Quick access kid-resistant pistol safe/box

[CalvinZ57]

Hi all. New here; be gentle.

I'm looking for a single (or two would be good too) handgun bedside safe/box that has:

-quick access in an emergency
-as kid proof as one can reasonably get (ages 5-10)

I do not need:

-room for more than 1 or 2 handguns and mags
-something that would thwart a determined thief
-fire protection

I'm not interested in biometrics. My kids are well trained/parented, but my friends' dozens of kids who regularly visit our house aren't (and one has special needs and is super clever). Most of the stuff on the market seems like crap, so I'm willing to spend what's needed to meet the need (I know I'm unicorn hunting).

Any recommendations would be appreciated. I've looked at the Ft. Knox stuff, but worry that the older neighbor kids have the capacity to cycle through the 1000ish combo option. Thanks much.

 

[joem1945]

I don't know what is kid proff. These little buggers are danged clever today. That's why I have a safe.

 

[FAS1]

Welcome to THR Calvin,

From what you said you are looking for the FAS1 Safe seems to fit your Unicorn requirements.

1)Mechanical - Push button Lock for simplicity, reliability, and durability.

2)Deadbolt/Backup entry optional In&Out Lock (In&Out Lock option is a FAS1 Safe exclusive.)
Safe can be dead bolted disabling the push button lock when quick access is not required such as leaving a home defense gun in the safe when you are not home. Take a look at the lock details as it is not your average backup key/lock that you usually see on handgun safes.

3)Heavy steel construction - 7GA on all sides and door.

4) All FAS1 Safes can hold at least 2 handguns and extra accessories like a few spare magazines. Primary gun in the holster that is presented to you when needed and the other on the right side laying upside down on the bottom of the safe (Grip at the hinge end.)

 

[glennv]

I have this one for the bedside but it only holds one. Though it holds it in a perfectly so you can open it and grab it fast.


http://www.amazon.com/Gunvault-Spee...=UTF8&qid=1435764476&sr=8-3&keywords=gun+safe

 

[OptimusPrime]

Hi Calvin, welcome to THR.
I have one of these Stack-On low profile jobs:
http://www.cheaperthandirt.com/product/5-1920289#

It's cheap enough, good enough, quick to access, and fits your stated needs.

However, I worry about something in your post about 1) all the dozens of friends coming in and 2) the special-needs kid that you mention.

Having dozens of friends in and out of your house seems to be inviting a level of mischief that you will not be able to control. No offense to you at all, it's just that you won't be able to parent them all. I almost wonder if you need to go with a more secure setup that will be less accessible to you, but infinitely safer for the kids. Kids gravitate towards the forbidden fruit, and if they see a safe then bingo it becomes a magnet for trying it, prying it, pushing it over, let's see if we can make it open, I wonder what's in there? Bring the crowbars! Kids are clever and tireless and they get older and stronger every passing month (but not necessarily smarter).

In your case, would a simple thing like a padlock on an ammo can be better? Less accessible to you, but still pretty darn strong. Run a concrete anchor through it and bolt it to the garage floor. Either the combo is in your head or on your car key ring, always controlled by you.

All things considered, your storage situation sounds like one that should be tilted towards secure rather than accessible.

 

[bainter1212]

This is what I did. Still going strong today.

http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=753558

 

[txblackout]

Keep a dial safe dialed to just before the last number. You only have to get the last number right. Anyone who gets it wrong resets the combo and has to start over.

 

[OpticsPlanet]

Have you seen this?
http://www.hornady.com/store/RAPiD-Safe

Fast, Touch-Free Entry

Open your safe in the blink of an eye - the RAPiD® safe is the first to use patent-pending Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) for instant access. Simply place the included RFID bracelet, card, or key fob over the reader, and the RAPiD® safe springs open to present your handgun.*


Child-Resistant Design

Built to exceed the ASTM International performance standards for youth resistant firearms containers, the RAPiD safe provides a high level of child resistance and unauthorized access protection.


Multiple Access Options

The RAPiD® safe can be opened with the RFID bracelet, card, or key fob, or with a personally programmed code. It is also accessible with a conventional key lock.

http://www.opticsplanet.com/hornady-rapid-safe.html

Mark H.

 

[Malamute]

I'm not interested in biometrics. My kids are well trained/parented, but my friends' dozens of kids who regularly visit our house aren't (and one has special needs and is super clever). Most of the stuff on the market seems like crap, so I'm willing to spend what's needed to meet the need (I know I'm unicorn hunting).

Any recommendations would be appreciated. I've looked at the Ft. Knox stuff, but worry that the older neighbor kids have the capacity to cycle through the 1000ish combo option.

Have you looked at the gunvault biometrics closely? I believe they shut down for a period of time after a certain number of incorrect combinations have been attempted, like 5 maybe? They also have a backup key, which can be used and not even have the bio part set.

 

[ku4hx]

We like these for one or two guns. Mount the bracket securely to say a floor joist out of the way in a closet maybe and it won't go anywhere. It's also very heavy duty. Mount a bracket in your vehicle and you have a nice vehicle "safe"

https://www.corporatetravelsafety.com/catalog/vehicle-security-lock-box.html

 

[CalvinZ57]

First off, thanks to everyone for the responses. Super cool.

Glenn, thanks for this info. I clicked the link, and this solution seems to address the concerns I had about this kind of thing, namely, that the simplex locks I've seen on things like the Ft. Knox have only like 1000 combinations, but this says more, correct? Also, I've seen a YouTube too many of people cracking tubular locks with ease. Is this different?

Thanks again.

 

[CalvinZ57]

I have this one for the bedside but it only holds one. Though it holds it in a perfectly so you can open it and grab it fast.


http://www.amazon.com/Gunvault-Spee...=UTF8&qid=1435764476&sr=8-3&keywords=gun+safe

To the other Glenn (the last message was directed to FAS1, another Glenn it seems as coincidence would have it...). Thanks for the tip. This guy got me spooked on that brand, for what it's worth: http://youtu.be/uRgmvwxwZUk

Appreciate it.

 

[CalvinZ57]

Hi Calvin, welcome to THR.
I have one of these Stack-On low profile jobs:
http://www.cheaperthandirt.com/product/5-1920289#

It's cheap enough, good enough, quick to access, and fits your stated needs.

However, I worry about something in your post about 1) all the dozens of friends coming in and 2) the special-needs kid that you mention.

Having dozens of friends in and out of your house seems to be inviting a level of mischief that you will not be able to control. No offense to you at all, it's just that you won't be able to parent them all. I almost wonder if you need to go with a more secure setup that will be less accessible to you, but infinitely safer for the kids. Kids gravitate towards the forbidden fruit, and if they see a safe then bingo it becomes a magnet for trying it, prying it, pushing it over, let's see if we can make it open, I wonder what's in there? Bring the crowbars! Kids are clever and tireless and they get older and stronger every passing month (but not necessarily smarter).

In your case, would a simple thing like a padlock on an ammo can be better? Less accessible to you, but still pretty darn strong. Run a concrete anchor through it and bolt it to the garage floor. Either the combo is in your head or on your car key ring, always controlled by you.

All things considered, your storage situation sounds like one that should be tilted towards secure rather than accessible.

Great points Optimus. I may have been over stating things for effect with the "dozens," but the point remains. We host parties from time to time, and the parents are often outnumbered by kids. I didn't want to bog down an already long message with too much, but the likelihood is that I'll also get a much bigger, more secure safe for the garage, and put my guns in that for parties and such to double up. But, yes, and thanks to my wife here too, I've got that issue very much in focus. Thank you.

 

[CalvinZ57]

Have you seen this?
http://www.hornady.com/store/RAPiD-Safe

Fast, Touch-Free Entry

Open your safe in the blink of an eye - the RAPiD® safe is the first to use patent-pending Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) for instant access. Simply place the included RFID bracelet, card, or key fob over the reader, and the RAPiD® safe springs open to present your handgun.*


Child-Resistant Design

Built to exceed the ASTM International performance standards for youth resistant firearms containers, the RAPiD safe provides a high level of child resistance and unauthorized access protection.


Multiple Access Options

The RAPiD® safe can be opened with the RFID bracelet, card, or key fob, or with a personally programmed code. It is also accessible with a conventional key lock.

http://www.opticsplanet.com/hornady-rapid-safe.html

Mark H.

Thanks Optics. Interesting option. I saw that one in an earlier post, but discounted it because I didn't want something with a key fob or something that a kid could find. I'm hoping to find something that I can open just with what's in my head, and put the back up key in the big safe or a safe deposit box out of kids' even theoretical reach. Appreciate the good suggestion.

 

[CalvinZ57]

Have you looked at the gunvault biometrics closely? I believe they shut down for a period of time after a certain number of incorrect combinations have been attempted, like 5 maybe? They also have a backup key, which can be used and not even have the bio part set.

Thanks Malamute. I've read some about the biometrics, but haven't played with too many in person. I have a bias to the mechanical, just because I don't want to trust the technology in a pressure situation. Maybe the stray Amazon comments I've read about them failing is overstated, but the thought that a cheap biometric lock might not serve me well has me convinced so far. Again, thank you.

 

[Malamute]

I have one. I havent bothered to put a battery in it so far, I just use the key. I read the manual, they mentioned about the shutting down with incorrect combinations being tried I think, but I just didnt get all that interested in the bio part. They seem well made in any event, and I think I'll likely continue to use the key.

 

[FAS1]

First off, thanks to everyone for the responses. Super cool.

Glenn, thanks for this info. I clicked the link, and this solution seems to address the concerns I had about this kind of thing, namely, that the simplex locks I've seen on things like the Ft. Knox have only like 1000 combinations, but this says more, correct? Also, I've seen a YouTube too many of people cracking tubular locks with ease. Is this different?

Thanks again.

The push button lock is still less than 1100 possible combinations like the other manufacturers that use this type of lock. My addition of the deadbolt/backup option (In&Out Lock) came from customers having the same concern as you.

While I have never seen a story or heard of someone's kid actually figuring out their push button lock's combination, it certainly is possible. With this option the safe cannot be opened even with the correct push button code when in the deadbolt or "Out" position.

Take a look at the features of the lock and you will see what sets it apart from standard tubular locks. And, if you don't want the key backup function it is easily disabled by changing the included lock stop washer.

 

[RustyShackelford]

Thegunbox.com ...

I'm not sure if this security device meets your needs or budget but I like the style & features.
www.thegunbox.com

It's high tech & hard to tamper with.
I'd add if you have small children or untrained adults, you want to educate them or warn them not to mess with your valuables or guns when you are not there. It's prudent and if there is an event, you will be shown to have done what you could to prevent mishaps or thefts.
Paying a bit more for a more secure format or having training for your kids is far better than saying; hey, kids are kids or I didn't know they were unsecured.

A secured closet or storage locker with a security alarm is better than nothing.

 

[guyfromohio]

The standard finger grooved mini Vaults are great. $90-$150.

 

[old lady new shooter]

http://youtu.be/uRgmvwxwZUk

I can't believe I watched the whole thing.

Seriously, both entertaining and informative, thanks for the link.

 

[herrwalther]

The Gun Box that Rusty linked to is what I use. It is programmed to accept both my and my wife's fingerprints. I have a 2 year old running around and I am confident the gun box will keep him thwarted for quite a while longer.

What I really like about it are the multiple options such as biometric as a backup and RFID rings, bands, and stickers. I did look at the Hornady RAPID safe but didn't like the limitations of the design. For example you can only have a set number of RFID registered tags, I believe the number is 5 in any combination. So imagine a wristband for you and spouse, key fob for each. And one for a responsible child. Also the RAPID safe uses quite a few alkaline batteries for backup, but the Gun Box uses a rechargeable internal Li-Ion battery.

My final recommendation is find the manuals for each you consider. Most companies put them online in PDF format. Read them carefully then read them again. Look for anything in the manual you DON'T like. That is how I eliminated the RAPID safe from my consideration, because I read the manual.

 

[Malamute]

The thing that concerns me about key fob access is that most people end up not having their keys in their direct possession at all times. If worn on a cord or chain around the neck, OK, but if left on a hook somewhere, in a purse, in a drawer or anyplace besides in your pocket or directly ON you at all times, its a weak link. The same could be said of jewelry that can access the safe. It seems a weak link to me if wanting to keep children out.

My stuff is keyed,. I have no small children and none come visit, though my keyes are generally on me at all times. I avoid hanging all sorts of junk on my keyring to keep it as trim as reasonably possible, then it isnt a burden to have them on me at all times.

 

[herrwalther]

The thing that concerns me about key fob access is that most people end up not having their keys in their direct possession at all times. If worn on a cord or chain around the neck, OK, but if left on a hook somewhere, in a purse, in a drawer or anyplace besides in your pocket or directly ON you at all times, its a weak link. The same could be said of jewelry that can access the safe. It seems a weak link to me if wanting to keep children out.

It boils down to habits. I carry my keys on me all the time. I made my own keyfob for the Gun Box using the RFID sticker inside a baggage tag I got at Wal-Mart for less than a dollar. I made it my own design by taking two slips of paper on either side to "hide" the RFID sticker. The original sticker stopped working as I had it attached to a card sized multi tool I carry in my pocket. I saw another user put the RFID sticker inside his phone case, not my preference but it works for him. I didn't like the wristband as it broke on me after about a year, never figured out why. My keyfob idea seems pretty durable.

 

[hso]

That video illustrates a design flaw in many handgun "safes" that is easily defeated by a 3 year old whether it is a button lock or biometric. One solution is to secure the thing so it can't be bounced and the lock defeated, but a rubber mallet might achieve the same defeat of the lock. That then means you have to mount the thing where it can't be banged on or dropped.

If you set such a safe the wall or floor (walls are so much easier) you can protect it from being banged or dropped, but you still have the issue about push button pattern defeats. At least you've stopped a toddler from dropping your gun box on the floor and the door opening.

 

[herrwalther]

That video illustrates a design flaw in many handgun "safes" that is easily defeated by a 3 year old whether it is a button lock or biometric. One solution is to secure the thing so it can't be bounced and the lock defeated, but a rubber mallet might achieve the same defeat of the lock. That then means you have to mount the thing where it can't be banged on or dropped.

I have seen videos of other safes getting hit or dropped and opening. Part of what sold me on Gun Box was the creator put up videos of his 8 kids torturing his earlier prototypes. Run over with trucks, motorcycles, hammers, screwdrivers etc. I wish I could find the videos he made. Larry Vickers did take a crack at it though.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QGail9kn8Iw