Best Vehicle Safes
A vehicle safe is a must-have for the ramblin’ man (or woman). If you concealed carry, you’ve likely run into a situation where you have to enter a space that prohibits carrying firearms. While these gun-free zones are ultimately silly, as law-abiding citizens, we obey the law. Leaving your firearm in a vehicle, even a locked one, is reckless and irresponsible and directly contributes to criminals obtaining firearms. That’s why you need a vehicle safe.
Owning a firearm is both a right and a responsibility. If you are not in control of the firearm, it should be secured. A glove box or center console isn’t secure. I think car holsters are absolute crap and wouldn’t advise one of those, either. I would suggest a vehicle safe. This way, when you need to leave your gun behind, you can do so responsibly.
What Kind of Vehicle Safe?
A secure own! Obviously. You want a dedicated safe, not just a gun box with a lock. Preferably a box small enough to fit in your vehicle easily. I prefer a smaller vehicle gun safe that I can stash inside the vehicle out of sight and out of mind. This means a box that can fit under a seat, in the glove box or center console. Hiding the gun safe isn’t a requirement, but it is an idea.
You don’t have to go crazy with your vehicle gun safe. This type of safe isn’t designed or intended for long-term storage. It’s designed to protect your vehicle from an opportunistic attack. A basic lock box can keep a thief out for a few minutes, and most thieves don’t have minutes to conduct a smash-and-grab, especially in an occupied area.
With that in mind, one feature that your lockbox has to have, without negotiation, is some kind of security cable or permanent installation. A safe is great, but if someone can just grab the safe and run with it, it’s not super convenient. It needs some form of lockable installation.
I tend to prefer a safe with some kind of mechanical lock. Digital and electric lots are great, but they can fail, and batteries die. If it has a backup mechanical lock, then it’s perfect. Those are my big requirements and what I look for when it comes time to secure my handgun.
Best Car Gun Safes
Simple Steel Box Barrel Key Design Comes with a Security Cable | Check Price | ||
Replaces Yout Headrest Available in Various Colors/Materials Biometric Lock Option | Check Price | ||
Inflatable Bladder Mounting RFID Keys Rapid Access Design | Check Price | ||
Low Profile Design Internal Light Digital Locking System | Check Price | ||
Installs into Center Console Multi-Lock option Tamper and pry-resistant | Check Price | ||
Biometric Unlock Fastest Gun Removal Oriented Upward | Check Price | ||
Battery Feature Push Button Combination American Made Affordable | Check Price |
Best Car Gun Safes Reviews
Hornady TriPoint Lock Box Specs
- Dimensions 33.6″D x 96″W x 123.6″H
- Lock Type Key
- Water Resistance Level Not Water Resistant
- Weight 5.5 lbs
Best Simple: Hornady TriPoint Lock Box
Let’s start our suggestions with something simple. Something very simple. The Hornady TriPoint Lock Box is as simple as it gets. This all-metal lock box lacks any fancy electronics and doesn’t have fingerprint scanners, RFID keys, or anything beyond a normal key. Sometimes, simple is enough, and the Hornady TriPoint offers you an affordable option that can keep your firearm secure in your vehicle.
The Hornady TriPoint comes in a few different sizes, but the XL variant is what I suggest for most shooters. When you store a compact gun, you still have room to store other valuables, like a pocket knife, reload, etc. It also allows for full-sized guns with modern accessories like optics. It’s 10.3x8x2.8 inches in terms of dimensions.
The key system is a barrel design, so it’s tougher to pick. It’s not impossible, but time is precious in a smash-and-grab theft. The TriPoint also comes with a cable lock, which is absolutely necessary to lock the safe to your vehicle. Inside the safe sits a good bit of foam, and that foam protects the finish and accessories of your gun. If you decide to drive with your gun in the safe, there is no need to worry about it getting scratched or bumped. (Unload the gun before travel.)
The Hornady TriPoint doesn’t offer quick access or any super fancy features. It’s nothing more than a very simple lockbox. It offers enough protection for short stops and disarms, but I wouldn’t leave a gun locked in the safe for a long-term parking situation or anything like that. It’s still just a lock box. Plus, at 50 bucks, it offers you a tough enough option for most users.
Hornady TriPoint Lock Box : Pros and Cons
- Affordable
- Comes With Cable Lock
- It can be Removed for Different Vehicles
- Slow to Open
Hornady TriPoint Lock Box: Check Pricing
2. Headrest Safe Co. Headrest Safe
Headrest Safe Co. Headrest Safe
No extra space needed as this safe replaces your current headrest.
Headrest Safe Specs
- Dimensions 12″ x 6.5″ x 8.”
- Lock Type Key/Code
- Batteries 1 C Battery Required
- Weight 7.7 lbs
Best Stealth: Headrest Safe Co. Headrest Safe
There are a few ways to defend your property from theft. The most common in the various safes we have on this list. The best defenses have depth to them, layers, if you will. The Headrest Safe from the unimaginatively named Headrest Safe Company adds another layer. That layer is trickery and stealth. You can’t pick or hack at a safe if you can’t find it. The Headrest Safe replaces your headrest with a Headrest Safe.
These Headrest Safes are designed in a variety of finishes and material types to best match your vehicle. The Headrest Safes are smaller than most but are a very discrete option. For most people, the Headrest safe is perfect for storing their daily carry gun, as well as a few other valuables. The Headrest Safe is best bought in bundles, so one headrest matches the other for increased discretion.
The Headrest Safe has three methods to unlock the design. This includes a Biometric option, a keypad, and your typical lock and key. The lock itself is made from solid steel. Below the padding of the headrest sits the core of the safe, which is made from 16 gauge steel. The safe core is 11 inches long and 8 inches tall, making it fairly large. Inside also sits some foam to protect your valuables.
The Headrest Safe has a few downsides. First, it’s expensive. At around 400 bucks for a single safe and 500 for a bundle, this isn’t a cheap option. Additionally, while they do produce a ton of colors and materials, it might be tough to match the design perfectly. Other than that, it’s tough to beat the stealthy aspect of the Headrest Safe and the very convenient location.
- Stealthy Option
- Excellent Safe Cavity
- Three Mothods to Open
- May Not Match All Vehicles
- Expensive
Headrest Safe Co. Headrest Safe : Check Pricing
Hornady Rapid Vehicle Safe Specs
- Dimensions 2.2″D x 6.4″W x 12″H
- Lock Type Key
- Batteries 4 AAA Batteries Required
- Weight 9.7 lbs
Best Quick Access: Hornady Rapid Vehicle Safe
The Hornady Rapid Safe series is one of my favorites. I love the shotgun model. I have the handgun model and even gifted the handgun model to a friend because I enjoy it so much. The Rapid Vehicle Safe takes the high-tech design of the Rapid Safes and throws it into your vehicle. The Rapid Safe makes it very quick to access your weapon. It has a touch-free opening and a mounting system that makes it easy to remove the safe when necessary.
The Rapid Safe Vehicle is designed to fit between your center console and your chair. It comes with an inflatable mounting system that consists of a bladder and pump. You inflate the bladder to provide tension and friction-based security for the safe. There is also a security cable because, let’s be clear, a bladder isn’t going to stop a thief.
The Rapid Vehicle Safe can be opened in three different ways. The touch-free method uses programmable RFID tokens to open the safe. These tokens can be secured with adhesive or can be a bracelet or keychain. Run the RFID tag over the safe, and it pops open. There is also a four-digit programmable key code and, finally, the old faithful option of barrel keys.
The safe opens to the side and presents your gun grip upward. This is one of the few options designed for both security and rapid access. The interior cavity is 7.5 by 5.6 inches overall, so you can fit a fairly large firearm inside the safe for easy and quick access. The high-tech, high-speed option from Hornady takes a different route than most.
The downside is the fact there is no way to hide this safe. It’s always out in the open and easy to see. It’s not discrete, and discretion can go a long way. If that’s not an issue for you, the Rapdi Safe Vehicle gives you security, speed, and high-tech, quick-opening options.
Hornady Rapid Vehicle Safe : Pros and Cons
- Rapid Opening Design
- Easy to Install
- Large Safe Compartment
- Not Discrete
Hornady Rapid Vehicle Safe : Check Pricing
4. Vaultek LifePod 2.0
Vaultek LifePod 2.0
Low profile, high-tech, easy-to-use designed lock box that can be used for multiple tasks.
Vaultek LifePod 2.0 Specs
- Dimensions 12.25″ L x 8.5″ W x 2.875″ H
- Lock Type Key/Code
- Batteries 9V Battery
- Weight 3.3 lbs
Best High-Tech: Vaultek LifePod 2.0
If you want a high-tech, easy-to-use lock box that can be used for multiple tasks, then Vaultek has you covered with the LifePod 2.0. The Vaultek Lifepod 2.0 brings you a very compact, small, and easy-to-stash vehicle safe. The modern design and sleek look combine well with portability to make it a multipurpose lockbox.
The Vaultek LifePod 2.0 is also great if you decide to remove the safe and carry it in a backpack, laptop bag, or even your hands. It’s a fairly discreet and modern design that doesn’t necessarily look like a lock box until you get close. It’s also TSA-compliant in case you want to fly with your gun.
For vehicles, it comes with the requisite safety cable to lock these down and keep them secure. The LifePod 2.0 uses a four-digit keypad for your preprogrammed code and a key backup. The safe has an internal light, which is a great touch. The Lifepod 2.0 uses a 9V battery, but if it dies, there is a micro-USB port to provide power to the safe. It’s all quite clever and provides you with a multitude of options.
The safe also protects your gun and accessories with internal foam, as well as a waterproof design. A set of latches ensures it’s shut tight and remains tight and protected against the elements. I don’t plan to go swimming with my Lifepod, but I have kids who constantly spill drinks in my car.
The Lifepod offers two layers of storage. We have the main compartment and a removable tray with a mounting system to attach your accessories. The internal compartment can fit guns up to 9.25 inches long overall.
The Lifepod 2.0 uses polymer construction. It’s a tough polymer for sure and will stand up to the abuse tossed at it. Sure, it won’t withstand a dedicated break-in, but a dedicated break-in takes effort and time. For casual use, the Lifepod 2.0 is fine.
SRM 1216: Pros and Cons
- High Tech Design
- Low Profile Design
- Compact and Lightweight
- Polymer Construction
Vaultek LifePod 2.0 Deals
5. Console Vault
Console Vault
Nestles itself deep into your center console for a great car feature.
Console Vault Specs
- Dimensions Compatible with Chosen Vehicle Model
- Lock Type Key/Fingerprint
- Batteries 2 AAA Batteries
- Weight Yes
Best Concealed: Console Vault
The Console Vault, from Console Vault, isn’t the most imaginative or creative name, but it’s an apt name that correctly describes the product. The Console Vault is a dedicated gun safe that nestles itself deep into your center console. The safe is aptly hidden, easy to access, and doesn’t require any additional security protocols. The Console Vault system is one of the few that doesn’t need a safety cable.
The Console Vault only takes 10 to 15 minutes to secure itself into the center console of your vehicle. Once installed, it’s secure and won’t move easily. The safe is made from heavy gauge steel and features a tamper-proof design. There are drill-resistant locks, and a door uses an inset design to help prevent prying attacks.
The size of the safe varies widely depending on the size of the console. Most will easily fit big, duty-sized firearms with modern accessories like lights, optics, and more. The Console Safe system isn’t universal, and that does limit users. Console Vault makes a ton of different configurations for well over a dozen different manufacturers and dozens of vehicle models.
It’s entirely possible they’ll have an option for your vehicle, but it’s also possible it’s a no-go entirely. That’s the main downside to these safes. Although if your vehicle can fit a Console Vault, it’s an easy sell as far as I’m concerned. This is a very secure option that’s also discrete and not obvious.
Console Vault : Pros and Cons
- Secure Design
- Discrete Design
- Easy Install
- May Not Fit Your Vehicle
Console Vault: Check the Price
6. Vara Safety Reach 2S
Vara Safety Reach 2S
This minimalist safe option is high-tech and easy to install nearly anywhere.
Best Minimalist: Vara Safety Reach 2S
If you like the idea of a minimalist safe option that’s high-tech and easy to install nearly anywhere, then the Vara Safety Reach 2S is for you. This high-tech safe isn’t necessarily designed just for vehicles but is easily adaptable to vehicles. The Reach 2S is an option that’s commonly installed in offices, on nightstands, and, of course, in vehicles.
The Reach 2S is a bit like a holster. There is no opening latch and a box-like design. The gun slides into the Reach 2S with the grip exposed, but the barrel and trigger are completely covered. This keeps the Vara Safety Reach 2S secure and impossible to mishandle but still allows for easy retrieval when needed. When you grab your gun with a natural grip, your fingerprint is read, and the gun is released. It takes no effort or thought beyond touching the large sensor. There is also a set of backup keys, just in case you prefer that means of use.
The Reach 2S can fit a wide variety of firearms, including duty and concealed sizes. The Reach 2S can be mounted in a variety of positions and can even drop into your center console for a discrete position. The rechargeable design is handy, and the charging cable can be plugged into most USB-based phone chargers.
The Vara Safety Reach 2S does have two downsides, or one downside and a partial downside. If the safe isn’t stored in a center console or glove box, it’s obvious that there is a gun in your vehicle. Second, it does require some drilling and mounting, so it’s a somewhat permanent modification.
Vara Safety Reach 2S : Pros and Cons
- Easy to Retrieve Firearm
- Minimalist Size
- Easily Rechargeable
- Permanent Modification To Vehicle
Vara Safety Reach 2S: Check the Price
7. StopBox Pro
StopBox Pro
Battery-free portable safe design.
Stopbox Pro
- Dimensions 12″ x 9.25″ x 2.25″
- Lock Combination/Key
- Battery None
- Weight 3.2 lbs
Best Portable: StopBox Pro
The StopBox Pro is an interesting take on the portable safe design. If you want a battery-free, made-in-America option that’s purpose-built for firearms, then StopBox Pro has you covered. The StopBox Pro is very simple but tends to lean towards the reliable side of the simple. The StopBox Pro is big enough for a full-sized pistol with a red dot, light, and even a spare magazine.
The StopBox Pro uses a mechanical combination lock with four buttons that are pushed in a specific order to unlock. The user simply presses downward on the case top, inserts their specific combination, and uses their thumb to open the box once the lock is disengaged. This makes the StopBox Pro very easy to use, and it doesn’t rely on any additional batteries or a power source.
The StopBox Pro can be equipped with a locking cable, and there is the option for an additional padlock to reinforce the security of the box. Inside the box are two layers of tight foam that keep your weapon isolated and locked in place to provide protection for your firearm inside the safe.
The StopBox Pro is perfect for vehicles and stores very easily. Drop it in place, lock it down, and feel confident that it’s safe and secure. There is no need for batteries, so don’t worry. Plus, at 150 bucks, it doesn’t break the budget, and you are buying American-made.
StopBox Pro: Pros and Cons
- Battery-Free
- Spacious
- Budget Friendly
- Shows Finger Prints
StopBox Pro: Check Price
Lock It Up
Remember, a gun inside a vehicle, without a safe, is just a loot box. Never treat your vehicle like a holster or gun case. A vehicle safe delivers a new level of security and ensures you don’t contribute your weapon to the hands of a criminal. Even with a vehicle safe, I never advise leaving your gun locked in your vehicle overnight. Be safe, be responsible, and be secure. A vehicle safe is just one layer of security, but the six inches between your ears is the best tool to engage.
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