At a Glance: Best Gun Safe Under $500
Comparison of Best Gun Safe Under $500
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Our Top Pick
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SentrySafe Gun Safe with Biometric Lock, 2 Capacity & Interior Light |
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View Latest Price |
Our Top Pick
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Verifi Biometric Gun Safe with FBI Certified Fingerprint Sensor |
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View Latest Price |
Our Top Pick
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ONNAIS Biometric Gun Safe for Pistols |
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View Latest Price |
Purchasing a gun safe is an easy feat, right? All you do is buy a metal box to hold your gun, and you are all set.
Well, not really because there’s more to it than just a metal box.
Since you are looking at purchasing a gun safe, you are responsible as a gun owner, so Kudos to you. We’ve put together this guide to help you make an educated choice while bringing home the best gun safe under 500.
Our Guide To Top Rated Gun Safes Under $500
You will find a lot of great options for gun safes in the market, but what matters is making a smart purchase. With so many brands on the market today, it is very easy to join the bandwagon.
It is why we give you an in-depth review of the top competitors taking into account various parameters and also weigh the pros and cons of each. We found the most secure gun safes and looked at some of the best rated gun safes for your rifles. This guide will help you decide which one fits your requirements, meets your needs, and does its work efficiently.
SentrySafe Gun Safe with Biometric Lock, 2 Capacity & Interior Light
With the SentrySafe, efficiency can be the deal clincher when it comes to getting home the best gun safe under $500.
It is highly recommended for you if you are the sole user of the gun. It is considered one of the most basic and economic biometric gun safes on the market today. Some gun safes boast the ability to save more than a hundred fingerprints, but if you are possessive about your gun and about keeping it secure, then this single recognized fingerprint safe comes highly recommended.
Yes, this biometric lock can only save and respond to one fingerprint – yours. This is a practical approach when you do not want anyone else accessing your firearm.
This gun safe is crafted with solid steel construction with interior linings to add another layer of protection to your handguns while in safekeeping. Its exterior measures a width of 16.4″, depth of 3.2″, and height of 3.2″, which means there’s more than enough space to store two of your handguns.
With practicality in mind, this unlocked safe will stay open as long as you want it to, making it easily accessible even with a single hand. Thanks to its incorporated gun strut, you can quietly and instantly open the safe in times of emergency. It is also designed with interior lighting so getting your weapon when you need it can be done even in the dark without any delays.
This elegant box can be set on your bedside table, so your weapon is secure but is also close at hand.
Pros
- Biometric lock with a single fingerprint scanner
- Stays open and allows single-handed access
- Incorporated gun strut and interior lighting
- Made of strong and durable material
- Can hold two pistols
Cons
- Requires four name branded and alkaline AA batteries
- Batteries need to be purchased separately
- Can be accessed only by one person
Verifi Biometric Gun Safe with FBI Certified Fingerprint Sensor
Packed with innovative and technical features, you can be confident that this gun safe from VerifiSafe will keep your guns secure at all costs.
It boasts an FBI-approved and reliable silicon fingerprint sensor powered with 3D technology. It alone will let you go, “Wow!” This heavy metal safe is also capable of saving 40 unique fingerprint patterns.
With a dimension of 17.4 by 16.1 by 7.9 inches, fitting in your handgun is a breeze. This box is crafted from solid steel, but you’d be surprised as it only weighs 30-lbs. It is advisable to have this safe mounted on your floor or wall and not kept inside a cabinet due to its weight.
A word of warning here. Anyone attempting to tamper with the safe should think twice as it records and saves timestamps. It also logs any unapproved access attempts, including the use of the back-up key.
You will receive a notification if you forgot to close the safe’s door, but at the same time, it has an auto-lock feature which is perfect for a household with young kids. Getting your gun out quickly in an emergency, even in the dark, is effortless thanks to its LED night light.
With an easy-to-navigate interface, you don’t need to make notes when you last changed your system’s battery because this safe has its diagnostic tool that will let you know if any technical issues are happening. It includes the battery level.
Pros
- Auto-lock feature
- Uses quick fingerprint admission
- FBI-approved
- Integrated self-diagnostic tool
- Saves 40 fingerprints
- Incorporated LED night light
Cons
- The interior of the safe is not padded
ONNAIS Biometric Gun Safe for Pistols
True to the brand’s promise of offering you and your family peace of mind, this safe made of solid steel with anti-corrosion features is a great choice. It can hold two standard regular-sized pistols alongside any other small valuables that will remain secured by a high-resolution fingerprint scanner. Its interiors are lined with foam to keep your guns free from scratches.
Its advanced biometric technology can give you access in less than 1 second, making it very convenient during emergencies. Its fingerprint lock technology can save up to 30-user fingerprints so multiple people can access your gun safe.
This gun safe from Onnais also has an electronic keypad where you can insert your programmed codes.
Thanks to its heavy steel cable, you also have the option to secure the safe by the cable to an immobile object for added security. You can also choose to keep it inside a cabinet, another locker, or in a drawer.
Pros
- Biometric fingerprint security protection
- Foam-lined interiors
- Less than one-second gun safe access
- Keeps two standard sized pistols
- Saves 30 fingerprints
- Integrated electronic keypad
Cons
- Requires 4 AA alkaline batteries that need to be bought separately
GunVault Compact Gun Safe
Twenty percent faster in providing access than its predecessors, this quick access gun safe from GunVault boasts a groundbreaking automatic slide-out drawer making it extremely fast to get whatever you need inside the vault when the situation calls for it.
Getting to your gun easily and quickly, especially in the dark, is an important criterion that this safe delivers and with good effect. It has a red LED that helps illuminate the insides of this safe. Secondly, with the industry-powered illuminated no-eyes keypad, access is fast as well.
When it comes to security, prying this safe open is almost impossible. The design is durable and is meant to protect your valuables, including your gun inside. It is because the safe is made with heavy gauge steel and a tamper-proof concealed hinge plus a manual back-up key. It also has improved resistance that adds to the protection.
Wondering why this safe gets those additional brownie points? It’s more than just another sturdy safe. This one comes with the seal of approval from the State of California’s Department of Justice. So, you can be confident that your cash, jewelry, and firearms are well protected.
Pros
- Interior LED lighting
- Durable and solid security
- Illuminated no-eyes keypad
- 20% faster access
- Automatic slide-out drawer
Cons
- Opening the door can be noisy
Best Budget Gun Safe: Stalwart Gun Safe
This electronic steel safe from Stalwart Store is the answer if you are looking for a safe that is 100% portable while still doing its job of protecting your valuables.
You can handily use this in your office or home and even take it along with you during your travels. It can easily be mounted on the floor or a wall if you want to set it permanently in one place.
The Stalwart safe is secured with an LED lit-keypad that you can program with your master and visitor codes. These codes can be 3 to 8 digits long. It is also equipped with two manual override keys, so you are not inconvenienced and locked out just in case you forgot your PIN.
After three incorrect access attempts, the safe’s alarm will be activated for twenty seconds; three more incorrect codes, and will sound longer at five minutes. It is more than enough time to let you know that someone is attempting to access your safe.
Pros
- Designed with LED lit-keypads
- Portable
- Integrated automatic lock
- Ideal for light security purposes
- Hassle-free set-up
Cons
- Included batteries are not high quality
Tigerking Security Home Safe
Great for your home, office, and even for hotel stays, this TigerKing safe allows you to set your digital combination. This one’s built for multiple layers of security and the ultimate protection. It comes with 6 live-locking bolts that offer additional protection against forced entry.
The TIGERKING Security home safe is spacious enough to comfortably hold a 14″ laptop along with jewelry, documents, cash, and other valuables. Not to forget your guns. Removable shelves allow for more organized long-lasting storage. Further, it has soft inner layers that keep your valuables from damage or scratches.
You will like how solid this safe is made. Using a durable and thick steel material for guaranteed reliable protection, you can leave your home for hours and days feeling at peace that your valuables and firearms are safe.
Your emergency key can override the code combination for your emergency case. Additionally, this safe also has a secondary lock for an additional layer of protection.
After three incorrect attempts on the code, you will know for sure since it will activate your alarm system. Only when you put the correct code will the alarm stop.
Pros
- Made of solid and sturdy material
- Spacious storage for all kinds of valuables
- Shelves inside are removable
- Digital lock with a manual override
- Heavy and very secure
Cons
- Lighting is limited
AmazonBasics Home Pistols Safe
The Home Keypad Safe from AmazonBasics is the perfect storage place for your documents, cash, jewelry, and even firearms. This vault will keep your valuables safe, giving you that invaluable peace of mind.
It comes with an electronic keypad that is 100% programmable. Easy to set-up and operate, this safe is a perfect example of simplicity and functionality.
Made of carbon steel, the safe also has an 8-gauge door with a 14-gauge body plus 2-live door bolts. It also has pry-resistance hinges, which are smartly concealed.
Additionally, it comes with a reliable emergency back-up key, so you can bypass the keypads if needed or if preferred. What’s best is it includes all the necessary hardware for additional theft protection.
Pros
- Made of carbon steel
- Basic reliable functionality
- Easy to set-up
- Digital lock with a manual override
Cons
- Lightweight, so it can be carried as a whole
- Not waterproof or fireproof
Best Long Gun Safe: Moutec Long Gun Safe With Separate Lockbox Inside To Store Small Guns
Sophisticatedly functional, the Moutec electronic rifle safe can safely keep up to 5 of your rifles. Yes, it is that big.
Moreover, it is 100% durable, resilient, and long-lasting thanks to its steel walls and tamper-resistant inner edges. It is wall-to-wall protection that you can depend on for years to come. Aside from your rifles, you can also keep your essential documents and other valuable items. Also, it comes with a separate lockbox for double security.
When it comes to security, you can count on its lock mechanism integrated with an electronic keypad. Create your PIN or opt to lock it up with your backup key.
This safe will warn you through beeps if you have inputted three wrong codes. What’s impressive is, you can turn off the sound or set it to silent mode. It can make all the difference during the night, especially if there is an intruder inside your home. You can easily access your safe without disturbing the entire household or alerting anyone.
Set up is relatively easy, and all the mounting equipment you need is included in your purchase.
Pros
- Optional silent mode setting
- Wider and more spacious
- Integrated with a separate lockbox
- Easy set-up
- Solid construction with tamper-resistant inner edges
Cons
- Heavy and not travel friendly
Hornady – Rapid Safe Ar Gunlocker
The Hornady AR gun locker gives you that convenience and tamper-proof protection expected from the brand. It sports a completely enclosed design with a front-end spring-loaded door, so storing it under the bed won’t be an issue at all.
You can also conveniently mount it in one of your closets or even at the back of your SUV. With foam inserts included, you can fit up to two tactical-length rifles or shots and still have room for a few more valuables.
With three varying mechanisms to open this safe, you have all the options at your disposal. You can open it with RFID-activated devices like a key fob or stickers that you can put on your phone case or in a keychain. The second option is through a 6-digit push-button access combination and, lastly, using the conventional manual key.
If you are anxious about the battery life, don’t because you can plug the safe directly into a wall outlet.
Transporting this safe is also designed with convenience in mind. It comes with carrying handles, and you can bolt it down or cable-lock it for that additional security.
Pros
- Three options to open the safe
- Can be directly connected to the power outlet
- Easy transport with carrying handles
- Offers tamper-proof protection
Cons
- Not corrosion resistant
- Loud locking mechanism
Langger Gun Safe for Rifles
The Langger upgraded electronic rifle gun safe is one mean-looking safe for a gun, and it means business.
It is made with 100% steel walls, and its inner edges are designed to be tamper-resistant. Thanks to its electronic keypad, you can quickly and safely retrieve your firearm after entering your codes.
This rifle gun safe can comfortably hold 5 to 6 rifles, some guns, and even magazines and ammo. Yes, it is that big. You also have more than enough space for important documents, cash, and jewelry in this 15.7″ x 11.8″ x 57.2″ safe.
This gun safe gives you the flexibility you need while organizing your valuables and rifles since the interior storage shelf is removable. You also can go all stealth and silent mode to get the maximum advantage of surprise. If you want a sneakier home defense, set it to silent mode. Should you choose to make everyone know that there is an attempt to steal, you have to enter five incorrect access codes for the warning bells to sound.
It also comes with an emergency battery pack that you can use if the batteries die.
Installation is also pretty hassle-free since this safe already comes with pre-drilled holes and even some mounting hardware. You can securely attach it to your wall or floor or both with the bolts for permanency.
Pros
- Quick firearm access
- Provides user flexibility
- 100% steel walls with tamper-resistant inner edges
- Option to go silent mode
- Hassle-free installation
Cons
- Not easily portable
Paragon Lock & Safe – 5 Gun Rifle Safe
Black and made of steel, this Paragon gun safe is the real deal. Most of the so-called gun safes weigh less than 60 pounds. This rifle cabinet is a whopping 110 pounds, so no intruder will even attempt to carry it. The overall design and style will impress you, and you will be nothing but pleased with its powder-coated and heavy-duty cabinet.
Storing a total of 5 rifles is comfortable with this gun safe. You still have more than enough room to store smaller pistons, cash, documents, and jewelry while keeping everything organized and accessible.
This safe is easy to program and operate. You can open it with your secret code, and it comes integrated with an uncomplicated programmable electronic lock complete with a buzzer and a LED light.
With its reliable internal mechanisms, you can be sure that forced entry is almost impossible. As a treat, it is aesthetically attractive too, so it blends well with most casual furniture.
Pros
- Easy to program and operate
- Plenty of storage
- Strong internal mechanisms
- Made of solid materials
- Can fit four rifles easily
Cons
- No storage space for ammunition
Buyers Guide To Purchasing The Best Gun Safe
The top reason to want to purchase a gun safe is to add a layer of protection to the people sharing the same home as you.
It is especially true when you have children and teenagers living with you. There’s been plenty of news of kids and teens getting hold of guns that were not stored right or left lying around and in most cases, the consequences are not too good.
To ensure you get a good deal given the many options available, this friendly buyer’s guide will ensure you get a good deal under a budget of below $500.
Choosing the Most Secure Gun Safe for Under $500
You’ve set a fair budget. Don’t worry because the market is thriving with competitive gun safes, so there are many options for you.
Checklist For Purchasing A Gun Safe
To ensure that it is perfect for your needs, and within your budget of $500, your gun safe needs to tick off the checklist below.
- Security Features – The gun safe should be waterproof especially if you live in a flood-prone area. If your neighborhood is prone to house and bush fires, a gun safe made of fire-resistant materials will be your best option.
- Locking Mechanism – It is the principal purpose of getting home a gun safe; you can safely store your firearms in a place where your housemates, especially kids, cannot “accidentally” get access to your guns.While most would prefer a biometric safe due to its easy access, manual mechanisms are popular for their reliability over the years.
- Manual mechanisms are advantageous because you do not have to rely on batteries ever. But if you are leaning towards digital locks and fast access gun safes, most locking mechanisms offer that, with biometrics being the most popular. If you want old-school security, then a mechanical lock will do you just fine, even during power outages.
- Strength and Stability – a gun safe should be durable enough to withstand natural elements and even human-induced risks. If your choice of gun safe can’t do that for you, then don’t bother spending on one.If you have no idea what is the best material for a gun safe, then the answer is solid steel.
- Gun Safe Size – the size is also a huge deciding factor when shopping. Space is usually not a luxury in most homes, so it is better to decide in advance where you want to set it.Once you have a tentatively designated space, then start putting other considerations like, “Is the gun safe for a rifle or a gun?” and “How many firearms can it hold?”
Finding a suitable area in your home for your safety can make all the difference.Product Lock Type Dimensions LxWxH (inches) Number of firearms Latest Price Verifi Gun Safe with FBI Certified Fingerprint Sensor Electronic, Key 10.5 x 3.3 x 14 2 Handguns Check Latest Price ONNAIS Biometric Gun Safe for Pistols Electronic, Key 11.49 x 9.17 x 3.07 2 Handguns Check Latest Price AmazonBasics Home Pistols Safe Electronic, Key 14.2 x 13 x 13 2 – 4 Handguns Check Latest Price GunVault Compact Gun Safe Electronic, Key 5.56 x 8.63 x 13.25 1 Handguns Check Latest Price Stalwart Gun Safe Electronic, Key 12.2 x 7.9 x 7.9 2 – 3 Handguns Check Latest Price Tigerking Security Home Safe Combination, Electronic, Key 15.8 x 13 x 23 Varriable Check Latest Price Moutec Long Gun Saf Electronic, Key 57 x 14 x 13.8 5-6 rifles + extra storage for handguns Check Latest Price Hornady – Rapid Safe Ar Gunlocker RFID key fobs and programed tags 42 x 15.25 x 6.75 1 – 2 rifles Check Latest Price Langger Gun Safe for Rifles Electronic, Key 14 x 13.8 x 57 5 to 6 rifles, some guns, and even magazines and ammo Check Latest Price Paragon Lock & Safe – 5 Gun Rifle Safe Electronic, Key 14 x 13.75 x 57 5 rifles Check Latest Price - Weight – It is the most straightforward consideration when buying a gun safe. The rule of thumb is, the heavier, the better. So it is normal when you start lifting and testing the weight when out shopping.
Locking Screws might be the least of the details you are interested in but always scrutinize the locking bolts. It is the only mechanism that will stand between your valuables and gun and a burglar or an insistent family member.
Check for the quality of the bolts. The more challenging it is to be broken into, the better. It should, unless you open it, remain tightly shut.
Where Are The Best Places To Put Your Safe?
In movies, we often see the gun safe tucked inside the bedside cabinet in the master bedroom. It can also be inside the closet of the master bedroom. You can’t blame the set-up because putting it in the master’s bedroom makes it more accessible to the master of the house.
Emergencies that usually happen during the night can be addressed quickly if your gun is in the same room as you. Besides, the master’s bedroom is usually less accessible to guests and even the kids.
Picking the designated area at your home is one of the most challenging decisions you have to make, especially for first-time buyers. In all honesty, there is no definite answer on the best place.
You can follow the principle of “out of sight, out of mind” by steering clear from the obvious and typical spots like the bedroom. It always has to be security over convenience.
To help you out, here are several recommendations aside from the bedroom on where you can set your safe depending on your set-up, family dynamics, and space availability.
The basement – if you are worried about your gun being taken away, then storing it in the basement is a good idea. Safes that keep multiple guns are usually heavy, so carrying it from the basement to the main floor is no easy feat. Doing it without causing any racket is also almost impossible.
There’s practically no way someone can move your safe from the basement, especially if you have it bolted down to the floor.
Home Office or Study – You can have your gun safe designed so it can be attached to the underside of your work desk. It would be easy access for you in case of emergencies.
With gun-safe designs getting more creative, some safes appear to be a stack of books or any other everyday materials that can be seamlessly concealed in your office.
Additionally, you can opt for concealed panels behind your bookshelves. Although not entirely safe, it can be effective hiding spots while at the same time being easy to get to.
What Are The Benefits Of Using A Gun Safe?
Having a gun inside your home can give you a sense of security, knowing that you have a means of defense should you need it. But having one indoors and not storing it properly is downright irresponsible. To cut a long story short, have a gun, use a gun safe. This is non-negotiable!
If you are planning on getting a gun safe, then good for you since it is the right choice. However, if you are still unconvinced, below are the advantages of using a gun safe.
- Child Safety – studies show that up to 21% of gun-related injuries are unintentional and initiated by children. These are accidents waiting to happen because of a gun not being safely kept inside a safe.Kids will always be curious about the things they see around the house, and they are especially interested in “grown-up” toys. So, prevention is better than grief.
- Protection Against Calamities – When it comes to fires and floods having a waterproof and fireproof safe is your only option to keep your weapons safe.Aside from weapons, it can also double as a safe and impenetrable box for important documents and other valuables.
- Prevents Further Catastrophe – when you leave weapons lying around, it is a silent invitation of trouble. A realistic example would be a robbery gone wrong.
- A Matter of Accountability – owning a gun entails responsibility. Sure, it is considered a constitutional right, but when you keep your firearm under lock and key, there will be zero chances of it being used by other people to commit a crime or cause an accident.
What Is The Best Gun Safe For The Money?
Among all the reviewed gun safes, the gun safe from SentrySafe is the smartest choice,
Its strength, reliability, durability, and versatility make it a top choice when it comes to securing your weapons and other valuables.
It assures you that even with kids inside your home and people coming and going, there won’t be any untoward accidents. It also gives you confidence that you can easily access your gun should the need arise and protect the ones that mean the world to you.
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