Best Car Gun Safes Guide & Reviews of 2021

Today, it’s more and more difficult to stay safe. The rate of criminality is high and most people have chosen to carry weapons, like a handgun, to protect themselves. Yet, even though they are portable, these items cannot simply be carried around. They may pose a threat to the safety of the owner and their family if they fall in the wrong hands. Luckily, there are many products that can help, such as the best gun vaults. Read this guide about the best car gun safes in 2021 and make a crucial decision about safety.

Emily Brooks - Editorial Staff

Updated: April 26, 2021

What We Did to Find the Best

Car safes are crucial for people who need to protect their handguns and the persons around them. To discover the best options in the market, then, we scoured the web to find out the ones owners liked the most.

Then, we tried the devices one by one to check on their performance and reviews. So, we used the following metrics to rank the car gun safes, applying a 50 balls system with a maximum of 10 scores for each point:

  • Features

    0-10

    monitoring period, 24/7 alerts, disaster protection etc.

  • Support

    0-10

    telephone, email, chat, and other channels

  • Price

    0-10

    monthly fee, money-back, trial period

  • Ease of Use

    0-10

    installation, maintenance, service support

  • Trust Score

    0-10

    BBB.org and Trustpilot (positive, negative reviews)

All in all, we tried out all the models to understand how well they performed in 2021. We also took into account the opinion of experts and reviews found online by real clients. Explore the list ranked from 1 to 10 below.

1. Snapsafe Combination Lock Box: Simple But Sturdy

Total Score 9.6/10

  • Features10/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score9/10

Starting Price

$31.99

Visit Website
BBB Rating B
Best for Sensitive Documents

DIY instal

NO

Trial Period

Snapsafe has been designing resistant lockboxes for a long time. This security lock can protect valuable items like documents or jewelry together with handguns. It’s available in three different sizes with combination options so it’s easy and quick to open them even when at home.

The prices range depending on the type of car safe people want to buy, but they are affordable in general, especially on Amazon when it comes to transporting a handgun.

Pros:

  • Lightweight car gun safe
  • Thick protective foam
  • 1500 lb security cable
  • Great reviews
  • A flexible portable gun safe for the car

Cons:

  • Does not include a smartphone app
  • Can be slow to open

The Snapsafe model is very lightweight, which means owners can carry it around without any issue. On the negative side, it can be difficult to open the vehicle gun safe in case of an emergency or if the police review the car.

So, people should choose simple combinations they can remember in times of need.


2. Gunvault MV500-STD Microvault Pistol Gun Safe: Move It Everywhere

Total Score 9.6/10

  • Features10/10
  • Equipment10/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$49.90

Visit Website
BBB Rating B-
Best for Backup Keys

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

The interior dimensions are enough so that people can store their firearms no matter how big or heavy they are. Sturdy yet lightweight, people will be able to carry the MV500 around anywhere they prefer.

The steel security cable is included for those who need to make a quick opening in case something happens. It can be found on Amazon.

Pros:

  • It only weighs 4 lbs
  • Constructed in the best steel available
  • Battery-powered for more portability
  • 5-year battery for more safety
  • Two back-up safety keys

Cons:

  • Does not include the battery
  • The user must unlock it using a key

Different from other vaults, this auto gun safe requires a battery. But this is not included so the owner will have to buy it on their own.

Another good point is the guarantees, as the company will give the buyer a 5-year limited warranty on the whole product for replacement.


3. Gunvault Nanovault 300 Nano Pistol Safe NV300: No Pry Bars in Sight

Total Score 9.3/10

  • Features9.5/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$38.90

Visit Website
BBB Rating B+
Best for Fast Access

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

Nanovault is a secure, high-quality option for those looking to protect sensitive documents and objects inside the home. Plus, it complies with airline regulations about how to transport guns and other dangerous objects.

Yet, some clients complain that the cable is a bit fragile and that the opening process can be a bit slow.

Pros:

  • Meets airlines’ requirements for firearms
  • Great design to store a pistol
  • Three-number combination for easy access
  • Nice customer support
  • Easy to operate

Cons:

  • Limited warranty & a few reviews
  • The pry bar protection is poor

People can use this Nano vehicle pistol safe inside a bag or below the car seat if they prefer. It’s very discreet, so criminals will have a hard time finding it. The keylock system is made of steel and it includes memory foam inside so the item does not get damaged.


4. Vaultek V20i: Unique Fingerprints

Total Score 8.9/10

  • Features9.5/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$269

Visit Website
BBB Rating A
Best for Biometric Details

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

Vaultek V20i offers quick and secure access to people’s sensitive possessions. The car safe includes anti-theft protection against pry-bars and the interior hinges are bolstered. In addition to having a great design, it includes a biometric scanner for more than 20 unique fingerprints.

The keypad has illumination so people can see in the dark and open it even at night.

Pros:

  • Takes into account biometric details
  • Rugged & secure surface
  • Two different versions available
  • Quicker auto-open lid & key
  • Compact to store it anywhere

Cons:

  • The battery is expensive to replace
  • The Bluetooth connection can fail

In terms of access, the device can open with three different options. People can either use the keypad, the phone, or the physical keys included in the set sold on Amazon.

Unfortunately, it’s not compatible with Smart Key or any other system. But people can connect this vehicle car safely with other devices using Bluetooth.


5. Hornady RAPiD Gun Safe: RFID for Everyone

Total Score 8.7/10

  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score8.5/10

Starting Price

$149.99

Visit Website
BBB Rating C
Best for Premium Buyers

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

Firearms should not be left free inside the home or inside the car. For example, kids could get a hold of them and hurt others. For this, people can choose the Hornady Rapid gun safe.

It includes high-tech like RFID technology and has one of the quickest accesses for people to have their tools at hand when they need them.

Pros:

  • Fast and dependable
  • Heavy-duty and tamper-proof
  • Child-resistant and safe
  • AC and battery alternatives
  • Mobile security & key

Cons:

  • The motor can burn out with ease
  • The time opening can be too slow

The wristband is very resistant and does not suffer from the passing of time or humidity. Other options include a key fob or tags for each of the safes sold on Amazon.

This models’ tamper-proof construction makes it the best option for those who have something important to transport inside. The cable, for instance, is rated up to 1,500 lb.


6. Fort Knox FTK-PB: Electronic Keys Also

Total Score 8.7/10

  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment8.5/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$282

Visit Website
BBB Rating B+
Best for Tech-Savvy Clients

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

With a 10 gauge body, the Fort Knox is perfect for those who need to transport objects that require protection. Its mechanical lock is among the best options for people who are not used to having an electronic keypad to access the box.

What makes it unique is its antique silver textured coat finish, different from the rest of the models that have a stainless steel color.

Pros:

  • It follows all the security regulations to check
  • Simple mechanical lock
  • Very user-friendly
  • The second layer of foam
  • Not easy to open

Cons:

  • Some weak points
  • The hinge is mounted externally

To prevent things from breaking, it has a foam line inside the car gun safe. Plus, the four pre-drilled bolt down holes lets people attach their model wherever they want, be it the home, the car, or a boat. They just need to check if they are compatible.

On the negative side, the warranty is limited, so those who have problems with the device within a couple of years may find themselves without protection.


7. Liberty HD-90 Safe – Key Vault Small Portable Handgun and Valuables Safe for Home or Vehicle: Tamper-proof Device

Total Score 8.4/10

  • Features7.5/10
  • Equipment7.5/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score8.0/10

Starting Price

$57.72

BBB Rating B+
Best for Small Spaces

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

Sturdy but lightweight, the Liberty HD safe is tamper-proof. This means robbers will not find it easy to access whatever is inside the box at home. The security cable is included so buyers don’t have to spend extra money.

Finally, its black color makes it easy to conceal under seats and shelves so no stranger can check it. Those looking for the best security device can search for it on Amazon.

Pros:

  • Fits below drawers and desks
  • Protects a pistol, passports, and other docs
  • Useful for standard size
  • Security cable included
  • Tamper-proof

Cons:

  • Heavy chemical smell
  • The foam padding is a bit lacking

As it’s very compact, this car gun safe can be transported almost anywhere, protecting small valuables with the foam inside of it. Those interested in taking it to other countries can fly safely with this security box to store a pistol.

The Liberty HD-90 complies with TSA regulations so no issues will be involved.


8. SentrySafe P005C Portable Safe, 0.05 Cubic Feet, Black: Soft Inside but Resistant

Total Score 8.1/10

  • Features7.5/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use7.5/10
  • Trust Score7.5/10

Starting Price

$12.99

BBB Rating C+
Best for Tamper Resistance

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

This model by SentrySafe is focused on people who are always on the go and need to transport delicate items, such as a handgun. Especially when it comes to firearms that can harm others. The lightweight design does not make it less strong.

Also, the device is useful for use in hotel rooms, campers, boats, at home, and, of course, the car.

Pros:

  • Very cheap lock
  • Portable and secure key
  • Durable design and materials
  • Portable tethering cable included
  • Soft inside for more security

Cons:

  • The only access is with a combination
  • The vehicle gun safe does not have RFID

In addition to the box itself, people can get a tethering cable for more security. In addition to the classic combination, it will be very difficult for criminals to access what’s inside the lock.

Plus, they are offered a subscription to understand the best measures to take when having this type of dangerous item inside the home.


9. SentrySafe QAP1BE Gun Safe with Biometric Lock: Top-Notch Technology

Total Score 8.1/10

  • Features8.5/10
  • Equipment7.0/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use7.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$169.99

BBB Rating A
Best for Manual Keyboards

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

SentrySafe has a gas strut for those who want to open the device as soon as possible. As the name shows, this gun safe for the car includes a biometric type of unlocking.

This means people can use their fingerprints to open the box instead of using a key or introducing a password.

Pros:

  • The manual keypad in case of failure
  • Great lifespan
  • Can be used as a bedside safe
  • Quiet open process
  • Bolt down kit included

Cons:

  • The alkaline batteries are not included.
  • The mechanism can leave a gap

Those who want to tie this vehicle gun safe down to the floor can do it with ease. They will not have to spend on a bolt-down kit because it’s included within the package. While the device works with batteries, these are not included in the kit and can be quite expensive.

People should take this into account and consider it as an extra expense.


10. First Alert 5100K Portable Handgun Safe with Key Lock: Traditional Passwords

Total Score 8.1/10

First Alert Main
  • Features7.5/10
  • Equipment7.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use6.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$29.99

BBB Rating A-
Best for Best Security

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

First Alert 5100K is an affordable gun lockbox for the car that combines a low price with great quality. People can choose if they want to enter a three to eight-digit password.

This will be good for safety but can be harmful in case of an emergency, so owners should make this decision very seriously.

Pros:

  • 90-day warranty
  • Black powder coat finish
  • Easy lock entry
  • Very resistant cable
  • No-see passwords

Cons:

  • Doesn’t include an electronic lock
  • Limited customer support

On the good side, the whole kit includes a steel cable that makes safety even higher. This includes mounting holes to secure the device on the floor or to a shelf.

As it only weighs 4 lbs, people can just transport the box whenever they want to go without safety hassles.


Car Gun Safes of 2021 (Pricing & Features)

Have a look here at a table of comparison of the best portable safety devices. It has all the benefits outlined so people can carry their handgun in a vehicle or keep it at home if they prefer.

Provider Best for Price Materials Anti-theft Fingerprint Scanner Connection With a Phone Scratch Protection Quick Open Battery-Powered RFID Technology
1.Snapsafe Combination Sensitive Documents $23 Steel Yes No No Yes No No No
2.Gunvault MV500-STD Backup Keys $49 Steel Yes No No Yes Yes Yes No
3.GunVault Nanovault NV300 Fast Access $38 Steel Yes No No No Yes No No
4.Vaultek V20i Biometric Details $269 Carbon steel Yes Yes Yes Yes No No No
5.Hornady RAPiD Premium Buyers $149.9 Steel and plastic Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
6.Fort Knox FTK-PB Tech-Savvy clients $282 Steel No No No Yes Yes No No
7.Liberty HD-90 Safe Small Spaces $57.72 Steel and plastic Yes No No Yes Yes No No
8.SentrySafe P005C Tamper Resistance $12.99 Steel Yes No No Yes No No No
9.SentrySafe QAP1BE Manual Keyboards $169 Steel Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes No
10.First Alert 5100K Best Security $29.99 Steel No No No Yes No No No

Factors to Consider When Buying a Car Gun Safe

Some people do not check the need for buying a gun safe as they store their guns anywhere. However, keeping a gun easily accessible can be very risky for a person and their families.

Today’s market allows gun users to choose from a wide variety of gun safes to hide their guns both at home and also to carry them when driving.

Gun users should be able to feel comfortable when leaving their guns behind in their cars. So, knowing what features make a good safe can be very useful:

Size

Look for a safe that fits under the seat or the dashboard so that it can be easily concealed. Otherwise, someone could pass by, check the safe, and try to steal it. The size should be small so as to store a small fire gun. However, the gun should not be squeezed. Make sure it fits properly.

Construction

A gun safe must be made of strong high-quality materials like steel. Otherwise, if it is made of plastic, it will not be safe at all. As regards the quality of the steel, the thicker the material the lower the GA (gauge) value.

Locking Mechanism

The most important part of a safe is its locking mechanism. Someone could try to break the lock by punching a hole in it, so it is a vulnerable part. Users should look for a lock that is easy to operate, secure, and reliable. They should be able to open it quickly in case they need to use the fire gun in an emergency, but it should be locked in all other cases.

Biometric Locks

Biometric locks are good for emergencies as they can be easily opened by the owner of the safe. There is no need to punch a code or use any keys, the user just has to press their finger against the fingerprint scanner, and the lock will automatically open.

Electronic Locks

Electronic locks have a digital pad to put a code. They are very safe but, same as the biometric locks, they run on batteries so if the user runs out, the lock will not open.

Keyed Locks

These are not as popular as the biometric and electronic locks as they are more old-fashioned and not as easy to access. However, as long as the key works properly, there is no need for batteries or any other source of energy, so they are cheaper and more reliable.

Padlocks

Padlocks are another common locking mechanism used in car gun safes. It is a very reliable type of lock but it takes more space and time to open it. If there is not much space in the car, this is not a good option.

Mechanical Combination Lock

These locks require three digits to be aligned. They are extremely hard to break into as there can be thousands of different combinations.

Mounting Mechanism

Another aspect to take into account when buying a car fun safe is the mounting mechanism. It can be cable mounting or bolted.

Cable Mounting

This mountain mechanism has a strong cable that is attached to the safe in the car. It can be attached to any car. Some people think this mechanism is not as safe as a bolted one.

Bolted

A bolted car safe is technically more secure as it is attached directly to the vehicle’s fabric. The main issue with this type of mounting is the space requirement. It demands a lot of ground space, which might not be available in every situation. No matter what mountain system is used, it needs to be installed safely and properly.

Anchorage

This is another important benefit of this type of lock for a handgun. Some safes, for example, come with screws and other tools to anchor and secure the model to the floor so it doesn’t move and neither does the pistol.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What Is the Best Car Gun Safe?

    The best safe is the one that suits each client’s needs. Usually, the top devices have biometric or electronic locks, or mechanical combinations, as they are the most modern and popular.

    Plus, there are other important factors like the size of the box and if it fits in the car and the mountain mechanism.

  • Are Gun Safes Worth It?

    Some people feel safe when they have a gun around in case of emergencies. In those cases, it is safer to have the gun stored in a locked safe so nobody else can access it.

    Having the gun safely hidden in the car will give its user peace of mind.

  • Can You Transport a Gun Safe on Its Side?

    Moving heavy items in a car can be a difficult thing to do, even more so if one is traveling alone. When the safe is empty it can lay on its side during the move from one place to another.

    However, if there is something fragile inside one may not want to keep it on its side.

  • Are Gun Safes Bad for Guns?

    When there is humidity inside the safe, the sulfur reacts with the water present in the air and creates rust. This chemical reaction can eat away the gun causing corrosion.

    The process of corrosion happens faster inside a gun safe than outside of it.

  • Is It OK to Put a Gun Safe in the Basement?

    People typically store their guns on the basements on the concrete slab floor. However, humidity can be a problem if it is not under control. Again, humidity creates rust that can damage the gun and the safe.

  • Do You Need a Dehumidifier in a Gun Safe?

    As guns get easily corroded inside safes, a dehumidifier is very useful. High levels of humidity might cause mold to build up when it comes to the security lock. A small dehumidifier can stop this from happening.

Defense and Safeguarding in Just One Box

All in all, it’s clear that firearms cannot be left without protection. A portable gun safe for the car is a safe and affordable option for those who need to transport them all the time in 2021.

In this way, they will keep them apart from criminals while making sure nobody suffers from accidents. What about you? Have you ever had to use this type of device?


Editorial Staff

As a journalist, Emily draws on her rich experience in home safety and seeks to research more on the topic. She is truly passionate about her interests. Emily is knowledgeable about security systems due to the in-depth studies that she has conducted for Securing Home.


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