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Top 10 Biometric Gun Safes Reviewed & Rated
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Model
By definition, a biometric gun safe will use some sort of biometrics as a means to open safe. All biometric gun safes are different and you will need to think about a few different considerations when you are purchasing a biometric gun safe. One consideration is the number of fingers you will need to supply in order to open the gun safe. You may also want to think about how many different fingerprints the gun safe is able to store in its memory. All biometric gun safes need to be programmed as well so this will be another point that you will have to think about as you shop for a biometric gun safe.
Some biometric gun safes can be opened with only one finger while other gun safes require all five of your fingers in order to open the lock. Both styles of biometric locks use a fingerprint scanner as a way to determine if your fingerprints match the fingerprint images that are stored in the lock's memory.
Sometimes you want to grant more than one person access to your gun safe or you may even want to be able to open it with more than one finger. Many gun safes have the ability to store multiple fingerprints in their memory as a way to allow a variety of fingers to open the gun safe.
Since biometric gun safes have to be programmed, you will need to look at how difficult it is to program the safe. All biometric gun safes are programmed differently so you will need to look at the programming instructions when you're picking out a biometric gun safe. The gun safe should not be overly difficult to program, but it should not be too simple to program it either due to security concerns.
Features
Biometric gun safes are convenient, but like all electronic devices, they are subject to failure, which is why you need to think about backup access to the safe. A way to protect yourself from electrical failure is to purchase a biometric gun safe that has a backup system that will provide you entry into the safe in the event that the biometric component fails. The backup system can be just about any kind of traditional safe mechanism that does not require electricity to open the safe. The most popular kinds are combination locks or backup keys.
Combination locks come in a variety of different types and are used differently. The most common kinds of combination locks are single dial locks, multi-dial locks, and keypads. All of these locks are set to open with a secret combination that cannot be easily guessed. Most people find the keypad and the multi-dial locks to be easier to use than the single dial lock.
Keys are an alternative to using a combination lock and are sometimes preferable. In this case, you will use a backup key that is fitted to the lock so that you can access the safe if the biometric lock fails. Of course, this requires you to keep the key in a safe and secure place that is not inside of the safe.
Protection
One of the main reasons to use a biometric gun safe is to protect your guns from theft or other kinds of unauthorized access. Though there is an endless number of reasons for people to steal guns, they tend to boil down to either money or getting access to weapons. Guns are valuable for a number of reasons either because they are well made and higher-powered weapons or they are collector's items that have acquired value.
One of the first things that you will want to look at is the weight of your gun safe. You are most protected when you have a heavy gun safe rather than a light one. The reason is that someone could pick up a light gun safe and run away with it with the intention of breaking into it later on. A heavy gun safe that requires two or more people to carry or heavy equipment is less likely to get stolen for the simple fact that it can't be removed from the property quickly or without attracting attention. Therefore, you should try and look for a large and heavy gun safe.
In addition to your safe being heavy, you should try and see if you can bolt it to the floor or the walls of your building. This adds an additional layer of protection because now a burglar has to cut or otherwise remove the bolts from your gun safe in order to remove it from the property or they will have to try and break into the safe while they are at the property. Either task takes a considerable amount of effort and time which again is the last thing a burglar wants.
If your safe has keys or a combination lock, then you should make sure that the key is hidden or you set the combination to something other than the factory setting. It may seem like common sense but not everyone who breaks into a gun safe is a criminal. Sometimes children play with a safe to see if they can get into it and you do not want to make it easy for a child to have access to your guns. By changing the combination or storing the key in a secret place, any family members will not be able to break into the safe either which will keep everyone safe.
Capacity
The size and capacity of a gun safe will also determine how many guns or other items you are able to place inside of the safe at a single time. There are reasons to own large biometric gun safes, but there are also reasons to own smaller ones. Gun safes come in all different sizes from small and compact to large and in charge. You will need to think about the proper kind of gun safe that fits your needs best and purchase a gun safe that works with your requirements. This will allow you to have the best safest possible storage for your guns.
Gun safes come in all shapes and sizes which gives you more than enough choices when it comes to finding a gun safe that is best matched to your needs as a gun owner. Some people only need small gun safes so that they can secure a single handgun for protection. Other people own a wide variety of guns and will require a large gun safe that they can organize so that they can find things quickly. You should take some time to think about your required capacity in a gun safe and pick on that best fits your needs.
10 Best Biometric Gun Safe Reviews
1. Sentry Safe Pistol Safe
This single-gun capacity safe, weighing in at just 11.9 pounds, is great for both in the home or on the road. For long-term storage, it is equipped with bolt down hardware so it cannot easily be removed from its place. Boasting a soft interior lining to protect your valuables and a solid steel build, it is also approved by the California Department of Justice for firearm storage and protection. It offers the ability to program up to two different fingerprints, and an optional override keypad and key lock.
Single-Handed Access
The biometric technology in conjunction with a compression gas strut means that this safe automatically opens when unlocked, making it a one-handed operation in a time of need. The silent operation of the safe allows you to do this all while staying under the radar.
Pry Resistant Door
Tough, 12 gauge steel construction and seamless design of the door make this safe very tough for intruders to pry open. The slim design makes it easy to store in tight spaces.
Cost and Value
While this product holds the title of Editor's Choice, it also holds the title of one of the more cost-friendly safes outlined in this article. The Sentry Safe offers a strong, lightweight design while keeping the costs low and the quality high.
2. First Alert 5200DF
This biometric gun safe is an ideal solution for protecting your weapon wherever you may go. Constructed with durable 18-gauge powder-coated steel and has a foam-lined interior that protects contents kept within. It also features an electronic keypad that you can use to program a three to eight-number "no-see" passcode. You can secure it with the included steel cable or mounted to a floor or shelf. This product is approved by the California Justice Department.
Interior Foam Lining
One great feature that really stands out about the First Alert 5200DF is the interior foam lining. This special design is perfect for keeping your gun and other valuables safe from scratches and nicks.
Spring-Loaded Locking Door
This gun safe has a spring-loaded locking door that allows for quick access in case of an emergency. For instance, you can take advantage of this mechanism if you hear a strange noise that might come from a potential assailant.
Cost and Value
This product is available in 2 styles and 2 sizes. The price depends on your selection: if you feel more comfortable with key locks, you’ll pay less. First Alert has almost 60-years of experience backing this product.
3. SentrySafe QAP1BE
When seeking a gun safe the SentrySafe QAP1BE comes at the very top for us. Featuring a smaller design, this safe allows you to get everything you want and need without the need of a large and bulky item. It's all about shrinking the product but continuing the quality that is expected from something like this. Do not be fooled by the size, this safe can easily and effectively hold a full-size Glock 17 and 2 mags without feeling overstuffed.
Quiet Opening
One feature you want to keep in mind when purchasing a gun safe is just how quiet it is. The quieter your safe the better it will be in a hurry. You want to seek a safe that allows you to quickly and quietly retreat your firearm. This one does just that, showcasing a gun strut that allows you to quietly and effectively open the safe with one single hand, making it ideal for bedside use.
Solid Steel
Measuring at 12.1 inches by 9.9 inches diameter and 3.2 inches in height, paired by a solid steel construction that ensures you are getting a durable, solid product. Furthermore, it is paired with a pry-resistant door and a manual keypad that will ensure you and only you can get a hold of your handgun when needed. It's important to get a solid product that will get the job done while keeping your gun secure and away from anyone who is not trained to use it.
Cost and Value
If you have ever purchased any kind of gun safe then you know they are not the cheapest thing to own, particularly for those that need multiple features. This one is no exception offering a multitude of features this gun safe is a bit on the pricier side. Though the safe might be on the expensive side you are getting quality which at the end is a win-win for all.
4. Barska Top-Opening
The simple, yet sturdy design of the BARSKA top-opening safe makes it a great, low-cost solution to gun safety without compromising design. Coming with mounting equipment to be secured on any flat surface of your choosing, two steel motorized locking bolts and the ability to store up to 30 fingerprints, a low price point definitely doesn't mean low quality for this safe.
Hydraulic Assisted Door
The hydraulic-assisted door makes this safe easy to access with a single hand if necessary. It also comes with the ability to turn on "silent mode" so you can remain in stealth mode without your safe giving you away.
Open Interior Construction
The inside of the safe comes without any extra frills on the inside, meaning more space to store your valuables in whatever way you choose. Equipped with a protective floor may for added protection from scratches.
Cost and Value
Boasting the lowest price on the top ten list, this safe offers the best value for your money. However, security is not compromised due to this low price, offering heavy steel, great battery life, and portable design.
5. Stealth Handgun Hanger
When looking for a biometric gun safe that can store multiple weapons, the Stealth Handgun Hanger is a great option. It has a spring-loaded drop-down door that offers quick and silent access to your weapons. What’s more, it is made of solid steel and has a pick-proof lock, providing the security you need for your guns. The foam-lined interior protects them from getting scratched.
Pick Proof
This security box has a specially designed lock housing that is made from welded steel. This locking system makes it pick and straw proof, decreasing the chances of someone opening it.
5 Gun Capacity
Unlike other gun security safes, this one has a much bigger capacity. You can store up to 5 guns in it with no problem. Each one of your handguns has its own place in this safe. Moreover, the foam-lined interior prevents them from getting scratches.
Cost and Value
Even though this product is a bit pricey, it is a quality buy. Not only is it very secure, but its capacity load means you only need one safe for multiple guns!
6. Verifi Smart Safe S5000
Weighing in at 23.4 pounds, this heavy-duty biometric safe gives you peace of mind that your unit will not easily be broken into with its 14-gauge walls and 8-gauge door. With the ability to program up to 40 fingerprints, an LCD screen for easy user management, and enough space to store both guns and other valuables, the Verisafe Smart Safe makes a great multipurpose option.
Extended Battery Life
Boasting "pico" and "boost" technologies, this ensures that it works at peak performance while using low power and ensures the LCD screen and motor speed can remain constant even near the end of battery life. Batteries should be able to last for years without replacement.
Access and Event Logs
The administrator of the safe can easily access information that is timestamped and saved into the system such as who accessed the safe, alerts, diagnostic results and when users were added/deleted. This gives you a secondary source of this information if ever needed.
Cost and Value
While this product is the most expensive safe outlined in this review, it boasts some of the most consistent fingerprint technology on the market. This price is also reflected by its multi-use purpose, being large enough to house more than just your firearm.
7. Stack-On PDS-1500
Designed to store ammo, pistols, and even valuables in the home, this Stack safe brings it all together with added security. Measuring 12 inches in width, 8.75 inches in diameter and 4.5 inches in height this is the perfect additional safety method to add to a drawer. Due to its sizing, you can place this safe anywhere and know your items will be secure without having to continuously worry about it.
Added Security
To provide as much security as possible the Stack-On PDS-1500 comes with two live-action steel locking bolts and additional concealed hinges. Having this feature ensures you get the most out of how secure your safe is. Keep in mind, you will also have an extra dose of security right where you need it most. Additionally, you get a backlit fingerprint lock that can save up to 20 fingerprints at a time.
Timed out Period
Just like any cellphone or item that has a code, this one comes with a time out period. The beauty of having this is after 3 tries the safe will lock up without any hesitation. Having this feature allows you to feel an additional dose of security as you will know if someone tries to get into it without permission once you notice that your safe has been timed out.
Cost and Value
Not only are you getting a quality product, but the price is just as great. You will have excellent features paired with an excellent price. Furthermore, you will be able to keep 20 fingerprints on record making it easy to allow only the people you trust to get a hand on your pistol or personal items.
8. Vaultek VT10i
The Vaultek VT10i is a lightweight option to secure your gun or other valuables, perfect for obscure hiding places in the home or while traveling. Offering the ability to store up to 20 fingerprints, and a mobile app allowing remote access to information such as power level, access history, and tamper detection, you can keep an eye on your safe at all times. Lightweight 18- gauge steel, a backlit interior, and pry-resistant design make this ideal for a frequent traveler.
Rechargeable Battery
Personally, I'm a huge fan of anything rechargeable. One of the worst feelings is throwing away dead batteries. The Vaultek will make you feel better about your environmental impact with rechargeable batteries, including the USB charger needed for them.
Meets TSA Airline Firearm Requirements
This makes it a great travel companion in your vehicle or while flying. Weighing in at just 5.2 pounds, it is easy to carry in your backpack or underneath your seats. Or, use the included mounting hardware to secure it in your home.
Cost and Value
The Vaultek combines a lightweight design without compromising security, ranking it average in price compared to other safes listed here. As the only TSA -approved biometric gun safe outlined here, the price is well worth the quality.
9. Viking Security VS-50BLX
The VS-50BLX has many of the same features as the other Viking safe outlined above but is double the size, double the weight and twice the price. Weighing in at 43 pounds, this safe is perfect for those who want the security of a biometric safe, but with more room than most other safes outlined in this review.
Large Storage Capacity
Large enough to hold multiple guns and other valuables to serve as a multipurpose at-home safe. With three fully adjustable shelves included, you can customize to your individual needs.
Solid Steel Construction
Seamless welding, pry-resistant, and a military-grade scratch-resistant exterior make this an attractive, heavyweight safe. Equipped with 4 anchor bolts as added security to ensure no one is walking away with your safe.
Cost and Value
As mentioned above, this safe is twice as expensive as its smaller version, due to its larger size and weight. This increased cost is well worth it for those who are looking for one safe to house all valuables.
10. Liberty HDX 150
Offering the ability to program up to 15 fingerprints, this safe is another great option for those who are looking for a portable safe while traveling or small enough to fit in a drawer. Heavy-duty 14- gauge steel, a tamper-resistant design, and large enough to fit most handguns, this is a great simple option for those who don't want to break the bank.
Lightweight
Much like the Vaultek listed above, the Liberty HDX 150's lightweight build makes it ideal to fit under the bed, hidden in your vehicle, or in your backpack for safe transport. At a total weight of 9.5 pounds, it is easy to keep hidden but comes with an optional security cable if you wish to keep it stationary.
14- Gauge Steel
Heavier than the similarly-designed Vaultek, this is great for those who want something that feels a bit sturdier. The reinforced latch system offers a pry-resistant opening to deter intruders.
Cost and Value
Slightly less expensive than its competitor Vaultek, this safe is best for those who aren't too worried about break-ins or those who merely want to keep children away from their gun.
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