Best Gun Safes Guide & Reviews of 2021

Whether or not someone is in favor of owning a gun or not, everyone agrees that these devices require the utmost care and security. The best gun safe will be sturdy, durable, reliable, and 100% secure.

To make it easier to choose the right cabinet for a particular home or budget, check out this list of the best gun safes. Then, learn what to look for in a storage case and how to get a great deal while staying protected.

What We Did to Find the Best

To find the best gun safes on the market, it’s important to identify the key factors that gun owners need. Below are the top five metrics that the team looked at when analyzing the different storage cabinets.

  • 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)

It was painstaking work to review each product against these metrics. Each accessory received a grade between zero and ten. Then the final scores produced the top 10 results. All this work was worth it because each device on the best gun safe list is protected, secure, and worth the investment.

1. Fort Knox FTK-PB Handgun Safe: A Tamper-Proof Option

Total Score 9.5/10

  • Features10/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use9.5/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$240

Visit Website
BBB Rating A
Best for Durability

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

For a handgun safe that boasts durability and strength, look no further than this option from Fort Knox. It has a 10-gauge steel body that can keep valuables locked in place and out of open sight.

Plus, there is a CA-DOJ burglary rating, meaning it will be tough as nails against intruders or pickpockets. The wrap-around door adds more security to the already reliable storage box.

Pros:

  • Cushion-lined case
  • Heavyweight door
  • Roomy box
  • Steel body
  • Superior strength
  • Variety of possible combinations
  • Wraparound door

Cons:

  • Not enough lock combinations
  • Pricey
  • Scratchy surface

This is one of the best pistol safes for those who want something that is tamper-resistant. The biometric lock ensures that only the owner can open it, so it’s a good option for households with kids or teens.


2. SentrySafe QAP2BEL Gun Safe: Strong and Safe

Total Score 9.3/10

  • Features8.5/10
  • Equipment10/10
  • Price9.5/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score8.5/10

Starting Price

$150

Visit Website
Best for Safety

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

This handgun safe comes from a worthwhile brand and boasts three different ways of opening. Customers can use the fingerprint scanner for quick access, the buttons, or a key.

Plus, 12-gauge steel is another advantage. This option is a bit unique in that it comes in a one-gun or two-gun size. Regardless of the sizing, it opens quietly.

Pros:

  • Advanced protection
  • Biometric locking
  • Bolt down kit
  • Reasonable price
  • Good bedside option
  • Quietly opens
  • Three ways to open

Cons:

  • Limited warranty
  • No interior light
  • Requires four AA batteries

This is one of the top-of-the-line pistol safes that won’t break the bank. It opens quickly and quietly and offers a backup key for emergencies. That said, fingerprint scanning is the best choice for those who need advanced protection.


3. VaulTek VT20i: Lightweight Yet Strong

Total Score 9.2/10

  • Features10/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price8.5/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score8.5/10

Starting Price

$269

Visit Website
Best for Tech

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

Here is another reliable gun safe that is lightweight yet strong. It is also technologically advanced and boasts Bluetooth compatibility, an electronic keypad, and fingerprint scanning.

Customers can open the mobile app for quick access, too. That said, the biometric lock is dependable about 90% of the time, so keep that in mind.

Pros:

  • Digital keypad
  • Holds up to 20 unique fingerprints
  • Lightweight and durable
  • Remote app access
  • Tamper-resistant
  • Technologically advanced
  • Thick steel construction

Cons:

  • Biometric lock is 90% reliable
  • Holds compact guns only
  • Pricey

As far as pistol safes go, this model can easily hold a full-sized compact pistol and two mags. There is even room for larger guns. The case is certified against tampering burglars, and the thick 16-gauge steel is a huge advantage in the home.


4. GunVault SpeedVault: A Handy Solution

Total Score 8.9/10

  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score8.5/10

Starting Price

$94

Visit Website
Best for Handguns

DIY instal

NO

Trial Period

This gun safe from the SpeedVault series will live up to its name. It comes in a sleek black case that’s lightweight yet durable. Perfect for handguns, it’s also mountable and features a foam lining.

Pros:

  • Ample storage
  • Backup computer access
  • Easy to use
  • Interior light
  • Pricing
  • Tamper-proof
  • Thick 18-gauge steel

Cons:

  • Batteries not included
  • No biometric locking
  • Potential security concerns

As far as pistol safes go, this one could be more secure. Customers have reported a lack of battery warnings, which makes it easier to open the case when the batteries run out of juice. This may not be the best solution for homes with kids or teens.


5. BARSKA Biometric Gun Safe: A Top-Notch Office Solution

Total Score 8.8/10

  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment10/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use9.5/10
  • Trust Score8.5/10

Starting Price

$236.99

Visit Website
Best for Offices

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

This is a gun safe from a trusted brand, so customers know they’re getting a good deal. The price isn’t too bad either, and it comes with all the security measures families need.

Plus, it can store up to 30 sets of fingerprints, so it’s a good choice for office spaces. The lock scans prints in 2.5 seconds for easy home access.

Pros:

  • Backup manual access
  • Department of Justice-approved
  • Pre-drilled holes for easier mounting
  • Pry-resistant
  • Stores up to 30 unique fingerprints
  • Warning alarm
  • Well-known brand

Cons:

  • A bit pricey
  • Capacity for one gun only
  • Not fire-rated

As a pistol safe, customers should be mindful of the size of the cabinet. The biometric locking mechanism is more than secure, and along with 14-gauge steel, it’s highly dependable. Two solid steel deadbolts can stand up against prying, picking, and saws.


1. Liberty Fatboy Gun Safe: An All-Out Option

Total Score 8.8/10

  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price7.5/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score8.0/10

Starting Price

$2,450

Visit Website
Best for Storage

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

The Fatboy is a gun safe for those who want to shell out big bucks for high quality. This cabinet comes from a company with a good reputation and lots of customization. Clients can choose the type and color of the lining, as well as what kind of lock they want.

There is also lots of storage space, and the box can hold 64 or 48 guns, depending on the size.

Pros:

  • Adjustable shelves
  • Different hardware options
  • Lots of customization
  • Mechanical and Prologic locks
  • Payment plans available
  • Spacious
  • Thick and solid

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Not the thickest steel
  • Quite large

It will cost a pretty penny to get this handgun safe. At nearly $2,500, it is for serious gun owners. That said, it has everything they need, from mechanical and Prologic locks to 11-gauge steel and adjustable shelving.


2. Stack-On 18-Gun Cabinet: Solid and Sturdy

Total Score 8.7/10

  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use8.5/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$217

Visit Website
BBB Rating A-
Best for Versatility

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

This is another gun safe that might not have the highest safety rating, but it’s convenient and durable. The shelves are adjustable and can work at half-widths. There is also interior foam padding for easier storage.

A roomy compartment can hold ammunition and accessories. Clients can rest assured with the three-point locking system for extra security.

Pros:

  • Adjustable/removable shelves
  • Holds ammunition and accessories
  • Lots of storage space
  • Padded
  • Rifle standoffs included
  • Three-way locking system
  • Variety of sizes

Cons:

  • A bit pricey
  • Not the most secure
  • Set-up

As a long gun safe, this is a durable solution. The price is on par with other competitors, and it can fit quite a few products.


3. Barska Quick Access Biometric Rifle Safe: A Great Rifle Case

Total Score 8.7/10

  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price8.5/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score8.5/10

Starting Price

$550

Visit Website
Best for Rifles

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

Here is a 14-gauge steel gun safe that can hold up to four rifles. It comes from a reputable brand that operates in over 40 countries. This is how customers can access a higher level of security for their firearms.

It has protected edges, anti-pry concealed hinges, and five locking deadbolts. Plus, it’s mountable and aesthetically pleasing.

Pros:

  • Backup keys included
  • Carpeted interior
  • Department of Justice-approved
  • Fingerprint scanning
  • Great aesthetics
  • Mountable design
  • Well-known brand

Cons:

  • A bit small
  • Expensive
  • The fingerprint scanning is a bit glitchy

This is a safe that can accommodate a small rifle collection. It will keep them safe and intact, and they can sit on the floor or the wall. Fingerprint scanning is convenient and can save up to 120 prints. However, it takes a bit longer for it to scan.


4. Paragon Lock & Safe: Simple Yet Safe

Total Score 8.3/10

  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score8.5/10

Starting Price

$329.99

Visit Website
Best for Ease of Use

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

This is a good gun safe for those who want to store a small collection of rifles. The 8-gun rack makes it easy to keep valuables safe and sound. With its 18-gauge steel construction, this cabinet can stand up to prying, hammering, grinding, and drilling. Without a doubt, this case is aesthetically-pleasing, plus it suits rifles up to 47.5″ long.

Pros:

  • Concealed hinges
  • Decent price
  • Gun rack included
  • Interior cabinet
  • Secure anchor bolts
  • Stands up against prying and tampering
  • Suitable for longer rifles

Cons:

  • Lacks biometric locks
  • Not fire resistant
  • This isn't the stronger cabinet from Paragon

This is one of the top safes on the market, especially at this price point. It will keep up to eight 47.5″ long rifles, and there is an interior cabinet with a lock for extra security. Plus, it is carpeted and has anchor bolts that secure it to the wall.


5. Steelwater Heavy Duty 20 Long Gun Safe: All the Safety Stops

Total Score 8.3/10

  • Features7.0/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price7.5/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$969

Visit Website
BBB Rating A+
Best for Security

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

This gun safe is very heavy, but it is one of the most secure choices out there. It also comes at a high price tag, but for those who can afford it, it’s worth the cost.

The cabinet has an electronic lock and tons of deadbolts and locking mechanisms. This keeps it safe against tampering, drilling, and crowbar prying.

Pros:

  • Automatically relocks
  • Fire-resistant
  • Gear-driven locks
  • Holds 12-16 guns
  • LED interior lighting
  • Steel locking bolts
  • 12-gauge steel

Cons:

  • Not available in some parts of New York
  • Pricey
  • Very heavy

This is also one of the best long gun safes for fire resistance. It can withstand burning temperatures for up to an hour. The 12-gauge steel may not sound too impressive, but paired with the bolts and reinforcements, this cabinet is more than secure.


1. Paragon Quarter Master 7750 Digital Keypad Deluxe Home Office Security Wall Safe: Durable and Practical

Total Score 8.3/10

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

Starting Price

$87.52

Visit Website
Best for Budgets

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

Consumers who are looking for wall handgun safes should check out this one. It has an 11-gauge steel door and comes with two keys for backup. It also unlocks via an electronic keypad that users can program.

The neutral gray color blends into the wall, and it’s sturdy enough to fit into drywall. This is a great choice for vacation homes or offices.

Pros:

  • Carpeted interior
  • Discreet
  • Easy installation
  • It fits right into the drywall
  • Opens with key or code
  • Programmable lock
  • Tamper-proof

Cons:

  • Limited technology
  • No biometric locking
  • Not as strong

As a hidden safe, it can protect valuables from burglars, but it’s not fireproof. Also, the required batteries are included and have a decent lifespan. This product stands up against grinders, hammers, and drills, too.


2. Viking Security Safe VS-52BLX Biometric Fingerprint Hidden Wall Safe: Simplicity at its Finest

Total Score 8.3/10

  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price8.5/10
  • Ease Of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$179.99

Visit Website
BBB Rating A+
Best for Sharing

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

This is one of those handgun safes that are not just for guns but suitable for all kinds of valuables. It’s easy to use and pry-resistant, so individuals can keep their firearms, jewelry, and other belongings secure.
The cabinet features a biometric lock that saves up to 32 sets of fingerprints. It also has adjustable and removable shelving and lots of space, so it’s perfect for sharing.

Pros:

  • Decent pricing
  • Good for multiple guns
  • Interior lighting
  • Removable shelf
  • Sounds an alarm when left unlocked
  • Time out period after incorrect entries

Cons:

  • A bit small
  • Only saves one pin code
  • The keypad isn't backlit

It works well as a hidden safe since it’s quite small. On the downside, it can’t hold as much as some of the other options on this list. That said, it is good for travel, and it has a fast locking and unlocking mechanism.

Also, its secure deadbolts and anchors will give buyers peace of mind.


3. Protex PWS-1814E Electronic Keypad Wall Safe: Dependable and Affordable

Total Score 8.3/10

  • Features7.0/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use7.5/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$172.81

Visit Website
BBB Rating A+
Best for In-Wall

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

30 days

For those looking for in-wall handgun safes, check out this one from Protex. It allows for quick electronic access, and the steel construction is strong and sturdy. The cabinet also comes with a backup key, just in case.

There are digital keypad and interior lighting for greater convenience. While it’s small, it definitely gets the job done right.

Pros:

  • Aesthetics
  • Available in beige or black
  • Convenient electronic lock
  • Door opens automatically when unlocked
  • Easily blends in with surroundings
  • Quick installation
  • Removable shelving

Cons:

  • Customers can't mute it
  • Limited space
  • Loud sounds

In terms of hidden safes, this one can easily blend in with a home or office environment. It’s available in beige or black and fits snugly to the wall.

Plus, it isn’t too heavy, so most people won’t have trouble installing it.


Top Safes & Cabinets of 2021 (Pricing & Features)

To make it easier to identify great gun safes for a particular budget or lifestyle, check out this comparison chart. Take a look at the key metrics of each product, such as price, size, weight, and capacity.

Provider FortKnox Sentry Safe VaulTek Gun Vault Barska Bio Fatboy Stack On Barska Quick Paragon Steelwater Paragon Quarter Viking Protex
Price $240 $150 $269 $94 $237 $2,450 $217 $550 $330 $969 $88 $180 $173
Best For Durability Safety Tech Handguns Offices Storage Versatility Rifles Ease of use Security Budgets Sharing In-wall
Biometric Lock Yes Yes Yes No Yes No No Yes No No No Yes No
Burglary Rating CA-DOJ CA-DOJ CA-DOJ CA-DOJ CA-DOJ N/A N/A CA-DOJ N/A CA-DOJ N/A N/A N/A
Dimensions 10.3″ x 12.5″ x 21.5″ 9.9″ x 12.1″ x 3.2″ 11.5″ x 9″ x 2.6″ 6.5″ x 3.5″ x 13″ 16.5″ x 14.5″ x 7.8″ 60.5″ x 25″ x 42″ 21″ x 18″ x 55″ 13.8″ x 13.4″ x 57″ 19.8″ x 12.5″ x 55″ 59″ x 28″ x 18″ 16.3″ x 4″ x 22″ 10″ x 14″ x 10″ 3.9″ x 14″ x 18.1″
Extra Storage Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No
Fire Protection Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes No Yes No Yes Yes
Lining Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Warranty Lifetime Limited Limited 5 yrs Limited Lifetime Limited Limited 10 yrs Limited Limited Limited Limited
Weight 22lbs 12lbs 7.2lbs 6.6lbs 26.5lbs 760lbs 96lbs 114lbs 114lbs 453lbs 37lbs 27lbs 28lbs

Differences Between Electronic vs. Mechanical Locks

When shopping around for gun safes, people must think about the type of lock they want. Most of the time, customers must choose between electronic locks or mechanical ones.

This section will make it easier to distinguish the two.

Electronic

Going electronic is a good option if you have a large or small gun safe. An electrical lock allows people to program different pin codes or combinations. This way, it’s possible to switch up the access code from time to time. It’s a sneaky way to keep youngsters away, too.

Some of these locks work with Bluetooth or fingerprint scanners, too. However, there tends to be a higher hacking potential.

Pros:

  • Quick access
  • Very easy to use

Cons:

  • A bit easier to hack

Mechanical

It’s not uncommon for a small gun safe to work with a simple mechanical lock. Some people may see this as an old-fashioned or outdated way of doing things, but it’s a tried-and-true classic.

Pros:

  • Affordable solution
  • Very secure

Cons:

  • It takes longer to access guns

What to Consider Before Buying a Gun Safe

With more people investing in firearms, more gun safes are making it to the marketplace. Here are some tips for navigating all the products and gimmicks out there.

Physical Size

Obviously, the cabinet or case must be large enough to support the gun. For instance, a pistol safe wouldn’t be suitable for someone who needs to store their rifles. Also, consider any accessories that will go in the case.

Weight

Whether it’s a large gun safe or not, it helps if it has some heftiness to it. In other words, it will be much harder for a burglar to run away with it if it’s a heavy case.

Bolting Down Requirements

Think of bolts as the driving force behind a safe’s lock. Without sturdy and reliable bolts, the case won’t close or lock properly. Invest in a cabinet with a solid and secure system and long bolts.

Storage Capacity

This is another important metric to pay attention to. A large gun safe will, of course, have more storage capacity. However, consider any ammo or accessories that will also go in the cabinet.

Geography

The person’s physical location may determine what kind of lock or safe they need. For instance, humid environments can affect firearms, so individuals in this kind of climate might need a temperature-controlled cabinet.

Alarm

If individuals go for something like a fireproof gun safe, it might also include an alarm. Of course, many other gun cabinets have alarm systems. It’s a good idea to have one so that it can deter intruders.

Failsafe Locking Feature

Many cases and cabinets also have a system in place that locks people out after several failed attempts. This is crucial if gun owners are going to keep hackers and burglars out of their storage case.

Fire Ratings

Try to look for a fireproof gun safe. These products can withstand fires up to 1,200°F. This can help buy time until the fire department arrives to put out the blaze.

Reviews

Finally, it’s best to check out several gun safe reviews before deciding on a final product. See what real customers have to say about the case or cabinet. 

Find Your Safe’s Safety Rating

Just because it’s called a safe, that doesn’t mean that it is the most secure product. Here are some tips for determining just how to secure a gun cabinet or storage case is.

1. Fire Rating

One of the best ways to protect firearms and valuables is with a certified fireproof gun safe. Look for a fire rating of at least an hour, and check for the CA-DOJ certification.

2. RSC (Residential Security Container) Certification

RSC certification refers to cases and safes that have been tested against all kinds of tampering.

3. Floor Bolting Ability

This refers to a gun cabinet that is bolted down into the floor. It is also possible for it to be bolted or mounted to the wall. This prevents intruders from breaking in and prying the case off its support.

4. DOJ Certification

While there are firearms regulations in every state, the most common one that consumers look for is CA-DOJ certification. This stands for the California Department of Justice regulation. It is a prestigious safety rating that ensures strong bolts and sturdy construction.

FAQs

  • What Are the Best Rated Gun Safes?

    The top-rated gun safes are those that feature the most security characteristics. Again, take a look at the sections in this guide to get a better idea. Pay attention to fire and safety ratings, extra protection, storage capacity, and pricing. Fortunately, there are options for just about any budget and firearm.

  • Are Gun Safes Easy to Break Into?

    Typically, a gun safe isn’t the easiest thing to break into, especially if it has a reliable locking system. Think of things like mechanical combination locks or fingerprint scanners. A digital keypad is another popular choice, but be sure that it’s a completely unique pin code.

  • Should I Bolt My Safe to the Floor?

    While a bolted system isn’t an absolute necessity, it will definitely add an extra layer of protection to a gun cabinet or safe. If families want to ensure that a burglar won’t pick up the safe and run off with it, they should invest in a decent bolted cabinet.

  • Do Thieves Steal Safes?

    Thieves will try to steal anything of value, so that includes safes and gun cabinets. This is why it’s a good idea to invest in something with added weight and protection, as well as something that is bolted to the floor or mounted to the wall.

  • Where is the Best Place to Put a Safe?

    A basement or attic could be two good places for a safe. However, this poses the threat of humidity or other climatic risks. Alternatively, individuals can place them under a floorboard or behind a painting on the wall.

Keep Firearms Protected Against Potential Threats

Hopefully, this complete guide has made it easier to find the best gun safe for the money. Remember that there are several key factors that go into a great gun cabinet. Consider which are most important before deciding on just any random case.

Also, if you have experience with a firearms storage case, tell us about it in the comments below.



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