11 Best Pistol Safe for Nightstand - 2021 Comprehensive Guide

Having a handgun or pistol for your home security is very important but if you don’t have a convenient place where you can access it quickly in case of an emergency, it may not be of any use. One of the most convenient storage devices for handguns is a pistol safe for nightstand. These safes are designed to be placed near the bed or nightstand meaning that they give you quick access to your pistols when intruders invade your home at night. 

As compared to gun safes, these ones are more compact, meaning that they can easily fit in your bedside/nightstand drawer or under the bed.  They also have a limited capacity whereby most of them are designed to fit only 1 handgun or pistol. They are also affordable, secure, easy to use and durable. In this article, we shall reveal the best handgun safes you should consider.   

Below are some of the most important features you should check when buying a bedside handgun safe.

Key things to check when buying the best pistol safe for nightstand

1. Design - Pistol safes for a nightstand comes with different designs. The best ones are those that come with an internal LED light and an illuminated keypad. These ones make your work easier when using them at night.
2. Security - Before buying a pistol safe for nightstand, you should check the security features included to ensure that the unit is very secure. Some of the features you should check are pry resistant doors, advanced digital locks, anti-theft protection and tamper detection. 
3. Quick access - The best handgun safes are those that are able to give you quick access in case of an emergency such as those that comes with a gas strut doors. These ones also allow one-hand operation which makes them more convenient to use.
4. Certification - Another important thing you need to consider is the certification. Make sure that the pistol safe you are purchasing is approved or certified by recognized and relevant firearm bodies such as TSA and CA DOJ. 
5. Price - As compared to gun safes, pistol safes are generally cheaper due to their compact size. However, their quality may vary according to their price which means that cheaper alternatives may not be the most secure. Despite the price, make sure the model has a sturdy and secure construction.

Our 11 Top Picks

Product Name	Best for	Check price
Vaultek VR10 Smart Handgun Safe	Best overall	https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0762WGMWZ?tag=safesvaults-20
Vaultek Lifepod Case	Best for portability	https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XTLXNJY?tag=safesvaults-20
Fort Knox Pistol Box safe FTK-PB	Best bedside pistol safe	https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004H6MKI8?tag=safesvaults-20
Gun vault Mini-vault Quick Access Gun	Best design	https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07S75ZXF9?tag=safesvaults-20
Stack-On 2-Handgun Drawer Safe	Best value	https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JD9WSK6?tag=safesvaults-20
Hornady Rapid Safe Night Guard	Best for budget	https://usasafeandvault.com/products/hornady-rapid-safe-night-guard-1
Rhino Longhorn Security Safe Nightstand	Best pistol safe for money	https://usasafeandvault.com/products/longhorn-lns2618-security-safe-end-table-nightstand
Browning Portable Pistol Vault PVPORT	The cheapest pistol safe	https://usasafeandvault.com/collections/browning-safes/products/browning-portable-pistol-vault-pvport
Sentry Safe Portable Gun Safe	Best biometric pistol safe	https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EXQW672?tag=safesvaults-20
Mesa Underbed Gun Safe	Most secure	https://usasafeandvault.com/collections/mesa-safes/products/mubg652e-under-bed-gun-safe
V-Line Desk Mate Security Box 2597-S	Easiest to install	https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000T2C7Z0?tag=safesvaults-20

The Best Pistol Safes for Nightstand- 2021 Reviews

1. Vaultek VR10 Smart Handgun Safe – Best Overall

The Vaultek VR10 Smart Handgun Safe comes first in our list as one of the best pistol safes for nightstand. It comes with impressive features which you can rarely find in many models. To start with, it is made from a sturdy 18-gauge steel to enhance strength and durability. Its slim design enables you to conceal your firearms easily even when travelling. 

Due to its small design, you can put in to your car, luggage or even in a backpack when travelling. It is lightweight since it only weighs 5.2lbs and it is also TSA compliant. In terms of design, this unit is very attractive and it also contains a long lasting powder coating which protect it from corrosive elements.  

Apart from that, it is equipped with different security features which include anti-pry reinforcement bars, dual anti-impact latches, quick release cable mount and interior mounted hinges.  The Lithium Ion rechargeable battery that comes with this nightstand gun safe takes 2.5 hours to get fully charged and it lasts for 4 months after a single charge. This pistol safe also has an interior LED light to enhance visibility at night. 

Pros

• Thick 18-gauge steel construction 
• 4-8 digit pass code
• Compatible with the Vaultek Bluetooth app
• Adjustable interior LED light
• TSA compliant
• Advanced anti-theft protection

Cons

• It is a bit small

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2. Vaultek Lifepod Case – Best for portability 

In case you are searching for a portable and affordable nightstand gun safe, the Vaultek Lifepod Case will be an amazing option.  It is made from an impact resistant proprietary material and it is compliant with the TSA guidelines.  Besides that, it features a unique backlit LED keypad which gives you access to the master code when you want to access your items.  You can use it in an office, car, boat or even place it in your luggage or backpack due to its sleek design. 

 Another awesome thing you will love about it is that it is equipped with dual side compression latches which connect with an internal rubber gasket to provide a watertight seal. Unlike others, this unit has environmental protection which means that it is dustproof, airtight and it is also able to float in water. In the package, you will find different accessories which include a manual key, steel security cable, crate foam and a nylon tether lanyard.

Pros

• Affordable price
• Lightweight construction
• Touch activated keypad with a LED backlit
• Meets TSA requirements
• Dual side compression latches
• You can use it without a battery

Cons

• Not very strong 

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3. Fort Knox Pistol Box Safe FTK-PB –Best bedside pistol safe

The Fort Knox Pistol Box Safe FTK-PB is made from a thick 10-gauge steel and it also has a 3/16 inches wrap which makes it hard to break. It also features a rugged tamper-resistant hinge which is located under the door to enhance protection against attacks.  In addition, it has a gas strut which makes it easier to lift the door to allow one-hand operation in case of an emergency.  

Another impressive thing about it is that it uses an outstanding Simplex-type combination lock to open.  With a measurement of 12.5 x 10.2 x 4.5 inches this unit is spacious enough to fit 1-2 pistols and mags. You can also use it to store cash, documents, car keys and other important items. For easier mounting, it comes with pre-drilled ports at the bottom. Another thing you will be pleased to note is that it exceeds the CA Firearms Safety Device Requirements.

Pros

• Gas strut for easier opening
• Decent price
• Exceeds CA Firearm requirements
• Very strong and durable
• Pre-drilled holes for easier mounting
• Made in the USA

Cons

• Weighs 22lbs meaning that it is a bit heavy

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4. GunVault Mini-vault Quick Access Gun Safe –Best Design

In terms of design, the GunVault Mini-vault Quick Access Gun Safe is among the most stylish models on the market. It has an illuminated digital keypad which allows you to unlock it quickly even in dark places.  Apart from the touch activated keypad, this unit also features a LED light that allows you to see your items at night. It also comes with different backup keys which feature an advanced dimpled design. 

In addition, it has a padded interior drawer which keeps your pistol or handgun ready for action. There is also an auto-slide out drawer which opens 20% faster to give you quick access to your handgun.  The internal measurements of this bedside safe are 6.57 x 9.94 x 2.27 inches while the external dimensions are 8.3 x 12 x 5.48 inches. This unit is California DOJ approved and it also comes with tamper detection, audio tones which you can mute plus a low warning function. Lastly, it comes with a 5 years warranty.

Pros

• Provides quick access to your firearm
• LED light plus padded interior
• Illuminated digital keypad
• Tamper detection
• DOJ approved
• 5 years warranty

Cons

• Only suitable for 1 handgun

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5. Stack-On Handgun Drawer Safe – Best value

The Stack-On Handgun Drawer Safe is among the top-quality bedside safes that will give you unmatched value for your money. The first thing you will be quick to note about it is the stylish design.  Apart from the design, it is equipped with amazing features which enables it to provide the best security to your firearms.  It is made of a 9-gauge steel which means that it is very strong and hard to break.

It also comes with an LED light which makes it accessible even at night. There is also an LED light Alarm E-Lock which enhances protection for your handguns, money, jewelry and other things you might have kept in this safe. It is very easy to install and it has a foam padding which protects your metallic items from scratches. In terms of security, this unit is very reliable since it allows you to create a personalized access using a combination of 3-8 digits. It also comes with a back up key which you can use in case you forget the code or when the batteries fail.

Pros

• Unique design
• Pre-drilled holes
• Foam padded interior 
• 2 mounting holes
• 3-8 personalized digit combination

Cons

• Flimsy battery compartment

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6. Hornady Rapid Safe Night Guard – Best for budget

For those who are searching for the best pistol safe nightstand for budget, the Hornady Rapid Safe will be an excellent choice. The first thing you will love about it is the fact that it comes from a reputable company which has been on the market for many years. As a result, you are assured that you are investing in a high-quality product despite its cheap price. Apart from the price, it features a tempered glass front panel with a clock display, access code keypad plus an RFID reader. 

For easier opening, it comes with a spring-assist drawer which opens quietly to expose the padded interior. It is spacious enough to accommodate most full-size handguns or other valuables. In addition, it uses a very unique patented RFID technology which unlocks the unit faster as compared to the biometric or keypad locks. In order to enhance its strength, it has a hardened interior locking lugs plus a rugged exterior.  When using this unit, you are always sure that your items are well protected since it uses battery and AC power.

Pros

• Tamper proof construction
• Budget friendly
• Easy to install 
• It comes with a 1500 pound security cable
• AC and battery power
• 3 entry methods
• USB ports included

Cons

• A bit heavy

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7. Rhino Longhorn Security Safe Nightstand –Best pistol safe for money

If you are searching for the most reliable pistol for nightstand, you can never go wrong with Longhorn LNS2618. As compared to others, it has a more reliable tamper resistant construction which means that it offers unmatched security for your items. It is made of 14-gauge steel and features a thick composite door that is impossible to break.  The outer dimensions of this unit are 26 x 20 x 18 inches while the drawer has a measurement of 5 x 13 x13 inches. 

Another thing that sets it apart from other cheaper alternatives is the fire protection capability since it is able to withstand high heat of up to 1400°F for 40 minutes.  In order to enhance security, it features anti-punch plus anti-drill bolt works. In addition, the external hinges provides 180° door opening to give you better access to your items.  Don’t forget that it is DOJ certified.

Pros

• Adjustable shelf
• Thick composite door
• 14-gauge steel construction 
• Upholstered interior
•  CA DOJ certified
• External hinges provides 180° access

Cons

• Pricey but worth it

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8. Browning Portable Pistol Vault PVPORT –The Cheapest pistol safe

Getting a quality pistol safe when you are on a budget is not easy since most of the cheap models are cheaply made. However, the Browning Portable Pistol Vault is one of the most reliable options for budget.  It has a compact design that makes it suitable even for traveling. Due to its sleek design, it gives you quicker access to your items once it is unlocked. It uses a tough key lock that gives you convenient access.  Just like the expensive models, this unit has a rugged design since it is made from 16-gauge steel. It also has a soft interior which ensures that your valuables don’t get scratched. 

Pros

• Cheap price
• 16-gauge thickness
• Portable design
• Soft interior
• Reliable key lock

Cons

• Limited capacity
• Not very secure

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9. Sentry Safe Portable Gun Safe QAP1BE – Best biometric  pistol safe

With an external measurement of 12.1 x 9.9 x 3.2 inches and an internal measurement of 9.7 x 6.7 x 2.2 inches, this bedside pistol safe provides a convenient storage for 1 handgun.  It comes with an advanced fingerprint scanner which provides excellent protection to your items. The digital keypad allows you to program your own back up combination.  It is also equipped with a gas strut which opens the door quickly and quietly. 

You can use it as a bedside gun safe due to its unique design. In terms of construction, this unit is very sturdy since it is made of a long lasting steel. Some of the security features that you will find in the Sentry Safe Portable Gun Safe QAP1BE include a pry resistant door, manual keypad plus override key. 

Pros

• Single-handed access
• Gas strut for easy opening
• Padded interior 
• Pry resistant door
• DOJ certified
• Advanced fingerprint scanner 

Cons

• Doesn’t have an LED light

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10. Mesa Underbed Gun Safe –Most secure

Mesa Undebed Gun Safe allows you to conceal your firearms under the bed where you can easily access them.  The unit boasts a heavy-duty steel construction which means that it is not easy to break. Apart from the rugged construction, it is equipped with amazing features which enables it to provide maximum security for your items.

Some of the features included are a full-length steel piano hinge to enhance strength plus an emergency key system with 2 keys. For easier mounting, it has 6 anchor holes which allow you to secure it firmly on the floor, shelf, bed or wall. 

It also features 5-point pry-resistant locking bar plus a reliable electronic lock which allows only 2 user codes. Besides that, it has a removable or washable gray carpet plus a high-strength 16 gauge door and body.  It also comes with an exterior LED light which is located above the lock to give you easy access at night.

Pros

• Unique electronic lock
• 16 gauge steel body
• 6 anchor holes
• Exterior LED light
• 8-point pry-resistant locking bar
• Emergency key system

Cons

• None

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11. V Line Desk Mate Security Box 2597-S – Easiest to install

The V Line Desk Mate Security Box 2597-S can be mounted under a shelf or a desktop for easier access.  It comes with a quick release mounting bracket for easier installation.  You can remove the case from the bracket when it is open to allow you to transport your firearm safely.  The unit also uses an advanced lock system which means that it doesn’t require batteries.  Apart from that, you don’t have to worry about lost keys since it uses a very unique key less lock. In terms of security, it is equipped with anti-pry brackets at the door and at the sides for additional pry-protection.  It is made in the USA and it is also CA DOJ certified. In order to protect it from corrosion and rusting, the outer part has a powder coating which also enhances durability. 

Pros

• Large enough to fit most handguns
• Keyless lock
• It comes with a removable felt lined tray
• CA DOG certified
• Features a black powder coating
• Pry protection

Cons

• A bit noisy

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bedside gun?

When buying the best bedside safe for your firearms, you need to understand that beside gun safes are not the same as bedside handgun safes. As compared to the bedside gun safes, handgun safes have a smaller size meaning that they are only suitable for small firearms such as handguns and pistols. Therefore, the best bedside guns are those that match the size of your guns. They should also have a reliable locking mechanism to enhance security.

Where should I place my bedside gun safe?

Bedside gun safes are designed to give you quick access to your guns in case of an emergency at night. This means that they should be stored in a convenient place like in a bedside/ nightstand drawer or under the drawer. 

Final Verdict

A pistol safe for nightstand is among the most important accessories you must have if you own a pistol. These storage units are smaller than gun safes since they are only designed for pistols. If you are searching for a model that will give you the best value for your money, the Rhino Longhorn Security Safe Nightstand will be a fantastic option. As compared to others, this one is equipped with more advanced security features and it also features a more rugged construction. For those who are on a budget, the Vaultek Lifepod Case will be a suitable option.