At GunDigest, we independently review products. However, we may earn a commission when you purchase through links on our site. Learn More
Putting Your Pistol in Lockdown with Handgun Safes
There’s no reason keeping a handgun safely locked away from the kids and being prepared for that moment you hear a breaking window in the middle of the night needs to be mutually exclusive. With today’s offerings of quick-access handgun safes, gun owners can ensure the highest levels of both safety and access.
GunVault DrawerVault 3000
The DrawerVault 3000 utilizes biometric technology to hold up to 120 unique fingerprints and boasts lightening fast access to your firearm even in the dark. The 4¼”x 10″x12″ 18-gauge steel construction box will fit in most drawers and can be secured by an optional high-strength security cable. The door is designed to resist tampering and comes with a backup override key. ($350; gunvault.com)
Fort Knox Personal Pistol Safe
Made with 10-gauge heavy steel and a 3/16-inch thick plate door, the Personal Pistol Safe can hold a pair of handguns as well as other small valuables. Access items a quick combo lock. Dimensions are 9″x5″x12″ and the safe weighs 20 pounds. ($249; ftknox.com)
V-Line Top Draw
The Top Draw is a slim, top opening case that uses an easily programmable five-push-button mechanical lock to access its contents. The lock does not require batteries. Despite its sleek size, it can still accommodate up to two compact or subcompact pistols and is finished in black powder coating on the exterior and foam lining to protect valuables inside. Predrilled holes in the bottom allow for quick, permanent mounting on most surfaces. ($169; vlineind.com)
Homak Pistol Box
The Pistol Box comes in three sizes—Large (10″x14½” x7½”), Medium (10″x5¾”x7 5/8″ pictured) and Small (10″x3½”x7½”)—and is made from 1.5mm steel and finished in a durable powder coat epoxy. The electronic keypad operates on four AA batteries and is programmable. It is a 9-volt battery backup entry and features a 15-minute security lockout after three wrong codes are entered. ($46-$60; homaksecurity.com)
Editor's note: This article appeared in the September 9, 2013 edition of Gun Digest the Magazine.
Recommended Home Defense Resources
Now you picked up some pointers on handgun safes, it's time to delve deeper into personal security tactics. There's no better reference on the matter than Defend Yourself: A Comprehensive Security Plan for the Armed Homeowner. The book is perfect if you’ve purchased firearms for home defense and protection, you want practical guidance on home security and defense and you’re looking for practical ways to apply home defense principles. Also check out our other concealed carry books.
