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11 Best Gun Safe for Cars in 2024 (All Budgets)
Table of Contents
Gun safes for cars are portable and rugged storage units where you can keep your pistols, guns, handguns, or other valuables such as jewelry, documents, or money. With these units, you can protect your firearms from theft and unauthorized access.
Apart from that, they boost your confidence when driving in areas with high crime cases, especially at night. They are designed to give you quick access to your guns in an emergency.
The best gun safes for cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans, are:
Not all car gun safes are secure, so you must choose wisely. In order to help you make a smart choice when buying the best gun safe for cars, we have provided a list of the most reliable models that will give you unmatched value for your money. First, let us review some key features you should check when buying.
How to Choose the Best Car Gun Safes
Below are some of the things you should consider when searching for the best gun safe for cars.
Compatibility:
Car gun safes are specially designed to suit specific vehicle models such as trucks, trailers, SUVs, etc. This means that before you spend your money on any good car gun safe, make sure that it is compatible with your car. Check the shape and size of the unit to determine if it will fit in your car. If you are unsure if the model you want to purchase is the best for your car, check the details provided by the manufacturer.
Lock type:
Another thing you need to check is the type of lock that comes with the unit. The two common types of locks used in car safes are key locks and electronic/biometric lock systems. In terms of reliability, electronic locks are the best. These require a combination of digits or codes to open, which means they are very secure. However, they require a source of power to function. On the other hand, manual locks require just a key to open.
Installation:
Some models come with pre-drilled holes, which allow you to mount the car safely firmly on your vehicle, while others use security cables to secure the unit. If you need a secure mounting option, choose a model with pre-drilled holes. These units are more secure as compared to the security cable. On the other hand, you can consider tethering your gun safely to your car if you don’t want to install it permanently in your vehicle or if you only need it occasionally.
Size:
Gun safes for cars are available in different sizes. This means you should choose according to the size and type of your guns.
Warranty:
Car gun safes are different in terms of quality. Therefore, you need to consider a model with a good warranty. The best ones are those that come with a lifetime warranty.
Our Top Picks
Top 11 Car Gun Safes in 2024 (Reviews)
1. ConsoleVault Center Console Safe for TOYOTA Tacoma PT972-35200 – Best Overall
The ConsoleVault Center Console Safe has many excellent features that enable it to provide the best protection for your valuables. First, it is made of heavy-gauge cold rolled plate steel, which is very durable and hard to break. It also features welded tabs and notch seams to enhance strength. In addition, it has a well-balanced spring-assisted door that gives you quick access to your items.
Another great thing about this car safe is that it is very easy to install. It comes with a four-digit keyless lock secured inside the Tacoma console. Other security features in this unit are a drill-resistant lock plus a top-notch triple guard locking system that is highly resistant to prying. Overall, this model is an excellent choice for anyone needing a durable, strong, and reliable gun safe for cars.
Pros
- Durable construction
- 4-digit keyless lock
- Drill-resistant locks
- Easy to install
- Triple-guard locking system
- Spring-assisted door
Cons
- None
2. Decked Truck Bed Storage DG7 – Best for Trucks
Decked Truck Bed Storage DG7 is made of high-density recycled polyethylene and co-molded to a sturdy steel sub-frame. Due to its robust construction, it is able to support a load capacity of up to 2000lbs meaning that it can withstand large loads.
The unit also comes with 2 full-bed length drawers with a load capacity rating of 200lbs. These drawers allow you to store your items in an organized and concealed manner.
Another benefit of using this car safely is its ability to withstand all weather conditions. It can handle moisture, UV light, and extreme cold or heat. Lastly, it comes with a 3 years warranty, which is highly reliable.
Pros
- Load capacity of up to 2000lbs
- Designed using OE and CAD data engineering standards
- Features 2 full-bed length drawers
- No screwing or drilling required during installation
- Weatherproof construction
- Designed to fit your truck
- 3 years warranty
Cons
- Expensive but worth it
3. Lock’er Down Long Gun Safe for Ford F150 –Best Long Gun Safe for Fords
If you are searching for a car safe to store long guns, the Lock’er Down Long Gun Safe will be a great option.
This unit is designed to seat under the rear seat of a Ford F150, Super Duty F250, F450, or F350. It comes with a theft-resistant mounting kit which makes it secure. In terms of construction, it is made from a 12-gauge cold-rolled steel plate to enhance durability. It also features notch seams and welded tabs, which makes it strong.
In addition, it is equipped with drill-resistant locks and a 3-point locking system, which is resistant to prying.
It has a well-balanced door containing stainless steel gas springs for easier access. You will also be pleased to note that it comes with a lifetime warranty, which is worth the money.
Pros
- Made of high-quality materials
- Suitable for long guns
- 3-point locking system
- Counter-balanced door
- DIY installation
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Not compatible with all vehicles
4. Barska Quick Access Keypad Safe A12432 –Most Convenient
The Barska A12432 Quick Access Keypad Safe is among the most convenient models you can find today. It is designed to give you instant access to your items and top-notch security to the valuables. This car gun safe has a tamper-resistant spring-loaded front door that opens quickly once you enter the correct PIN code.
In terms of design, it has compact dimensions, enabling it to fit easily in tight spaces. It also has a removable internal shelf to create additional space for more items. The inner part contains foam lining, which protects your guns from scratches. To enhance security, the unit goes into a temporary lock-out mode when you enter too many wrong PINs to prevent tampering. It also comes with pre-drilled holes at the bottom, allowing you to secure it firmly on a solid surface.
Pros
- Pre-drilled holes for mounting
- Tamper-resistant door
- Removable shelf for more storage
- Foam-lined interior
- Silent access mode
Cons
- You need to buy 4 AA batteries separately
5. Snapsafe Lock Box for Handgun – Best for portability
The Snapsafe Lock Box for Handgun is a portable car safe to keep important items such as handguns, ammo, sensitive documents, passports, media cards, and other valuable items. It is very safe since it allows you to set your personalized access using a combination of 3 digits.
When it comes to construction, this gun safe for cars features robust 16-gauge housing. Apart from that, it comes with a 1500lb rated security cable which you can use to secure your stationery items inside the car or at home.
It has an external measurement of 9.5 x 6.5 x 1.75 inches, which means it can fit some 4-inch revolvers or 4-inch barrel pistols. Due to its compact design can easily fit in your suitcase or even under the car seat. The inner part has a foam lining to protect your items. Another great thing about it is that it is approved by the California Department of Justice, meaning it meets the TSA airline firearm requirements.
Pros
- Sturdy housing
- Suitable for traveling
- 3-digit combination PIN
- 1500lb rated cable
- Space-saving design
- Meets TSA airline firearm requirements
Cons
- Not suitable for long guns
6. Fort Knox Personal Portable Pistol Safe PB4 – Best Pistol Safe for Car
When searching for a vehicle gun storage, you need to look for a model that is easy to hide. The good thing about the Fort Knox Portable Pistol Safe PB4 is that it has a small front-opening door, making it easy to conceal and access. It is made of long-lasting 10-gauge steel and features a 3/16 inches plate door.
Overall, its measurements are 9 x 12 x 4 inches, and it weighs 20 lbs. It is spacious enough to accommodate 2 average size handguns plus a few mugs or ammunition. In order to enhance security, you can mount or tether it to a heavy stationary item in your car. Lastly, it comes with a lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Easy to conceal
- Durable construction
- Mounts easily
- Does not require batteries
- It is suitable for most handguns
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- The user manual might be had to understand
7. Hornady Rapid Safe AR Gunlocker – Most Secure
Hornady Rapid Safe provides tamper-proof security in a fully enclosed design. It has a front-end spring-loaded door, making it easy to install at the back of your SUV, under the bed, or in a closet. It has foam inserts that accommodate 2 tactical-length rifles or shotguns. Unlike others, it has an RFID which is activated using a key fob, wristband, or a sticker that opens the spring-assisted lid. You can program up to 5 RFID tags to enhance security.
Another impressive thing about this car safe is that it exceeds the ASTM International safety standards for pry and child resistance, drop/pick saw tests, lock strength, and hinge attack resistance.
Besides that, it uses AC and battery power to ensure that your valuables are always safe. In terms of design, the outer housing is made of thick 16 gauge steel and contains 4 internal hardened locking lugs to enhance strength.
Pros
- Certified pry and child resistance
- Made of a thick 16-gauge steel
- AC and battery power
- Allows you to program 4-6 digit security code
- RFID activation
- Foam inserts
Cons
- Limited storage
8. Hollon Pistol Box Safe PB10 – Best for handguns
For those searching for affordable vehicle gun storage, the Hollon Pistol Box Safe will be an ideal choice. This car safe is very easy to use and is designed to give your valuables maximum security. Apart from using it for storing pistols and handguns, you can also use it to keep other things such as money, jewelry, or documents.
Another benefit of using this car gun safe is that it is built uniquely, allowing you to access your guns quickly in an emergency. Inside the unit, you will find a foam lining that protects your valuables from scratches. It is also able to retain your unique combinations even after you have replaced the batteries.
Pros
- Affordable price
- You can use it to store different items
- Provides quick access
- Back-up key included
- Easy to use
- Foam-lined interior
Cons
- Not fireproof
9. Monster Vault Mid-Size Tactical Vehicle Gun Safe 4116 – Best for AR-type Rifles
This Tactical Gun Safe provides convenient storage for your AR-type rifles and shotguns. Apart from using it in your vehicle, this car safe can also be installed under the bed. This gives you quick access to your firearms in case of an emergency. It uses 3-8 digit combinations, which means it is very secure.
Another thing you need to note about it is that it has 2.8 cubic feet of interior space, which means that you can store a couple of handguns and AR guns. This interior has a high height which allows you to place your AR-15 rifles in an upright position. You can also use it to store valuables such as jewelry or even a laptop.
You can install it on the closet floor or under the hangers since it has a versatile design. It also comes with heavy-duty drawers with a rating of 350 pounds. You can easily install it on full-sized SUVs, travel trailers, and trucks.
Pros
- Versatile design
- Ideal for AR rifles and shotguns
- 3-8 digit combination lock
- You can bolt it down to prevent theft
- Spacious interior
- Heavy-duty drawers for extra items
Cons
- None
10. RPNB Portable Gun Safe DOJ Certified for Handguns and Ammo –Best design
The most impressive thing about the RPNB Portable Gun Safe is its reliable anti-theft protection. Its security features include long-lasting double-layer steel housing, a pry-resistant door, and a flawlessly welded pry-proof body. Due to the heavy-duty construction, this car safe is very hard to break. It also comes with pre-drilled holes, which allow you to mount it firmly on the floor.
The unit is uniquely made using a rugged steel material to enhance durability. In addition, it has a black finish which protects it from corrosion and rusting. This coating gives it an attractive look, enabling it to match perfectly with any interior. In order to access your valuables, you will need to use the new RFID key fob plus a card, which means it is very secure. You can also use manual keys or the rapid-fire backlit keypad to open it, which means you can access it using four different entry points.
Pros
- Unique design
- Double-layer steel housing
- Pry-resistant door
- Pre-drilled holes for easier mounting
- Resistant to corrosion and rusting
- 4 entry points
Cons
- Lacks a fingerprint function
11. AMSEC Pistol Safe PS1210HD for 1 Handgun – Most strong
In terms of strength, the AMSEC Pistol Safe is among the best in the market. It has a robust 10 gauge solid steel body and a 3/16 inch solid steel door, making it hard to break. The unit also provides quick access through the mechanical push–button lock. It is compact since it has an outer measurement of 10.25 x 12.5 x 4.25 inches.
Another impressive thing about it is that it has a welded continuous hinge to enhance strength. Its locking mechanism is protected by a steel housing, making it resistant to punch attacks. To protect it from corrosive elements or rusting, it has a charcoal gray textured finish which also gives it an attractive look.
Other features that come with this unit include 4 pre-drilled holes for mounting, a durable chrome handle for easier carrying, and a sturdy pry-resistant locking bolt. The inner part contains a high-density foam lining to protect your valuables.
Pros
- Strong construction
- Decent price
- Features a carrying handle
- High-density foam lining
- Pry-resistant locking bolt
Cons
- None
FAQs | What Readers Want to Know
What is the best gun safe for cars?
If you are searching for the best vehicle gun safe, ConsoleVault Center Console Safe for TOYOTA Tacoma PT972-35200 and Hornady Rapid Safe AR Gunlocker will give you unmatched value for your money. Compared to others, the two have a heavy-duty construction, enabling them to provide maximum security for your valuables.
Where do you put a gun safe in a car?
The best place to put your gun safe is under the driver’s seat or in the trunk. These two places provide enough room to conceal the safe by tying it down using a steel cable or bolts. If you want to install it permanently, the bolting system will be the best.
What brand of gun safe is the best?
If you want to get the best value for your money when buying a gun safe for cars, you need to choose a model from a reputable brand such as Hornady, Barska, and Fort Fox. Products from these companies are very durable and come with a good warranty.
Where is the console vault located?
A console vault is a special lock box designed to fit in the center of different cars, SUVs, and trucks. Most console vaults are made from sturdy 12-gauge steel to enhance their strength.
Can you keep a long gun in your car?
In most countries, only shotguns are allowed to be carried in a vehicle, meaning that long and loaded guns are not permitted. Other states may allow you to carry concealed long guns, but you will need a permit.
What lock is the best for a vehicle safe?
Electric lock systems are the best since they use a unique combination of digits. To open the safe, you must enter digits that match the ones saved in the unit.
Final Verdict
Traveling with your guns, pistols, or handguns can be risky without a secure and convenient storage solution in your car. If you're searching for a sturdy and reliable car safe, any of our top 11 picks will provide excellent value for your money. These safes are made from top-quality materials, making them difficult to break into and feature advanced locking systems for enhanced security.
When selecting the best gun safe for your car, it's crucial to prioritize security, accessibility, and ease of installation. Our recommendations cater to various budgets and preferences, ensuring you can find the ideal option for your needs.
Investing in a high-quality gun safe for your car goes beyond protecting your firearm from theft; it's about ensuring the safety of you, your family, and the public. Take the time to explore our suggestions and make an informed decision, confident that your choice will promote responsible gun ownership and provide peace of mind.