At a Glance: Best Car Gun Safes
- BEST OVERALL: VAULTEK VT20i Biometric Handgun Smart Safe
- OUR TOP PICK: Hornady RAPid Safe Vehicle Safe
- BEST BIOMETRIC OPTION: RPNB Mounted Firearm Safe with Biometric Fingerprint Lock
Comparison of The Best Car Gun Safes
| PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Our Top Pick
|
VAULTEK VT20i Biometric Handgun Smart Safe |
|
View Latest Price |
Our Top Pick
|
Hornady RAPid Safe Vehicle Safe |
|
View Latest Price |
Our Top Pick
|
RPNB Mounted Firearm Safe with Biometric Fingerprint Lock |
|
View Latest Price |
If you are shopping for the best car gun safes, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will go over 8 of the top gun safes for your car on the market today and give you our pick for the best gun safe for your car.
Guide to the Top Rated Car Gun Safes For The Money
We looked at the most popular car gun safes and sifted through the best gun safe brands and picked the top 8 for you below! What makes these gun safes so great is how different each one is from another. There are some that are perfect for budget shoppers and others that work best as a biometric option. Now, let’s take a look at our top vehicle gun safes.
BEST OVERALL: VAULTEK VT20i Biometric Handgun Smart Safe
First up is the Vaultek VT20i Biometric Handgun Safe. This gun safe for vehicles is one of the more high-end safes on our list but it has excellent features and long-lasting material make it well worth the price.
KEY FEATURES
- Exterior Dimensions (LxWxH): 11.5 x 9.0 x 2.75 inches
- Weight: 7.2 pounds
- Quick-release cable mount
- Auto-Open Lid
- Rechargeable Battery
This gun safe has anti-pry bars that close up all gaps between the main compartment and the lid and a pair of anti-impact latches that make breaking into an extremely difficult task that would require an expert safe-cracker. The biometric technology allows you to use your fingerprints to access the safe and it also comes with two other backup methods you can use in case the batteries run out of charge.
What’s more is that, through the Vaultek app, you can even check on your safe’s history and see when exactly it has been locked and unlocked. Plus, unlike most of the other electronic safes on this list, it comes with a rechargeable battery that you will hardly ever need to replace.
Pros
- Tamper protection
- Biometric access
- Compatible with Vaultek app
- Interior lighting
- Made of high-quality material
- Sleek design
Cons
- Battery charge does not last very long
OUR TOP PICK: Hornady RAPid Safe Vehicle Safe
Next on the list is the Hornady Rapid Vehicle Safe, which features a mounting system with an inflatable bladder that conforms to your vehicle’s interior shape. This nifty feature makes any expensive vehicle modification unnecessary.
KEY FEATURES
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 18.5 x 9.75 x 4.5 inches
- Fits 4″ barreled pistols or smaller
- Weight: 9.72 pounds
- RFID Instant Access
This gun safe’s power can be supplied by either four AAA batteries or a 12-volt car adapter which is included when you order the safe. 14 gauge exterior steel housing with two internal locking lugs making it nearly impossible to break into.
The Hornady Rapid Vehicle Safe exceeds safety standards for child resistance, lock strength, and attack resistance. It is opened by a security code, wristband, sticker, or key fob which allows you to access the safe instantly in emergency situations.
Pros
- Fits easily to most vehicles
- Exceeds ASTM safety standards
- Can be accessed by key fob or number code
- Security cable makes it near impossible to pull the safe out of the vehicle
Cons
- Batteries not included
- Can only fit smaller handguns
BEST BIOMETRIC OPTION: RPNB Mounted GUN Safe with Biometric Fingerprint Lock
Coming up at number three we have our best biometric option, RPNB’s Mounted Gun Safe. This vehicle gun safe was made for quick and easy access and uses a state-of-the-art fingerprint scanner to ensure no one else can access your firearm and you can get to it as quickly as possible.
KEY FEATURES
- Package dimensions (LxWxH in inches): 17.7 x 9.9 x 6
- Weight: 9.45 pounds
- Low battery warning
- 500 DPI semiconductor fingerprint scanner
If you have kids at home and want to keep them from getting their hands on your gun, this safe is one of the best options for you. Its slim design fits snugly underneath a desk, nightstand, or inside your vehicle. You can also mount it on its top, left, or right side depending on your preferences.
Also, it is strongly crafted using sturdy steel that gives this safe long-lasting appeal that will not corrode. Not to mention, its sleek black finish gives it a professional but stylish look that makes this vehicle gun safe easy to show off to friends.
Finally, there is a one year warranty on this safe so even if you find that it is not quite what you’re looking for, you can always get your money back and try out some other options.
Pros
- Nearly impossible to pry open with hand tools
- Looks futuristic and stylish
- Foam-lined interior to keep your gun protected
- Easy to program fingerprint scanner
- One year warranty
Cons
- Requires 4 AAA batteries that are not included in the package
- Will not fit revolvers
BEST BUDGET SAFE: SnapSafe Treklite Gun Safe Lock Box with TSA Combination Lock
Up next comes our best budget option on the list, the Snapsafe lock box. This lock box is a fraction of the price of some of the other safes on this list but does not skip out on quality. The reason for its affordability is its impressively lightweight design.
KEY FEATURES
- Exterior size (LxWxH in inches): 10 x 7 x 2
- Weight: 1.6 pounds
- Material: Steel
- Comes with a TSA combination lock or key lock (key lock is cheaper)
While it still is made of high-quality steel and can fit most regular handguns, this snapsafe lock box is by far the lightest gun safe on this list as well which makes it ideal for portability.
Aside from its lightweight design, its size makes it perfect to hide safely in a dresser drawer or in your vehicle. Plus, the TSA combination lock makes this gun safe one of the best options to choose from if you plan on traveling with it.
Of course, be advised that you should check airline policies before traveling with this safe. Never bring a loaded gun to an airport and be sure to declare the contents of this car gun safe if you plan on bringing it on a plane.
Pros
- Lightweight, great portability
- Made of durable material
- Setting lock code is simple and easy
Cons
- Does not feature FOB or fingerprint access
- Has chemicals known to the State of California to cause reproductive harm or cancer
- External hinge makes it potentially easier to break-in
RPNB Smart Pistol Safe LED & RFID Quick Access
Moving on to our next gun safe for your vehicle, let’s look at the RPNB Gun Safe. This choice is capable of securely storing handguns, ammo, passports, and other valuables in your home or in your car discreetly.
KEY FEATURES
- Size (inches): 11L x 7W x 1.8H
- Weight: 4.75 lbs
- Material: 16 gauge carbon steel
- Key fob, keypad, or traditional key lock
This safe can be easily accessed in three different methods, the first is a key fob that instantly opens its lid for quick access. Also, a three-digit code can be programmed into the keypad so the safe can be accessed. Plus, you can access it by simply using a key to unlock its keylock.
RPNB’s gun safe also features anti-impact latches and a pry-proof steel body so break-ins are close to impossible without heavy power tools. Also, this gun safe uses a unique hinge design that keeps the top lid opened when it is accessed.
The material used for this safe is 16-gauge carbon steel and finished with a powder coat making it durable, long-lasting, and resistant to corrosion. You can expect this safe to be as good as new for years to come.
Additionally, if you plan on taking this safe on the go, it meets TSA requirements on handgun safety in checked luggage.
Pros
- Durable and long-lasting
- Three methods of unlocking
- One year warranty
- Meets TSA safety requirements
Cons
- Batteries required for FOB and keypad access
- RFID tags can be difficult to program
Liberty – Quick Vault
Up next on our list of the best car gun safe options is Liberty Safe and Security HD-100 Quick Vault. This lock box is a perfect blend of portability, reliable security, and easy access which is exactly what you want in a car gun safe.
KEY FEATURES
- Dimensions (LxWxH in inches): 8.3 x 2.5 x 10.8
- Weight: 6.25 pounds
- Material: Heavy duty steel
- Security cable included
The HD-100 Quick Vault uses a lighted interior, piston-assisted door, and a key backup for its ways of accessibility. Its unique, notebook-like design makes it an easy fit in a laptop bag, backpack, or travel bag while still being able to hold a regular handgun.
Also featured on this car gun safe, are tamper alerts that sound off when there is an attempted break-in. This sound can scare away thieves altogether or alert you that a persistent thief is trying to get into the contents of this safe.
Making use of its heavy duty steel and anti-pry technology this safe is approved by the California DOJ and is nothing short of impressive for its size.
Pros
- Portability
- Tamper alerts
- Unique notebook-esque design
- California DOJ approval
- Two year replacement warranty on defects
Cons
- Can only fit smaller handguns
Fort Knox PB1 Handgun Safe with 13.5 Inch Dean Safe Pistol Sock
Now, more than halfway through our list we arrive at the Fort Knox PB1 Handgun Safe. This safe’s reliable simplicity and heavy duty construction makes it a lot like the, nearly impenetrable, real Fort Knox.
KEY FEATURES
- Exterior dimensions (LxWxH in inches): 10.37 x 12.5 x 5.25
- Weight: 23 pounds
- Material: 10 gauge alloy steel
- Waterproof
- Lock type: electric
Much unlike the previous gun safe on our list, this pistol safe for car is easily the heaviest one and while it features mounting holes, it does not have the ability to be secured to a vehicle without some DIY.
This gun safe also features a Simplex mechanical lock that can be easily programmed and is made of ten gauge steel. These features will keep any amateur thieves out and the contents of this safe secure.
You may be thinking its weight will make it hard to open and close it and this is absolutely the case for many heavy gun safes. However the Fort Knox PB1 uses gas struts to make it easy to open and close the door without damaging the safe, the contents, or your fingers.
Pros
- Strong and durable
- Gas-strut assistance for opening and closing
- Made in USA
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Cannot be secured to a car
- Very bulky and heavy
Solomone Cavalli Portable Biometric Gun Safe for Car
Coming down to the home stretch on our list and one of the more high-tech gun safes. The Solomone Cavalli Portable Fingerprint Gun Safe features a fingerprint sensor that can store as many as 32 unique fingerprints.
KEY FEATURES
- Security cable included with safe
- Size dimensions (LxWxH in inches): 11.02 x 3.15 x 3.15
- Weight: 4 pounds
- Material: Steel/plastic
This gun safe offers great durability and a manual lock so you can have an alternative method of accessing the safe if the fingerprint sensor malfunctions. A heavy-duty security cable is included allows you to attach it securely to your vehicle. Its design is compact and allows you to hide it effectively and is one of the best portable gun safe for car as well.
Pros
- Easily portable
- Fingerprint scanner great for secure access
- Backup manual lock in case fingerprint lock malfunctions
- Can be installed in any car
Cons
- Some parts made of plastic
- Not for fast respond use
Ultimate Guide to Buying the Best Gun Safe for Your Car
While all of the descriptions, facts, pros, and cons of all the gun safes listed above can be extremely helpful to your search, you might need a little more specification. Here are factors to keep in mind:
Gun Safe Size
There is a reason the dimensions of the safe are mentioned in nearly every gun safe’s specs. You may want a portable gun safe for car or something that is a more permanent. If you plan on taking your safe on the go, you will need to look at the dimensions and see if it can fit under your seat or in your glove box.
Plus, some safes are large enough to fit two full-sized handguns, while others can hardly fit one. It is also important to know the dimensions of your gun when looking for the right gun safe, there have been plenty of times when someone bought an expensive gun safe that could not even fit their gun.
The durability of a car gun safe is also one of the most important things to consider when buying one. Most gun safes are made out of steel and are very difficult to get into through brute force.
Be aware of cheap gun safes that use plastic or other, less sturdy materials. While the materials may hold up when you first buy the safe, it could easily be susceptible to corrosion and will be that much easier to break into the older it gets.
Reduce the Risk of Theft
Be sure to carefully look into the locking mechanism of whatever car gun safe you purchase. As displayed above, gun safes come with manual, combination, and even fingerprint locking mechanisms.
Not only should you be aware of how difficult it is for burglars to pick or force the lock open, but how difficult it may be to open the lock yourself. In emergency situations, you may need your safe to open in seconds or less. Combination lock safes may not be your best option under these circumstances.
If you plan to store your safe in your car and travel long distances, an anchorage feature adds a whole new level of security that the safe itself does not. Many of the safes listed above also have some kind of anchorage system that prevents a thief from stealing the safe itself. Double-check the size of the safe and available space to mount it in your vehicle. Make sure your safe is not left in any open areas, such as the back seat or passenger seat.
Know the laws on transporting firearms across state lines
Do not assume that laws for storing firearms at home also apply to storage in your vehicle. You may legally transport firearms across state lines as long as you are legally allowed to possess the weapon in both the state of origin and the destination.
We have an article on How to Safely Travel With Firearms by Road & Air where we cover transportation laws and other resources to keep you safe!
What Is the Difference Between a Car Gun Safe and a Console Vault?
A console vault is similar to a vehicle gun safe in that it is designed to secure your firearms in your vehicle safely and fits snugly in the center console of most cars, SUVs and trucks. They also can have similar locking mechanisms and can be made from the same kinds of materials.
Some folks prefer console vaults over gun safes for various personal preferences, saying they’re easier to install and less likely to be broken into.
One of the main differences between the two is portability. Console vaults are much bulkier and are meant to be installed into a vehicle’s center console and stay there. While some gun safes stay in one place, others are specifically made for travel and are drastically different from console vaults.
Also, console vaults can usually only be installed one way, with the door to the safe facing upwards. Most car gun safes on the other hand, can be affixed to a vehicle via an anchorage feature and it does not matter whether the safe is on its front, back, or sides.
However, one thing a console vault does have on a car gun safe is reliability. It is seldom often you will ever hear a story of someone failing to access their console vault, while this is a fairly common story for those that have bought cheaply made gun safes.
Console vaults stay stationary once they are installed and so they will never be damaged by the wear and tear gun safes get from travelling around. Of course, it is perfectly possible to keep a gun safe stationary and away from these dangers but console vaults are specifically designed to stay away from these potential dangers.
Conclusion
All in all the best car gun safe option on our list is the VAULTEK VT20i Biometric Handgun Bluetooth Smart Safe Pistol Safe. This is truly has the best of them all including multiple locking mechanisms, durable material, tampering protection, and much more.
While all of the gun safes on this list have their own merit and are the best for more specific circumstances if you want a gun safe that will last you and never fail, check out number 8 and always keep your gun secure.
