You can’t just purchase any safe, though. A mediocre safe could lead to damage to your gun, could easily open and get into the hands of inexperienced shooters or burglars, or could malfunction when every second counts.
As experts in protecting your home and your family, we also know how to best protect your other valuables, like your firearms and your vehicles. In this list, you’ll find the car gun safes out on the market for you and your needs.
Best Car Gun Safes:
1. awesafe Gun Safe with Fingerprint Identification and Biometric Lock
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This gun lock box for cars comes in a variety of sizes to best suit your needs, from one to five pistols! Due to its extremely thin steel frame, this lockbox is a great choice if you’d like to slide it under the seat of your vehicle. Plus, that means there’s no pesky installation involved unless you want to secure it to something.
Made of extremely strong and durable 18-gauge steel, this gun safe is discreet and unassuming but highly protective of your firearms or other valuables.
Depending on the size of the gun lockbox you choose, you can take this item with you to a variety of places by putting it in your backpack, suitcase, briefcase, or under your car’s seat. This also is a great option if you would like to safely keep a gun on your desk. Thanks to its 1,500 lb rated security cable, you can chain it down virtually anywhere.
Plus, if you travel, you can rest easy knowing not only that your guns are safe but that they won’t be taken away from you during travel. That’s because every single Nanovault model meets TSA’s security guidelines for firearms.
Keep in mind, that this is a simpler model of a lockbox, so it opens by lock and key. You’ll want to make sure that you always have a copy of your key nearby or in a safe place because of that!
Customers say that this is a simple but well-built lockbox. While it might not keep the most experienced of thieves at bay, it certainly will stop someone from getting their hands on your gun if they break into your vehicle or your luggage.
If you’re looking for a very simple, old-school gun safe that brings the same safety and protection as the newer high-tech models, then the Nano vault is the right model for you. It provides a lot of safety for a great price.
Pros
- Is TSA-approved so you can bring it with you as checked luggage on your next trip
- The slim style makes it perfect for the interior of a vehicle or a suitcase
- Well-built for the price
Cons
- Some users say the keys are low-quality
- The foam inside the safe has an odd odor
2. SentrySafe QAP1BE Gun Safe with Biometric Lock
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SentrySafe’s QAP1BE Gun Safe is the biometric gun safe for your car. This unit fits just one gun; the gun that you can quickly use if someone is breaking into your car or your home. It is made of high-quality steel that is long-lasting and durable.
The unit quickly opens thanks to a compression gas strut that automatically opens once the keypad is unlocked. It reveals a very soft interior that is lined with foam to protect your guns while they’re in the safe.
Speaking of protecting your guns and other valuables, you can rest easy knowing that your gun won’t get into the wrong hands thanks to the advanced technology that makes up the biometric lock. This lock can remember up to four fingerprints for quick access. However, you can also set up a four-digit passcode for easy backup access to your safe. A key is also included, just in case!
Customers say this is a great safe not only for your car but also to mount on the wall behind your bed or other places for quick access in your home. They say it quickly opens from “sleep” mode with a touch on the keypad or with your fingerprint.
If you’re looking for a portable gun safe for a car, this unit from SentrySafe is it! It is lightweight and slim, both features that make it a great choice for your car or a hidden place in your home. This unit is best used when you bolt and lock it down, however, so that it cannot be picked up and stolen. Only a hardened criminal would be able to break into this safe!
Pros
- Four fingerprints can be programmed in
- Lightweight: just 13.5 lbs
- Back-up entry with a key provided
Cons
- Housing for the locking mechanism leaves a gap that could be broken into by expert criminals
3. SnapSafe Keyed Lock Box
SnapSafe’s Keyed-Lock lockbox is a great choice if you’re looking for a simple, slim pistol case to store your firearms close by. It is the firearm lockbox for a car of choice if you travel frequently. It is lined with a soft foam that ensures your gun gets no scratches and isn’t bouncing around in the case.
The safe is made out of heavy-duty 16-gauge steel and is pry-resistant. It also includes a 1,500 lb rated steel security cable that will keep them safe in your car even if someone tries to unmount it. Its small size means that it can be mounted to nearly anything, from the interior of your car to the frame of your luggage, depending on what it is made of.
Approved by the California Department of Justice, this lockbox features an easy-to-use steel key lock and two identical keys to unlock it. You won’t get locked out of this lockbox, but you will ensure that no one else gets into it unless you give them a copy of the key.
Customers love that this safe is so lightweight and compact that it makes air travel a breeze yet is large enough to hold a pistol and ammunition very easily.
If you want a lockbox that can be accessed by multiple people or that is easily mounted to the inside of your car or luggage, SnapSafe’s lockbox is the right choice for you. Plus, you can decide what size is best for your family.
Pros
- Comes in three different sizes: Large, Extra Large, Extra Extra Large
- Extremely affordable
- Includes two keys and a security cable
- Lightweight; just 3.5 lbs
Cons
- Some users report issues with the lock; while it will keep the gun out of the hands of children it could be easily picked up by a criminal
4. Hornady Rapid Vehicle Safe
Hornady’s Rapid Gun Safe is available in four sizes, including the Rapid Vehicle Safe, which is our choice as the small gun safe for your car. This gun safe is the real deal.
Made of super-strong 14-gauge steel with two internal locking lugs, this gun safe is heavy-duty and tamper-proof. It even exceeds the ASTM International Safety standards to ensure that it is pry-resistant, child-proof, and can withstand attacks on its hinges. It also meets the TSA security requirements for air travel.
You can enter this gun safe in a variety of ways: either by wristband, key fob, or a sticker, and up to five RFID tags can be programmed into the lock. Once the safe is unlocked, the door will quickly open on its own. It is also opened by a conventional key, should you need a backup.
Set-up is quick and easy and once completed, allows you to safely carry a gun in your vehicle. The AC and battery power ensure that you are always able to access your gun.
Customers say that Hornady’s Rapid Gun Safe is a great value for the money. They say that the barrel key is solid and straightforward and this safe is easily mounted in your vehicle.
If you’re looking for an easy-to-install gun safe for your car that is small and compact and will open exactly when you need it to, then this is the right choice for you! It not only provides a strong cable to ensure that the safe stays securely in your vehicle, but it also provides multiple ways to access the safe to your liking.
Pros
- Several RFID devices are included so you can choose your favorite way to open this lock
- Easily installed in your vehicle
- Certified child-resistant that features tamper-proof construction
Cons
- A tubular lock is easier for criminals to pick than others
5. SnapSafe Treklite Key Lock Box
Snapsafe’s Treklite Gun safe is incredibly unique in the fact that it is made out of a strong, durable yet featherlight material called polycarbonate. Not only is it a great choice as a portable gun safe for a car because of that, but this grey lockbox is very attractive with its black-nonslip features. You won’t have to worry about this gun safe sliding around the bottom of your vehicle.
This gun safe can be purchased with either a combination lock that has more than one thousand password combinations. You can also buy the same version with a steel key lock. They both are approved by the TSA and the safe comes with two keys and fits up to two full-sized handguns.
This impact-resistant lockbox offers all the same protections that a steel case will give you for less than half of the weight. Plus, the 1,500-lb rated security cable ensures that no one will be pulling it out of your vehicle.
Customers love that this gun safe is made of extremely strong polycarbonate material. While it is still incredibly durable, it is more lightweight than other models, making it the perfect choice for travel or storage in your vehicle.
Most gun owners think that they need to have steel safes to ensure that their firearms are being stored securely. However, this gun safe from SnapSafe changes all of that, offering an impact-resistant lockbox at just a fraction of the weight. It is a wonderful choice for travelers and those who want to keep the lockbox in their vehicles.
Pros
- Can choose from keyed or combination locks from the TSA
- All SnapSafe safes are covered by a lifetime warranty
- Constructed of impact-resistant polycarbonate material
Cons
- Not fireproof
- Must check with airlines before traveling with this gun-safe
6. First Alert Portable Handgun Safe
First Alert’s Portable Handgun Safe is a great option for those who are looking for a heavy-duty gun safe where they can store their guns with no worry about theft or unauthorized entry.
Made of extra-strong 18-gauge steel, this unit has a foam interior that is as soft as ever, preventing dents or scratches on your gun.
The key or keypad locking system ensures that no one has access to your guns. However, note that the keypad does make noise when you enter your code. As soon as the code is entered, the door will automatically open slightly, at which point you must open it more. It is “no-see” so anyone looking over your shoulder won’t be able to replicate the code.
First Alert’s gun safe comes with mounting holes and a steel cable so you can easily mount the unit in your vehicle. It is even approved by the California Department of Justice!
Customers have nothing but nice things to say about this lockbox. They say it secures at least two firearms but want other users to know that you’ll need both hands to open this safe because the top is so heavy-duty.
First Alert is a company that specializes in keeping families safe and this gun lockbox is no exception. It is small and compact and provides great protection for your firearms and other valuables, especially for the price.
Pros
- Comes with a key lock or keypad lock
- The keypad features a 3 to 8-digit “no-see” code
- Comes with pre-drilled holes for mounting
Cons
- The lock mechanism runs off on two AA batteries
7. VAULTEK VT20 Bluetooth Smart Handgun Safe
Vaultek’s VT20 Biometric Bluetooth safe is a great choice for a quick access gun safe for cars, as it is made of incredibly strong 16-gauge carbon steel that is resistant to corrosion. It has an incredibly upgraded anti-theft system with two-point anti-impact latches, interior mounted hinges, anti-pry bars, and also something many other systems don’t have: interior security brackets. There is no way anyone is getting into this safe if they break into your vehicle!
Don’t fear though, even with all that protection you still have quick access to your firearms and other valuables thanks to the automatically opening door. Use either the backlit keypad or the biometric finger scanner for entry. This safe also works with your smartphone, allowing you to toggle on and off the available hotkeys while maintaining the functionality of the device.
The safe has a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that charges fully in just 2.5 hours and lasts for up to four months! Plus, you’ll always be able to get into your safe even when it is dark out thanks to the LED lighting, backlit keypad, and interior LED light.
Customers say that this safe is reliable, solid, and cost-effective. Even years after purchase, the safe works perfectly and has no issues identifying the user.
This is the pistol safe for cars out on the market today. It is the perfect size to fit a pistol in your vehicle along with other small valuables. No matter how dark your car gets, you’ll be able to quickly access this safe in case of an emergency. Plus, with its long-lasting battery, you can trust that it will always open for you.
Pros
- Comes in two colors: black and grey camouflage
- Quick access to your valuable items with an automatically opening door
- Has battery power that lasts up to four months
Cons
- Some customers report that the biometric scanner doesn’t recognize their fingerprint every single time
- The Bluetooth technology was hacked in years past; it is not recommended that you use it.
8. Bulldog Cases Car Safe with Key Lock
Similar to its sister product, First Alert’s smaller 5100K model is slightly different but just as reliable! This model features a key lock as opposed to a keypad. This is a great option for someone who is somewhat resistant to technology or who wants to ensure that they have access to the safe even if they don’t have battery power.
It’s also a great option if you’re looking for a safe that you can bring with you as you travel, as this gun safe is approved by the TSA for air travel. While this smaller safe is made of durable 18-gauge powder-coated steel, this safe weighs just three pounds.
Customers love the simplicity and safety of this safe. It holds just one gun, making it perfect for air travel. While it is very secure because it is made of heavy-duty steel, customers say it is extremely lightweight and easy to use.
Another great option from First Alert, this lightweight safe will ensure that your gun only is used by you, no matter where you travel or store it.
Pros
- Small enough to fit in a briefcase or glovebox
- Lightweight: weighs just 3 lbs
- Meets TSA guidelines
- Comes with pre-drilled holes for mounting
Cons
- Only holds one gun
- Does not use advanced technology; if the key is lost, so is access to the safe
9. RPNB Portable Security Safe
It should come as no surprise that RPNB makes a great lockbox in which to store your valuables in your vehicle. This is one of the handgun safes for your car out on the market today.
This safe is made of durable 16-gauge powder-coated steel that will keep even the heartiest of criminals from breaking in. It is larger than other models it is large enough to hold one to two firearms and other belongings. However, it is still small enough to be mounted to the interior of your vehicle.
It provides quick access to your firearms in a time of need thanks to its automatic opening door. Simply type your code into the backlit, programmable electronic keypad. There’s no sound on the buttons, so you can enter the safe with one hand without anyone ever being the wiser.
This safe comes with pre-drilled holes and hardware for easy mounting, and even a backup key should you need it.
Customers say this product is a great value for the price. They say that the unit opens quietly but very quickly and feel confident it would keep them safe in an emergency.
You can’t go wrong with this gun lockbox, as it is backed by Amazon’s limited one-year warranty and even includes free tech support if you have any issues with the product. Approved by the California Department of Justice, this unit is extremely durable but also extremely user-friendly.
Pros
- Holds two pistols (larger than other models)
- Made of extremely strong steel
- Comes with a limited one-year warranty
Cons
- Some users report issues with getting the latch to properly close
Factors to Consider
Brand
Is it a reputable brand? Have you heard of it before? Do they make other kinds of safes? If this is a one-off product from a brand that sells other products, reconsider your purchase. You want to buy a gun safe from an expert.
Locking Mechanism
Consider the size of the unit and the type of locking mechanism. A gun safe for your car will do you no good if it doesn’t fit. If the locking mechanism is difficult for you to use, it will also defeat the purpose of having a gun safe in your car, so read below to make sure you’re making the best decision!
Size
Car gun safes come in a wide variety of sizes. Some will only hold a pistol while other gun safes are long enough to hold a rifle. Once you’ve decided on the gun that you’d like to have in your car, make sure to read product descriptions to find out the exact measurements of the safe and then measure your gun.
Make sure that there is enough wiggle room on either side so that your gun can easily be pulled out of the safe. Plus, if you’d like to hold more than one gun in the safe, you might need a larger option.
A place to store the Safe in Your Vehicle
Decide what will be the best place to store the safe in your vehicle. Is it under the seat? In the center console? In the trunk? Once you’ve decided where the safe is going to go, you then need to measure the area. For example, the space between the floor and a seat varies in nearly every car.
Take a flashlight out and explore what the area beneath the seat looks like, as some vehicles have seat mountings that don’t allow for a gun safe to fit. This is more common in sedans and compact vehicles. Measuring is key to ensuring that your gun safely fits nicely into your vehicle.
Type of the Lock
Some people prefer the traditional lock and key. It is a reliable choice; you never have to worry about it running out of battery or not recognizing your thumbprint. However, it is easy to lose a key and easy to have someone steal it, too. It also might be harder to access your safe when it is dark outside when you’re opening it with a key, and that’s likely the time you’d be needing it the most.
Electronic locks make getting into your safe very easy and you can do it very quietly and easily even in the dark of night. However, should your safe run out of battery power, you’ll be back to open the safe with a key or not at all, so you have to make sure that you’re constantly checking the battery power so you’re ready in case of emergency.
FAQ
Will My Car Gun Safe Keep My Gun Out of the Hands of Burglars?
When it comes to buying a good car gun safe, it is not about the cost. While good gun safes for your cars could cost thousands of dollars, you can also get a relatively good gun safe for less than $100.
Buy from a reputable brand that is known for security. If a company makes many different styles of gun safes for cars or gun safes in general, they likely are a good choice. That means that they specialize in creating safes that will keep your guns protected and know how to make an inexpensive gun safe work just as well as a very expensive gun safe.
How Much Does a Good Car Gun Safe Cost?
When it comes to buying a good gun safe, it is not about the cost. While good gun safes for your cars could cost thousands of dollars, you can also get a relatively good gun safe for less than $100.
Buy from a reputable brand that is known for security. If a company makes many different styles of gun safes for cars or gun safes in general, they likely are a good choice. That means that they specialize in creating safes that will keep your guns protected and know how to make an inexpensive gun safe work just as well as a very expensive gun safe.
What Can I Do to Make My Gun Safe Even Better?
A gun safe is only as good as its location. Make sure that your gun sight is hidden from plain sight and is bolted to something, so it can’t be moved.
Lock up the tools in your home. If a thief doesn’t have access to your tools, they have less ability to break into your gun safe.
Customize your gun safe by buying extra steel and affixing it to places where the safe could be more easily accessed.
Making the Decision
The good news is, that after reading this article, you’re far more prepared to buy the car gun safes on the market than others. Plus, as any responsible gun owner will tell you, simply buying a gun safe is the right thing to do and shows the level of safety and protection you want for your family.
That being said, if you choose any of the gun safes on this list, you can’t go wrong. They are high quality, will protect your gun, and most importantly will protect you and your family at all times, but especially in times of emergency.
Before purchasing, just remember to choose a gun safe that is the right size, has the features you’re looking for, and has a lock that you can trust. You can’t go wrong!
