Best Gun Safe Under $1000 [2024 Review]

As a responsible gun owner, it’s a duty to have a highly secured gun safe when there are kids in your house. You can hide your rifles with a proper safe, or you should not keep your guns where they can easily be accessible. To overcome this situation, look at the best gun safe under $1000 or less for your family’s safety.

Why I purchase guns? To protect my family from thieves, burglars, or for my self-defense. But what if this gun becomes dangerous when it is not stored in a secure place? So to overcome this problem, you should invest in secure gun units.

I have researched and spent many hours finding the best gun safes under $1000 and listed them down in detail that will save your time and select the right firearm unit for your rifles.

• Lock Proof – When you are looking for a safe, always select that unit that can be easily accessible in emergency times. Now gun safes come in multiple options of locking selections.
• Fire Rating –  If you live in an area prone to fire, select the fireproof unit. Also, if you are specifically looking for a fireproof gun safe at a reasonable price.
• Storage Capacity – Whether you buy your unit online or offline, always go for the spacious safe and easily store more rifles and other documents. Because when you decide to purchase or add more rifles to your inventory, then you should not end up buying another rifle safe to store your newly purchased guns.

Always go for the right safe after deeply researching it because returning gun safe can be very frustrating as they deliver through the freight carriers.

The Best Gun Safes Under $1000

For a quick overview, I highly recommend the SentrySafe EF4738E Fireproof Waterproof Safe as one of the low-cost gun safes. If you wish to read the rest, my buying guide contains a comprehensive list.

Best Gun Safe Under $1000

SentrySafe EF4738E Fireproof Waterproof Safe

Proud owner of the handguns and looking for a unit to store it safely and securely, then checkout SentrySafe EF4738E Fireproof Waterproof Safe. This unit can hold fire for at least 1/2 half an hour @ 1400°F. In terms of flood-type situations, this unit protects your stored firearm for at least 72 hours up to 12 inches deep, offering peace of mind in floods.

In terms of space, this unit can easily store a couple of handguns, ammo, money, important documents, etc. Inside the unit, 3 shelves can be removed or adjusted according to your need. There are two ways to access the unit, and these are through the electric digital keypad and the manual key.

The unit has a thickness of 11 gauge steel for durable and reliable protection. Also, there are 5 live locking and 4 deadbolts which are enough to keep away the unauthorized users. Sentrysafe is certified by the California Department of justice. There are no pre-drilled holes inside the unit due to the fireproof and waterproof features.

The manufacturer has provided all the mounting bolts in the future if you decide to drill inside the unit. Remember, if you drill the safe, your warranty will be void due to the fireproof feature.

Dimension	W*D*H
Internal Dimensions	19.4 x 11.7 x 35.7
External Dimensions	21.7 x 19 x 37.7
Weight	95 Pounds
Fire Rating	Half Hour Fireproof Rating
Lock	Electric Keypad Lock & Manual Lock

• Removable Shelves
• Strong Construction
• Stores Multiple Handguns & Other Items
• Protected Interior Carpet
• Fireproof For Half Hours @ 1400˚F (760˚C)
• Waterproof For 72 Hours Till 12 inches of water
• No Interior Light
• No Battery Provided

Barska Large Biometric Rifle Unit

If you are looking to store multiple rifles in a secure safe and access the unit instantly, check out Barska Large Biometric Rifle Unit for under $1000. Barska unit lets you access your firearm in just 2.5 seconds with the help of a biometric scanner. This unit can store 8-9 rifles easily without any scope attachment.

The unit’s Interior comes with 3 removable shelves, which cannot be adjusted according to need. You can utilize the space on the shelves or remove it and store long rifles or dehumidifiers inside the unit. You can access the unit in 2 ways, and these are through a biometric scanner or manual keys. Biometric scanner stores 120 unique fingerprints, and the “manufacturer claims a 100% unlocking rate on the first attempt”.

In terms of security, it is made up of 14 gauge solid steel tamper-resistant inner edge walls. It comes with 5 built-in deadbolts and 5 locking systems that will keep your firearms away from thieves from prying the unit. There are pre-drilled holes inside the unit with all the mounting hardware to mount the safe on the floor or wall as added protection.

When you unlock your unit, there will be a beep sound while accessing the unit. When you hit the button near to scanner, it will beep a sound. And when your finger is scanned, there will be again a beep sound knowing your safe has been opened. But you can turn that sound off.

Dimension	W*D*H
Internal Dimensions	13.5 x 12.5 x 56.5
External Dimensions	13.75 x 13.38 x 57
Weight	114 Pound
Fire Rating	Not Fireproof
Lock	Biometric Scanner & Manual Keys

• Can hold long rifles/guns
• DOJ Certified
• Access Your Unit In 2.5 Seconds
• 14 Gauge Solid Steel Construction
• Comes With a Backup Battery
• Discrete Access
• Not fireproof
• Shelves Cannot Be Adjusted

Steelwater 16 Long Gun Safe

If you are looking for a premium featured gun safe under $1000, you can look at Steelwater 16 Long Gun Safe. Made up of 14 thick gauge steel that is very heavy, taller, and also fireproof. The locking bolt is 1.5 long, so if anyone wants to drill or cut through, it will take many hours to do it.

Inside the safe, there are adjustable shelves where you can store different types of weapons, documents, ammo, other accessories, etc. The unit can hold up to 8 long guns easily with a maximum of 16 long guns.

Sometimes I can’t predict natural disasters or fires, which can happen at any time. But this safe will keep all your valuable belongings inside safe and secure. It is fireproof which can resist more than 1875 degrees F, a maximum of 60 min.

It comes with Led interior lighting, so it’s easy to use in a dark room or when it’s an emergency. E.M.P Proof Digital Keypad with a Double Bitted High-Security with Bypass Key. The keypad is polished in chrome which can be set to 3-8 digits of a passcode.

The digital locking system runs on one 9v alkaline battery. Also, if sometimes, if your battery is dead or if there is an emergency, then you can use the by-pass key which is provided inside in safe.

Dimension	W*D*H
Internal Dimensions	55 3/4″ x 19 1/2″ x 12 1/2″
External Dimensions	59” x 22” x 16”
Weight	330 Pounds
Fire Rating	60 minutes
Lock	Digital keypad with bypass key

• Fireproof (60 Min)
• Solid construction
• Made of 12 gauge steel construction
• Comes with a rechargeable dehumidifying box
• Very heavy to move
• Hard to fit 16 long guns

Mesa Safe Gun Safe

Looking for your shotguns and rifles to store in an organized way, then definitely have a look at Mesa Safe Gun Safe. It can store up to 14 rifles, but there should be no mount or additional equipment attached (Scoop) to it.

It’s 59 inches tall and 22-inch wide outside, including 20 inches deep with 500 pounds in weight, making it hard for you to move it. It is made up of 12 gauge steel without any pre-drilled anchor holes. It has a digital lock system that can be programmed easily to keep away from unauthorized access. It can withstand 1750 degrees F, which can hold 60 minutes of fire.

It comes with a free pocket door organizer that stores small firearms like ammo, handguns, revolver, knife, etc. The gun shape racked helps to secure the rifle, long guns, and shotguns, in a secure position. The manufacture has provided a lifetime warranty with this unit.

Dimension	W*D*H
Internal Dimensions	19¼”W x 13″ D x 55⅜”H
External Dimensions	22″W x 20″D x 59″H
Weight	528 pounds
Fire Rating	1 hour 1750 degrees
Lock	Electric Lock

• Hold shelves to organize valuable
• Fireproof with a protection level of 1750 F (1 hour)
• Made from 12 gauge steel
• Comes lifetime warranty
• Very heavy to move
• Cheap keypad

Verifi Smart Safe

If you want a gun safe that is FBI certified and had a biometric fingerprint safe, look at Verifi Smart Safe. If you want quick access in case of an emergency, then you can depend on it.

The fingerprint sensor is made up of superior TouchChip TCS1, which has been tested by the united states FBI. It can store your firearm, ammo, and other valuable items.

Sometimes in a hurry, I forget to close the gun’s door safe, which can lead to disastrous consequences when there is a firearm stored there. But thanks to its alarm system, sensors in the door detect if it remains open and alert in such an event.

But in Verifi smart safe, you cannot store long guns or rifles in it, but you can insert racks to organized firearms and other valuable items. It can easily be move from one place to another.

Also, it has led light inside the safe, so when you are operating in the middle of the night in case of emergency, it will illuminate your safe without causing any night blindness.

It also stores 1000 logs which can only be viewed by admin. So if there is any unauthorized access, it will alert you about unauthorized access. The best part is it also has a battery indicator. So when the battery is running out, it will tell you 3 days before.

Dimension	W*D*H
Internal Dimensions	17.1 (W) x 11.8 (D) x 7.3 (H)
External Dimensions	17.4 (W) x 16.1 (D) x 7.9 (H)
Weight	31 Pounds
Fire Rating	Not fireproof
Lock	Smart lock

• Best for storing a small firearm
• Tested and certified by the FBI
• Has TouchChip TCS1 silicon fingerprint sensor
• Good for home, office, garage, etc
• Not good for shotgun, rifle, etc
• You have to purchase racks separately

Mesa Safe MBF1512E

If you are looking to store multiple handguns inside the fireproof unit for almost 2 hours, then check out Mesa Safe MBF1512E.

The Interior has a lot of space to store handguns, and also, you can remove or add the shelves to organize space according to your needs. You can also store many valuable items, handguns, accessories, and ammunition.

The safe is operated by the battery electronic keypad, where you can lock and unlock the safe. So if someone tries to enter 3 failed passcode, it will automatically disable the safe for 16 minutes.

It has solid, durable steel construction, so if someone tries to punch or drill, also there is a quarter-inch plate on the door that will prevent the robbery. But it does not have any certified certification, but still, you can rely on it.

Dimension	W*D*H
Internal Dimensions	16 1⁄2″ X 14 1⁄4″ X 12 1⁄2″ Inches
External Dimensions	20″ X 17 1⁄4″ X 18 3⁄4
Weight	139 pounds
Fire Rating	2 Hours
Lock	Battery Operated Electric Lock

• Hold fire till 2 hour
• Comes with adjustable shelves
• Solid Steel Construction
• No certificate
• Bottom is thinner

Moutec Biometric Gun Safe

If you want a gun safe for your handguns that is compact and has biometric security, the Moutec Biometric Gun Safe can hold two handguns while still having enough room for accessories.

This gun safe features strengthened solid steel wall construction. It has a powder coating finish for corrosion resistance. There are three ways for accessing the contents of the gun safe and it is by using the backlit keypad, fingerprint sensor, and a key.

The door opens automatically and gives you quick access to the storage contents. The gun safe can save up to 20 different fingerprints. The fingerprint sensor has a touch lifespan of 1,000,000 times.

Other accessories include an LED light inside the gun safe that gives better visibility inside. You even have a security cable included in the package.

The gun safe door offers maximum protection thanks to its pry-resistance feature, reliable dual-layer steel housing, and pry-proof steel covering. You even have an internal safety bracket and built-in hinges included in the box.

Dimension	W*D*H
Internal Dimensions	11.8” X 7.5” X 2.4”
External Dimensions	13.4” X 11” X 3.3”
Weight	13.99 pounds
Fire Rating	Not fireproof
Lock	Biometric

• Solid and durable alloy steel construction with a durable security cable
• Has backlit keypad, silent mode, and a LED light inside the safe
• Gun safe has pre-drilled holes and hardware for easy mounting

Billconch Gun Safe

Billconch gun safe has a durable outer made from high tensile strength cold-rolled steel. It has a powder coating that is corrosion resistant. It can store pistols only and can store up to 3 at a time.

You get a small digital display screen right above the fingerprint sensor. It’s easy to set up and convenient for quick and easy access.

It has four different unlocking methods and is one of the best user-friendly gun safes on this list. It has a biometric sensor, numeric password combination, manual key in case of electric failure, and a smartphone access connection to open your gun safe.

This gun safe has voice navigation and even voice reminders. You can disable it by enabling silent mode which is a big convenience.

The fingerprint biometric security is excellent. It can store up to 40 different types of fingerprints and has quick response time when the fingerprint is inputted.

Dimension	W*D*H
Internal Dimensions	Not specified
External Dimensions	13.78” X 13.78” X 12.99”
Weight	27.8 pounds
Fire Rating	Not fireproof
Lock	Battery Operated Electric Lock

• Solid, heavy-duty, and durable steel gun safe
• Automatic locking features
• Has removable shelf and foldable gun racks

Vaultek MXi High-Capacity Smart Handgun Safe

If you only plan to store a handful of handguns, then the Vaultek MXi High-Capacity Smart Handgun Safe is a great option for you. This smart handgun safe features a tough interior and exterior, easy installation, and smart technology.

When it comes to its build quality, the Vaultek Handgun Safe is made with 14-gauge carbon steel construction which makes it very hard to break open. You also have a 12-gauge front opening door with a powder coat finish. The finish enhances the durability, ensures the surface has longer-lasting protection and adds some anti-corrosion on the surface.

The Vaultek MXi Smart Handgun Safe has a large interior. You will have enough space for storing up to eight handguns. There is even enough room for storing accessories, valuables, and ammunition. 

This gun safe also features impact detection, dual anti-impact latches, anti-pry bars, dual entry security mode, and a high-resolution biometric scanner.

The Vaultek MXi is a smart handgun safe. This means it has Wi-Fi connectivity which allows you to connect to the safe through a smartphone. This is done thanks to Vaultek’s  Wi-Fi app and web dashboard. The app offers a lot of features and information for you.

When it comes to its locking security features, it has many. You have Wi-Fi locking technology, an eight digit keypad with auto illumination that even has a proximity sensor. You also have a large biometric fingerprint scanner, manual backup keys, and smart key nano.

The door of the safe opens up right away so you can have instant access. This may become handy when you are in emergency situations where having access to your handguns the soonest as possible is important.

Dimension	W*D*H
Internal Dimensions	13” x 11” x 8.6”
External Dimensions	15” x 11.5” x 11.6”
Weight	31.9 pounds
Fire Rating	Not specified
Lock	Electronic, Key

• High-quality steel construction ensures durability and safety
• Lots of anti-theft protection features to secure the contents of the safe
• A high-resolution fingerprint scanner ensures it works consistently to give you quick access

Buyer’s Guide

As I know, crime is increasing speedily, which is always a scaring for me. In television, radio, or social media news, I always see or hear 3-4 crimes daily of kidnapping, killing, rape, money extortion, etc.

And my planet earth is not safe anymore as it’s getting worse day by day. Getting a fire weapon is becoming necessary for people living with family, alone, or with some valuable items in my house.

1. Even if you live in a remote area, it does not mean you are safe with your valuable items. Having a gun will not only protect your family but also it will protect valuable items.
2. Owning a gun is a good idea but keeping it safe from unauthorized access is also your responsibility. Even if you think that you have to hide your gun somewhere, then you might be wrong. Your family members can easily access it. Or what if your kid gets it and it will be significant damage which you can’t imagine.
3. So having a good gun safe is always a good idea when you are a gun owner. The safe comes with multiple locking options like biometrics, mechanical, combination, and many more.
4. A gun safe can give you higher security for your guns and ammo. These safe cannot be open by anyone to accept you or to whom you have given authorization.
5. Safe can also be useful when there is a natural disaster, fire, etc. So whenever this type of incident occurs, and you are not there to protect it, the safety box will protect stored firearms.

Points to Consider Before Choosing Best Gun Safe Under $1000

As I know, buying the best gun safe is not as easy as it looks. And before paying money to retailers or manufacturers, you should look at these points before finalizing the gun safe.

• Attention to depth: Always look for in-depth storage of the safe. So, if you are going to store a rifle with a scope attached to it. Because sometimes it’s always annoying to attach the scope and sight it again. So better look for depth that can accommodate the scope attach with a rifle.
• Check your local gun shop to buy a particular safe. If the particular unit is too expensive or still you have confusion about a particular unit, it’s always to go and check that unit near your local gun shop.
• How much spending: Sometimes insurance company covers burglary insurance when you own a safe.
• Where you will put your safe: Always consider accessing your gun safe easily. If you put your safe in your garage or the basement, it will be harder for you to go in the basement to store your gun. So always put it where it’s easily accessible for you.

Factors to Consider

So now you have decided to buy the best gun safe under $1000 but wait. Below I have discussed some points you should read carefully before finalizing any gun safe for your gun.

Size and Capacity

How many rifles or guns will you store? Or how many rifles or guns you have? Ask yourself this question yourself. Because size matters most and for big guns and small guns, you don’t need any other safe to store them separately.

Go for that safe, which can actually hold long guns and handguns. So especially if you will buy rifles or handguns, then the right safe for both weapons will be different in size.

Always check how many shelves a safe is providing to store your handguns or pistols. Because sometimes some safes have special hangers and holsters for pistols.

Also, if you are planning to buy more weapons in the future, that safe, which will store more firearms.

Lock

The most important aspect of the gun safe is to look at the locking system. Also, always go for a minimum of three bolts to resist being open.

Today there are many locking patterns available in gun-safe biometric fingerprint locks, electronic keypad, mechanical dial, etc. Dial lock is also available but avoids them because they are too time-consuming and easy to break or crack.

Always Remember keys can be lost easily, and it will take a lot of time to get them replaced. The electronic keypad allows changing the code whenever you want to and can be operated by 2 AA batteries that can last for many years. They also have a backup of a mechanical lock.

Biometric keypads are the best ones and are highly recommended because no codes to remember; only they will scan your fingers, and you are done. Also, you can allow many people to whom you want to share access.

Thickness

Sometimes I forget the thickness of any safe. But when it comes to storing guns, then thickness also matters; that’s why I suggest you go for a minimum of 11-12 gauge steel if you want to keep it away from children.

But if you feel that burglars, then it’s highly recommended to go with a minimum of 12 gauge steel or above. Because it will be tough to break the safe for intruders.

Fire Rating

Now, if you are going to buy a safe, then spending a few dollars extra on a fireproof gun safe will be a good option. So always go for a safe which can hold at least 30-60 minutes of fire.

Check the Returns Policy

Whenever you buy an expensive product like a gun safe, then always look towards the return policy. Because sometimes I get the defective product and weren’t able to return it due to its no return policy.

So return policy will save your money and also from zero policy. So it’s better not to overlook any return policy while finalizing any product.

Additional Features

Oftentimes gun safes have some unique additional features of their own. However, do be aware that some gun safes add unique features at the cost of something. It might be reducing the quality of certain materials or increased pricing for the product.

Some additional features that gun safes usually add are door panels, lighting kits, facial recognition features, and some new security safe technology.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

When selecting a gun safe, you should not compromise security for your stored firearms. A safe that is made up of steel, you can look for your weapons. Now it all depends on your budget for a gun safe under $1000.