Gun, or any other type of weapon for that matter, requires a great deal of personal intelligence and know-how. It’s important to be aware of the consequences if your gun is misplaced or is put in an area where it can fall into the wrong hands. As a result, you want to make sure that you have a place where you can keep your gun secure.
When it comes to the security of your gun, you can never be too safe, so you want to go with the best option, which is a gun safe. Even better is a biometric gun safe. But what is a biometric gun safe, and what should you consider before purchasing one? Let’s take a look at these questions, and some of the best biometric gun safes on the market for 2018.
Defining Biometric Gun Safes
Biometrics is a reliable technology that makes use of fingerprints, palms, and retinas to ensure that only you have access to certain things. For the purpose of this article, scanning your fingerprint opens your gun safe and gives you access to your firearms. Biometric gun safes are difficult to hack and are much more reliable than typical manual gun safes.
For the most part, biometric gun safes provide better security, are user-friendly, smart, and give access to your gun in a matter of seconds. Let’s take a look at some of the best biometric gun safes on the market today; then we’ll visit some items to consider prior to purchasing a biometric gun safe.
SentrySafe Biometric Gun Safe
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SentrySafe is one of the most recognizable brands when considering a biometric gun safe. It provides a safe that is sturdy and strong and it big enough to hold a full-sized semi-automatic handgun.
Fast and Advanced Fingerprint Scanner
SentrySafe’s biometric gun safe offers a fingerprint scanner that gives you and your firearms advanced protection. Using this scanner means no other person has access to your gun. It unlocks quickly and ensures that no one else has access to your weapon.
Easy to Store
Most of the biometric gun safes on the market today are bulky, heavy, and hard to store. SentrySafe goes the other route, providing users a lightweight gun safe which weighs a mere 12 pounds. This makes it easier for you to store it and carry it with you.
Includes Backup Key
SentrySafe’s biometric gun safe gives you the option to store up to four fingerprints, while also providing a keypad in the event of an emergency. Since the SentrySafe runs on batteries, you could get locked out of your safe if they die. In that case, you can always make use of the backup key to unlock your safe.
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Easy Setup
The system on the SentrySafe biometric gun safe is simple and easy to use. All you have to do is place your finger on the scanner, watch for the green LED to light up, then move the angle of your finger on the scanner. Once your finger has been completely scanned in the LED will flash three times, giving you quick access to your gun safe no matter what position your finger is in when you place it on the scanner.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Program up to four fingerprints
- Backup keys provided if batteries die
- Fast fingerprint reader
Cons
- Not fireproof
- Batteries have to be replaced
- Does not come with batteries
Barska Quick Access Biometric Rifle Safe
It’s difficult to find a biometric safe for rifles, but the Barska Quick Access gun safe offers one that fits the bill. This gun safe is split into upper and lower shelves and provides room for up to four rifles while storing 120 fingerprints.
Plenty of Storage
As we mentioned in the previous paragraph, the Barska biometric rifle safe has plenty of room which provides enough space to accommodate four rifles, and handguns as well. If you want to, you can store multiple firearms in this biometric gun safe along with your ammo, as there is a small shelf available within the safe.
System Design
The Barska Rifle safe consists of 2mm thick steel and locks with a 3-point deadlocking system. As previously mentioned, it can hold up to 120 fingerprints, and when you’re ready to unlock your safe, it takes roughly four seconds to scan your print and gain access. If you already have a Barska safe, you’ll be familiar with this one, as most of their biometric safes make use of the same computer system and fingerprint scanner.
Access Beep
The default setting on the Barska gun safe makes a beeping sound when accessed. However, you can turn off this feature if you don’t want to hear it, or if you don’t want to alert intruders to your actions.
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Easy to Mount
You’ll find four pre-drilled mounting holes in the Barska Rifle safe, which includes a set of bolts if you decide to mount your safe. This ensures that would-be thieves don’t run off with it, although its 65 pounds of weight should do the trick as well.
Accessories
Along with hardware for mounting your safe, you’ll also get batteries, two emergency keys, and a removable section to hold your rifle barrels that come included with your Barska biometric gun safe.
Safe and Reliable
Overall, this Barska gun safe if easy to use. Its fingerprint scanner works as it should, and the method of scanning in your prints is simple and straightforward. The safe itself is reliable and sturdy, and if your batteries die, it retains the records of fingerprints is has already stored.
Pros
- Includes extra accessories
- Store up to four rifles, ammo, and other firearms
- Keep up to 120 unique fingerprints
- Can be mounted
Cons
- Heavy; not easy to transport
Barska Biometric Safe with Fingerprint Lock
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The second Barska biometric gun safe on this list is compact and smart and offers a great fingerprint recognition system. Barska’s safe is lightweight with the ability to store multiple firearms.
Easy to Use Scanner
Just like with its rifle safe, Barska makes setup easy and straightforward. Place your finger on the scanner, let the system do its thing, and wait for the signal that scanning is complete. That’s it. This Barska biometric safe can store up to 30 fingerprints and takes just a few seconds to recognize a print and give you access to your firearms.
Safe and Secure
With the Barska biometric gun safe, you don’t have to worry about unauthorized access to your firearms. No one can access your safe unless they are one of the prints stored in the memory of the safe. Additionally, it is constructed of heavy-gauge steel which includes solid-steel deadbolt locks that keep your documents and firearms secure.
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Lightweight Design and Profile
This Barska biometric safe weighs 31 pounds but has a smart ergonomic design and quality about it. By most accounts, it would be considered a medium-sized safe, but it does have the room inside it to store several firearms. It’s constructed of the highest-quality materials, and every part of the safe is crafted with accuracy and precision.
Pros
- Includes two emergency backup keys
- Store 30 fingerprints
- Small beep sound when the safe is unlocked
Cons
- Difficult to mount
Gunvault MicroVault XL
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Compared with the other biometric gun safes so far on this list, the Gunvault MicroVault is fairly compact. Still, it will hold two handguns simultaneously, along with some ammo and few other valuable items. It uses a 9V battery and includes a backup key as well.
Advanced Fingerprint Scanning Capability
The Gunvault MicroVault XL can store up to 120 fingerprints at the same time. However, the MicroVault XL differentiates itself by using a swiping biometric scanner instead of a touch-scan. This means scanning your print is a little different and might require some practice and patience, but overall is safer.
Elastic Pockets
Within the MicroVault XL, you’ll discover elastic pockets that give the gun safe a little flair. These pockets let you store small items like wallets, money, or phones with coming into contact with your ammo and firearms.
Stow your valuables in these handy little pockets, and carry them when you’re on the go. Even if you’re traveling on a bumpy road, the elastic pockets will hold your items in place, so you don’t have to worry about any scratches or scuffs.
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Storage
It’s not the biggest biometric gun safe on the market, but you still have enough space to hold two of your handguns. Additionally, the previously mentioned elastic pockets give you room to keep ammo, magazines, or other personal documentation. The gun safe itself is compact, and could easily fit under your seat or in the trunk of your car.
Battery Life
The MicroVault XL has extremely long-lasting batteries, as they can last up to two years on a single charge, depending on how you use your biometric gun safe. Of course, it’s always wise to have spare batteries, just in case, but even if they do die, the stored fingerprints won’t be wiped from the safe’s memory.
Pros
- Swipe to scan fingerprint
- Plenty of storage
- Remembers up to 120 fingerprints
- Elastic pockets provide additional storage
Cons
- Does not include motorized springs or bolts when opening
- Take time and patience to perfect swiping motion
Viking Security Safe VS-50BLX
The Viking Security VS-50BLX is a large-sized biometric gun safe that you can rely upon any time you need it. It is user-friendly and well worth the money for the value it offers.
Digital Display
The display might seem small at first glance, but it provides you with all the necessary information you need to set up your fingerprint scanner. You can easily program this biometric gun safe, and it offers a soft beeping sound that alerts you when a fingerprint has been stored in its memory successfully. If you don’t want to hear the beep, you always have the option to turn it off.
Various Access Methods
Along with the biometric scanner is a digital keypad that allows you to enter a combination to access your safe if need be. If you’re the type of safe gun owner who prefers to have only one method of access to your guns, this biometric safe is not for you. The VS-50BLX provides users with a backup key in the event that the batteries go dead.
Includes Shelves
Inside the safe are shelves that you can adjust to fit your needs, which are always nice to have. The fact that they’re adjustable means you can easily fit additional magazines, ammo, weapons, or other important items within the safe.
Pros
- Durable and large
- Carpeted
- Keypad and backup keys
- Adjustable shelving
Cons
- Only stores handguns
Barska Top Opening Biometric Gun Safe
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This Barska biometric gun safe opens at the top and includes a fingerprint scanner, much like the other Barska’s we’ve already reviewed. This Barska gun safe can store up to 30 fingerprints and has motorized locking bolts made of steel.
Top Opening Door
The top opening door found on this Barska biometric gun safe means you can store the case in a drawer. You’ll still have access to your firearms, so no worries there, and you can use the fingerprint scanner to gain access in a hurry. Just scan your fingerprint, open the top door, and grab what you need.
Advanced Scanner
With its advanced biometric scanner, the Barska gun safe can easily store 30 fingerprints in its memory. The fingerprint scanner is easy to set up and reliable. Just put your finger on the scanner and listed for the beep that will let you know your print has been scanned and integrated successfully.
Barska recommends scanning multiple angles of your fingerprints which will allow you to open the safe on your first attempt. The Barska Top Opening biometric gun safe takes less than four seconds to open, giving you access to your firearms quickly.
Mounting Holes are Pre-Drilled
Even though this Barska safe is top opening, it still has mounting holes pre-drilled if you decide you want to mount it onto a countertop or shelf. Included are screws, bolts, and other hardware necessary for mounting the safe. Mounting your safe adds an additional layer of security to your firearms.
Battery Operated
The Barska Top Opening biometric gun safe runs on four AA batteries. Barska says the batteries can last nearly two years depending on how often the safe is accessed and used. As a result, you can carry your safe with you wherever you need to have it. The safe also comes with backup keys and a protective floor mat, which prevents your guns and valuables from scratching.
Pros
- Less than four seconds to read your fingerprint and unlock
- Easy to setup
- User-friendly
- Stores up to 30 fingerprints
- Compact size
- Keep handgun and other valuable documents hidden and out of sight
Cons
- Not fireproof
- Not waterproof
Viking Security Safe VS-25BL
The Viking Security Safe VS-25BL is one of the smaller models on this list, but it has plenty of room inside to store more than your gun. It also offers both a keypad and a fingerprint scanner, offering multiple methods with which to access your safe.
Biometric Scanner
The fingerprint scanner on the VS-25BL is an advanced piece of hardware that includes a 500 DPI optical sensor, which makes it a very powerful scanner. This fingerprint scanner also has the ability to store 32 prints while giving you access to your firearms in less than a second, which makes the VS-25BL the fastest biometric gun safe on the market.
Durable and Reliable Steel Door
Most gun safes are made of steel 2mm thick; however, the Viking VS-25BL takes things a step further. This biometric gun safe features a steel door 5mm thick with two anti-pry slots and a deadbolt locking system that’s motorized to provide maximum safety for your firearms.
Digital Keypad
You’ll notice a digital keypad next to the fingerprint scanner, which includes an LCD display which allows you to program a code which will give you access to the safe in the event you have trouble with the scanner. No need to worry about security, as the digital keypad offers the same level of protection as the fingerprint scanner.
Sound Settings
You can turn the sound settings on or off as needed since the safe emits a beep each time it is unlocked.
Warning when Unlocking
On the off chance that the safe closes without being completely locked, you’ll hear a warning sound that lets you know you need to close the door properly. A door open feature is something not found on many biometric gun safes in the market today.
Design
The aesthetics of the VS-25BL are amazing. Sure, the keypad is scratch resistant and matte black, but the top coating gives it a nice tough. Otherwise, it has a sleek design and solid construction.
Pros
- Quick access to your firearms
- Digital keypad for alternative entry
- Solid and secure
- Resistant to prying
- Alarm lets you know that door isn’t completely shut
Cons
- Bolting mechanism needs to be realigned from time to time.
LockSafe Biometric Pistol Safe
LockSafe is one of the most recognizable biometric gun safe brands on the market. As long as you don’t mind paying for quality, it’s one of the best safes available. This safe consists of 9-gauge steel construction and a rock-solid design.
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Construction and Design
The LockSafe biometric gun safe has great construction and unique design, particularly its 9-gauge steel material. It might be the toughest and strongest safe on this list. The steel used for the LockSafe is twice as thick as that of many other biometric gun safes.
There are four pilot holes in the bottom of the safe, which can be used to mount it to the floor or other flat surfaces. Durable metal screws and bolts are also included with the safe. The LockSafe checks in at 22 lbs and has a bright finish with a user-friendly design.
Fingerprint Scanner
The LockSafe is easy to use and setup and works like a charm. All you have to do is place your finger on the scanner and wait until you get a green LED. You’re able to save up to ten fingerprints in the LockSafe memory.
LockSafe Interior
Inside the LockSafe biometric gun safe, you’ll see a foam base with padding that protects your handguns from wear and tear. It’s spacious enough that it will easily hold two guns, along with a few other items like magazines or additional ammo.
Easy to Mount
As we stated previously, the LockSafe biometric gun safe comes with four pilot holes at the bottom of the safe, which gives you the option to mount it to the floor. It’s easy to mount and put together, especially given that it comes with all the equipment necessary.
Pros
- One-year warranty
- Opens in less than three seconds
- Comes with 9V battery and backup key
- Holds up to ten fingerprints
Cons
- Door clanks when opened
- Scanning beep cannot be deactivated
GunBox 2.0 Biometric Handgun Safe
The GunBox 2.0 biometric gun safe takes a step toward the future with its sleek and stylish design. It’s compact and perhaps one of the best biometric gun safes available on the market.
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RFID Scanner
The RFID scanner on the GunBox 2.0 is one of the core features for this gun safe. This scanner can recognize many different fingerprints and has the ability to lock your firearm using a ring or bracelet as an opening key. With so many options available to lock your safe, you know they’ll remain protected and secure.
Rechargeable Batteries
Another nice feature of the GunBox 2.0 is its rechargeable batteries. Two USB ports are used to charge the batteries, which means you don’t have to worry about your gun safe turning off unexpectedly. Additionally, the safe comes with a battery backup, so you’ll always have an option for getting your safe open when needed.
Solid Construction
The GunBox 2.0 is constructed of aircraft strength aluminum, which goes a long way in protecting your firearms. This metal is strong and tough and can withstand even the toughest environments easily.
Approved by the FAA
With FAA approval, you can take your gun safe with you when you fly. You don’t have to take the safe out when going through security, however, remember that the GunBox 2.0 is approved by the FAA, and other countries may require you to take your firearm out of the box.
Pros
- Two USB ports for charging purposes
- FAA approved
- Aircraft strength aluminum material
- RFID Scanner
Cons
- A little more expensive than other safes
Stack-On Biometric Gun Safe
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The Stack-On biometric gun safe is rated as one of the safest on the market today. With an advanced and sophisticated fingerprint scanner, you’ll have quick access to your firearm in the case of an emergency.
Removable Shelf
If you need additional room to store your valuables, the Stack-On provides that with a removable shelf. All you have to do is open up your safe and pull it out. It’s that simple. There’s enough room to store your firearms, ammo, and other valuables. Stack-On suggests you leave the shelf in place, however, since it works to keep items from being scratched.
Full Padding
The bottom and shelf inside the safe are padded with foam that serves to protect your firearms from unnecessary wear and tear. It also helps to protect your guns from bumps in the event that you are carrying your firearms with you.
Fingerprint Scanner
With its advanced fingerprint technology, the Stack-On biometric gun safe provides users with a simple and easy to use a device. It’s as simple as placing your finger on the scanner, waiting for it to indicate it has stored your fingerprint, and taking your finger off. That’s it. The safe unlocks in just a few seconds and also includes a backup key if the batteries go dead.
Design
The Stack-On biometric gun safe consists of solid and sturdy steel with a door that includes pry resistance. It features properly concealed hinges with a pair of live-action bolts. The body is finished with a black matte color, and powdered with a coating that gives it a slick looking shine.
Pros
- Foam padding on shelf and bottom of safe
- Pry-resistant door
- Stores up to 20 fingerprints
- Pre-drilled mounting holes
Cons
- Weak batteries
Biometric Gun Safe Guide
There are some things to consider when you are ready to purchase your biometric gun safe. Here are some of the most important.
Size
Ensuring that you have the right size safe is critical. You might be tempted to buy a larger safe, even if all you have is a handgun, but that might not be the best decision. Make a checklist of the items you will be storing inside the safe alongside your firearms, then make a choice based on the amount of room you’ll need.
Durable
You’ll want a tough and durable biometric gun safe that will withstand the roughest external forces. It should be durable, made of solid steel, and a single piece door. For reference, 3mm-5mm thick is plenty strong enough. If you’re considering mounting your safe, you’ll also want to make sure there are pre-drilled holes for anchors so you can attach it to the wall or floor.
Fingerprint Scanner
The fingerprint scanner is the core feature of your biometric gun safe, and you want it to be a good one. You want to determine how long it takes for the safe to recognize your print and give you access, which typically should not be more than four seconds. A few on this list will open in less than two seconds, which is among the fastest on the market.
Additionally, you want to ensure that the scanner can store more than one fingerprint in its memory and that in the event of battery loss, the scanned prints are not lost. For scanners that scan more than ten fingerprints, you’ll want to scan in your finger from different angles to help lower rejection rate, which we’ll talk about in a moment.
Lower False Rejection Rate
You don’t want to be in a situation where you have an emergency, and you can’t go into your safe because the biometric scanner won’t accept your fingerprint. Due to this, you want to look for a safe that allows you to scan multiple prints so you can ensure that you’ll have access on the first try.
Unfortunately, so older scanners are prone to errors and may even give unauthorized users access to your safe. Thankfully, none of the safes on this list have that issue.
Emergency Access
You need to have another way to get into your safe in the event that your batteries die or the safe just won’t recognize your fingerprint. Some safes come with a digital keypad that lets you enter a combination to get access to your safe. Most should include backup keys so that you have access to your biometric gun safe no matter what.
Batteries
All biometric gun safes should come with AA batteries. There may be a few exceptions, but for the most part, you’ll want to consider a safe with long life, so you don’t have to change the batteries often or worry about them dying right when you need them. Batteries should come pre-installed, but most safes should include backup battery options.
Drawbacks
No safe is perfectly secure, and all gun safes, even biometric ones, have their share of drawbacks. One of the largest drawbacks is that sometimes the scanner won’t recognize your fingerprint, and it may not be for a reason you expect. Dirty fingers or a cut can cause problems with the biometric system, and it may not give you access to your safe when you need it most. This is why you want to make sure you scan your finger from different angles, so no issues occur.
Another problem is that there are videos available online that show how to hack biometric gun safes. Your child may view this as a challenge, or something fun to do, and gain access to your firearms. Modern day systems are becoming more and more secure, but a smart kid or hacker could potentially gain access to your safe.
Why Choose a Biometric Gun Safe?
One question you may have been asking yourself throughout this article is “Why should I own a biometric gun safe?” Yes, a biometric safe has its flaws, but it is still far safer and more secure than a conventional gun safe. It ensures that no unauthorized person can gain access to your firearms.
Anyone who does not have their fingerprint stored in your biometric gun safe will not have the ability to gain access. Additionally, biometric safes are far faster and easier to open than a mechanically safe and can save you time in emergency situations.
Most biometric gun safes are water and fireproof and have multiple methods through which you can access them. If your fingerprint scanner isn’t working, you can always use a dial-pad or backup keys to unlock it manually. Thanks to the added security a biometric gun safe provides, you can store your firearms, valuables, and important documents within and not have to worry about whether or not they are completely protected.
Conclusion
As you can see, there is no shortage of great options when it comes to a reliable, solid, and secure biometric gun safe. It’s up to you to make the best decision based on your needs and what features you prefer, but no matter what, you’ll be added an extra level of protection to your firearm which keeps you and the people around you safer.
Further read, The Best Biometric Access Control Systems
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