FEW WORDS FROM A FRIEND:
After shopping for handgun safes, I finally ended up going with this Vaultek option. It's honestly amazing, packaged with care, and easy to set up. The steel construction is rugged and exactly what I was looking for. The keypad lights up when your hand is near, making it easy to read in the dark, which is helpful considering I’m practically blind without my glasses. It uses a standard Lithium Ion battery, meaning there’s no issue with replacing it. The drawer slides open completely with the correct code, and the LED light is super convenient at night. Great product overall, you won’t be disappointed. — Nick Anderson
Get it from Amazon now: $369.99 & FREE Returns
4. VAULTEK VS10i - Best Fingerprint Scanner
Highlight: Rechargeable battery lasts for up to six months, charges in under three hours, and has the best fingerprint scanner out there.
Helpful review: I recently bought this pistol gun safe and am very impressed by this thing. The packaging was seriously perfect. The safe is solid and extremely well-built. The user manual is clear as day and so easy to understand, which is rare these days for some products.
Installation is completely foolproof, because the safe detects the polarity of the battery. The key works fine, and programming the biometric fingerprints was easy, better than I expected actually. The fingerprint response works very well. Programming the keypad was also straightforward. This safe is ideal for securely storing a pistol with quick access when needed. It's perfect for RV travel, providing a secure place for valuables and potentially a pistol. With a bit of ingenuity, you can mount it securely in an RV.
A FEW POINTS FROM A FRIEND:
- The fingerprint reader is easy to program and very accurate, opening the safe in one second. It offers two administrator prints, two keys, and 1 four to eight digit keypad combination.
- There's enough room for a subcompact firearm and three ten round magazines.
- The Bluetooth app feature is simplistic but useful for identifying fingerprints, viewing the last opened time, and disabling beeping.
- The safe is sturdy and solid, heavier than expected. It's not fireproof or waterproof, so use desiccants in humid environments.
-There’s a foam layer on the bottom and on the lid.
TIP:
If you're carrying it around, consider additional foam for shaping indents for your firearm and magazines. This safe is CA and TSA approved which lets me sleep a little better at night. — David Rauschenberg
Get it from Amazon now: $269.99 & FREE Returns
5. RPNB Drop Down - Carbon Knight Series
Highlight: With sturdy steel, you won’t be disappointed by the construction.
Helpful review: This thing arrived at my house so freaking fast. Didn’t know shipping could be that fast. And it came with excellent packing. After some use, I decided to give an honest review on it. The RPNB safe is high quality, well-crafted, and works superbly. Exactly what I could hope for in a gun safe.
The only issue was the rubber feet coming loose when it’s super hot out, I guess the heat loosens and expands it, but they reattach easily. The drawer opens smoothly every time. Registering fingerprints at different angles is necessary if you're not consistent with your fingerprint placement. RPNB should be commended for this product. A plus, in my book.
MY NEIGHBOR'S REVIEW:
I was looking for a gun safe that could be hidden next to my bed, offering safety and easy access. The locker has a passcode with a fingerprint option, opening in a second so I can just hop right into that ready to pull and shoot position. There's also a manual key lock, which is a nice plus. The heavy metal case prevents forced opening, and there's enough space for one pistol and an extra magazine.
A FEW WORDS FROM A FRIEND:
After searching for a solid, reliable safe, I found this one that fits a pistol perfectly. The fingerprint reader is surprisingly accurate, even when set up with different angles. It's well-made and heavy, which is good. The only con is that it’s pretty loud when you open it, which is kinda annoying, but I guess at the point you’re opening it, it won’t really matter if a burglar hears it. Time will tell with how it performs in the long run. — Trent Bailey
Get it from Amazon now: $199.00 & FREE Returns
6. ONNAIS - Best for Tech Dummies
Highlight: Ideal for multiple users as it stores up to 30 fingerprints.
Helpful review: This safe is ideal for bedside or nightstand use. It comes with a security tether made of cabling covered in rubber or flexible plastic, which wraps around the bed frame and secures to the safe body.
LID AND LOCK:
The lid is super secure and comes with a hook and latching mechanism, and the combo plus the biometric lock system is exactly the type of handy I was looking for. The key lock offers a reliable alternative, which is a plus.
CODE VS. FINGERPRINT:
Setting the electronic code is very simple, and the quick setup guide is easy to read and understand. The biometric lock is equally straightforward, allowing multiple fingerprints to be registered. This feature ensures only authorized users can access the safe.
INTERIOR:
The safe's interior is thinly padded with open-cell foam. In humid areas, I’d recommend you use a desiccant packet to protect your pistol. The safe is lightweight, weighing about two pounds, and easy to move around. However, the weight reduction compromises steel thickness for protection. A determined thief could eventually break in, but the safe is more about keeping unauthorized hands off dangerous items.
WEIGHT:
This safe is exactly the weight I was hoping for. It’s under two pounds and I can move it around without effort. There is a little less steel because of that, and while it could be possible for a burger to rip it off the wall, I think you need to remember that this safe is meant to keep valuables safe. Ideally, you’re the one who is going to get into it first. Personally, I wanted something I can just move around, so I like it.
SIZE:
The safe has a fair amount of room, especially with the top opening lid. It can fit a full sized pistol, with some room left over for additional items. It's perfect for keeping all the important things safe and out of the way.
ALL IN ALL:
I highly recommend this safe, I wouldn’t write this review otherwise! It's an excellent value for the money, ideal for keeping items safe from little hands. It's portable and can be used in various locations, including offices and homes. This safe is a worthwhile investment, providing security and peace of mind. — Gary Anderson
Get it from Amazon now: $69.99 & FREE Returns
7. BILLCONCH - Best Value For Money
Highlight: Biometric chips with Bluetooth capability, makes this top of the line and ideal for cash, passports, pistols, all your valuables.
Helpful review: My household is bustling with kids, cats, and a not so bright dog–sorry Bo! My husband, a retired Army sharpshooter, and hunter, keeps guns in the house. While it's easy to find a large gun safe for rifles, I wanted quick access to my Glock by the bedside, just in case, while also not having to worry about the safety of my animal. This safe is the perfect compromise for all of the things.
The biometric fingerprint reader opens the safe almost instantly, and you can store multiple fingerprints. The app monitors the individual fingerprints that open the safe and mark the time it opens, which is a plus in a multi-person household. We tested it with our older children's fingerprints, and there were no false positives, so I’d call that a success! And no dogs can bump into it and actually set off a weapon. The price is also more reasonable than other options we considered.
A FEW WORDS FROM A FRIEND:
This safe is the best in its class, offering excellent value for the dollar. After reviewing and researching many styles and brands, I chose this model for its sturdy, rugged construction and simple setup. The steel is thicker than other competitors, which is a nice perk, and it has 2 durable latches to lock it instead of one. The safe opens quietly, too, which I really like. There's enough space for two medium pistols and extra clips. The USB-A plug on the front allows for recharging the included battery, which can also be replaced for more longevity. Overall, the safe is portable enough to fit under a seat, in my trunk, or wherever I’d like it to go. It's great for trips or camping. — Kate Michaels
Get it from Amazon now: $99.99 & FREE Returns
8. RPNB - Best for Vehicles
Highlight: Biometric scanner of fingerprints allows access in less than a second, and size makes it great for storing in cars.
Helpful review: I received my gun safe and set it up immediately, excited to find out how well this thing worked. I’d read many reviews and saw mixed feedback on programming fingerprints, so I was ready to test it out.
Contrary to what I’d read, following the simple instructions was super simple, and I had no trouble programming four fingerprints. The safe opened with registered prints and never once opened in response to unregistered ones.
The safe is constructed securely and solidly. Exactly what I wanted. It's low-profile, too, meaning it’s the right size to fit under a car seat, making it ideal for home and vehicle use, which is the main reason I bought it.
I travel half the year and wanted to be able to bring it on the road with me. I'm using it to hold a Ruger Compact and two stocks with ten round magazines. And I still have plenty of room left over! If anything changes, I'll update my review, but so far, it has performed just as advertised. — RJ Baron
Get it from Amazon now: $82.99 & FREE Returns
9. Awesafe - Best For Two Handguns
Highlight: This lightweight gun safe fits two handguns with ease and is great for storing in the home or in your car.
Helpful review: The service from both Amazon and Awesafe was excellent, exceeding most of my expectations. The product arrived on time and in good condition. After researching many safes, I decided on this one and am pleased with the purchase.
If you read the instructions, you'll find that the safe opens with any fingerprint until you set your own. Once set, the sensor's reliability can be influenced by your finger position, if it’s dirty, if you have calluses, or if your skin is dry. However, it makes up for the sensitivity, because you can set thirty (yeah you read that right) fingerprints to ensure reliable access under various conditions.
The lid pops open with a slightly dampened gas strut, taking another second to open fully. The unit is heavy, with thick metal sides. The inside has a foam lining on the bottom and sides, while the lid is bare metal. It can fit a full size Beretta plus three magazines easily.
So yeah, this safe provides reliable, fast access and decent security, keeping kids out and meeting all of my needs.
A FEW WORDS FROM A FRIEND:
This product is just awesome. I was initially concerned about the biometric release failures reported in some of the reviews, but I haven't experienced any issues. The packaging was exactly what I was hoping for, and the safe is pretty heavy, which tells me it’s quality. It comes with two large screws for securing it to a surface, but I kept it portable on my nightstand. It doesn't shift when the lid pops open. Programming was easy, and the instructions were really clear, not confusing at all. The biometric reader works perfectly, opening the lid in less than a second. My partner also programmed her fingerprint, and it works for her every time, which is awesome. My better half is much more comfortable keeping a loaded gun in the house now.
MY NEIGHBOR'S REVIEW:
I bought this for my Dad for Christmas, and he loves it! He can fit a Glock plus an extra clip, a service revolver, and even an off duty revolver. Despite some reviews saying it only fits two guns, my Dad managed to fit all three with extra room to spare. The fingerprint scanner adds an extra level of security, making it a great feature. The safe did everything we wanted it to do and more! — Rob Maggins
Get it from Amazon now: $99.00 & FREE Returns