The 10 Best Pistol Safes ($100–$500)

Why a Pistol Safe?

If you own a handgun, a pistol safe is one of the smartest purchases you can make. They prevent unauthorized access, keep your firearm secure, and still allow you quick access if needed.

This guide covers 10 of the best pistol safes ranging from $100 to $500—perfect for nightstands, travel, or heavier-duty protection.

1. Hornady Fireproof Keypad Safe

• Price: $188–$260

• Best for: Multiple handguns + fire protection

• Why buy: Fire-rated, solid build, roomy interior

• Buy it here: Hornady Store · Tractor Supply

2. Union Safe Company Biometric Handgun Safe

• Price: ~$119.99

• Best for: Budget biometric option

• Why buy: Affordable biometric safe, compact, bolt-down option

• Buy it here: Harbor Freight

3. Vaultek Barikade Series 1 (Biometric)

• Price: ~$159.99

• Best for: Compact, high-quality quick access

• Why buy: Gas-strut lid, sleek build, easy setup

• Buy it here: Safe Vault Pros

4. Hornady Rapid Safe – Night Guard

• Price: ~$195–$230

• Best for: Bedside quick access

• Why buy: Fast-open lid, perfect for nightstand use

• Buy it here: Hornady Rapid Safes

5. SentrySafe Quick Access Biometric (QAP1BLX)

• Price: ~$199–230

• Best for: Mainstream biometric safe

• Why buy: Trusted brand, easy to set up, pry-resistant door

• Buy it here: Cabela’s

6. Vaultek LifePod 1.0 (Biometric Case)

• Price: ~$118–160

• Best for: Travel & waterproof use

• Why buy: Lightweight, waterproof, lockable case

• Buy it here: Cabela’s Vaultek LifePod

7. SnapSafe Handgun Keypad Vault

• Price: ~$145

• Best for: Two handguns, simple keypad entry

• Why buy: Good value, roomy enough for two pistols

• Buy it here: SnapSafe

8. Fort Knox Original PB1 Pistol Box

• Price: $280–$345

• Best for: Heavy-duty steel, made in USA

• Why buy: Rock-solid construction, lifetime warranty

• Buy it here: Fort Knox Store

9. Barska AX13092 Biometric Desk Safe

• Price: ~$200–300

• Best for: Desk-mounted access

• Why buy: Biometric + keypad, compact design

• Buy it here: Home Depot

10. Hornady Rapid Safe – Alpha / Lock Box Variant

• Price: ~$150–230

• Best for: Trusted lockbox brand option

• Why buy: Reliable quick access, padded interior

• Buy it here: Hornady Lock Boxes

Buying Tips

• For speed (home defense): Choose biometric/gas-strut designs (Vaultek, Hornady Rapid).

• For fire protection: Go with fire-rated safes (Hornady Fireproof).

• For travel: Waterproof options like the Vaultek LifePod shine.

• Always bolt down: Even heavy safes can be stolen if not anchored.

Final Word

Within $100–$500, you can get everything from a compact travel-ready lockbox to a heavy-duty fire-rated safe. Your choice depends on whether you value speed, fire safety, portability, or durability most.

~ A. Grant