7 Best Pistol Safe Under $100 ( Reviews & Buying Guide )

“Your peace of mind shouldn’t cost a fortune—but your safety is priceless.”

In the world of firearm ownership, securing your weapon isn’t just a responsibility—it’s a lifeline. Imagine needing quick access in a heartbeat, yet knowing your pistol stays shielded from curious hands or unintended harm. For many gun owners, the challenge isn’t just finding a safe—it’s finding one that’s both kind to your wallet and tough enough to trust.

Enter the unsung heroes of home defense: pistol safes under $100. These compact guardians prove you don’t need to splurge to stay secure. Engineered with stealthy tech like biometric scanners, silent access codes, or sturdy manual locks, they’re the Goldilocks zone of safety—affordable, but never flimsy. Picture a safe that’s faster to open than your smartphone, yet rugged enough to withstand prying eyes or impatient hands.

Whether it’s tucked in a nightstand, mounted in a car, or hidden in plain sight, these safes are the quiet promise that your firearm is ready when you are—but out of reach when it’s not. Because responsible ownership isn’t about the price tag. It’s about sleeping soundly, knowing what matters most is protected.

Don’t just lock it up. Lock it right—without locking down your budget. 🔒✨

Top 7 Best Pistol Safe Under $100 (Reviews)

This “Best Pistol Safe” guide will explore various options in the market, considering factors such as build quality, locking mechanisms, ease of use, and overall user satisfaction. Join us as we navigate through the landscape of budget-friendly pistol safes, helping you make an informed decision to safeguard your firearms without exceeding a $100 budget.

1. ONNAIS Iron SE Gun Safe – Our Top Pick

The ONNAIS Iron SE Gun Safe is our top choice for securely storing handguns due to its combination of advanced features and durable design. Here’s why it’s an excellent option:

• Convenient Fingerprint Access: The biometric fingerprint scanner allows for quick and secure entry, ensuring that only authorized users can access the safe. This fast, touch-based access is crucial in emergency situations, providing both convenience and security.
• Battery-Powered Operation: The safe runs on batteries, ensuring continuous functionality even during power outages. With long-lasting battery life, users don’t have to worry about frequent replacements or recharging, keeping the safe reliable at all times.
• Dual Access System: In addition to fingerprint scanning, the ONNAIS Iron SE features both an electronic keypad and a mechanical key lock. This redundancy ensures that even if the electronic system fails or the batteries die, users can still access their firearms, offering extra reliability.
• Security Cable: For added protection, the safe includes a security cable, allowing it to be anchored to a fixed object. This makes it difficult for unauthorized individuals to remove or tamper with the safe, adding another layer of security.
• Alloy Steel Construction: The safe is built from tough alloy steel, designed to resist tampering and forced entry. Its solid construction ensures long-lasting protection for firearms, making it a strong and reliable investment for gun owners.

This gun safe stands out for its balance of security, ease of use, and durability, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking reliable pistol safe under $100.

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Best Pistol Safe Under $100 Buying Guide

Pistol safes are not all the same, but there are fantastic options to fit any budget and size. Before buying a best pistol safe under $100, you should consider what kind of firearms you’re storing and how quickly access may be needed. This is because the size, type, and steel gauge can all affect a safe’s security level as well.

For example; if someone wants an extremely high-quality pistol they might opt into getting firearm safe that has more expensive materials or craftsmanship. So, which pistol safes are best suited for you, depends on your current collection and what you might get in the future in order to give enough room for storage. Here are the other important things that you should consider:

Size of the safe

If you are thinking about getting more guns in the future, then you should buy a gun safe that is larger than what you have now. If you are looking for something to travel with or just lock away a pistol, passport and cash, then get a small and simple one.

You can buy stack-on safes, but experts recommend having one large safe with a dependable locking mechanism. For example: if you have long guns that are only used for shooting or hunting, you might be happiest with a vertical long gun safe. If you have many different kinds of guns, buy one long safe to put all of your guns in.

Type of safe

Different people have their own preferences when purchasing these safes. But, it will mainly depend on the type of your firearm. There are different types of safes for all sorts of guns-long gun, pistol and even ones to store your long rifles or shotgun. But before you buy one make sure that it will suit your firearm in which you plan on storing them.

Locking mechanism and power source

There are three kinds of locks–biometric, electronic, and dial. Biometric locks will allow you to access your firearms quickly. Electronic and dial locks will take longer. Biometric and electronic locks need batteries or an electronic power source to operate. But, a dial lock does not have this requirement.

A traditional gun safe usually has a combination lock. This lock is on the door and it extends into the metal frame too. This kind of safe is popular for storing long guns and larger collections, like one at a gym. The dials also have more numbers than your average gym locker combo code, so it’s harder to break. It also has a high-end feel to it!

Some safes use a keypad or unmarked buttons that must be pressed in the right order. These are easier to use, and take less time than a rotary dial. Some of these advanced safes have biometric scanners that only allow the safe to open when it detects the appropriate fingerprint. These give you almost instant access, and offer high security.

Materials

A safe doesn’t do any good if someone can break in. That’s why you should not rely on the free hard cases that come with guns. These safes are not made well. They are made of weak metal or have locks that can be broken with force.

Instead, get a safe for your gun that has strong metal and an unbreakable lock. All of these safes will protect your gun from getting damaged by contact with the hard shell or fire, which is really useful when you’re storing guns for long periods of time!

Fire protection rating

You can purchase a safe to keep your guns in, but be sure that it has the right fire protection. The steel used for gun safes is very durable and will withstand temperatures up high as 2,500°F – which would melt most other products on earth; however even though house fires usually don’t exceed 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit (about 600 Celsius), this doesn’t mean you should skimp out when buying one! Make sure there’s at least 30 minutes worth of time so they’ll survive whatever may come their way.

Are biometric pistol safes secure, and are they worth the extra cost?

Biometric pistol safes can be secure, but their level of security depends on various factors, including the quality of the safe, the biometric technology used, and how well they are designed and manufactured. Here are some considerations:

1. Biometric Technology: The reliability and security of a biometric pistol safe depend on the quality of the biometric sensor and software. High-quality sensors are more accurate and less prone to false readings.
2. False Acceptance and False Rejection Rates: Biometric systems can have false acceptance (the system allowing unauthorized access) and false rejection (the system denying access to authorized users) rates. A good biometric safe should have low false acceptance rates to ensure it doesn’t open for unauthorized users.
3. Backup Access: It’s essential to have a backup access method, such as a keypad or key, in case the biometric sensor fails or malfunctions. This ensures you can still access your firearm in emergencies.
4. Durability and Tamper Resistance: A secure biometric pistol safe should be built with strong materials and tamper-resistant features to prevent physical attacks.
5. Power Source: Biometric safes typically run on batteries. Ensure the safe has a reliable power source and low-battery alerts to prevent being locked out when the batteries run out.

As for whether they are worth the extra cost, it depends on your needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:

• Convenience: Biometric safes offer quick and easy access, which can be crucial in emergencies. If you prioritize fast access to your firearm, the extra cost may be justified.
• Security: A high-quality biometric safe can provide a secure storage solution. However, you should be willing to invest in a reputable and well-reviewed product to ensure reliability.
• Budget: Biometric safes tend to be more expensive than traditional key or combination safes. Consider your budget and whether the added convenience and security are worth the additional cost.
• Usage Scenario: If you need to access your firearm frequently, such as for home defense, the convenience of a biometric safe may outweigh the cost. However, if it’s for long-term storage with infrequent access, a less expensive option might suffice.

In summary, biometric pistol safes can be secure and offer the advantage of quick access, but their security and value depend on various factors. It’s essential to research and choose a high-quality biometric safe from a reputable manufacturer to ensure it meets your security needs and justifies the extra cost.

What is the difference between a pistol safe and a gun cabinet?

Pistol safes and gun cabinets are both used for firearm storage, but they have significant differences in terms of size, security, and purpose. Here are the main distinctions between the two:

Pistol Safe:

1. Size: Pistol safes are smaller and more compact compared to gun cabinets. They are designed to store one or a few handguns and, in some cases, magazines or other small accessories.
2. Security: Pistol safes prioritize security and quick access. They typically have robust locking mechanisms, such as electronic keypad locks, biometric fingerprint scanners, or combination locks. Some models are built to be tamper-resistant and pry-resistant.
3. Portability: Many pistol safes are designed to be portable. They often have features like cable attachments or carrying handles, allowing you to transport them easily, whether for travel or securing in different parts of your home.
4. Quick Access: Quick access is a key feature of pistol safes. They are designed for fast retrieval of firearms in emergency situations, such as home defense.
5. Single-Purpose: Pistol safes are primarily intended for the secure storage of handguns. They may not have the capacity to store long guns or rifles.

Gun Cabinet:

1. Size: Gun cabinets are much larger and are designed to hold multiple firearms, including rifles and shotguns. They often have multiple compartments or racks for organizing firearms.
2. Security: While gun cabinets offer a level of security, they are generally less secure than pistol safes. They often have glass or wooden doors that can be broken into if a determined intruder gains access.
3. Display: Gun cabinets are often used to display firearms as well as store them. They may have glass panels or decorative features to showcase your firearm collection.
4. Key or Lock: Gun cabinets typically use traditional keys or simple locks for access. They are not designed for quick access in emergencies.
5. Storage Capacity: Gun cabinets are suitable for storing a larger number of firearms, making them a better choice for collectors or hunters with multiple weapons.
6. Long Gun Storage: Gun cabinets are specifically designed to accommodate long guns, such as rifles and shotguns, in addition to handguns.

In summary, the key differences between pistol safes and gun cabinets are their size, security features, purpose, and storage capacity. Pistol safes are smaller, more secure, and designed for quick access to handguns, while gun cabinets are larger, often used for long gun storage, and may prioritize display over high-security features. The choice between the two depends on your specific needs and preferences for firearm storage.

How can I ensure my pistol safe is compliant with local firearm storage laws?

Ensuring your pistol safe is compliant with local firearm storage laws requires taking the following steps:

1. Understand Your Local Firearm Storage Laws

• Research your local laws: Firearm storage laws vary by country, state, and even municipality. Check your local government websites or consult legal experts to understand specific requirements. Common regulations may include keeping firearms unloaded, locked, and stored separately from ammunition.
• Consult official sources: Use resources like the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in the U.S., or equivalent agencies in other countries, to review national guidelines and recommendations.

2. Choose a Safe That Meets Legal Standards

• Tamper-resistant safes: Many laws require gun safes to be tamper-proof and resistant to break-ins. Choose a safe with solid construction, such as steel, and security features like pry-resistant doors.
• Approved locking mechanisms: Ensure the safe has an approved locking system, which can include biometric (fingerprint), keypad, or traditional key locks. In some jurisdictions, only certain types of locks are legally recognized.
• Certified safes: Look for safes certified by organizations like the California Department of Justice (DOJ) or UL (Underwriters Laboratories), as these are often compliant with safety standards required by law.

3. Follow Safe Storage Guidelines

• Unloaded firearms: Most laws require that firearms be stored unloaded to prevent accidents. Double-check that your pistol is unloaded before storing it.
• Separate storage for ammunition: Some jurisdictions mandate that ammunition must be stored separately from the firearm, often in a locked container. Ensure you have a separate lockbox or compartment for ammunition storage.
• Safe placement: Laws may dictate where a firearm safe can be placed, such as in a secure part of the home that is not easily accessible to unauthorized individuals or minors. Avoid placing safes in highly visible areas or in unsecured places like garages.

4. Consider Child-Access Prevention Laws

• In many areas, it is illegal to store a firearm in a way that allows a minor to access it. A safe with strong security features, such as biometric access or complex keypads, can help meet these legal obligations.
• Additional child safety measures: You may need to employ additional safety tools, such as trigger locks, to further prevent access.

5. Maintain Documentation

• Receipts and certifications: Keep receipts and any certification documents for your safe to prove its compliance in case of legal inquiries.
• Owner’s manual: The safe’s manual often includes details about its security features, certifications, and capabilities. Store this in a safe place for future reference.

6. Regular Inspections and Maintenance

• Check locking mechanisms: Regularly test your safe’s locks to ensure they function properly. Faulty locks can violate compliance and create safety risks.
• Battery check: If your safe uses electronic or biometric access, make sure to replace the batteries regularly to avoid access issues in emergencies.

7. Consult Local Law Enforcement or Legal Professionals

• Reach out to local law enforcement or a legal expert specializing in firearm laws to verify that your storage methods meet all local requirements. They can provide guidance and updates on any changes in legislation.

By taking these steps, you can ensure that your pistol safe complies with local firearm storage laws, providing safety and legal protection.

FAQ’s

Are pistol safes fireproof?

A handgun safe is not the perfect solution for protecting your pistol from fire. A small size firearm safe won’t provide adequate protection against an extreme situation.

The contents of a pistol safe will be less protected in the event that you have to evacuate, so its best if they can stay put during an emergency situation with plenty of room left over on each side. A smaller size would make things harder for those trying desperately fighting off flames; which means an extra large gun safe may actually be better suited than anything else could ever hope to offer.

Should you have multiple pistol safes?

Multiple pistol safes are a great way to protect your firearms and other valuable items. They can be placed in various locations around the house, making them easier for you or others who may need access during emergency situations. This also helps spread out valuables so that thieves will have less luck getting all of our stuff!

Are pistol safes secure?

Pistol safes are essentially scaled down versions of full-size gun safe. Meaning they’re not quite as secure, but at least you can carry them around and that makes up for it in some ways! They take less space than other alternatives too which is why these smaller pistol models work well if your living situation requires something portable or discreet while protecting whatever’s inside from unwanted visitors.

How much should you spend on a pistol safe?

The prices vary depending on how fancy or simple you want your pistol safe. You can get a quality $100 model, but the cost will go up to about 300 for something smart safes with all of its bells and whistles!

Can pistols rust inside a safe?

The answer is yes! You can cause your pistol or gun safe to rust by keeping it in a humid environment, which isn’t great for the metal. One way you might be able reduce this risk of happening would be adding an extra dehumidifier into its setup; letting out moisture before any problems arise will help avoid them later on down the line.

Can I transport my pistol safe easily, and are there portable options available?

Yes, there are portable pistol safes designed for transport. They often have cable attachments for securing them in vehicles or hotels. Ensure they comply with local laws and regulations when traveling.

Do pistol safes require maintenance, and how often should I check them?

Yes, pistol safes should be periodically inspected and maintained to ensure they function correctly. Check the batteries in electronic safes, lubricate hinges and locks as needed, and regularly test the access mechanisms to ensure they work reliably. It’s a good practice to inspect them at least twice a year.

Conclusion

Pistol owners want to protect their weapons from home invasions, while also make sure they can quickly access their pistol for home defense. This is why many people will keep a gun under bed or beside themselves at night time. And for this, a pistol safe comes very handy because when you’re not here a child or burglar won’t grab it easily from under the bed/nightstand.

And from the above list of the best pistol safes under $100, I hope you will find what safe works for your application, but remember every one has little things that make them better than others so please keep this into consideration when looking at different brands or models!

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