Fast, reliable access, sturdy build, and smart security for bedside peace.
If you keep a pistol for home defense, quick access and safe storage aren’t optional—they’re everything. I’ve tried combo-only safes that felt slow in the dark and “budget” boxes that rattled like tin. This compact biometric keypad vault promises speed, security, and a small footprint that fits the nightstand life. In this review, I share how it performed in my home, who it suits best, and what stood out—so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your setup.
Is Hornady Biometric Keypad Vault (97536) Good?
For most people who want fast access with strong security, yes. The biometric reader and keypad give you two quick ways in, and the backup key adds peace of mind. It’s a great match for bedside use, apartments, and anyone who wants to secure a pistol and small valuables without a bulky safe. If you live with kids or guests, it’s an easy upgrade from simple lockboxes.
On my first week, I trained my main finger twice and added two backups. Late one night, I timed how long it took from wake-up to open—under two seconds with the fingerprint and about three with the keypad. Another day, I mounted it discreetly in a closet shelf; it stayed solid with no wobble, and the door opened cleanly without knocking into anything. It felt like the right blend of speed and control.
My First Impression
It arrived in tidy packaging with solid foam and clear instructions. The vault felt dense and well-finished, with a sturdy lid and smooth edges. The biometric sensor and keypad sit cleanly on top—no flimsy rattles or cheap plastics. Setup was simple: insert batteries, program a PIN, and enroll fingerprints. The guide walks you through it in minutes.
My first few scans were fast. I tried different finger angles, and it still unlocked without drama. The keypad buttons are tactile and easy to find in low light. I felt a little skeptical before unboxing, but after a few cycles, I was excited—it felt like the safe I wanted years ago when I first set up my nightstand.
What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- Biometric fingerprint access for one-touch, fast entry
- Digital keypad with PIN as a reliable backup method
- Physical backup keys for failsafe access
- Solid steel construction with tamper-resistant design
- Compact footprint for nightstand, closet, or office storage
- Gas strut or assisted opening for quick, quiet lid lift
- Interior space fits a handgun plus essentials like a spare mag
- Mounting options to secure it to furniture for extra security
What I Like
- Unlocks fast with fingerprint or PIN, even in low light
- Feels solid and well-built with clean fit and finish
- Quiet lid opening—great for nighttime access
- Simple setup with clear instructions and quick enrollment
- Backup keys give peace of mind if batteries die
- Good size for most pistols plus a spare mag or small valuables
- Mounting ability adds real security in a shared home
What Could Be Better
- Biometric sensors work best with clean, dry fingers; enroll multiple fingers
- Interior space may be tight for large-frame handguns with lights
- Batteries need periodic attention; keep the keys accessible but hidden
My Recommendation
If you want fast access and reliable security in a compact safe, this is a strong pick. It’s best for bedside or apartment use where space is tight, and you need quick entry under stress. The dual access (biometric and keypad) is the winning combo. For me, the Hornady Biometric Keypad Vault (97536) Review comes down to trust—it opened when I needed it and stayed locked when I didn’t. The value is solid for the feature set, and it’s easy to find in stock.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Nightstand home defense | Fast biometric access and quiet opening |
| Apartments or small spaces | Compact size with secure mounting options |
| Families with kids or guests | Locked storage with multiple access methods and backup keys |
Alternative Products You Can Consider
VAULTEK VT20i Smart Pistol Safe — Great for tech-forward users who want an app, Bluetooth, and interior lighting. It is slightly pricier but offers smart alerts and multiple entry methods. The fit and finish are premium, and the interior organization is excellent. Compared to the Hornady, it adds smart features but at a higher cost.
SentrySafe QAP1BE Biometric Safe — A budget-friendly option with a basic biometric reader and gas strut. It’s simple and often runs on sale, making it a good starter safe. Build is lighter than the Hornady, but it’s easy to use and fits most pistols. If cost is key, this one competes well on value.
Fort Knox PB1 Handgun Safe — No biometrics here—just a heavy, all-steel, mechanical simplex lock. It’s ideal if you hate batteries and want rock-solid construction. It’s heavier and larger but incredibly durable. Compared to the Hornady, you trade speed and biometrics for rugged, battery-free reliability.
| Product | Best For | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Hornady Biometric Keypad Vault (97536) | Fast, compact bedside security | Biometric + keypad + keys in a small footprint |
| VAULTEK VT20i | Smart features and remote oversight | App control, alerts, and premium interior |
| SentrySafe QAP1BE | Lower cost and simple access | Budget build with basic biometrics |
| Fort Knox PB1 | Maximum durability, no batteries | Mechanical simplex lock, heavy steel |
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
If you want balanced speed, security, and ease, the Hornady Biometric Keypad Vault (97536) is the sweet spot. It gives you biometric speed, keypad redundancy, and backup keys in a compact build that fits real homes. For most bedside setups, it’s a dependable, no-fuss choice.
Pick the VAULTEK VT20i if you value app control, alerts, and premium organization; it’s great for tech lovers. Choose the SentrySafe QAP1BE if you want a simple, lower-cost starter safe. Go with the Fort Knox PB1 if you prefer mechanical simplicity and heavy steel over electronics. Match the safe to your priorities, and you’ll feel confident every time you lock up.
FAQs Of Hornady Biometric Keypad Vault (97536) Review
Does the biometric reader work with multiple fingerprints?
Yes. Enroll several fingers from both hands for best results, especially for different angles or if a finger is wet or dirty.
What happens if the batteries die?
You can still open it with the included backup keys. Replace batteries on a set schedule to avoid downtime.
Will it fit a full-size handgun with a light?
It fits most pistols, but large setups with weapon lights may be tight. Check dimensions before buying.
Can I mount it to furniture?
Yes, it supports mounting for added security. Anchoring it prevents easy removal.
Is the keypad loud at night?
The buttons are tactile and fairly quiet. You can rely on the fingerprint reader for even quieter access.
