Best Bedside Gun Safe – The Top 5 Nightstand Safes Reviewed

Аs an experienced firearm owner, I believe in safe and secure gun storage, regardless of the location of my gun. When it comes to keeping a firearm in the bedroom, the first question I always address is where exactly that gun will be stored. Though it’s possible to store it almost anywhere, for it to be truly useful and effective, it needs to be close at hand.

In my experience, the perfect solution is the bedside gun safe. It not only keeps my firearm within reach in case I need it to protect my home and family but also ensures that the gun remains safe from unauthorized access. I’ve seen firsthand how accidental discharges can lead to disastrous consequences, and I always strive to prevent that from happening with my firearm.

Having tried and tested numerous gun safes, especially with my kids in mind, I’ve found that a gun safe is an indispensable part of secure gun storage. Not only does it keep the firearm ready and accessible, but it also keeps it secure from unauthorized access and potentially fatal errors. In my opinion, the nightstand gun safe strikes the perfect balance between keeping all guns in a single, large, centrally-located safe, and carelessly stowing a pistol in a bedside drawer.

However, sifting through countless brands and models to find a high-quality bedside gun safe can be a daunting task. I’ve faced the overwhelming parade of brands, models, features, and details and have done the hard work of perusing listings, reviews, specifications, and more. Through my research, I’ve compiled a shortlist of the best bedside gun safes based on my personal experiences and evaluations.

Below you can find the bedside gun safe.

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The 5 Best Bedside & Nightstand Gun Safes

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1. GunVault SpeedVault – Best Bedside Gun Safe

Having personally had the chance to test out the GunVault SpeedVault, I can confidently say it stands as one of the premier choices for those seeking a dependable bedside gun safe. If you, like many, lack a drawer to tuck away your firearm but still require a secure storage solution close at hand, the SpeedVault shines through with its innovative and unique design.

In my usage scenarios, including both day-to-day access and simulated emergency situations, the SpeedVault’s reliability was consistent. The build quality is commendable, with heavy-duty steel that resists tampering and forced entry attempts. However, this robust construction does add to the weight, making installation a careful consideration.

The standout feature of this product is its ability to provide rapid access to your firearm. The pin entry system has been engineered for near-instant input, which swiftly opens the storage chamber. This design aspect is especially beneficial for those who value quick accessibility in high-pressure situations.

The user interface is intuitive, featuring a clear, backlit keypad that is easily navigable even in low-light conditions. However, during my testing, I noticed the keypad could be more responsive, occasionally requiring a firmer press. Additionally, I observed that the locking mechanism emits a noticeable sound when unlocking, which could be a concern in a situation where discretion is needed.

Balanced Features: Affordability Meets Functionality

The SpeedVault offers an effective balance between security and quick accessibility, all the while maintaining a competitive price point. Its digital locking mechanism is battery-powered, which might raise some eyebrows, but the company has thoughtfully included a key bypass feature for use during power outages or for those who prefer a traditional approach.

When it comes to space utilization, the interior, while spacious, could benefit from customizable shelving or compartments for storing ammunition or smaller accessories. This addition would enhance the overall utility of the safe.

During my testing, I managed to comfortably fit a full-sized 1911 and a Glock 17 inside the SpeedVault. This roomy interior allows those with larger firearms to also benefit from this safe’s features.

Pros:

• Roomy interiors can comfortably accommodate larger handguns.
• Durable construction with tight fittings and robust steel plating ensure top-notch security.
• Excellent choice when horizontal mountings aren’t feasible, such as the side of a desk or a bed frame.
• For those seeking more storage, larger GunVault models are available that can hold multiple handguns or larger weapons.

Cons:

• The key bypass feature, while useful in certain situations, can make the safe less ideal for non-concealed applications.
• Dependence on a battery for keypad operations may require regular battery checks and replacements.

Conclusion

Anchoring a drawer safe might often be regarded as the most secure way to keep a gun in the bedroom. However, such an option might not always be feasible, and sometimes it might not be the most tactically efficient choice either. This is where the GunVault SpeedVault can prove to be invaluable.

You can also read my article on how to disguise a gun safe.

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2. Fort Knox FTK-PB Simplex

Among the myriad of options available for bedside gun safes today, the Fort Knox FTK-PB Simplex has emerged as a standout model. During my personal experience testing this gun safe, I found that it exceeded the expectations and requirements of most potential buyers, providing an impressive combination of rapid accessibility and robust security.

Accessibility and Security: Hand in Hand

What sets the Fort Knox FTK-PB Simplex apart from its competitors is how it manages to meet stringent quick access needs, boasting an impressive open time of less than two seconds once you’ve acclimated to it. This speed was especially evident when I needed urgent access during a simulated home security breach. The safe’s mechanical lock, requiring no power, proved highly reliable, ensuring consistent performance without the worry of electronic failures.

An example that comes to mind during my testing phase was when I decided to conduct a mock emergency drill in the dark. Thanks to the tactile feedback of the buttons, I was able to unlock the safe without any visual aid consistently.

However, I found the tactile buttons to have a slight learning curve, especially for memorizing the combination in high-stress situations. The safe utilizes a two-stage code that you can enter with a few fingers, and the knob allows instant access to the well-built American safe. The solid steel construction and anti-pry features make it evident that Fort Knox prioritizes security, though the safe’s heavy build does limit its portability.

A distinct advantage of this model is the lack of reliance on batteries or biometrics, eliminating the possibility of power-related issues or delays in unlocking. Furthermore, the lifetime warranty that comes with the safe is a rare find in today’s market.

Pros

• Sturdy and robust construction for enhanced security.
• The pry-resistant lid design adds an extra layer of protection.
• Spacious interior that can comfortably house two full-sized handguns.
• Comes with pre-drilled mounting holes for easy installation.
• Includes extra foam inserts for added firearm protection.

Cons

• Weighing around 20 pounds, the safe lacks mobility.
• The exterior can get damaged upon exposure to water.
• The foam inserts near the hinge can occasionally interfere with the closing motion.

Conclusion

If you’re on the hunt for a simplex bedside gun safe that won’t easily yield to unauthorized access attempts, the Fort Knox FTK-PB Simplex is unquestionably one of the best options on the market. The pre-drilled mounting holes allow for easy and secure installation on nearly any surface, reaffirming the security assurance of the product.

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3. Stack-On PDS-500 Drawer Safe

If you’re searching for an affordable yet functional bedside gun safe, the Stack-On PDS-500 Drawer Safe merits considerable attention. In my time testing this product, I found it to offer a great balance of budget-friendliness and satisfactory performance, making it a viable choice for those looking to secure their firearm without breaking the bank.

A Closer Look at Functionality and Accessibility

One of the highlights of the Stack-On PDS-500 is its sizeable storage space. The safe could comfortably accommodate a full-sized handgun, along with several extra magazines and ammunition, which I found to be a significant advantage. During my testing, I also experimented with storing smaller valuables, like watches and passports, finding the safe’s layout versatile enough for various items, though the lack of separate compartments made organization slightly challenging.

However, the safe has its quirks when it comes to accessing the contents. For instance, during a timed test, I discovered that an additional keypress is needed after the code entry to “submit” it, which could cause issues during emergency situations. This quirk, while minor, became a point of frustration during repeated access trials, especially under simulated high-stress conditions. Also, the knob needs to be turned immediately after the code is accepted; otherwise, the unlocking window can be missed, making it slightly inconvenient.

Pros:

• A competitively low price point, making it a viable option for those on a budget.
• The heavy-duty construction adds a substantial level of strength and durability.
• Can fit full-sized handguns, offering ample space for storage.
• Comes with mounts included in the bottom of the safe for easy installation.

Cons:

• The recessed door design leads to a smaller opening, possibly hindering quick gun retrieval.
• The access mechanism is slower compared to other electronic locks, which could be an issue during emergencies.
• Reliability might be a concern, as it falls a bit short compared to other safes in the market.

Conclusion

The Stack-On PDS-500 Drawer Safe is an excellent choice for those who require a secure place to store a firearm in the bedroom, particularly if quick access in emergencies is not a prime concern. Its robust construction ensures resistance against common break-in attempts like prying or bashing.

If you ever forget your key/combination read how to open a safe without key/combination.

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4. VAULTEK 20 Series

In the realm of biometric bedside gun safes, the VAULTEK 20 Series has the potential to be a strong contender. During my time with this product, I was particularly impressed with its cutting-edge features and robust design, which provides a remarkable blend of security and connectivity that extends far beyond your typical gun safe.

The Connectivity Advantage: Harnessing the Power of Bluetooth

A defining characteristic of the VAULTEK 20 Series is its highly interactive Bluetooth experience, which comes to life when your phone is within range of the safe. This feature was particularly useful when I was away from home, as I could monitor the safe’s status and receive alerts on any unauthorized access attempts. One of the standout moments during my testing was when I received real-time updates on safe activity directly to my phone, enabling me to manage the safe options and settings seamlessly.

The safe is powered by a lithium-ion battery, which recharges in less than 3 hours and ensures up to 6 months of operation. However, I noticed that in colder environments, the battery life was slightly reduced, necessitating more frequent charging. Inside the safe, you’ll find auto-illuminating LED lights, a built-in proximity sensor, and more, all secured by an auto-opening lid within an LED-lit environment.

The Design: Compact Yet Robust

Constructed from 16-gauge steel, which is heavier than many competing models, the VAULTEK 20 Series is designed to accommodate either one full-sized or two compact handguns. The interior padding protected the firearms effectively during transport but the space felt somewhat cramped when storing a full-sized handgun with extra magazines. Its compact and sturdy design makes it ideal for both at-home and travel use, including hotels and offices.

Pros

• Super compact design for maximum portability.
• Constructed with thicker steel compared to similar models, ensuring robustness.
• Compatibility with smart keys.
• Bluetooth 2.0 capability for seamless integration with your smart devices.
• Long-lasting 6-month battery life with a charging time of less than 3 hours.

Cons

• The advanced features and superior construction come at a higher price point than many similar small models.
• The biometric scanner, while a convenient feature, increases the complexity of the safe, potentially leading to more maintenance.
• Not fireproof or waterproof, which could be a concern for those seeking additional environmental protections.

Conclusion

If your requirements for a bedside gun safe extend beyond basic security to include biometric and non-biometric options, and the ability to travel with you for home or road use, the VAULTEK 20 Series is certainly worth considering.

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5. V-Line Compact Keyless Gun Storage Security Locker

Among the multitude of bedside gun safe models I have tested, the V-Line Compact Keyless Gun Storage Security Locker stands out as one of the most compact and reliable options on the market. Its size makes it ideal for situations where storage space is limited, fitting snugly into a small drawer or cubby.

The Mechanism: Swift Access and Dependability

One of the key highlights of the V-Line Compact Locker during my testing was its flawless keyless KABA simplex lock mechanism. With no batteries to worry about, I found that I could access my firearm swiftly and reliably every time, regardless of the circumstances. However, I noticed that mastering the lock sequence does require some practice, which could be a slight inconvenience for new users. This simple but reliable mechanism adds a layer of confidence and ease to the security process.

The Construction: Lightweight and Robust

The locker features a steel body with powder coating. Despite its lightweight at only 5 pounds, the locker exudes a robustness that defies its size. I appreciated the powder-coated finish, which proved resilient against scratches and wear during my testing. My testing involved some rough handling, yet the locker maintained its form and function, reflecting its sturdy construction. However, the safe’s compact size limited its ability to store larger handguns or multiple firearms, which might be a drawback for users with more extensive storage needs. Additionally, it comes with all the foam inserts needed to keep your firearm secure and immobile.

Pros

• Solid and lightweight construction, ensuring portability.
• Easy mounting process, providing versatility in installation.
• Tamper-resistant clamshell design for added security.
• All-steel construction, ensuring durability.

Cons

• The 18-gauge steel, although sturdy, is on the thinner end of the spectrum.
• The product comes with a higher price tag compared to other simplex lock models.

Conclusion

In summary, the V-Line Compact Keyless Gun Storage Security Locker presents itself as one of the simplest and easiest bedside gun safes to use. Its straightforward mounting process enables you to secure it to virtually any surface in your bedroom, while its absence of power requirements underscores its practicality.

The locker’s simplex lock ensures your firearm remains safe and secure, whether at home or on the road. While it excels in ease of use and reliability, the limited capacity and lack of advanced technological features might not suit everyone’s needs. Despite a slightly higher price tag and thinner steel construction, the V-Line Compact Locker offers a unique blend of compactness, reliability, and simplicity that makes it a noteworthy option for your bedside gun safe needs.

If you want to move a gun safe, check how to transport a gun safe.

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What To Look For In Your Next Bedside Gun Safe

In my years of dealing with firearms, I’ve learned that when looking for the best bedside gun safe, there are only a few factors that truly matter. I’ve compiled a list of major considerations, features that I deem important, and all else should be regarded as bonuses that shouldn’t distract you from what makes a good gun safe.

Fast Access

From my experiences, having quick access to my firearm is crucial when selecting a bedside gun safe. For any home defense situation, I aim to access my safe and open it to retrieve my gun in less than 3 seconds—anything longer can potentially put me in danger.

I’ve found that whichever access method I choose—be it biometric or keypad—it needs to be user-friendly and prompt to open once the credentials are input. If I can’t build muscle memory to open the safe under dark, adrenaline-filled conditions in 1-2 seconds, I always consider an alternative safe.

Reliable

Reliability goes hand-in-hand with the ability to quickly access my gun. I need to be able to access and open my safe reliably in uncertain conditions—whether I’m groggy, in the dark, or unable to properly see the keypad or safe contents.

Not only should I be able to access and open the safe quickly and reliably, but it should also let me safely equip and load my weapon without interference.

Reasonably Secure

I believe in checking the level of security a safe provides. Given that the safe is securing my firearm, it should offer substantial resistance to forced entry. This doesn’t mean absolute resistance—after all, if the safe is anchored to a bedside table or a headboard, a determined thief could simply smash those things to dislodge the safe.

I look for a reasonable degree of security from prying, picking, and from children and thieves. The most robust bedside or nightstand gun safes I’ve tested were made with 10 gauge steel plate, while more affordable safes or those made with less expensive materials might have 12 or even 18 gauge steel. Although this doesn’t necessarily mean they’re less secure, they won’t withstand the same level of abuse that 10 gauge would.

Size

Size proved to be an incredibly important factor in choosing the best bedside gun safe for my bedroom. If you own a big, robust firearm like the Glock 17, the best nightstand gun safe to secure that steel would need to be long enough and deep enough to accommodate the dimensions of the gun.

If you’re looking at a slider-style safe, this becomes crucial since they have a more compact design and are more limited as to which guns can fit comfortably. Models like the SpeedVault are super-fast, but they also have limitations regarding what can safely be stored in them, and larger pistols or those with longer slides generally don’t fit.

Some safes market themselves as single gun or two-gun safes. Two-gun safes can hold two regular-sized handguns comfortably, though gun owners can also use them to store spare ammo or other valuables alongside their gun.

Hiding your gun safe adds an extra layer of security, see how to hide a gun safe.

Mounting & Anchoring

Almost all gun safes can be mounted or anchored in some way, but some might need a separate mounting kit or bracket assembly that the manufacturer doesn’t include by default. In evaluating safes, I’ve tried to include those with mounting options at the time of testing.

I always consider how the safe will mount to my anchoring point, which can be a bed frame, bedside table drawer, or nightstand frame. It needs to be sturdy, and the safe should be able to mount there without modification.

You can also read my article on how to anchor a gun safe to a wall.

Connectivity & Alerts

In my opinion, this set of features is excellent for those who enjoy technology, but it can be overwhelming for those who find tech intimidating. Some safes I’ve tested allow for updates or alerts when someone moves the safe or attempts to gain entry, or even simply to indicate when it’s time to change the backup system’s battery. More sophisticated models use Bluetooth for touch-free unlocking and opening.

While this can seem like a great way to reduce the time to access the gun safe, it can also be seen as a potential drawback. All it takes is for someone to steal your phone, or digitally impersonate you, and suddenly, they have access to your firearm. If you’re not particularly tech-savvy, features like this can complicate and frustrate the user experience.

Biometric vs. PIN Entry

These are the two most common entry types for bedside gun safes that I’ve encountered. Biometric entry safes use a biometric measurement or authentication method, usually a fingerprint, to authorize usage and open the safe. However, I’ve noticed that biometric locks are notoriously picky and require precise and still placement of your finger during the measurement and authentication stage, which can lead to false negatives in a quick authorization scenario. A greater capacity for fingerprint scan memory enhances the safe’s accuracy and reliability.

PIN entry requires a simple numeric code for the safe to open. I’ve seen safes where the PIN can be as simple as 3 or 4 buttons pressed in sequence, while more complex ones require more buttons or a specific combination or pattern. If you prefer a keypad system like me, ensure that the buttons are easy to memorize by touch, or that the pad includes a backlight for easy operation in the dark.

Battery vs. Mechanical Lock

Bedside gun safes can have alternative entry systems controlled by either a battery or a mechanical lock. One of the most reliable methods I’ve encountered is the Simplex mechanical lock, which doesn’t require any batteries or power. It’s a simple, American-made locking mechanism that saves you from access failures due to dead batteries.

If you opt for a safe with a battery backup, it’s essential that it’s easy to recharge and doesn’t require additional battery or lock maintenance. I’ve found the best way to achieve this is with a lithium-ion battery—similar to those found in most cell phones. These can be recharged with a standard USB cable, requiring no additional hardware or battery replacement.

Fire Safety Rating

Now, not every gun safe I’ve come across includes this feature, but many do. It is a great feature to have on any safe. Whether you anticipate it being in a fire or not, it can help safeguard your gun, ammo, and other critical documents or items during a fire. Look for a UL fireproof rating if fire safety is an important criterion for you. This rating indicates that the safe has undergone independent UL-certification, a benchmark I highly consider when selecting fireproof gun safes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Even with all of the information we’ve gathered here, there’s often still a few questions that people have about bedside gun safes. Here are some of the most common questions asked by those researching gun safes for the bedroom. Remember, the worst question is the one that goes unasked, and thus, unanswered.

Where Is The Ideal Place To Keep A Bedside Gun Safe?

Even when you narrow down your choice of a gun safe location to just a bedside table or nightstand, there are still so many potential options for how to store your gun or mount your safe. Some safes will allow you lightning-fast access but will need to be mounted outside of the drawer, like on the side of a dresser or nightstand. This will let you get to the gun in seconds, but also places it at higher risk of contact with kids or visitors.

There are some gun safe models that allow a more horizontal mounting, making their use in conjunction with a drawer or under-table storage location much more convenient. This lets the owner use them on the underside of a table or cubby, concealed inside a drawer, or even anchored directly to the top of the dresser or bedside table. 

Which one is going to be ideal for you is a question only you can answer. Depending on your situation and needs, whether kids or other individuals may be near the gun, and more, you may find that your ideal location is different from someone else’s.

Can A Gun Be Safely Stored Anywhere Else In The Bedroom?

While a gun can be stored quite safely in a gun safe anchored to the bedside table or nightstand, those aren’t the only place that can be leveraged for effective and secure gun storage. There are several places that can be used to store additional firearms or ammunition.

You can store a gun just about anywhere one will fit, provided it can be secured and accessed safely. This means you can put one under your mattress, in a computer or drafting desk drawer, anchored to your headboard, just inside a closet door, in an armoire or dresser, and nearly anywhere else you can imagine. Many non-standard locations may require some ingenuity to make them secure, but it can certainly be done in most cases. 

Can A Bedside Or Nightstand Gun Safe Travel With Me?

This will largely depend on where you’re going, and how you will be traveling. Since gun laws and carrying regulations vary so significantly from one jurisdiction to another, it can require a significant amount of research before traveling to ensure you are in compliance with all applicable laws.

When traveling within the United States, it is generally possible to travel with your gun provided certain protocol is followed. When flying, the firearm must be secured in checked luggage, and in most cases the ammunition must also be secured, although separately. Make sure you review and adhere to all TSA regulations before your flight

When driving, it is often required that the gun and ammo be transported in a secured state and stored out of reach of the driver. Always be sure you comply with local regulations regarding transport as well as carrying in either an open or concealed state.

Are There Legal Regulations That Gun Safes Need To Comply With?

Absolutely, there will always be some degree of legislation that gun safes will need to comply with, and certain standards they will be required to meet. These regulations may differ from one state to another and those regulations also change frequently, so you should take care to obtain a gun safe that meets or exceeds any requirements set by your local jurisdiction.

For example, all equipment that is approved for use by Californian gun owners will have California Department Of Justice approval. This means any safes that are designed for sale in that state should have a model of safe that carries that approval or endorsement. Other states may mandate that your ammunition is stored separately from a secured firearm, or that the firearm may not be secured while loaded. Be sure you are aware of all gun storage requirements in your area.

What Is A Simplex Lock?

A simplex lock is just a term for a type of mechanical lock that does not require any power, batteries, or biometric inputs to be opened. It uses a specific type of mechanical button that provides the user with significant tactile feedback that helps the safe to be accessed in only a few seconds. 

Since a simplex lock does not need batteries or power of any type, they do not have any sounds or override functions in most cases. They are also much easier to implement in rural or remote applications where batteries may run out or where power is not always guaranteed. Simplex locks will also generally include a warranty that far outlasts the coverage for other types of locks.

Conclusion

No matter what role you need your bedside gun safe to fill, be it storage or quick access, you should be able to find plenty of options that will fill that role. With a little forethought and some consideration to what you feel is important to you in your next gun safe purchase, this guide will hopefully help you narrow down the options to a few outstanding models.

Any one of the models we have highlighted would be at home in a bedside table or nightstand drawer. Just be sure you pay attention to the features you need and want, as well as any particular features or legal requirements your location requires, and you should be well-equipped to make an informed and educated decision. No matter which one you pick, I wish you safe and accurate shooting.