If you are a gun owner, you likely appreciate having your gun safely kept out of the way and out of the hands of unauthorized individuals. You also likely prefer to have the gun in a safe spot that still offers you quick access in the case of an emergency. Well, biometric gun safes offer you a good solution.
The best biometric gun safe gives you near-instant access to your firearms. With these safes, you have an easy to use and access fingerprint scanner that will cough up your gun in mere seconds. With this advantage in mind, you certainly want the best biometric gun safe.
These old-school safe are slowly being phased out and more people are opting for the excellent biometric gun safes. This new technology is becoming more common, and we believe that it will remain so as time passes.
In this post, I will review five of the best biometric gun safes on the market. We will consider why and how a biometric gun safe is better for you than a traditional gun safe. In the end, you will be armed with the right information that will assist you in making the correct buying decision.
Contents
Best Biometric Gun Safes
1. VAULTEK VT20i Biometric Pistol Safe – Best Overall
If you are looking for the best biometric gun safe across categories, then look no further than this model. While it might be costlier than your average traditional safe and even other biometric safes, it is certainly worth the price.
The Vaultek brand is one of the more popular manufacturers of gun safes, and in the world of pistol safes, there is none better. The brand has a history of making highly reliable, secure safes through the years, and this model is certainly no exception. While our best safe from the brand isn’t a biometric option, the VT20i is certainly our favorite biometric safe.
With its 14 gauge carbon steel construction, a build that comes with a 12 gauge steel door, and a clean, elegant, and most importantly, durable finish, there is almost no beating this safe. It is strong and will deter the most determined efforts to pry out the contents.
Due to the design and build, you have a model that will remain functional in different situations as the model is rust-resistant.
Inside the safe is a lovely and similarly durable design.
Aside from the sturdy construction, this model comes as a smart safe. This means that it comes with an app and can connect to your Wi-Fi network. The app comes in useful in critical times. For example, the app allows you to check out the condition of the safe without being physically present. You can monitor the safety and get alerts on different parameters.
Another reason why this is an awesome model is memory. The unit is capable of storing up to 20 fingerprints. Thus, if you want members of the family to have access to the safe, you can store fingerprints of everyone. Click here to see the best price.
Key Features:
- Rechargeable Lithium-ion battery
- 2 pounds of weight
- Full-sized handgun capacity
- Manual key backup entry
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- App control
- Large fingerprint scanner
- Portable
- Three access ways
- Expensive
2. SentrySafe QAP1BE Biometric Gun Safe – Best AA-Battery Powered Safe
Are you looking to keep your handgun and some gun clips safely? Then you certainly need a portable, compact model that still offers plenty of protection. Well, that is certainly what you get from using this model. This model will help to keep your small guns, handguns, and some clips without feeling cramped.
It is a powerful, durable unit that is made to store one firearm and offer you enough security all through its lifespan.
The solid model is made of 12 gauge steel. This steel is strong and is very difficult to get through. It is nearly impenetrable and even with tools, thieves, or people looking to gain access without authorization will have a hard time going through the safe. Also, the 12 gauge steel construction means that the safe will remain functional and undamaged even when it is dropped or hit with high-impact tools. It will remain unopened and undamaged, thus keeping your firearm safe.
The only downside to using this model is the limited space. As we have pointed out, you cannot hold more than one handgun in the safe. You might also add some clips or jewelry. However, whatever you put in the safe will enjoy maximum protection.
One of the things that we loved about this model is that you can choose whether to use the electronic keypad or the biometric scanner. For even more security, you can decide to use both sources of access. With this option, you can have a backup in case of an emergency.
You can rest assured that this is a very responsive model that gives you the confidence to protect yourself and your family at a moment’s notice. Click here to see the best price.
Key Features:
- 12 Gauge steel
- Keypad and Biometric scanner
- AA Battery powered
- 12 Pounds weight
- 14″ x 6.5″ x 2.2″
- Quick response time
- Plenty of protection
- Impact and pry-resistant
- Limited storage
3. Moutec Biometric Gun Safe for 2 Pistols – Best for Two Guns
The Moutec model is one of the best options that you can buy. It comes with a slightly bigger size than the others that we have reviewed so far, therefore, it can hold up to two handguns for you. It is made of high-quality materials and has several features that make us excited to recommend them.
One of the things that we like here is the quick access that you get. The safe offers you fast access to the important things that you have placed in it. Get your documents, clips, and handguns quickly and when it is required the most via the backlit keypad, the spare key, or the biometric scanner included. As there are three ways to open the safe, you have a backup in case of some emergency.
All of these would be pointless if the safe weren’t a solid option. Thankfully, it is a very tough model. It is made of reinforced steel and houses an internal safety bracket. This combination of a strong design and materials results in a model that will prevent any break-ins.
The biometric scanner deserves special attention as it responds to your touch within mere seconds. It also comes with a good memory that is capable of holding up to 20 fingerprints at a time.
In the dead of night, the unit’s backlit keypad makes it easy for you to open the safe. Another nice feature is the silent mode. You can therefore open the safe without anyone knowing.
The door is resistant to prying and will ultimately prevent break-ins. Installation is relatively simple as the safe is fitted with pre-drilled holes and all the hardware that you require for mounting. Click here to see the best price.
Key Features:
- 4 x 11 x 3.3″
- 20 Fingerprints memory
- Backlit Keypad
- 2 Handguns capacity
- 81 pounds of weight
- 1-second access
- Padded interior
- Tough and rugged build
- Relatively large capacity
- Anti-theft protection
- Slight issues with the scanner
4. Hornady RAPiD Gun Safe With RFID – Best RFID Safe
The Hornady brand is a relatively popular maker of gun safes. If you are thinking of which of the Hornady gun safes to buy, we recommend that you consider getting the 2600KP which we have reviewed here.
The brand makes safes that come with high-quality materials and have special security features to keep your gun safe from unauthorized access. Well, the 2600KP is no different and is one of the best options from the brand in the biometric category.
The unique proposition here is RFID technology. The RFID offers the user the ability to get quick and secure access to the safe. Using this technology, you don’t even need a key, fingerprint, or a combination to open the safe.
Among the things that we like here is that you can use the model in other ways apart from RFID. You can use it with a sticker or key chain. And if you opt to use RFID technology, you can use up to 5 RFID tags.
Before this model hit the market, plenty of assessment was carried out. This model meets and passes ASTM safety standards. Made of 14 gauge steel, it is almost impossible to open up the safe or break it.
Due to the design, it is a spacious option that can take relatively large handguns. It is the best RFID gun safe we have considered. Click here to see the best price.
Key Features
- 14 Gauge steel
- AC and Battery power
- RFID Entry
- Exterior: 12″x6.4″x2.2″
- Interior: 7.5″x5.6″x1.7″
- Versatile entry points
- Easy to use
- Heavy gauge steel construction
- Quick RFID response
- Large profile
- Steep learning curve
5. BILLCONCH Biometric Gun Safe – Best Portable Safe
The final model on this list is this model from a Chinese company. The unit is a good model that offers Smart options. You can use it with an app.
The Billconch brand is not a popular brand on the market, however, if you are looking to buy your first biometric gun safe without spending plenty of money, then you will likely enjoy using this model It comes at a great price and offers pretty cool specifications.
First of all, the construction is top-notch. The model is made of 16 gauge carbon steel. Therefore, you have a unit that will last for a long time while rebuffing any illegal attempts to pry it open. It is also made with a powdered finish that will stop the chances of rust.
Opening the safe is easy as you have the choice of using fingerprints, pin, or keys. It is powered by a Lithium-ion battery that is recharged via the USB port.
In low lighting, the unit will continue to be useful as it comes with adjustable LED lighting. For the price, you will be hard-pressed to find a model that offers as much as this safe. Click here to see the best price.
Key Features
- Micro-USB Charging kit
- LED lighting
- App control
- 26 Pounds weight
- Good value for money
- Four unlocking modes
- App-compatible
- Portable
- The app has bugs
Buying Guide
In the section above, we reviewed five of the best fingerprint gun safes. The list of five products will help to narrow down your options. In this buying guide, we will discuss some of the things that every buyer should think about before making a buying choice. We will also consider some of the features that you will find on biometric pistol safe.
Features to Consider
Not all safes are equal and there are some guidelines that every person looking to make a purchase must consider. By following the guidelines that I have provided in this buying guide, you will rest assured that you are buying the right safe for your gun. These features will make sure that you get the best security and performance. With these in mind, you can be sure that you will not be wasting your time and money.
So, let’s consider these important features.
Intended Purpose
Before making a buying choice, you must determine what you plan on using the safe for. For instance, if you want an RFID gun safe, determine what is important for that. If you want a pistol safe, you would likely be on the lookout for a model that is silent, compact, and will fit into the home correctly.
Biometric features
This is a no-brainer. As you are looking to buy a biometric gun safe, you must consider these biometric features.
The biometric scanner should be the attention of your focus. With thorough consideration of the scanner, it is much easier for you to use the safe and you will not forget your combination. One issue with traditional safes is that you need to memorize a combination of letters, symbols, numbers, and so on. However, with the scanner found in these safes, you can only gain access to your guns through your fingerprints.
When making a purchase, make sure that the scanner is made of high quality and that it has a proven record of being a reliable model.
Some folks buy safes that can record different fingerprints. However, if you are the only one using the safe, you do not need a model that can hold lots of fingerprints.
Size
Apart from the biometric features, another thing that you certainly have to keep in mind is the size of the unit.
You have to consider where you plan on installing the safe. If you want a portable safe that you can reach quickly, then you would be best served by a model with a smaller size. Smaller models are excellent for folks that want to store small guns. The smaller size often is faster to operate and will give you quick access to your guns.
The size of the safe is also dependent on the type of firearms that you are looking to store. If you have rifles, then you will certainly need a bigger safe.
Fortunately, there are large safes that also come with the biometric scanner. Therefore, it will also give you fast access to your weapons.
However, there is a downside to these types of safes. One of the biggest problems with them is that you might find them hard to move and you might have to spend a little more timer opening them.
Battery
Your safe should not be dependent on the general electricity supply. Instead, it should have its source of power.
To that end, safes are fitted with batteries. There are different types of batteries found in safes, and each one comes with its advantages. There is the lithium-ion battery and there is also the regular battery-powered safe.
From our testing and the reviews from other users, the lithium-ion batteries often offer the user more power. However, they require charging about three times annually.
The other type of batteries, that is the 9V or AA batteries do not require any charging. However, they might last for a few years shorter than what the lithium-ion battery would offer you.
Durability
Of course, you have to consider the durability of the model that you choose. The safes are made from different materials, with many safes made of steel. The type of steel that is used will determine the durability of the safe.
Some models are resistant to fire while some others cannot be pried open. Many have recommended 14-18 gauge steel as it is strong and durable.
Power Considerations
This is important and linked to the battery. These safes need electricity to work in the right way. Without a power supply, you certainly cannot use the electronic scanner. Check out the type of power it will run on. Some are connected to the mains and have AC adapters and similar accessories.
Weight
When looking for a portable model, you certainly need something that is lightweight and can be placed in a spot you desire in the home. You must have it in such a way that you can fit it into small places without plenty of fuss. The models that we have reviewed so far come with lightweight designs and are easy to conceal.
Extras
Some of the best safes on the market offer extra features. For example, some come with USB ports while some are small enough to fit into the smallest spaces.
FAQs
How does fingerprint biometrics work?
When you scan the finger, the scanner in the biometric system will input the peaks and valleys of your fingerprint. As everyone has a unique fingerprint, the biometric system will only recognize your prints. The scanner will build this map and will transform it into numbers. The numbers are then saved on the memory of the scanner. Once you have stored this, you will always be able to open the safe as long as you use the registered fingerprint.
Are biometric gun safes reliable?
The reliability of the gun safe is dependent especially on the material of construction. However, it is difficult to gauge the safety of a biometric gun safe. What will further affect the durability is the method used to open the safe without authorization.
There is no 100% safe option, and with the right equipment and time, almost anyone can get into a safe eventually. However, biometric safes offer some more protection than the regular safe.
Are fingerprint safes secure?
Since these safes can only be opened (without breaking) with your fingerprints, they are quite safe and secure. For the regular safe, someone can get the combination of your safe without your knowledge, and anyone with the right combination can open the safe. However, with these biometric safes, only your fingerprints can open the safe.
What Materials are Best for a gun safe?
Safe is rigorously tested for security before the manufacturer sells them. The maker often uses all the means possible to make the safe impenetrable. Steel is the most common material that is used in making safes and is highly recommended. It is resistant to water and fire damage. Apart from this strength, another reason why steel is an excellent material is that it can conduct electricity and prevent the charge from reaching the firearms. This will ensure that there is no accidental discharge or damage to the contents of the safe.
Should you buy a safe with a biometric scanner?
Because it is usually cheaper, you might be tempted to buy a safe that lacks a biometric scanner. Well, we recommend buying one that has a biometric scanner. This canner offers plenty of advantages. For one, it will make it easier to quickly have access to your firearms. It also makes it easier to open the safe in times of distress. Unlike a combination, there is no way that you can forget your fingerprint.
Conclusion
Gun safes are an excellent alternative to the gun drawer. They ensure that your gun is safely out of the way while being easily accessible. The best biometric gun safes come with several useful features that you will find handy. We have reviewed five of the best models on the market right now.
We have also discussed the important features to consider when making a buying decision. Use all of this information to find the best model for your needs.