As a responsible gun owner, it's important to keep your firearms secure. Not only does it protect your investment and prevent gun theft, but it also ensures the safety of your loved ones and keeps them out of reach of children. Buying a gun safe may not be as exciting as purchasing the guns themselves, but it's an essential investment for any gun owner.
With so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That's why we've compiled this list of the best gun safes for the money, taking into consideration different sizes, needs, and budgets to suit everyone's needs.
Things To Consider When Choosing a Gun Safe
Choosing the right safe is crucial for any gun owner, as it protects against theft, damage, and unauthorized access. With so many options to choose from, it can be challenging to determine which gun safe is right for you and that also fits your budget. To help you make an informed decision, we've outlined the most critical factors to consider when choosing a gun safe.
Size and Capacity
Making sure your arsenal fits inside the safe is a great starting point. The size and capacity of your gun safe should be based on the number and size of your firearms, as well as the available space in your home.
Depending on your needs, a small safe may be suitable and keeps your protection easily accessible. But if you have long guns or a collection of guns, a larger gun safe is more appropriate. It's also wise to get one that you can grow with so you don't have to get a new safe as your collection expands.
Locking Mechanisms
The locking mechanism is another critical feature of any gun safe. Many modern options use electronic or biometric locks, which provide quick and secure access and come with backup access methods in case of electric failure.
Mechanical locks can also be effective. They don't have the high-tech identify confirmation, but they're a tried-and-true method for secure storage that doesn't depend on power to function.
Fire Protection
Many safes are fire resistant to protect your firearms in case of a fire. Look for one that has been tested and certified to withstand high temperatures and protect the contents inside.
Steel Thickness and Construction
Another element you'll want to keep in mind is the overall construction. A safe that can't prevent forced entry isn't worth investing in. Check the thickness and construction of the steel used, and look for a safe with a thick steel door and body with reinforced locking bolts.
Price
The prices can vary significantly depending on the size, capacity, and features. While a quality gun safe can be a significant investment, it's worth the price to protect your firearms. You can create your little version of Fort Knox to make sure those valuable items stay in your possession.
Our Handpicked List of the Best Gun Cabinets and Safes
With a vast array of options available, looking for a gun safe can be overwhelming. But you can rest easy. We've compiled this list of the best gun-safe manufacturers to make your decision easier than ever. We'll cover the strengths and weaknesses of each safe, the price point, and our top picks so you can select the one that's right for your needs.
We've categorized them into four groups:
- Best Safes for Handguns and Pistols
- Best Biometric Gun Safes
- Best Options for Mid-Sized Guns
- Best Long-Gun Safes
Let's dive into the details and find the ideal safe for you.
Best Safes for Handguns and Pistols
When you need a sturdy safe for handgun and pistol storage, you don't have to go crazy. It's better to have a quick access safe in the right spot than an overloaded one you can't reach. Our choices help you keep your home safe without hindering your access.
Best Overall: AMSEC PS1208EZ Easy Carry Handgun Safe
Price: $273.75 USD
The AMSEC PS1208EZ Easy Carry Safe is a high-quality safe that is specifically designed for smaller weapons, such as handguns and pistols. It features a reliable and fast access Simplex push button mechanical locking device, with 1,081 unique combinations and no batteries or unreliable biometric scanners to worry about.
Constructed with a body and door made of 14-gauge solid steel plate, this safe is pry-resistant and built to withstand forceful entry attempts. The locking mechanism is protected by a steel housing, impervious to punch attacks.
In addition to its sturdy construction, the AMSEC PS1208EZ Easy Carry Safe has a protective high-density pluck foam lined interior so your handguns or pistols safe don't get scratched or damaged. The safe has a heavy-duty chrome carrying handle for easy transportation.
The outside dimensions of the safe are 8.125” H x 12.25” W x 4” D, and it weighs 11 pounds. It also features four pre-drilled bolt-down holes to securely anchor it to a solid surface.
Best for Tighter Budget: Hollon PB10 Pistol Safe
Price: $139.00 USD
The Hollon PB10 Pistol Safe is a top-of-the-line compact safe designed for home defense pistols and handguns, at a surprisingly reasonable price point. It is a great option that keeps your small weapon right where you want it, with quick access that's safe to keep next to your bed, desk, or other central location.
Made with high-quality material built to last, the Hollon PB10 Pistol Safe ensures that your firearm is secure. Measuring 5 1/4″ H x 9″ W x 11 1/2″ D, the Hollon PB10 Pistol Safe can hold full-framed handguns up to the size of 1911. It's also lightweight, weighing in at just 10 pounds.
The PB10 lock is an all-mechanical lock that doesn't let you down when you need it most. The easy-to-use programming retains your combination even when the batteries are changed, specifically the 4 AA batteries. The lock clutch system ensures that the vault remains securely locked, while the dual internal locking points offer added protection.
If you're looking for a high-quality, durable, and reliable compact safe at a great price, the Hollon PB10 Pistol Safe is an excellent choice.
Best Biometric Gun Safes
Step into the 21st century with our handpicked choices for the best biometric gun safes. By using advanced technology, you get an extra piece of mind that your valuables are secure and easily accessible to only you.
Best Overall: Sports Afield SA5940P-B Preserve Series Biometric Safe
Price: $1,549.99 USD
When you need a lot of space to keep your guns safe, the Sports Afield SA5940P-B Preserve Series Biometric Gun Safe is the one to go with. As a premium modular gun safe, it provides ample space and unparalleled protection for your firearms and valuables.
The biometric handle allows rapid access, plus the safe offers plenty of interior storage and features high-quality materials and construction.
Its TRIPLE SEAL PROTECTION™ guards against fire, water, and smoke damage. The safe is independently fire-rated for 45 minutes in temperatures up to 1,400 degrees Fahrenheit (760 C), and independently water-rated for 7 days in up to 2 ft (0.6 m) of standing water. You can rest assured that your possessions will remain safe and secure no matter what happens.
The SA5940P-B Preserve Series Biometric Safe is constructed of industrial-grade steel with a fortified Uni-Weld body, eight 1.5-inch steel locking bolts, and three 1.5-inch deadbolts to provide a fortified barrier against theft.
The biometric handle allows for quick and secure entry. For emergency use, it comes with two override keys to ensure you'll always be able to get in when you need to. The Anti-Theft Alert triggers the alarm if unauthorized entry attempts are detected.
The spacious interior of this large safe is fully carpeted and is packed with organization options. It includes a barrel rack with 40 long gun positions, eight handgun holsters, and three height-adjustable side shelves, plus door organization with zipper pockets and eight handgun holsters. You have quick access to commonly used items and plenty of space to store your gun collection.
The stylish and durable Black Textured Gloss powder coat finish with a 3-spoke chrome handle adds a sleek touch to your safe.
The SA5940P-B Preserve Series Biometric Safe is California DOJ-approved for secure gun storage and comes with Sports Afield's best-in-class lifetime warranty. With external dimensions of 59" x 40" x 22", a weight of 533 pounds, and a gun capacity of 40 + 8, this safe is the ultimate storage solution for gun enthusiasts who value security and protection.
Best for Tighter Budget: Barska AX12760 Biometric Keypad Rifle Safe
Price: $493.99 USD
When you want a biometric safe to keep your long firearms safe without dropping all your cash, the Barska AX12760 Biometric Keypad Safe is the perfect solution. This safe has advanced fingerprint technology that can store up to 120 fingerprints, ensuring that only authorized users can access your weapons.
It also has a digital PIN pad and key access, providing multiple ways to open it. And this safe features a programmable silent access mode that ensures you can open the safe quickly and quietly when needed.
The safe for long guns comes with a four-position rifle rack, allowing you to store and organize them easily. The removable accessory shelf allows for storage of additional accessories and items, such as ammunition or magazines.
In addition to these impressive features, the Barska AX12760 Biometric Keypad Safe also has a 3-point steel deadbolt locking system that provides an additional layer of security. It complies with the CA Department of Justice regulations for firearm storage.
The safe operates on four included AA batteries. It also has dual backup options, including a 9V battery external power source and two backup keys. And it comes with all the necessary mounting hardware to anchor the safe to a wall or other surface.
This rifle safe is made of steel and has a black color that looks sleek and modern. It has an exterior dimension of 8.6" D x 9.8" W x 52.17" H and an interior dimension of 6.3" D x 9.7" W x 51.75" H. It can hold up to four rifles and weighs 66 pounds.
Best Options for Mid-Sized Guns
When you want an option to keep your mid-size firearms safe, there are plenty of options to choose from. This section covers our top picks, including the best all-around option and the most budget-friendly choice.
Best Overall: Gardall Black Firelined BGF7242-BS-C Gun Safe with Silver Trim
Price: $3,896.25 USD
The Gardall Black Firelined BGF7242-BS-C Gun Safe with Silver Trim is an excellent choice for gun owners who prioritize safety and security. This powerful, large safe is designed to keep your firearms and ammunition safe from unauthorized access and potential fire hazards.
With its durable 1/4" steel door, 11 gauge body, and 9 active 1-1/2" locking bolts, this safe offers superior protection against theft. For added protection, the Gardall Black Firelined BGF7242-BS-C Gun Safe features an advanced U.L. Group II lock with a spy-proof dial and two layers of 1/2" U.L. rated fireboard insulation.
It also has a U.L. approved Intumescent door seal that expands to seven times its original size in hot temperature environments to keep your contents locked away from danger. It is U.L. RSC Burglary Label and CA DOJ certified, and has been fire tested at 1,400 F (760 C) for 60 minutes.
Additionally, the safe has an optional S&G electronic lock that ensures complete security for all stored items. The safe is also designed with convenience in mind, featuring a 5-spoke handle and 4 anchoring holes in the bottom.
The dimensions of the Gardall Black Firelined BGF7242-BS-C Safe are impressive, with an exterior size of 72.00" H x 42.00" W x 27.50" D, and an interior size of 68.50" H x 39.00" W x 21.00" D. The interior has a capacity of 32.47 cu ft, making it a great option for those with larger firearm collections. The safe weighs 882 pounds.
Best for Tighter Budget: Sports Afield SA7240P Preserve Series Gun Safe
Price: $2,139.99 USD
If you want lots of room to store your firearms securely without overspending, the Sports Afield SA7240P Preserve Series Gun Safe is the ultimate solution. This safe is designed to keep your valuable items safe from any damaging elements, including fire, water, and smoke, thanks to its TRIPLE SEAL PROTECTION™ technology.
The largest in the line, this safe has a whopping 60-gun capacity. The interior of the safe is fully carpeted and features a barrel rack, a Zero-Sag steel reinforced top shelf, and three height-adjustable side shelves.
Constructed with industrial-grade steel and a Uni-Weld body with eight 1.5" steel locking bolts, it's a fortified barrier against theft. Plus, it features true 4-way locking for added security. It includes a fully programmable electronic lock, which is easy to use and comes with two fail-safe override keys.
In addition to its superior protection, the SA7240P Preserve Series Gun Safe is also designed for convenience. The door organization includes zipper pockets and eight handgun holsters. The stylish and durable Black Textured Gloss powder coat finish adds a touch of elegance to this safe, while the 3-spoke chrome handle makes it easy to operate.
This gun safe is California DOJ approved for secure gun storage, and it comes with the best-in-class Lifetime Warranty that covers the entire safe against theft, fire, natural flood, locks, parts, and paint. It is independently fire-rated for 45 minutes in temperatures up to 1,400 F (760 C) and independently water-rated for 7 days in up to 2 ft (0.6 m) of standing water.
Best Long-Gun Safes
For rifles and other long gun storage needs, it's crucial to find the right option that can store your favorite weapons. We've handpicked these top choices so you can have the confidence to pick one that has the features you need.
Best Overall: Winchester Bandit 14 Gun Safe B-6022F1-14 (Currently Out Of Stock)
Price: $1,209.99 USD
The Winchester Bandit 14 Gun Safe B-6022F1-14 is the perfect solution for keeping your firearms, important documents, and other valuable items protected. It is designed to hold up to 18 long firearms and has an adjustable shelving system that allows for customization to fit your storage needs.
The safe features collector barrel racks and auxiliary shelves for easy access to your guns and other items.
One of the standout features of the Winchester Bandit 14 Gun Safe is its exceptional fire protection. The safe has a proven 45-minute rating at temperatures up to 1,400 F (760 C), and its Palusol® heat-expanding door seal expands to over six times its size when subjected to heat, creating a barrier against heat and smoke.
The safe has UL® rated fireboard protection in the ceiling, walls, and door, and external solid steel strap hinges that remove the vulnerability of internal hinges, which require holes and weak points in fireboard protection.
In addition to its impressive fire protection, the Winchester Bandit 14 Gun Safe exceeds the California Department of Justice's requirements for burglary protection. The safe has a UL® Listed S&G mechanical lock with no vulnerable solenoid or key override feature, and it has eight 1" solid steel locking bolts, four of which are active and four of which are deadlocking.
The deadlocking bolts on the hinge side of the door cannot be compromised in a burglary attack, and the recessed door and reinforced steel return jambs thwart pry attacks. The safe is also pre-drilled for anchoring to the floor, preventing tipping for pry leverage or removal of the safe by thieves.
With so many amazing security features, you can have utter confidence that your prized possessions will stay right where they are.
Best for Tighter Budget: Winchester Bandit 9 Gun Safe B-5618F1-9 (Currently Out Of Stock)
Price: $1,059.99 USD
The Winchester Bandit 9 Gun Safe is a compact and secure solution for storing your guns and other valuables. Despite its relatively-narrow size, it can hold up to 10 long guns with space for other items like ammunition and vital documents.
This safe comes with a UL® Listed S&G mechanical lock with no vulnerable solenoid or key override feature, which exceeds the California DOJ requirements for burglary protection. And it features a durable powder-coated gunmetal finish and a black single-lever handle.
The interior includes a fixed U-shaped gun rack and a fixed top shelf for easy organization, and the door panel organizer provides quick access to handguns and more in zippered pockets. Additionally, there is a small power cord exit hole at the back of the safe for added convenience.
In terms of fire protection, the Bandit 9 Gun Safe has a proven 45-minute fire rating at 1,400 F (760 C). The Palusol® heat expanding door seal expands to over six times its size when subjected to heat, creating a barrier against heat and smoke. UL® rated fireboard protection in the ceiling, walls, and door further enhances the safe's fire resistance. It's also backed by a lifetime free replacement guarantee, giving you peace of mind that you'll get a new safe if a fire occurs.
With its solid steel 14-gauge body formed with robotic welds and solid steel external strap hinges, the Bandit 9 Gun Safe is a reliable option for protecting your valuables from burglary attempts. It has six 1" solid steel locking bolts, with three dead-locking and three active. The recessed door and reinforced steel return jambs thwart pry attacks.
The safe is also pre-drilled for anchoring to the floor, preventing tipping for pry leverage or removal. And just like with the fire protection, the lifetime free replacement guarantee ensures that you will receive a new safe in the event of a burglary attack.
The exterior dimensions of the Bandit 9 Gun Safe are 56" H x 18" W x 16" D, while the interior dimensions are 54" H x 16" W x 10" D, offering a volume of 9.2 cu ft. The safe weighs 238 pounds.
With its compact size and advanced security features, the Winchester Bandit 9 Gun Safe is an ideal choice for anyone looking for a reliable and secure way to store their long guns and other valuables.
How To Install Your Gun Safe
Installing your gun safe properly is essential to ensure the safety of your firearms and valuables. Improper installation can result in damage to your safe, damage to your floor or walls, and even compromise the security of your safe.
Here are some steps you should follow when installing your gun safe:
- Choose the right location: Before you start installing your gun safe, carefully consider where it needs to be. The location should be secure and dry, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. You should also ensure it has adequate space to accommodate the size of your gun safe.
- Prepare the floor: Once you have chosen the location, it's crucial to get the floor ready first. The floor should be level and strong enough to support the weight of your gun safe. If the floor is not level, you can use shims to level the gun safe. You also might need to reinforce it for some of the heavier safes.
- Anchor your gun safe: This crucial step ensures your safe stays in place and cannot be easily removed by burglars. You can anchor your gun safe to the floor or wall. If you use the wall, make sure you attach it to a load-bearing wall stud.
- Install the door organizer: Many gun safes come with door-mounted organization, which can be used to store handguns, magazines, and other accessories. You should install the door organizer before you start storing your firearms in the safe.
- Test your gun safe: Once you have completed the installation, verify it is working correctly. Check the locking mechanism, and door alignment, and make sure that the door opens and closes smoothly.
Also, make sure to read our guide on how to move a gun safe before you start transporting it between places.
Wrapping Up: Best Gun Safe for the Money
Finding the best firearm safe for your budget can be a daunting task, but with the right information, you can make an informed decision. Remember to consider the size, security features, fire protection, and warranty when choosing a gun safe.
By investing in a quality gun safe, you can protect your firearms, important documents, and other valuables from theft, fire, and other disasters. By following our expert advice, you can choose the best gun safe for your money and have confidence that your valuables are safe and secure.