10 Of The Best Gun Safe Under 500 (Reviewed 2022)
Best Innovation
Best Technology
Best Storage Solution
Best Fire Protection
Last update on 2022-11-10 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
03.17.2022
Quick Navigation
- 1. BARSKA Quick Access Biometric Safe
- 2. Verifi Smart.Safe. Biometric Gun Safe
- 3. SnapSafe Under Bed Safe 75400
- 4. Vaultek VT20i Biometric Handgun Bluetooth Smart Safe Pistol Safe
- 5. SentrySafe SFW205GQC Fireproof Safe and Waterproof Safe
- 6. AmazonBasics Fire Resistant Box Safe with Keypad
- 7. GunVault SV500
- 8. Barska Large Biometric Rifle Safe
- 9. 7501 Paragon Lock & Safe Electronic 5 Gun Rifle Safe
- 10. Homegear Large 5 Rifle Electronic Gun Safe
- Buyers Guide
- FAQs for HD Security Cameras
- Final Thoughts
- References
The article will reflect upon:
- Our top picks with a crisp summary.
- A detailed review of the 10 best gun safes under $500.
- An insightful buying guide to help you navigate the daunting task of shopping for a gun safe.
- Questions that might pop in your head.
Check out here the best gun safe and the best gun safe under 1000.
Best Overall
Last update on 2022-11-10 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. BARSKA Quick Access Biometric Safe
Barska Quick Access Biometric Safe is, according to us, the best gun safe under $500. The primary focus of the gun safe is security and quick access. It can store a small handgun and four rifles or shotguns without any accessory like scope and magazine. It has removable shelves that give you flexibility in storage space. The gun safe also has a stand that holds all the guns in place and prevents them from bumping into each other. The rugged interior is designed to protect your firearms from dents and scratches.
Barska Quick Access Biometric Safe features a fingerprint scanner that takes only 2.5 seconds to provide access and is pretty quiet. It has a memory for 120 fingerprints and ensures lightning-fast access. In case the battery runs out and the fingerprint scanner stops working, the gun safe comes with two backup keys. The keyhole is hidden, and the main door has a 3 point locking system to ensure extra security.
This biometric gun safe is built from solid steel walls and tamper-resistant edges, making the gun safe pry-resistant. The gun safe features ten mounting pins to bolt the gun safe to the ground or the wall. This ensures additional security from burglars who try to take the gun safe with them upon failing to pry it open. The 4 AA batteries can last up to a year or two. The most pleasing thing about this gun safe is that the company provides a one-year extended warranty.
Features:
- Exterior Dimensions: 8.63″ D x 9.75″ W x 52.13″ H
- Interior Dimensions: 7.63″ D x 9.7″ W x 52″ H
- Weight: 62 pounds
- Material: 14 gauge steel
- Fire Resistant: No
- Warranty: One year
What We Liked:
- Smart Biometric Lock
- Strong Built
- Silent access option
What We Didn’t Like:
- Not fire resistant
- Can tip forward while opening if not mounted
Verdict:
It is reasonably priced, well protected, and has adequate capacity. It provides lightning-fast access with its biometric lock.
Best Indoor/Outdoor
Last update on 2022-11-10 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
2. Verifi Smart.Safe. Biometric Gun Safe
Verifi Smart.Safe. Biometric Gun Safe is the most secure gun safe under $500 and is packed with advanced technical features. It features an FBI-approved Silicon fingerprint sensor with 3D technology, which can store up to 40 fingerprints. The locking system uses 4 AA batteries and comes with a backup key. It is ideal for storing handguns and pistols. The interior of the gun safe is carpeted, which prevents the guns from getting scratches and dents. (1)
The gun safe tracks the logs with timestamps for any unauthorized access attempt. It sends an audible alert if you forget to close the door. It also has an auto-lock feature that can be turned off in the settings menu. The gun safe has a user-friendly interface and a built-in tutorial to guide you through everything. The self-diagnostics program of the gun safe makes sure that the electronics and batteries perform optimally.
Verifi Smart.Safe. Biometric Gun Safe is pretty light in weight and has pre-drilled holes at the back and the bottom. So, mount it to the ground or the wall as soon as you get it. The gun safe’s body is built of 14 gauge steel, and the door constitutes 8 gauge steel. It’s reinforced with two 3/4″ motorized locking bolts. The hinges are concealed, and the recessed door makes the gun safe pry-resistant.
Features:
- Exterior Dimensions: 13.2″ D x 13.2″ W x 7.9″ H
- Interior Dimensions: 9.5″ D x 13.0″ W x 7.3″ H
- Weight: 31.4 pounds
- Material: 14 gauge steel
- Fire Resistant: No
- Warranty: One year warranty
What We Liked:
- Quick fingerprint access
- FSD approved
- Self-diagnostics
- Auto-lock
- Tamper alerts
What We Didn’t Like:
- Not fire resistant
- A bit noisy
- Low capacity
Verdict:
It is the most secure gun safe under $500. It comes with an FBI-approved fingerprint, self-diagnostics, auto-lock, and tamper alerts.
Best for Front Door
Last update on 2022-11-10 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
3. SnapSafe Under Bed Safe 75400
If you live in a small apartment, SnapSafe Under Bed Safe 75400 is the storage solution you’ve been looking for. This gun safe doesn’t take up a lot of space and can easily be installed in tight spaces. Whether it’s a drawer, a nightstand, or the back of a car, this gun safe is the answer.
This gun safe can host several long guns along with handguns and ammunition. It is made up of soft lining material that keeps the firearms dent-free. The smooth gliding drawer makes it easier to access the stored guns. There’s a digital keypad for the locking mechanism, enabling you to program two different 3 to 8 digit passcodes. It also has a traditional key as a backup solution.
SnapSafe Under Bed Safe 75400, with its pre-drilled holes and 150-pound weight, provides adequate security. Because of its heavy-weight, mounting the gun safe isn’t really necessary, especially if you don’t want to keep it in one place. For added security, the gun safe features 5-feet long security cables that can be attached to the bed frame, making it even difficult for burglars to take away the gun safe with them. The pry-resistant door keeps kids and other unauthorized people away from your valuables.
Features:
- Exterior Dimensions: 24″ D x 48″ W x 7″ H
- Weight: 150 pounds
- Material: 14 gauge steel
- Fire Resistant: No
- Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty
What We Liked:
- Robust 5-feet cable for added security
- More discreet than a regular gun safe
- Smooth roll-out drawer
- Heavy
What We Didn’t Like:
- Not fire resistant
- Cheap locking knob
Verdict:
It can easily be installed anywhere and has adequate security measures. It is heavy to lift and has extended cables to secure it in place.
Best For Porch
Last update on 2022-11-10 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4. Vaultek VT20i Biometric Handgun Bluetooth Smart Safe Pistol Safe
Vaultek VT20i Biometric Handgun Bluetooth Smart Safe Pistol Safe is probably one of the most innovative gun safes under $500. It can store one full-size handgun and several optics. It has a responsive LED light that allows you to see its contents in the dark.
This flexible safe can be accessed in three different ways. It has a high-resolution biometric fingerprint scanner that can store up to 20 unique finger scans. The other way to access the gun safe is via a five-button keypad. It’s equipped with a proximity sensor that activates the keypad’s backlight whenever your hand gets near it. The third way is by using a classic key that can be put into a concealed keyhole. This biometric gun safe runs on a Li-ion rechargeable battery that lasts up to 4 months on a single charge. It can also be plugged in for constant power.
The gun safe is reinforced with anti-pry resistant bars and two-point anti-impact latches. It is made up of 16 gauge steel with a powder coat finish. The hinge system is mounted on the inside, giving added protection. The gun safe has a steel security cable that comes with mounting hardware. It enables you to anchor the safe snugly in a specific spot. Since the gun safe weighs only 7.2 pounds, mounting it is a must.
The best part about this gun safe is the Bluetooth smartphone app it comes with. The app enables you to view the battery status, adjust the interior light, toggles sound, and manage fingerprints. It has a history log that lists all the times that the safe was opened. It also tracks if anyone tries to tamper or access the safe without your knowledge.
Features:
- Exterior Dimensions: 9.0″ D x 11.5″ W x 2.75″ H
- Interior Dimensions: 5.75″ D x 11.0″ W x 2.0″ H
- Weight: 7.2 pounds
- Material: 16 gauge steel
- Fire-resistant: No
- Warranty: Not specified
What We Liked:
- Bluetooth app
- Three access modes
- Proximity sensors with interior light
What We Didn’t Like:
- Users complain about the biometric scanner
- Lightweight and can easily be stolen if not mounted
- Not fire protected
Verdict:
This gun safe has a Bluetooth smartphone app that can be used to adjust various settings. It’s secure, packed with features, and can hold a handgun along with optics.
Best with Smart Hub
Last update on 2022-11-10 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
5. SentrySafe SFW205GQC Fireproof Safe and Waterproof Safe
Even though a little expensive, SentrySafe SFW205GQC Fireproof Safe and Waterproof Safe is one of the best gun safe under $500. It weighs 124.8 pounds, which makes it difficult for intruders to take it away with them. For better gun security, consider mounting the gun safe. Along with weapons, you can also store other valuables like important papers, cash, etc. One of the drawbacks is that this gun safe is small for hunting rifles, and shotguns can only be accommodated after removing the shelves.
The gun safe features an electronic locking system with a backup key in case of forgotten code or no battery. The backlit keypad allows visibility even in the dark. It also features an interior light that enables you to access the contents without an additional light source. The gun safe features six large 1″ live-locking bolts and a pry-resistant hinge bar that ensure optimum security.
Another applauded feature is the fire resistance this gun safe offers. It can withstand fire for 60 minutes up to 1400 degrees temperature. In case of a fire, the water sprayed to put out the fire can damage the firearms stored inside. It can withstand 8 inches of water for 24 hours with ETL verified water protection. The gun safe also comes with a limited one year warranty, which is hard to neglect. (2)
Features:
- Exterior Dimensions: 19.3″ D x 18.6″ W x 23.8″ H
- Interior Dimensions: 11.9″ D x 14.8″ W x 19.6″ H
- Weight: 124.8 pounds
- Material: 18 gauge steel
- Fire Resistant: 60 minutes up to 1400 degrees
- Warranty: Limited 1 Year Warranty
What We Liked:
- Attractive exterior
- Fire resistant
- 1.5″ locking bolts
- Heavy
What We Didn’t Like:
- Small for hunting rifles
- Shelves take up a lot of space
Verdict:
Along with an attractive exterior and interior, this gun safe is strong and durable. It protects your valuables from fire for about an hour. It is the most expensive gun safe on the list and comes with a limited five-year warranty.
Best with Smart Hub
Last update on 2022-11-10 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
6. AmazonBasics Fire Resistant Box Safe with Keypad
AmazonBasics Fire Resistant Box Safe is one of the best gun safes under $500. It is ideal for storing handguns and shotguns. However, if you are looking for a gun safe under $500 to store rifles and other long guns, this is not the gun safe for you.
The gun safe has an efficient electric keypad that is easy to open and offers quick access. It requires 9V batteries to run. The batteries aren’t included; you’ll have to buy them separately. The keypad has the option of key tones when entering the code. It can be muted and unmuted as per convenience. In case you forget the code, or the battery runs out, the gun safe comes with an emergency that can be used to open up the gun safe.
This durable gun safe acts as a sanctuary not only for your firearms but also for other valuables like documents, jewelry, and other personal possessions. It features an adjustable shelf that accommodates all your flexible storing needs. It can hold up to 3-4 handguns and shotguns. It comes with an AmazonBasics limited one year warranty that speaks for the quality itself.
As the name suggests, this gun safe provides optimum safety against fire. It protects your valuables for 20 minutes up to 1200 degrees. This time is enough to call the authorities and get the fire under control. Its body is made up of 14 gauge heavy-duty steel with five large 0.75-inch bolts. The gun safe can also be mounted to the wall or ground for additional security.
Features:
- Exterior Dimensions: 16.9″ D x 13.8″ W x 26.0″ H
- Interior Dimensions: 15.2″ D x 9.6″ W x 24.4″ H
- Weight: 90 pounds
- Material: 14 gauge steel
- Fire-resistant: 20 minutes up to 1200 degrees
- Warranty: AmazonBasics limited one year warranty
What We Liked:
- Great fire resistance
- Adjustable shelves
- 14 gauge heavy-duty steel
What We Didn’t Like:
- Cannot store long guns
Verdict:
This safe is easy on the pocket. It is secure, easy to access, fire-resistant, and has an effective locking mechanism.
Best with Smart Hub
Last update on 2022-11-10 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
7. GunVault SV500
If you own a single handgun and need easy access, then GunVault SV500 SpeedVault Handgun Safe is the best choice for a gun safe under $500. Its small size and anchoring holes enable it to get mounted in compact spaces like inside a closet or underneath a desktop. The gun safe is pretty budget-friendly but cannot store long guns.
The safe is heavily built with 18 gauge steel construction. The biometric locking system has a memory of 120 fingerprints. The gun safe also comes with an override key that can be used as a backup. The biometric lock uses a 9V battery that you’ll have to buy additionally. This biometric gun safe features a tamper indicator that detects when the safe has been tampered with.
There’s a small light inside the gun safe that turns on whenever the door is open, enabling you to see the contents clearly in the dark. The interior is rugged with soft foam, which prevents your handgun from getting scratches. It even has a whopping five-year full warranty, making it nearly impossible to say no to. However, the gun safe makes noise when opening, which might reveal your position in case of intruders.
Features:
- Exterior Dimensions: 6.5″ D x 3.5″ W x 13″ H
- Interior Dimensions: 5.75″ D x 2.75″ W x 8.5″ H
- Weight: 6.61 pounds
- Material: 18 gauge steel
- Fire Resistant: No
- Warranty: Five year full warranty
What We Liked:
- Budget-friendly
- Small, can fit anywhere
- Has an interior light
What We Didn’t Like:
- Can store only one handgun
- A bit noisy
Verdict:
This gun safe is the ideal choice for you if you need a pistol at hand. This compact gun safe can be mounted anywhere and comes with a five-year full warranty.
Best with Smart Hub
Last update on 2022-11-10 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
8. Barska Large Biometric Rifle Safe
Barska Large Biometric Rifle Safe is the best gun safe under $500 if you need your gun safe to open in a matter of 2 seconds in cases of emergency. It is equipped with an infallible biometric system that can store up to 120 fingerprints. The number is a tad bit too much, but consider programming all your fingers. It will prevent time delay when you have a bandage on or have a cut. (3)
This gun safe is built well from robust steel, which is resistant to prying, drilling, and tampering. The gun safe can easily be mounted to either the wall or the floor, thanks to the pre-drilled holes and the mounting hardware that come along with the gun safe. Whenever you forget to close the door, the gun safe makes a loud beep to provide enhanced security. It even beeps when it’s opened up. However, the safe isn’t fireproof or waterproof.
This small gun safe doesn’t take up much space and can easily store handguns. It features two removable shelves to provide room for all your precious belongings. The floor of the gun safe has a protective floor mat that keeps it safe from damage. The locking system needs 4 AA batteries that have a reasonable lifetime of 1-2 years. The gun safe also comes with two traditional keys for backup.
Features:
- Exterior Dimensions: 3″ D x 13.75″ W x 19.63″ H
- Interior Dimensions: 10.5″ D x 13.6″ W x 19.5″ H
- Weight: 44.55 pounds
- Material: 14 gauge steel
- Fire Resistant: No
- Warranty: One year warranty
What We Liked:
- Can recognize 120 fingerprints
- Two removable shelves
- Included hardware for mounting
What We Didn’t Like:
- Not fireproof
- Small for long guns
Verdict:
Thanks to the biometric fingerprint scanner, this gun safe gets opened in a matter of 2 seconds.
Best with Smart Hub
Last update on 2022-11-10 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
9. 7501 Paragon Lock & Safe Electronic 5 Gun Rifle Safe
7501 Paragon Lock & Safe Electronic 5 Gun Rifle Safe is a spacious gun safe that can store up to 5 long guns, ammo, and several handguns. Its powder-coated exterior makes it attractive to the eye. It has a padded gray carpet at the bottom, which gives it a pricey look.
Weighing at 120 pounds, this safe is quite heavy. It makes it virtually impossible to be stolen if you mount it to the wall or ground. It comes with pre-drilled holes and floor anchor bolts. The 18 gauge steel construction might not be the ideal one’s looking for. Still, it will safeguard your valuables from the prying hands of intruders. It features concealed and ball-bearing adjustable hinges, which ensures added security.
The gun safe also features a separate locking cabinet that is ideal for storing small treasures like jewelry, cash, etc. The gun safe comes with a separate key that is used to unlock the lockbox. The lock system involves a digital keypad that works on 2 AA batteries.
Features:
- Exterior Dimensions: 11.75″ D x 13.75″ W x 57″ H
- Interior Dimensions: 9.5″ D x 13.5″ W x 56.75″ H
- Weight: 110 pounds
- Material: 18 gauge steel
- Fire Resistant: No
- Warranty: Not specified
What We Liked:
- Spacious
- Simple to operate
- Attractive
What We Didn’t Like:
- Thin sidewalls
- Not fireproof
Verdict:
With a powder-coated exterior, this safe looks amazing in any setting. It is spacious and is ideal for homes with generous spacing.
Best with Smart Hub
Last update on 2022-11-10 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
10. Homegear Large 5 Rifle Electronic Gun Safe
Homegear Large 5 Rifle Electronic Gun Safe can store up to 5 rifles depending on whether you have attached optics or not. It also leaves room for handguns and ammo. The gun safe features a small internal lockbox where you can store the most valuable stuff like jewelry.
The gun safe’s body is made up of heavy-duty steel with a wall thickness of 2mm. The door, however, is made up of 4mm thickness. The gun safe can be anchored for extra protection. However, we recommend that you buy new anchors since the ones that come with the gun safe are of cheap quality and can damage your wall.
The gun safe uses an electronic keypad as its locking mechanism. It works on 4 AA batteries that last for around two years. The keypad doesn’t have a backlight, making it difficult to input the code in dim light. You’ll either have to turn on the light or use a flashlight. There’s also an emergency key available that can be used when the battery runs out or if you don’t like the electronic lock.
Features:
- Exterior Dimensions: 11.8″ D x 13.8″ W x 57.1″ H
- Interior Dimensions: 9.5″ D x 13.4″ W x 49.2″ H
- Weight: 79 pounds
- Material: Heavy-duty steel
- Fire Resistant: No
- Warranty: One year
What We Liked:
- One year warranty
- Separate lockbox
- Five rifles capacity
What We Didn’t Like:
- Cheap anchor
- Not fire resistant
- No backlight in the keypad
Verdict:
It has plenty of room and can store up to 5 rifles, handguns, ammo, and other valuables too. It also has a small in-built lockbox.
Buyers Guide
With so many options available on the market, shopping for a gun safe can be overwhelming. We’ve compiled a buying guide to assist you through the process.
Size is the first thing that one must consider. It depends on the type and number of guns (pistol, shotgun, or rifle) you own and what other valuables you plan on storing inside. It’s always better to buy a bigger safe since your gun collection might increase over time. Also, various safes come with adjustable shelves, which gives you storage flexibility.
Weight is something that is often overlooked. The hefty load makes it difficult for burglars to carry away the safe with them. The heavier the safe, the better.
Body Construction
The material used to build safe determines the safety of your valuables. The thicker the steel is, the safer the contents of the safe will be. The unit that measures the steel thickness is a gauge. It follows the smaller-is-bigger and bigger-is-smaller rule, which means that the higher the value is, the lesser is the thickness of the steel. The ideal thickness is 10 to 16 gauge. However, if you are looking for a safe to keep your kids’ curious hands away from the firearms, then 18 gauge construction will do too.
Fire Resistant
Most safes under $500 aren’t fireproof. However, this guide does have two such safes. If you live in a region that’s prone to fire hazards, have a fireplace in your house, or plan on storing important documents in the safe, it becomes vital for your safe to be fire-resistant. Paying a slightly higher price for a resistant one will probably be the better decision.
Locking System
There are various locking mechanisms—traditional keys, mechanical dials, digital keypads, and biometric scanners—available on the market today. Gun safes are usually bought to protect yourself and your family from danger. So, opting for a safe that enables quick access should be a top priority. In this case, biometric locks are ideal since you can access your safe with the touch of a finger. However, if you are not looking for easy access, digital locks are the better choice as they do not run on batteries.
Mounting
Unless you are looking for a portable gun safe, mounting is always advisable. When burglars fail to pry open the safe in a limited time, they tend to take it away with them. Anchoring comes to aid in these scenarios.
Most safes come with anchoring instructions and the necessary hardware. However, for safes under $500, manufacturers might provide low-quality components. If the bolts are thin or cheap, do not use them. Instead, take those bolts to a hardware shop, buy similar high-quality bolts, and rather use them.
Interior
For the interior, the bare minimum is a lining. It keeps your weaponry safe from scratches and dents. Having customizable shelves is also something that users look forward to. Some safes also feature stands that hold the guns in their place and prevent them from bumping into each other. Many gun safes come with the luxury of interior light. One can’t anticipate how dark it can get inside these safes sometimes. However, the safety of your possessions must always be the top priority.
FAQs for HD Security Cameras
With so many options out there, you probably have a few questions concerning security cameras. I do my best to answer your most pressing concerns:
Where should I place the gun safe?
Pick a location that is well hidden and is out of sight. Do not store it in obvious spots like the master bedroom or study. However, it should still be easily accessible.
How important is it to anchor the safe and how to do it?
Apart from keeping the safe stable, anchoring also ensures added protection against thieves. So, we would highly recommend it.
Most safes come with the necessary anchoring hardware, pre-drilled holes, and a detailed user manual. In case your safe doesn’t have holes, then contact the manufacturer before getting them drilled.
Can I change the combination?
Yes, the detailed procedure for each safe is described in their respective manuals. Also, you can use the backup key whenever you please.
Final Thoughts
Every gun safe on the list advocates different features and security levels, but if we had to pick one then it’d be BARSKA Quick Access Biometric Safe. While most of the options are for handguns, there are some for long guns too. Regardless of your budget, there is a gun safe for you. We genuinely hope that after going through the article, you’ve found the one that best suits your requirements and pocket.
You may also check the following product guides for guns: Best Nightstand Gun Safe, Best Gun Safe Dehumidifier. And for learning articles, you may click here.
References
(1) FBI – https://www.fbi.gov/about/faqs/what-is-the-fbi
(2) ETL verified – https://www.intertek.com/marks/etl-verified/
(3) biometric – https://www.csoonline.com/article/3339565/what-is-biometrics-and-why-collecting-biometric-data-is-risky.html
Our Recommendation Again
- 【High Level Secure Rifle Safe/ DOJ Approved】BARSKA DOJ Approved Biometric rifle safes are the ultimate in quick access security solutions for rifle, ammo, handguns, and firearms
- 【Biometric Scanner/ Optional Silent Mode】Our high-quality biometric scanner allows access to your valuables in just 2.5 seconds with the simple scan of a fingerprint. It also has an additional silent mode for discrete access
John Fox
Allow me to introduce myself. My name is John Fox and I’ve been working as a security consultant for over 20 years now. During my time in the industry, I’ve learned about what it takes to ensure your home and family are always safe. With Safe Now, I’ve tried to take those two decades of experience and share it with others. My goal now is to help others figure out how to make the right choices for their businesses and families. On my website, you’ll find tips and guides on how to prevent crimes, as well as product recommendations. What’s more, my readers can learn more about what to do in case of an emergency and how to protect themselves at all times. So, if you want to know everything there is about security systems and home safety, I invite you to join me and my team and help us build a community together.
