Fast RFID entry, solid steel build, and smart storage make this a reliable AR locker.
You want quick access but also tight security. Maybe you have kids at home, or you travel with your rifle and need safe storage in a vehicle or closet. I’ve been there. I wanted a fast, tamper-proof way to lock up my AR without dragging out a full-size safe. That’s where this low-profile rifle locker fits. It gives you speed, a clean install, and peace of mind in one unit. In this review, I share what stood out, what fell short, and who will love it most.
Is Hornady RAPiD Safe AR Gun Locker 98190 Good?
Yes, if you want fast access and real security in a compact form. It is best for AR owners who need rapid, touch-free entry and a slim locker that fits under a bed, in a closet, or across a vehicle seat. In my case, the RFID tags saved time when I needed to open it in the dark. I tapped the wristband and the lid popped with a clean, spring-assisted lift.
Another time, I mounted it low inside a closet. The wiring for AC power was easy, and I left batteries as backup. It kept my rifle and a few mags tidy, locked, and ready. It felt strong, quiet, and safe enough that I stopped worrying about curious hands.
My First Impression
It arrived well packaged with dense foam and a clean, matte steel finish. The locker felt heavy in a good way. The hinges and latch looked robust, and the cut lines were tight. Inside, the foam was firm and shaped to hold a rifle steady, even with an optic and a mag attached.
Setup was simple. I programmed the RFID tags in minutes and tested the keypad as backup. The gas strut opened the lid smoothly. The first open felt satisfying. It met my expectations for speed and build quality. I felt a mix of relief and excitement, because it solved my access problem without a bulky safe.
What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- RFID touch-free entry with multiple tags (card, fob, wristband) for fast access
- Heavy-duty steel body and tamper-resistant design for real security
- Spring-assisted lid and gas strut for quick, one-handed opening
- Dual power: AC power with battery backup for always-on readiness
- Low-profile footprint for under-bed, closet, or vehicle storage
- Interior foam that fits AR-style rifles with optic and magazine
- Keypad and physical key backup in case of emergencies
What I Like
- Opening is instant with RFID; no fumbling with codes at night
- Sturdy steel and tight tolerances inspire confidence
- Gas strut makes access smooth and quiet
- Fits an AR with optic and mag without cramming
- Mounting options work for home or vehicle use
- AC plus battery backup means it stays ready
- Multiple entry methods cover any failure point
What Could Be Better
- Not a full-size safe; storage is limited to a rifle and a few mags
- RFID tags must be kept handy; lose them and you use keypad or key
- Mounting hardware is solid, but vehicle installs can take extra time
My Recommendation
This locker is best for owners who want fast, safe AR access in small spaces. It shines for parents, apartment dwellers, and anyone who carries a rifle in a vehicle. If you value quick entry plus real steel security, it is hard to beat. In short, the Hornady rapid safe ar gun locker review points to strong build, smart access, and a tidy footprint.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Quick-access home defense | RFID entry and gas strut lid open fast and smooth |
| Apartment or small-space storage | Low-profile design fits under beds and in tight closets |
| Vehicle use | Secure mounting and compact shape for behind seats |
Alternative Products You Can Consider
Vaultek RS200i Smart Rifle Safe: Great for users who want app control, biometric entry, and modular interiors. It offers more tech features and a vertical layout. It is taller, so it needs more space. It can be faster via fingerprint, but the Hornady RFID is just as quick and simpler to maintain.
SnapSafe Under Bed Safe (Large): Best for wide, flat storage of long guns and gear. It uses a slide-out drawer and keypad entry. It holds more items but is slower to open than RFID. Choose it if you need capacity over speed.
Barska Quick Access Biometric Rifle Safe: Ideal for users who want a budget-friendly, upright rifle safe with fingerprint entry. It provides quick access but may feel lighter in build. The Hornady has a more robust, low-profile steel body and smoother lid action.
| Product | Best For | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Hornady RAPiD Safe AR Gun Locker 98190 | Fast, compact AR storage at home or in vehicles | RFID touch-free entry and low-profile steel design |
| Vaultek RS200i Smart Rifle Safe | Tech lovers who want app and biometric control | Vertical layout with smart features; larger footprint |
| SnapSafe Under Bed Safe (Large) | Owners needing extra space and a slide-out drawer | More capacity; slower keypad access vs RFID |
| Barska Quick Access Biometric Rifle Safe | Budget, upright rifle access | Fingerprint entry; lighter build than Hornady |
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
If you want fast access, compact size, and strong steel, the Hornady is an easy pick. RFID entry is quick and reliable, and the low-profile body fits where tall safes do not. It is ideal for home defense setups and vehicle mounting.
Pick the Vaultek RS200i if you love app control and biometrics and have space for a tall safe. Choose the SnapSafe Under Bed Safe if you need wide storage and a drawer for more gear. Go with the Barska if you want a budget upright safe and can accept a lighter build. For most AR owners who value speed and a slim footprint, the Hornady hits the sweet spot.
FAQs Of Hornady rapid safe ar gun locker review
Does it fit an AR with an optic and a magazine inserted?
Yes. The interior foam and length support an AR-style rifle with an optic and a mag.
How fast is the RFID entry compared to a keypad?
It is faster. Tap the tag and the lid opens. A keypad takes a few extra seconds.
Can I use it in a vehicle?
Yes. It is low profile and can mount behind or under seats. Use secure mounts.
What happens if power goes out?
It uses AC power with battery backup. You also have keypad and physical key access.
Is it child-resistant?
Yes. The steel body, tamper-resistant design, and secure lock keep kids out.
