Best Gun Safes [Hands-On Tested]

Need to keep your guns out of the hands of unauthorized family members and burglars?

Then you need a gun safe.

There are A LOT of them out there, and they can range anywhere from $30 to over $10,000. You can find everything from old-school mechanical safes to fancy biometric and WiFi-enabled versions.

We'll cover the different types and provide you with a few options for an affordable, best bang-for-the-buck, or high-end choice.

Between everyone on the Pew Pew Tactical team, we have quite a few things that go boom. As such, we have extensive experience when it comes to firearm storage.

We have broken this list down into three different sections: Best overall gun safes, best handgun safes, and best long gun safes.

So keep on reading as we go over other important things like how much you should spend and what to look for when considering a safe.

How We Chose The Best Gun Safes

The Pew Pew Tactical team has quite a few firearms. And most of them live in secure locations, which means safes most of the time.

We come from all walks of life and utilize gun safes as a barrier against unintended use by family members, guests, and intruders.

We tested each safe daily by opening and closing it for at least one month, and then tallied up our thoughts on the following criteria: ease of opening, build quality and protection, features, and value.

We also included short video clips of the opening and closing mechanisms of each safe. The ones that made the cut are still used to this day.

Best Overall Gun Safes

These are the gun safes that we use almost daily and also recommend to our friends and family. They've been in use for multiple years, and we're 100% behind our recommendations.

1. Fort Knox FTK-PB - Best Overall Handgun Safe

Best Overall Handgun Safe

Fort Knox FTK-PB

$295

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$295 at Amazon

GunSafes (see price)

Specs

• Lock Type: Simplex Mechanical Lock
• External Dimensions: 10.25"D x 12.5"W x 4.35"H
• Internal Dimensions: 9.75"D x 11.75"W x 3.5"H
• Material: 10-gauge steel body, 3/16″ plate door
• Weight: 22 lbs

My personal "bump in the night" safe, and what I recommend to all my friends, is the Fort Knox FTK-PB.

I've been using the original version, and now the newer version, for over 7 years.

It's not the cheapest at approximately $300, but it's heavy at 20 lbs, 10-gauge thickness, boltable, and features the mechanical Simplex lock, which is extremely fast and easy to use in the dark.

Check how fast I can unlock it in this video clip:

Setting the combo is super easy if you follow the instructions.

Plus, it holds 2-3 pistols plus some mags, depending on how you want to stack them.

One negative is that there are only 1081 combinations, so if you have a teen who knows how to Google and has patience, you need to work on concealing it or teaching them to respect your firearms.

I got a second one that has upgraded features, such as a thick metal plate behind the Simplex lock to prevent smash attacks.

Here's the original.

And the upgraded one.

Another upgrade that essentially addresses all my complaints, except for the inherent low number of combinations, is that they cut the foam to fit the hydraulic lift more precisely...which is also stronger.

See the full review and more choices in our Best Bedside Quick Access Safe.

2. Vaultek LifePod Series - Best Travel/CCW Safe

Best Travel/CCW Safe

Vaultek LifePod

$119

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$119 at Amazon

Vaultek (see price)

Specs

• Lock Type: Electric keypad, manual key
• External Dimensions: 10.25"D x 7"W x 2.25"H
• Internal Dimensions: 7.75"D x 6"W x 1.75"H
• Material: Impact-resistant proprietary material blend
• Weight: 2.2 lbs

The Vaultek LifePod is now my go-to travel case when I'm driving and also staying over somewhere.

I've been using the two sizes for my daily CCW carry for over 4 years. It is discreet, offers enough protection, is quick access, and is able to be tethered to something sturdy.

Check it out in action:

Buttons work well even when wet since they are capacitive. I like having the latches undone but still locked when I go down for the night.

The capacity is just right for me, as it fits a compact gun with a weapon light and a separate mag comfortably.

It is great for trips where you only need one gun, and can be easily stored inside a small backpack.

They now offer a larger version with the LifePod 2.0, which can hold a lot more stuff. It also comes with trays if you aren't transporting a handgun.

You can even get some special editions with different colors, additional foam, and lid organization.

I use mine for holding my holstered CCW gun at the end of the day. Its main purpose is to keep it away from little ones and wandering eyes.

I end up placing my holstered gun face down so the Kydex is in the foam and doesn't get in the way of the lid closing.

Vaultek LifePod 2.0

$169

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$169 at Amazon

Vaultek (see price)

OpticsPlanet (see price)

Check 'em out for a larger travel solution or for keeping two guns (or a holstered CCW) safe at home.

3. ONNAIS Biometric - Most Affordable Pistol Safe

Most Affordable Pistol Safe

ONNAIS Biometric Pistol Safe

$62

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$62 at Amazon

ONNAIS Direct (see price)

Specs

• Lock Type: Fingerprint, electric keypad, manual key
• Internal Dimensions: 9.2”D x 11.5”W x 3.1”H
• Material: Alloy steel
• Weight: 4.4 lbs

Looking for an affordable electronic safe that has big usable buttons AND biometric capability?

The Onnais Standard Size is big enough for a 2011 with all the fixins or a smaller gun with multiple mags.

The big buttons are easy to use, even in the dark. And the biometric fingerprint reader is surprisingly decent given the price.

Another surprise is that auto-opens after unlock...something that I used to see only in higher-priced pistol safes. See it in action:

The one big knock I can give is that it does feel way more affordable than the Fort Knox. It's a lightweight 5.5 lbs compared to the Fort Knox's 22 lbs.

But if you're looking for an affordable option that isn't meant to prevent brute strength break-in...the ONNAIS is pretty nice. Plus there's a larger size too if you want to hold two guns.

Easy to purchase on Amazon for ~$60 for the standard size or use code PEW PEW at the manufacturer’s site to make it $56 and free shipping.

4. SecureIt Agile Model 52 - Easiest Setup Long Gun Safe

Easiest Setup Long Gun Safe

SecureIt Agile 52

$599

at SecureIt

Prices accurate at time of writing

$599 at SecureIt

Specs

• Lock Type: Fingerprint, electric keypad, manual key
• External Dimensions: 15.25”D x 20.25”W x 52”H
• Internal Dimensions: 12.25"D x 18.5"W x 51.87"H
• Material: 14-gauge steel
• Weight: 105 lbs

When the day came, I realized there was no way I could move my old 375-pound safe into my closet without destroying things.

Enter the SecureIt's Agile Model 52, which is delivered flat and can be assembled quickly.

The Pew Pew Tactical team has several of these between us, with the oldest one in use for over 4 years.

Plus, all the assembly is internal, so there are no screws or anything to take apart on the outside.

It has a depth of 15 inches and weighs 105 pounds, so it's easy to store anywhere (and likely out of sight). I'd definitely still bolt it down, though, even if it's hidden.

The disadvantage is that you give up capacity, to the tune of only holding six long guns with scopes. However, they are nicely held in almost any configuration due to the modular Cradle Grid backing.

But if that's enough, the Agile 52 might be the easiest solution to setting up your own gun safe. Mine is set up with six long guns (I really like the bungee retention system for the barrel).

I also got the optional bins to store stuff at the top, as well as two metal trays that fit in nicely behind the long guns.

Additionally, the Agile 52 might be the most cost-effective shipping solution. I was testing zip codes and got results from around $30 to the East Coast and $70 to the West Coast.

Check out our full review and YouTube video below!

What's your take on the SecureIt? Rate it below!

5. Liberty ProVault - Best Overall Long Gun Safe

Best Overall Long Gun Safe

Liberty ProVault 24 Flex Safe

$799

at Cabela's

Prices accurate at time of writing

$799 at Cabela's

Specs

• Lock Type: Fingerprint, electric keypad, manual key
• External Dimension: 22"D x 28.25"W x 59.5"H
• Internal Dimensions: 15.6"D x 26.7"W x 57.4"H
• Material: 14-gauge steel
• Weight: 370 lbs

I opted for the largest 24-gun Liberty ProVault since it was going to be an overflow safe for my newer guns. I also went with a mechanical lock since I didn't want to deal with batteries.

There are also the 12- and 18-gun models, which I actually recommend based on my experience.

The ProVault version is a special color edition made by Liberty (probably the largest safe manufacturer) for Cabela's. It had awesome reviews, so I wanted to see it for myself.

Annnnd...the combo didn't work!

So I gave Liberty a call. They had great customer service --- the guy walked me through everything and even called me back when he said he would. But in the end, the combo didn't work.

So he found a local dealer to come pick it up (free of charge) and swap it with their Centurion. Which is the same exact thing, except in a different color.

This one worked fine. The Liberty rep said that was the first time the combo didn't work for the ProVault. The local dealer said the same. It seems like this was a legitimate one-off situation.

I suppose I'm really the best at breaking things. But with a functioning safe in hand, I went to work getting it set up.

Here's the inside, with the "Flex" Interior that you can somewhat reconfigure. With scoped rifles, I'd estimate I could fit maybe 12 total in both of the long gun segments.

It is a hearty 370 pounds, so it's not walking away on its own, but a determined person with a dolly can still move it. I'd recommend bolting it into the concrete, which is what I did.

Overall, it has been a great option that served me well for over 3 years.

Best Handgun Safes

6. Steelhead Fast Access Pistol Box - Runner-Up Mechanical Saf

Runner-Up Mechanical Safe

Steelhead Fast Access Pistol Box

$300

at Steelhead

Prices accurate at time of writing

$300 at Steelhead

Specs

• Lock Type: Simplex Mechanical Lock
• Internal Dimensions: 12.25"D x 8.5"W x 3"H
• Material: 12-gauge steel
• Weight: 15 lbs

The Steelhead Fast Access Pistol is a worthy competitor to the Fort Knox that I've loved for years.

It utilizes the same Simplex lock that I love for quick access, but does so in a better-looking package.

I'm able to open it with the Simplex lock in under 2 seconds, and there's a thick metal piece on the back to prevent prying attacks.

The pistol safe is a very nice 15-pound model, which makes it portable for trips, and it simply feels very well-made.

How about capacity? It gets high marks here. It easily fits a full-sized Staccato P with an extra mag. I can also fit two compact handguns (Glock 19-sized) with optics and weapon lights.

I also really like how it has different mounting options.

There are the standard four pre-drilled holes if you are looking for a more permanent mounting solution.

However, there's also an optional 1/4 inch galvanized security cable available for $25, which is 3 ft long and rated for 6,000 lbs. It fits into the slots on the side.

The main con of this safe is that there are only 1081 combinations, but that's a problem inherent with Simplex locks and not the safe itself. In my opinion, it's still worth it for the increased reliability and quick access.

Also, in comparison to the Fort Knox, there's no pneumatic assist in opening. But if you don't have noodles for arms, you won't have a problem anyway.

Overall, the Steelhead Pistol Box is a great modern-looking mechanical safe that gives the Fort Knox a run for its money, especially with the discount code PEWPEW25.

7. Vaultek DS2i Smart Station - Best Discreet Handgun Safe

Best Discreet Handgun Safe

Vaultek Smart Station DS2i

$419

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$419 at Amazon

Vaultek Store (see price)

Specs

• Lock Type: Fingerprint, electric keypad, manual key
• External Dimensions: 12.125"D x 8.25"W x 3"H
• Internal Dimensions: 9"D x 7.5"W x 1.5"H
• Material: 18-gauge steel
• Weight: 9.6 lbs

Looking for something discreet and tech-heavy?

The Smart Station from Vaultek sits on my desk right now and holds a VP9 and extra mag with ease. I've been using it for over 2 years.

It's discreet as a tabletop clock, which makes it perfect for being bedside or on a work desk.

The time, temperature, and humidity readouts are also useful info. And one more thing, the top is a wireless phone charger!

Entry is fast and accurate with the biometric sensor. Alternatively, you can go old-school with the pushbuttons.

See it in action:

The app is also great since it gives you Bluetooth access, lots of customizations, and reporting (open/close times and tamper attempts).

However, one negative is that if you want to see the temperature/humidity, you have to have the app installed. Otherwise, it's a great piece of kit that provides discreet and quick access to a handgun.

If you like these features but want more capacity, check out its big brother, the Smart Station DS5i.

The DS5i can hold two full-sized handguns. It's a beast at 15 lbs and gives you eight digits to create more complex entry codes. Plus, there's an optional backplate that gives you a better way to secure it to your desk.

Vaultek Smart Station DS5i

$559

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$559 at Amazon

Vaultek (see price)

8. GunVault SpeedVault SV500 - Best Under-The-Desk Safe

Best Best Under-The-Desk

GunVault SpeedVault SV500

$145

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$145 at Amazon

Specs

• Lock Type: Electric keypad, manual key
• External Dimensions: 6.5"D x 3.5"W x 13"H
• Internal Dimensions: 5.75"D x 2.6"W x 8.5"H
• Material: 18-gauge steel
• Weight: 7 lbs

If you're at a desk most of the time, this nifty safe from GunVault doesn't need RFID keys or biometrics.

After inputting your code, your handgun drops down, ready to grip. Check out how forceful it opens up:

One downside is that it won't hold a revolver or extra magazines for your semi-auto handgun.

However, it's perfect if you're at your desk a lot and don't want an exposed, small handgun safe.

I have one currently in use, and have been for quite some time; 7+ years as of now.

9. SentrySafe QAP1BLX - Best Biometric Handgun Safe

Best Biometric Handgun Safe

SentrySafe QAP1BLX Biometric Gun Safe

$141

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$141 at Amazon

Specs

• Lock Type: Fingerprint, electric keypad, manual key
• External Dimensions: 9.9"D" x 12.1"W x 3.2"H
• Internal Dimensions: 6.7"D x 9.7"W x 2.2"H
• Material: 12-gauge steel
• Weight: 12 lbs

The SentrySafe QAP1BLX offers three different methods for opening this highly rated safe: buttons, fingerprint scanner, or backup key. 

It states that it can hold up to two guns, but I think one full-size and two magazines might be the realistic maximum capacity without stacking guns on top of each other.

It is easy to bolt down if you wish, or you can tie it down with a steel cable for travel. It uses 12-gauge steel, which is thicker than a lot of the other safes on this list.

I also like that it's pretty quiet when opening. I've been using mine for 4+ years, and it has been solid.

Are fingerprints your thing? See more of the SentrySafe and others in our Best Biometric Safes article.

10. Vaultek Bluetooth 20 Series - Best High-Tech Handgun Safe

Best High-Tech Handgun Safe

Vaultek Bluetooth 20 Series

$259

at Vaultek Store

Prices accurate at time of writing

$259 at Vaultek Store

Amazon (see price)

Specs:

• Lock Type: Fingerprint, electric keypad, manual key
• External Dimensions: 9.0"D x 11.5"W x 2.75"H
• Internal Dimensions: 11"D x 5.75"W x 2"H
• Material: 16-gauge steel
• Weight: 7.2 lbs

We're moving up in tech!

These Vaultek bad-boys have key, electronic button, fingerprint, and Bluetooth phone app ways of opening up. They look and feel great, too, if that matters to you.

We tested the biometric reader and had a rough 90% reliability factor. Good for when you don't need it 100% in a hurry.

The larger 20 Series can easily house a full-size handgun, or perhaps two compact handguns, depending on their size.

They also offer a smaller 10 Series safe that can hold a full-sized pistol and two mags.

Both the 10 and 20 Series operate in the same manner. You can see the 10 Series in action below.

Check out our full review, which has plenty of GIFs. We've been using the 10 and 20 Series for over 7 years now.

11. SecureIt Fastbox Model 20 - Most Modular Handgun Safe

Most Modular Handgun Safe

SecureIt Fastbox Model 20

$279

at SecureIt

Prices accurate at time of writing

$279 at SecureIt

Specs:

• Lock Type: Fingerprint, electric keypad, manual key
• External Dimensions: 13"D x 6.5"W x 20"H
• Internal Dimensions: 12"D x 6.25"W x 20"H
• Material: Alloy steel
• Weight: 21 lbs

The SecureIt Fastbox 20 is a bit bigger than some of the other handgun safe options, but it can hold up to eight pistols.

It's also very versatile, capable of being configured in a few different ways.

It features a battery-powered, digital keypad lock with a key override. SecureIt says there is no back door to fear.

The steel body construction is solid and can be mounted either vertically or horizontally using the pre-drilled holes.

Once you open the Fastbox Model 20, you'll find a louvered rear that provides customization options. Using these hooks, users can install pegs or bins that hold pistols, magazines, or accessories.

At 20 inches tall and six inches wide, the Fastbox Model 20 is ideal for tucking under a bed, desk, or in a hall closet.

Additionally, SecureIt offers a range of accessories that can be added (such as lighting) to further enhance the setup. We've only been using it for about a year, but take a look at it in action.

Best Long Gun Safes

These are what you probably traditionally think of as "gun safes." They can hold long guns and are much bigger (and more expensive) than their handgun-only counterparts.

You also don't need to spend too much to get everything you want. After a while, you just get better aesthetics.

12. Amazon Gun Cabinets - Most Affordable Long Gun Safe

Most Affordable Long Gun Safe

Amazon Gun Cabinets

$118

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$118 at Amazon

You're going to be tempted to buy an affordable gun safe off Amazon...and for most cases, you'll be fine if your goal is to safeguard 1-2 firearms.

But note that these are more akin to glorified cabinets that lock up. Bigger names with some real reputation include Stack-On and Barska. However, there are also numerous random brands from foreign sellers.

Also, keep in mind that the capacity will likely be lower than what they say for real-world applications.

When you have AR's or anything with scopes, it will crowd the safe from the maximum stated capacity. See my two rifles taking up almost all the space for a "5-gun safe."

I used these for a few years before making the step up to some more actual safes.

13. SecureIt Model 84 - Best Modular Long Gun Safe

Best Modular Long Gun Safe

SecureIt Model 84 – 24/24

$2899

at SecureIt

Prices accurate at time of writing

$2899 at SecureIt

Specs:

• Lock Type: Padlock
• External Dimensions: 15.5"D x 36"W x 84"H
• Internal Dimensions: 14.5"D x 35.5"W x 83.5"H
• Material: Alloy steel
• Weight: 337 lbs

We covered the Agile 52 above, but what if you want something bigger? Look no further.

SecureIt's Model 84 may not be that full-on monster-sized safe down in the basement, but it is still one of the bigger gun storage solutions out there.

The Model 84 is a very sturdy locker-type storage solution with two doors. It is a military and police-style locker that is designed primarily for use in already secured locations and uses a simple padlock.

At 84 inches tall, 36 inches wide, and 15.5 inches deep, this unit has dimensions more similar to a bookcase.

Made from heavy-gauge steel, the Model 84 features multiple anchor points for bolting to your room. Plus, the bi-fold doors can swing out or fold up to save space, letting you pick what best fits the environment.

The entire back wall of the locker is covered with the same Cradle Grid louvers used in the Agile 52. In this configuration, the user can stack 12 rifles above and 12 rifles below a middle shelf.

Long guns are held in place with angled feet at the base and cradle arms. A bungee strap on these arms ensures a snug fit, preventing guns from shifting.

Under the shelf, space exists for rows of bins that also come with the Model 84. These bins come with a divider and are great for storing up to 24 pistols, magazines, or other accessories.

The whole thing closes up with a 9-point locking system using two large handles that rotate together to accept a padlock.

This is a great, spacious solution for a secure facility. We've been using one for over 2 years to store many of our firearms. While it looks awesome, be prepared, it doesn't come cheap.

14. Vaultek RS500i - Best High-Tech Long Gun Safe

Best High-Tech Long Gun Safe

Vaultek RS500i

$1699

at Vaultek

Prices accurate at time of writing

$1699 at Vaultek

Amazon (see price)

Specs:

• Lock Type: Fingerprint, electric keypad, manual key
• External Dimensions: 11.7"D x 14"W x 54"H
• Internal Dimensions: 9.75"D x 13.75"W x 53.25"H
• Material: 14-gauge steel
• Weight: 93 lbs

Want something super hi-tech and looks cool to boot?

Then check out the Vaultek RS line. Here we are specifically looking at their medium-sized RS500i.

Everything you can think of...the RS has it:

• Capacitive keypad
• Fingerprint scanner
• Wi-Fi to get alerts and receive commands
• Smart key for quick access
• Manual backup keys
• Super modular interior

The RS500i is the middle-sized model in the series. We can comfortably place around 3-4 rifles with optics in there and some handguns with the added rack.

It's our go-to safe for stuff we use on the regular, and even after three months, the battery is still going strong. It's easy to keep plugged in as well.

Check ours out in action:

If you're spending over a grand for a nice electronic safe with all the fixins, I'd start at least with the RS500i, if not the larger RS800i.

Best Gun Safe Upgrades

Now that you've got your safe, you can start to upgrade it! It never ends in the gun world.

I would recommend getting a Gun safe panel organizer that fits your long gun safe door. One of the best upgrades that lets you store a lot of handguns and miscellaneous items.

If you're only wanting to expand your pistol storage, consider some handgun hangers or pistol racks that come in wire or foam. I prefer the wire ones since I'm not sure how the foam will hold up in the long run against my pistols.

If your safe doesn't come with lights, I strongly recommend grabbing some LED light switches. I've put them in my safes and my car, so I'm not wasting the car battery when I'm rustling through stuff at night.

And if you're in an area that is even semi-humid, you should think about getting a dehumidifier. The last thing you want to do is open up your safe to find a bunch of rusty guns.

You can get anything from small, chargeable dehumidifiers for around $20...

Eva Dry Dehumidifier

$14

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$14 at Amazon

All the way up to plug-in heated models that offer much more power and less maintenance.

Golden Rod Dehumidifier

$44

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$44 at Amazon

Check out our article on the Best Safe Dehumidifiers if you want more research.

How to Choose a Gun Safe

How Much Should I Spend?

The best answer I've gotten for this question is, "If you lost everything in the safe...how much would you spend to recover it all?"

Guns can be expensive, so this number can vary from small to way too much. Think of your safe as insurance for the stuff inside (plus, it can actually lower your insurance rates, too).

If you only have a few basic guns that are mass-produced and easy to replace, you can probably opt for a safe that isn't overly expensive. But if you have heirloom items or rare and expensive guns that are tough to replace, you may want to look at spending more to protect them.

Electronic or Mechanical Lock?

I'm a little old school. So for important safes, I go strictly mechanical. If I hear a bump in the night, I want access now.

There is no chance of running into dead batteries, and it also reduces the potential for someone to hack their way into the safe.

However, I still think there is a place for electronic locks (even Bluetooth and biometric ones) when ease of use is the primary concern.

Being able to set up multiple combinations, have a running log of access, and use your fingerprints can be really nice.

How Big of a Gun Safe Should I Get?

When considering a traditional safe, the rule of thumb is to go for one that holds double what you think you need.

This isn't just because you'll likely buy more (ok...it's a little that), but because the number of guns that manufacturers quote a safe can hold is vastly overstated.

They usually give how many unscoped shotguns or small rifles you can cram in there. Anything with a bolt handle, scope, flashlight, or any other accessory will take up two or three slots, depending. You also want enough room to get guns out without banging them against each other.

You should also definitely measure where you're going to be placing that thing. It's likely a couple of hundred pounds and hard to move without a bunch of friends and some extra maneuvering space.

Important Numbers & Ratings

You'll see "gauge" come up soon, and it's a measure of how thick the steel is. Like a shotgun gauge, a smaller numerical number is actually thicker.

More affordable safes are in the 14- to 12-gauge range for steel walls.

There's also going to be talk of "RSC" (Residential Security Container), coined by Underwriters Laboratory (UL), which develops standards for consumer products.

There are different categories within, but basically, RSC means the unit was tested to withstand impacts from hammers, chisels, wrenches, pry bars, punches, and screwdrivers for at least 5 minutes.

Meet the Experts

This article was put together by Pew Pew Tactical CEO and Founder Eric Hung. In addition to founding Pew Pew Tactical as a place for shooters to learn, he’s also an NRA-certified pistol instructor and a USPSA/3-Gun/NRL22 competitor. Eric has also researched and written over 250 articles on firearms, training, gear, and just about everything else related to firearms.

Editor-in-Chief Jacki Billings runs our experienced team of reviewers. She is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists, ACES: Society for Editing, and the Professional Outdoor Media Association. Additionally, she is an NRA-certified Pistol Instructor and former Concealed Carry Instructor. Jacki has a bachelor’s degree in journalism and has worked as a media professional for close to 20 years, specializing in gun media for almost 10 years. She uses her professional journalism and editing experience to set testing protocols and editorial standards for Pew Pew Tactical.

Also editing this article is Wyatt Sloan, Editor. Wyatt is an NRA and USCCA-certified instructor with previous experience as a competitive shooter. Wyatt personally owns over 200 firearms in over 50 different calibers, and has 10 years of home-based FFL firearm sales. He has used his extensive experience with firearms at large to test guns for Pew Pew Tactical — evaluating them based on our standards and metrics.

Final Thoughts

Your gun safe should be the last line of defense against unauthorized access to your guns. Always strive to make it harder to reach that last line

This is the advice I have after talking with some police officers who see a lot of stolen guns:

• Keep your home/car doors locked
• Get an alarm system (or at least a sticker)
• Don't advertise you have guns (I'm sorry...this means stickers for NRA, gun logos, etc)
• Teach your kids proper gun safety

And keep in mind no safe is impenetrable given enough time and tools...you just want to make it annoying enough so that baddies give up or don't even try.

Are there any other safe categories or info you'd like to see? Let us know in the comments below. Looking for more specific info? Check out our articles on the Best Beside Safes and Best Biometric Safes!

LATEST UPDATES

• May 2025: Removed V-Line Top Draw. Added specs for each product. Restructured article.
• March 2025: Removed Tactical Walls 1450
• April 2024 – Updated How We Test and added more hands-on experiences to each safe. Removed Awesafe Biometric Safe, Liberty Safe Outfitter, and Amsec Safe.