Best Gun Safes for 2024

What We Looked For When Choosing The Best Gun Safes

The Pew Pew Tactical Team has a large number of firearms. Most of the firearms are kept in a safe place, such as a lockable gun cabinet.

Gun safes are used by people from all walks and backgrounds to protect family members, friends, and strangers.

After a month of testing each safe, we compared our findings.

• Easy opening
• Quality & Protection of the Building
• The following are some examples of
• You can also value

You can also watch short videos of the safe’s opening and closing mechanism.

The ones that were used are still in use today.

We’ve broken our list into the following categories:

• Best overall gun safes
• Best Handgun Safes
• Best Long Gun Safes

Best Gun Safes Overall

We use these gun safes almost daily and recommend them to friends and family. We’ve used them for many years and stand behind our recommendation.

If you follow the instructions, setting the combo is a breeze.

It can hold 2-3 pistols and some magazines, depending on the way you stack them.

There are only 1081 possible combinations. If you have a teenager who knows how to Google, and has patience, then you need to teach them to respect firearms or conceal it.

I bought a second lock that had upgraded features. For example, a thicker metal plate was placed behind the Simplex Lock to prevent smashing attacks.

The foam was cut better for the hydraulic lift…which also is stronger. This upgrade basically eliminates all of my complaints, aside from the low number combinations.

Vaultek LifePod Series – Best Travel/CCW Safety

When I travel by car and stay somewhere, the Vaultek lifePod has become my favorite travel case.

Since about 4 years, I have been carrying the two sizes as my everyday CCW.

It should be discreet, provide enough protection, allow quick access and yet still be able to tether to something strong.

Watch it in action!

Because they are capacitive, buttons work even when wet. When I go to bed, I like the latches unlocked but still locked.

The sling bag is also available, which is a great option.

I need a compact gun with a light and mag.

Ideal for trips when you only require one gun.

Now there is a bigger version, the lifePod 2.0 which can carry a lot more stuff. It also includes trays for those who are not transporting handguns.

If you’re a big guy, you can carry two guns in the larger size. Here are the full-size as well as micro.

You can also get some other goodies…

There are also special editions that have different colors, foam and lid organization.

It’s what I use to hold my CCW gun when I get home at night. Its primary purpose is to keep the gun away from curious children and eyes.

I place my holstered pistol face down, so that the Kydex is inside the foam and does not get in the lid’s way.

The camo version is awesome!

You can use them to travel with two guns or a concealed carry weapon (CCW) at home.

Easy to Setup Long Gun Safety – SecureIt Model 52

The day arrived…I realized that I would not be able to move the 375 lb. safe into my wardrobe without damaging my stuff.

Enter… Agile Model 52 which is delivered flat… and can be assembled quickly.

The Pew Pew Tactical Team has several of them, with the oldest one being used for over 4 years when the update was made.

The assembly is all inside, so there aren’t any screws or other parts to remove on the outside.

It’s 15 inches deep and weighs about 105 pounds. This makes it easy to store (and probably out of sight). Even if the bolts are hidden, I would still secure it.

You lose capacity, as you can only hold 6 long guns and scopes. The Cradle Grid backing allows them to be held in virtually any configuration.

If that’s not enough, the Agile 42 could be your best option for setting up a gun safe.

My set-up includes 6 long guns. (hardware is included…I love the bungee system for barrel retention).

The optional bins are also included…yellow bins to store things on top, and two metal trays which fit nicely behind the long gun.

I tested zip codes, and found that the Agile 52 was the least expensive shipping solution… I got results ranging from $30 on the East Coast up to $70 on West Coast.

Another Agile 52 is in our stable, with a slightly modified setup.

Liberty ProVault – Best overall long gun safe

Since it would be used as an overflow safe, I chose the largest 24-gun (59.5″ x 28.25″ x 22″) Liberty ProVault. I chose a mechanical lock because I did not want to have to deal with batteries.

After my own experience, I would recommend the 12- and 18-gun versions.

The ProVault is a color edition that Liberty (probably one of the biggest safe manufacturers) made for Cabela’s. I was interested in seeing it because of the great reviews.

A flexible interior is one that can be reconfigured and upgraded to hold different items.

The combination didn’t work.

I called Liberty and received excellentcustomer support. The man walked me through the process and called me when he promised. The combination didn’t work in the end.

He then found a dealer nearby who would come and pick it up for him (free of cost) so he could swap it out with his Centurion. It’s the exact same thing, but in a different colour.

Which…did work. Liberty’s rep stated that this was the first instance the combination didn’t work with the ProVault…and it was the same for the local dealer.

I am really the best at breaking things.

The interior (with Flex Interior, which you can reconfigure). If I had scoped rifles I would estimate that I could fit 12 in each of the two long gun segments.

It weighs 375 pounds so it won’t walk away… but determined people can move it with a dolly. I would recommend bolting it to the concrete. That’s what I did.

• Exterior: 59.5″(H) by 28.25″(W) by 22” (D)
• Interior: 57.4″(H) by 26.7″(W) by 15.6 “(D).
• Weight: 370 lbs.
• Fire: 30 Minutes at 1200 Degrees

This was a great choice that I used for 3 years.

Best Handgun Safes

Best Discreet Handgun Safe – Vaultek DS2i Smart Station

You’re looking for something discrete and tech-heavy.

Vaultek’s Smart Station sits on my desktop and easily holds a VP9 with an extra magazine. It’s been on my desk for more than 2 years as of the update.

The clock is small and discreet, making it ideal for bedside use or to be placed on a desk.

Also, the time, temperature and humidity are useful information. One more thing…the top of the charger is wireless!

The biometric sensor allows for fast and accurate entry. You can also use the old-fashioned pushbuttons. Watch it in action.

It is great that the app gives you Bluetooth, customizations and reports (open/closed times and tampering attempts).

However, one negative is that if you want to see the temperature/humidity…you have to have the app installed.

It’s also a good piece of equipment that allows you to quickly and discreetly access a handgun.

GunVault SpeedVault – The Best Under-The Desk Safe

This safe is perfect for people who spend most of their time at a computer. It doesn’t require RFID or biometrics.

Your handgun will drop down so that you can easily grip it. See how it opens:

The magazine will not hold a semi-automatic revolver, or any extra magazines.

If you spend a lot of time at your desk, you may not want a small handgun safety that is exposed.

There’s one I use right now…and have for quite some years ( 7+ year as of the update).

Best Biometric Handgun Safe – SentrySafe QAP1BEL

This high-rated safe has three different ways of opening it…buttons or fingerprint scanners, or a backup key.

The steel gauge is 12 gauge, which is also pretty thick.

The maximum capacity is two full-size guns and two magazines.

It’s quiet and easy to open.

It’s easy to bolt it down and you can also tie it down using a steel cable when traveling. I’ve had mine for over 4 years as of the update.

Do you like fingerprints? Our Best Biometric Safes feature includes more information on the SentrySafe as well as other biometric safes.

Best High-Tech Handgun Safe – Vaultek VT Series

The tech world is changing!

The Vaultek bad boys can be opened with a key, an electronic button, a fingerprint or utilizing Bluetooth. If you care about the look and feel, they are also a great choice.

The biometric reader was tested and showed a reliability of about 90%. It’s good for those who don’t require 100% accuracy in a hurry.

The can hold a full-size pistol and two magazines.

The larger VT20i is capable of holding even larger guns (possibly 2 compacts).

Also, a look at their other models that don’t include biometrics, saving you money, and their new flagship…the PRO MX series.

Best Car Handgun Safe – V-Line Top Draw

Simplex locks are now available in , V-Line’s new lightweight.

It’s been used for more than 7 years at the time of this update.

It’s a good idea to practice since the top is open. Gravity will be working against you.

Most Modular Handgun Safe – SecureIt Fastbox Model 20

SecureIt Fastbox 20 may be a little bigger than other options for handgun safes, but it can still hold up to 8 pistols.

The system is also extremely versatile and can be configured in several different ways.

SecureIt claims that there is no need to worry about a back door. It has a digital keypad lock powered by batteries with a keyed-override.

Steel body construction can be mounted vertically or horizontally using pre-drilled holes.

When you open the Fastbox Model 20 you will find the louvered back that allows for all customization. These hooks allow users to install bins or pegs for pistols and magazines.

The Fastbox Model 20 measures 20 inches high and 6 inches wide. It is perfect for hiding under a desk, bed or hallway closet.

SecureIt also has an assortment of accessories (like lighting) that you can use to customize your system. It’s only been one year, but check out the video to see it in action.

Best Long Gun Safes

You may think of gun safes as something you use to have.

These can also hold long guns, and they are larger (and costlier) than the handgun-only versions.

You don’t have to spend a lot to get what you want. You will eventually get better aesthetics.

Most Affordable Long Gun Safe – Amazon Gun Cabinets

If you only want to protect 1-2 guns, then you can get away with buying a cheap gun safe on Amazon.

These are merely glorified cabinets with some locking mechanisms.

Stack-On, Barska and other brands with a good reputation are also worth mentioning. There are also random brands sold by foreign sellers.

Keep in mind also that the actual capacity of the device will likely be lower than what is stated for real-world applications.

You will be unable to use the safe’s maximum capacity if you have ARs or scoped weapons. My two rifles take up nearly all of the space in a “5 gun safe.”

These were my first safes for several years.

Best Modular Long Gun Safe – SecureIt Model 84

What if you need something larger?

Look no further

It’s model 84 one of biggest. It’s still not that monster-sized safety in the basement.

Model 84 has two doors and is a sturdy storage solution.

This unit is 84 inches high, 36 inches wide and 15 inches deep. Its dimensions are more like a bookcase.

The Model 84 is made of heavy gauge steel and has multiple anchor points to bolt it into your room. The bi-fold door can be folded up or swung out to maximize space.

The back wall is completely covered by the Cradle Grid louvers that are used on the Agile 52. This configuration allows the user to stack 12 rifles on top of a middle shelf and another 12 below.

The angled feet and arms cradle at the base of long guns keep them in place. These arms have a bungee cord to ensure a tight fit, so that guns do not shift.

There is space under the shelf for bins, which are also included with the Model 84. These bins have a divider, and can store up to 24 magazines or pistols.

Two large handles are rotated together and accept a padlock to close the whole thing.

It’s a spacious, secure solution that we have been using for more than 2 years as of the update.

Best High-Tech Long Gun Safe – Vaultek RS500i

Want something that is super hi-tech but also looks amazing as a decor piece?

Here is the Vaultek RS500i , a medium-sized.

The RS has everything you could possibly imagine:

• Capacitive Keypad
• fingerprint scanner
• Wi-Fi alerts to receive commands and get alerts
• Smart key for quick access
• Manual keys
• super modular interior

Check out ours in action:

The RS500i is a middle model in the series with an interior measuring 13.75″ L x 9’75” W x 53.25″.

The rack can accommodate 3-4 rifles and optics, plus some handguns.

The battery still works after three months. The battery is easy to charge.

I’d recommend starting with the RS500i if you don’t want to go for the larger RS800i.

Best hidden long gun safe – Tactical walls 1450

Want to feel as if you are in a spy film?

Check out Tactical Walls concealment mirror. It’s useful for everyday use, but can also be used to store some serious firepower.

Best Gun Safe Upgrades

Upgrade your safe now! The gun world never ends…

I recommend that you get a Gun Safe Panel Organiser to fit your long gun safe door. This is one of the best upgrades to store many handguns, and other items.

You can buy some handgun hangers if you only want to increase your pistol storage.

You can choose between Pistol racks in either wire or foam. I chose the wire because I am not sure of the durability of the foam against my pistols over a long period.

I really like the new Light Switches. They’re in my safes, and I have them in my car to avoid wasting battery power when I’m going through things at night.

If you live in a humid area, I highly recommend buying a dehumidifier.

They can be recharged in an outlet if there is too much moisture. The color changes to green.

There are also plug-in models with higher power and less headache.

If you’re interested in more information, check out our Best Dehumidifiers.

It is also visible in my Centurion, along with the handgun and light hangers.

What to Look for When Choosing a Gun Safe

What Should I spend?

The best answer to this question I’ve received is “If you lost all your valuables in the safe, how much would you pay to get them back?”

The price of guns is high.

If you have only a few mass-produced, then a lower number is more sensible for peace of mind.

If you have items that are irreplaceable, I’d increase the price.

Consider your safe to be insurance for your valuables (plus it will lower your insurance rate).

What is better, an electronic or mechanical lock?

I’m old-fashioned. For important safes I only use mechanical locks. As important as it is, I heard a noise in the night and need to access now.

There are no batteries to replace, and there is less chance of hacking.

When ease of use is the main concern, I think electronic locks are still a good option (even Bluetooth and biometric ones).

You can create multiple combinations, keep a log of all accesses, and even use your fingerprints.

What Size Gun Safe Should I Buy?

The rule of thumb when looking at a safe is to twice your initial impression.

The reason is not that you will likely purchase more guns (ok, a little bit of that), but that the manufacturers’ stated maximum number of rifles in a safe refers to un-scoped weapons stacked one on top of another.

It is also important to measure the area where you will be putting that item. The item is likely to weigh a few hundred pounds, and it’s hard to move around without some friends and extra space.

Important Numbers & Ratings

Soon, you’ll hear the word “gauge”, which is a measurement of how thick steel used to make a safe. A smaller number indicates a thicker gauge, like a shotgun.

Steel walls in the 14 to 12 gauge range is more affordable.

Underwriters Laboratory, which creates standards for consumer goods, will also be talking about ” RSC (Residential Security container).

The categories are varied, but in essence…RSC means that the unit has been tested for protection against hammers and chisels as well as pry bars, screws, punches and wrenches.

Still with me?

Different types of gun safes

Below, we’ll be going over a number of safes and breaking them down into their different types.

Handgun/Pistol Safes

You can keep these smaller gun safes on your nightstand or in a hidden place, or even bring them with you when you travel.

Many will either have a way to bolt down or tie it with a steel cord.

I will also discuss some biometric and high-tech options.

Long Gun Safes

Now that we’ve got smaller safes to store handguns, it’s now time for bigger safes to store long guns such as AR-15s and bolt-action rifles.

Safes can range in size from a “cabinet” to a full-blown one.

Hidden Safes

Gun safes that are hidden in plain view

Car Safes

There are also some car-specific safes, though many handguns will work in an emergency. You don’t want to be forced to store your handgun in the glove box.

Final Thoughts

We’re almost done!

The gun safe is the last line against unauthorised access to your firearms. How can you make it more difficult to reach this last line of defense?

After talking to some police officers who see many stolen guns, this advice was given.

• keep your home/car doors locked
• Get an alarm system or at least a sticker
• Don’t advertise that you own guns (I apologize…this includes stickers with NRA logos or gun logos).
• Teach your children proper gun safety

Keep in mind that no safe can be impenetrable with enough time and tools. You just need to make the system so annoying that criminals will give up, or not even attempt it.

What other categories or information would you like to see? Please let us know what you think in the comments section below. Check out our Best Beside Safes or Best Biometric Safes.

The latest updates

April 18, 2024: Updated the How We Test page and added more experiences for each safe. Awesafe biometric safe, Liberty Safe Outfitter and Amsec Safe were removed.