After testing over a dozen products, I found the Barska AX12752 to be the best gun safe for pistols and long guns.
Trying to find the best gun safe for your pistol or rifle isn’t easy. You have endless options when shopping for a gun safe, from the size and material of the safe to the type of locking mechanism.
So, why own a gun safe? Compared to a cable lock, a gun safe can provide quick access to your firearm during an emergency. Gun safes may also protect your firearms from fire, water damage, and theft.
Not all gun safes are built equally. The Barska AX12752 stands out as the top choice for providing excellent value and lots of storage space. You get space for up to 11 rifles and 2 pistols. It also features three separate access options, including a biometric scanner.
While the Barska AX12752 is a great choice for most gun owners, not everyone has the same needs. For example, you may prefer a smaller safe that you can install under a desk or a heavier safe for added security.
Keep reading to discover the 15 best gun safes for pistols and long guns.
Best Gun Safes for Pistols and Long Guns
1. Best Overall Gun Safe – Barska AX12752 Quick and Easy Access Gun Safe
The Barska AX12752 is the best overall gun safe for pistols and long guns due to its combination of security, ease of use, capacity, and price. It features an upright design with space for up to 11 rifles. It also includes shelving a small pistol rack and extra space for ammo and important documents.
As with most of the top, modern gun safes, the Barska AX12752 provides multiple access options. It includes a biometric reader, a keypad, and a set of traditional keys. You can open the safe with your finger, a PIN code, or a key.
The safe measures 52 x 13 x 13 inches and weighs just 82 pounds. The lightweight, slim design makes it easy to position just about anywhere, such as a closet.
The walls are made with 100% steel while the door is secured with three built-in steel bolts. The design is not waterproof and offers limited fire protection, but it can stop children, thieves, and anyone else from accessing your firearms.
- Includes three built-in steel bolts
- Reinforced walls and locks for added security
- Slim, lightweight design
- Holds up to 11 rifles
- Includes a pistol rack and removable shelves
- Includes three access options
- Limited protection against fire and water
2. Best Gun Safe for Pistols – VAULTEK VTi Full-Size Smart Safe
The VAULTEK VTi is the best overall gun safe for securely storing pistols. While the design is too small to hold a rifle, it can hold two full-size pistols. It also has space for ammo and other small items.
The safe includes several electronic features and Bluetooth technology. You can use a Bluetooth connection and a mobile app on your phone to view the access log or remotely open the safe when within range.
The VAULTEK VTi is also equipped with three access methods, including a biometric scanner, a keypad entry, and backup keys. The keypad and biometric scanner include backlit LEDs for increased visibility in the dark. If you have your safe in a closet or under furniture, the LEDs can help ensure quick access to your pistol.
The electronic features are battery-powered. You need to recharge or swap out the battery every three months. However, it only takes about 2.5 hours to charge.
The case is durable and secure. However, if you want increased security, you should consider bolting the safe to a solid surface.
- Includes Bluetooth connectivity
- The door automatically opens
- Includes LEDs for increased visibility
- Holds two full-size pistols and ammo
- One of the most expensive pistol safes
3. Best Gun Safe for Long Guns – Kodiak Gun Safe KB5933ECX
A heavy gun safe, such as the Kodiak KB5933ECX gun safe, can protect against theft due to the weight. A criminal is unlikely to have the strength or equipment needed to remove this 420-pound safe from your house.
The weight of the gun safe comes from the thick steel walls. The safe has 14-gauge steel walls and large door bolts, making it almost impregnable. It can even protect against flames for up to 40 minutes.
The gun safe also includes a spring-loaded re-locker and a hardened steel plate for added security from tampering and drill attacks.
It has an electronic keypad and a heavy-duty handle. It does not come with backup keys. However, if you forget the PIN code, you can reset the keypad to factory settings.
The interior includes storage space for up to 32 long guns and 6 pistols. The external dimensions are 59 x 33 x 20 inches. It also includes predrilled holes for installing a dehumidifier or securing the gun safe to a wall.
- Fire protection for up to 40 minutes
- Weighs 420 pounds
- Includes space for up to 32 long guns and 6 handguns
- Adjustable shelving and interior walls
- Predrilled holes
- One of the more expensive options
- Requires more space compared to smaller safes
4. Best Biometric Gun Safe for a Single Pistol – SentrySafe QAP1BE
The SentrySafe QAP1BE gun safe was also our top pick for the best biometric gun safe for 2022. It is comparable to the VAULTEK VTi but includes a more compact design for holding one pistol instead of two.
The SentrySafe also includes an automatic door. The safe has a gas strut that automatically opens the door after scanning your fingerprint. The electronic door-opening mechanism works quickly and silently, giving you quick access to your firearm.
Along with a biometric lock, the pistol safe includes a digital keypad for entering a PIN code and a key lock. The keypad and key lock can be used for backup access if the biometric scanner fails to recognize your fingerprint.
The safe measures just 12.1 x 9.9 x 3.2 inches, making it one of the most compact pistol safes. It is made with solid steel construction and features a soft interior foam lining to protect your pistol.
It also comes with a basic bolt-down kit. You can easily bolt the safe to a solid surface, such as a wall or a desk.
- Offers multiple entry options
- The opening mechanism is silent
- Opens automatically after scanning a fingerprint
- Includes a kit for bolting down the safe
- Only has space for a single gun
5. Best Budget Gun Safe for Pistols – RPNB Gun Safe with LED & RFID
The RPNB gun safe is a cheap little gun safe for those with a limited budget. It is one of the most affordable options for securing a single pistol.
Keep in mind that this gun safe is unlikely to protect against fire, water, or theft. It is lightweight and relatively easy to penetrate with the right tools. However, it is suitable for keeping your firearms out of the hands of other household members or visitors, including kids.
The RPNB gun safe measures 11 x 7 x 1.8 inches. Along with a pistol, it may hold a magazine. It also has three access methods.
You can open the safe using emergency keys, a PIN, or an RFID key fob. The key fob allows the fastest access, as you only need to swipe the fob to open the safe.
- One of the only recommendations with an RFID key fob
- Allows you to set a 3-digit to 8-digit PIN
- One of the most affordable gun safes for pistols
- Meets TSA requirements for checked firearms
- A dedicated thief may penetrate the 16-gauge steel exterior
6. Best Budget Gun Safe for Rifles – Buffalo 1015 Gun Rifle Cabinet
The Buffalo 1015 Gun Rifle Cabinet is the best budget option for those that need to secure a single rifle. It costs a fraction of the price of other rifle safes. However, it is not the most durable safe available.
The safe resembles the standard metal lockers that you find in schools and work break rooms. Water, fire, and smoke can easily penetrate the interior. Yet, the design offers enough security to help deter theft and prevent unauthorized access to your firearms.
The cabinet includes two mechanical locks with keys. There are no electronic features. This also means that it may take a little longer to gain access to your firearms compared to other options, as you need to insert and turn two separate keys.
The interior of the cabinet includes space for a single rifle and a shelf. The area above the shelf can hold one or two pistols, ammo, and other small items. This is a no-frills rifle safe for those that want the cheapest option.
- One of the most affordable safes for long guns
- Does not include any electronic features that may fail
- The slim, lightweight design makes it easy to mount
- Can only hold a single rifle
- Limited protection against damage or theft
7. Best Value for Your Money – ONNAIS Gun Safe with Biometric Access
The ONNAIS gun safe provides great value for your money. It is not the cheapest gun safe or the most expensive but includes features found in some of the earlier recommendations, including biometric access.
The pistol safe includes a biometric scanner, keypad, and traditional key entry. As with most biometric gun safes, the scanner can store up to 30 fingerprints. It is powered by four AA batteries that should last several months with occasional use. You can also use the keys as a backup if the batteries fail.
The safe measures 11.57 x 9.21 x 3.11 inches, making it one of the smaller pistol safes. However, it is durable and provides a secure spot to store a single pistol. While the safe may not shield against fire or water damage, it can prevent unauthorized access to your firearm. The safe also includes two anchor points for bolting it down.
- One of the most compact pistol safes
- Includes two backup keys
- The keypad numbers are large and highly visible
- The biometric settings are easy to control
- Only includes space for a single gun
8. Best Safe for EMP Protection – Steelwater SWSD16GUN-EMP Long Gun Safe
The SWSD16GUN-EMP Long Gun Safe from Steelwater provides enhanced protection against a variety of threats, including electromagnetic pulse (EMP) attacks. If you have any electronic items that you want to protect, the thick shielding should block any electromagnetic interference.
The safe also provides fire protection. It is rated to protect against 1,875-degree flames for up to one hour. The solid, steel design also helps protect against smoke and water.
The Steelwater safe secures shut using 7 1.5-inch bolts. The thick bolts and multi-layer walls prevent theft, giving you added peace of mind.
The safe can hold a total of 16 long guns. However, the average capacity is closer to 8 to 10 guns. The inside of the door also includes four holsters for securing pistols. You also get shelving for sorting ammo, cleaning tools, and other equipment.
You need to enter a numeric PIN to access the safe. It uses an electronic keypad and has a backup key lock in the handle.
- Provides EMP protection
- Offers superior fire and water protection
- Includes space for up to 16 long guns
- Weighs over 300 pounds
- It may cost more than some gun owners are willing to spend
9. Best Desk-Mounted Pistol Safe – RPNB Mounted Gun Safe
The RP311F Biometric Gun Safe is a great choice for those that want to keep their pistol close. It includes a convenient desk-mounted design. You can mount it from the left, right, or top side of the frame to suit the layout of your desk.
The safe includes multiple access methods, including a biometric scanner, traditional keys, and a keypad. The biometric scanner provides access to your safe in less than a second.
The safe measures 13.47 x 7.43 x 3.07 inches and weighs 7.7 pounds. It is compact and lightweight yet should keep anyone from accessing your firearm without your permission. However, a strong saw or power tool could eventually cut through the steel given enough time.
As a budget gun safe, it does not offer the greatest security against theft, but it is convenient to open and takes up minimal space.
- Relatively affordable biometric gun safe
- Stores up to 50 fingerprints and opens in less than a second
- Includes a convenient slide-out design
- Only holds a single pistol
10. Best Multifunction Pistol Safe – RPNB Gun Safe
If you want to protect valuables, such as important documents, consider getting this multifunction pistol safe from RPNB. This is another budget option from a trusted manufacturer of low-cost safes. It includes an upper compartment for storing a pistol and a lower compartment for storing documents or small items.
Access is provided using a biometric scanner, a keypad, or traditional keys. Each compartment has a separate set of keys. You can also set separate PIN codes for each compartment. However, it only takes a single fingerprint to open the top and bottom.
While this gun safe is relatively durable, a thief could still penetrate it using power tools. The steel can stop a simple prying attack, but a drill is likely to cut through the steel fairly quickly.
The material is relatively thin, but you still get a great value with this affordable gun safe. You gain space for securing more than just your pistol.
- Includes a separate compartment for storing valuables
- The compact design should fit a deep desk drawer
- Not tamperproof
- Provides limited space for firearms
11. Best Fireproof Gun Safe – SentrySafe SFW123DSB Fireproof Safe
While most people dislike a dial combination, the SentrySafe Fireproof Safe offers several advantages that help outweigh the drawbacks of the combination lock. Accessing the safe takes longer due to the combination lock, but you also get superior protection against fire, water, and theft.
The safe is almost entirely impregnable. The thick steel construction includes multiple layers. The hinges are also protected by a pry-resistant hinge bar.
The SentrySafe fireproof safe provides enhanced security but is not designed specifically for long guns or pistols. It is a general-purpose safe with 1.23-cubic-feet of space and a single adjustable shelf.
The safe measures 16.3 x 19.3 x 17.8 inches and weighs about 86 pounds. The cube-shaped interior does not have soft foam lining like you will find in most gun safes.
If you want to protect your gun, you may want to store it inside a separate case inside the safe. For example, you could store it in the case that the pistol came with.
- Provides superior protection against fire and water
- Suitable for storing a variety of items, along with a pistol or two
- Provides enhanced anti-theft protection due to its thick walls and bolts
- Not designed specifically for guns
12. Best Durable Gun Safe – INVIE Rifle Gun Safe
The INVIE Rifle Gun Safe is a durable, sturdy cabinet with space for up to four rifles. It also has a shelf with space for ammo or other small items. However, the shelf may not offer enough room for storing pistols.
The safe is compact compared to other safes for long guns, but it is also relatively affordable. You can open the door using one of two methods. You can either enter a PIN using the keypad or unlock the door using a standard key.
The back of the safe is predrilled with four holes and comes with expansion screws. You can mount the safe to a wall to secure it in place and prevent the theft of the entire safe.
The safe measures 11.8 x 11 x 55 inches. It is tall, but slim, which means that it should fit any closet or other tight space.
- Takes up minimal floor space
- Provides a good value for your money
- Includes space for up to four long guns
- May not easily fit pistols on the upper shelf
13. Best Vertical Design Gun Safe – Vaultek Slider Series Rugged WiFi Enabled Smart Safe
The Vaultek Slider comes with several unique features, including a vertical design. The safe stands upright and mounts easily against the inside of a desk or piece of furniture. When you scan your finger or enter the PIN, the drawer slides out to reveal your holstered pistol.
The gun is ready for your grip within a split second, providing the fastest access to a firearm. Along with a biometric scanner, you can open the safe using a numeric keypad or the backup manual keys. It also provides access using a nano key, which means that you have a total of four different access methods.
The safe is only made to hold a single pistol. However, it can fit a full-size pistol measuring up to 8.875-inches.
The VAULTEK Slider is also a smart safe. You can monitor it remotely on your mobile phone using an app. The app allows you to view activity logs, check the battery, and receive notifications when the safe is opened.
- Includes a convenient slide-out design
- Provides four separate access methods
- Fits full-size pistols up to 8.875 inches
- One of the more expensive pistol safes
14. Best RFID Technology Gun Safe – Hornady Rapid Gun Safe
The Hornady Rapid Gun Safe is one of the few recommendations on this list of the 15 best gun safes for pistols and long guns to feature RFID technology. You can scan a key fob to gain access to the safe, which is faster compared to turning a key or entering a numeric passcode.
Unlike most of the previous pistol safes, the Hornady Rapid Gun Safe opens horizontally. The drawer slides out, which makes this a convenient option for placing next to your bedside.
Along with the RFID key fob, you can access the gun safe using one of the two provided barrel keys. It also comes with multiple RFID tags, including a watch-band tag and key-fob tags. The watch-band tags secure to a watch band, allowing you to open the safe by swiping your wrist near the scanner.
The safe is made with 14-gauge steel, which makes it one of the thicker options on this list. It also has two internal locking lugs for added security.
- Includes RFID technology and multiple RFID tags
- Made with durable 14-gauge steel
- Includes a heavy-duty security cable
- Only includes space for one gun
15. Best Value Pistol Safe – AEGIS Portable Pistol Safe Box
If you want the cheapest pistol safe without any special features, the AEGIS Portable Pistol Safe is a top choice. It costs about the same as a Blu-Ray movie.
The small case includes a hard shell, a key lock, and a security cable. It measures about 9.5 x 6.5 x 1.8 inches and weighs less than a pound. It is a lightweight, portable safe that you can use anywhere. You can hide it in a desk drawer, on a nightstand, or in a vehicle.
The interior includes shock-absorbing foam to protect your gun. You may not fit a full-size pistol, such as a Glock 45. However, the compact safe can secure a smaller pistol, such as a Glock 43 concealed carry pistol.
The AEGIS Portable Pistol Safe is convenient if you want to prevent access to a pistol, but it is not the most secure safe available. Using enough pressure with a pry bar or drill could penetrate or destroy the case. However, it is also very affordable.
- The cheapest gun safe available
- Compact, portable design for use anywhere
- Includes foam padding for added protection
- Made with hard plastic instead of steel
How to Choose the Best Gun Safe
Here are some of the main things to look for when choosing a gun safe:
- Size and gun capacity
- Steel thickness
- Weight
- Locking mechanism
- Re-lockers
- Fire rating
Choosing the right gun safe depends on how many guns you need to store and the sizes of the guns. You can find small safes for a single pistol and large safes capable of holding 100 or more firearms.
The size and gun capacity may also depend on where you plan on placing the safe.
How Thick Should Gun Safe Walls Be?
Gun safes typically feature steel walls. The thickness of the steel is measured in gauges. A high gauge equals thinner.
The thickness of the walls can vary from 20-gauge to 6-gauge steel. Cheap gun safes may include walls with 16-gauge to 20-gauge steel. A standard electric drill can easily penetrate the thinner walls.
14-gauge is considered the minimum thickness for single-walled safes. High-quality gun safes may include walls with 6-gauge steel, which is about 0.164-inches thick.
How Much Does a Gun Safe Weigh?
A small gun safe for a single pistol may weigh just 10 to 15 pounds. An entry-level gun safe with space for rifles may weigh at least 200 pounds. A gun safe with a capacity for dozens of guns may weigh 800 pounds or more.
The weight of a standard gun safe protects against theft. A thief is unlikely to walk out of a house with a safe that weighs several hundred pounds.
Gun safes made to hold one or two pistols are lighter but often include mounting options for securing it to a wall, floor, or underside of a desk.
What Are the Different Types of Gun Safe Locks?
The main types of gun safe locks include:
- Mechanical key locks
- Biometric locks
- Electronic locks/keypads
- Wheel and pin combination
Manual key entry with a standard mechanical pin tumbler lock provides the fastest access to your safe. You simply insert the key and turn it to unlock the safe.
A biometric lock can also provide quick access to the safe. A scanner scans your fingerprint and compares it to the fingerprints that you add to the database.
Electronic locks are another common choice for gun safes. Most electronic locks include a keypad and require you to enter a four-digit or five-digit PIN to access the safe.
Wheel and pin combination locks are less common but are considered very secure. However, turning the wheel to dial in the combination means that it takes longer to get into the safe.
The best gun safes include a combination of entry methods. For example, many safes include mechanical key locks as a backup option with an electronic lock or biometric lock.
Do I Need a Safe Re-Locker?
A re-locker is a security feature found on some gun safes as a fail-safe if a thief penetrates the lock. The re-locker is initiated when the lock is damaged or the backplate destroyed.
Internal spring-loaded re-lockers prevent the tumbler from turning, which keeps the blot in place. External re-lockers stop the bolt from turning when the backplate is broken or punched off.
A re-locker is a useful feature but not required. Choosing a gun safe with a re-locker can delay a determined thief from getting into your safe but can increase the cost of the safe.
What Is a Good Fire Rating for a Gun Safe?
Most gun safes do not provide complete protection against fire. A severe fire will eventually damage the contents of the safe. However, some gun safes include higher fire ratings, which means that they can protect your guns a little longer.
The fire rating indicates the number of minutes that the safe can maintain an internal temperature below 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Guns suffer damage when temperatures reach 500 degrees or higher.
A gun safe with a low fire rating may protect firearms from fire for at least 45 minutes. A high-quality gun safe with thick steel walls and durable construction may shield firearms from damage for up to 120 minutes.
Conclusion
Every gun owner should consider using a gun safe to safely store their firearms. Using a gun safe can provide quick access to your firearms when you need them and protect against theft, fire, and water damage.
After comparing options, the Barska AX12752 gun safe stands out as a top pick. It has three entry methods, including a biometric scanner, keypad entry, and traditional keys. The interior can hold up to 11 rifles and 2 pistols. However, it is not your only choice.
If you want a small, compact gun safe for one or two pistols, consider getting the VAULTEK VTi gun safe. It has a durable design and multiple access options.
For those that want the greatest level of protection for their firearm collection, the Kodiak KB5933ECX gun safe is a top choice. It can protect against flames for up to 40 minutes and shield against water or smoke damage. In the end, gun safes come in many sizes, shapes, and designs. After reviewing the 15 best gun safes for pistols and long guns, you have plenty of options to choose from. Order the best gun safe for your firearms today.
