7 Best Bedside Pistol Safe in 2024

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We provide an in-depth guide on selecting the best bedside pistol safes for 2024, emphasizing factors like security, design, and value for money. Our top picks include the Vaultek VE10 Essential for overall quality, Stack-On PDS-1500 for best drawer safe, and the Amazon Basics P1EF for its unique design. Each model is carefully analyzed for its features, benefits, and suitability for keeping your handgun secure yet easily accessible.


The world has become highly dangerous, and it’s not exactly a surprise that we, homeowners, are starting to think of getting guns to protect ourselves and our families.

However, to avoid being caught off guard when an intruder enters your home, you’ll need to get the best bedside pistol safe. With a safe like this, you’d sleep soundly at night knowing that your handgun is only a stretch of your arm away.

And after extensive research from my side, I found that the Vaultek VE10 Essential Safe is the best among the options out there, thanks to its rugged construction, impressively slim design, and high level of security.

I’ve compiled a list of the best bedside pistol safes so you can find the perfect match for your safety needs. 

Ready? Let’s get started!

Quick Summary: Our Top 5 Picks For Bedside Pistol Safe in 2024
IMAGEPRODUCT
Vaultek VE10 Essential
  • Extremely slim, durable design
  • Includes a unique LED light
  • It has a proximity sensor
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Stack-On PDS-1500
  • Dependable, secure, and small
  • Compact enough to fit into many bedside drawers.
  • Has pre-drilled holes and mounting hardware so you can install it
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Amazon Basics P1EF
  • Distinctive construction that’s suitable for storing two handguns
  • Extremely high construction quality
  • Made of durable 16-gauge powder-coated steel
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Liberty HD-200
  • Durable
  • Built to last
  • Easier to remove your handgun without having to reach deep into the safe
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RPNB RP1136
  • Provides reliable security
  • You can open it with an RFID key
  • Made of heavy-duty 16-gauge steel
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Comparison Table:

ModelDimensions “Inches”LockWeight “lbs”
Vaultek VE10 Essential 10.5 x 8.5 x 2.1Keypad5.2
Stack-On PDS-150012 x 8.75 x 4.5Keypad13.2
Amazon Basics P1EF12.4 x 9.6 x 3.4Keypad, Biometric9.9
Liberty HD-2005.4 x 12.4 x 8.5Keypad9.5
RPNB RP1136 112.8 x 9.4 x 4.1Combination3.5
V-Line Compact9.5 x 7.25 x 2Keypad5
SentrySafe QAP2BEL9.8 x 16.4 x 3.2 Biometric15.75

Here Are the Best Bedside Pistol Safe (Our Picks)

Now, let’s dive deep into each model’s specifications and unique features so you’d see the full options for every brand to decide which one is going to be your safety companion.

1. Vaultek VE10 Essential – Best Overall

VAULTEK Essential Series Quick Access Portable Safe Auto Open Lid Quick-release Security Cable Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery (VE10 (Sub-Compact Safe))

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The Vaultek VE10 Essential Bedside Pistol Safe includes everything you’d look for in a bedside gun safe. It has an extremely slim, durable design along with various high-end features to make your life easier.

This handgun safe includes a unique LED light that allows users to quickly see the safe’s interior at night. In addition, it has a proximity sensor, which will enable you to access the keyboard despite lighting conditions.

In terms of construction, this safe stands out from the competition; it’s made of heavy-duty steel, providing the best durability. Moreover, you can be sure that it’d last with you for a long time with this type of design material.

The Vaultek VE10 Essential safe comes with a highly responsive keypad, so you’d be able to enter your password quickly to gain access to your weapon. Also, the manufacturers added an auto-open lid, which increases security and, more notably, convenience.

Because the Vaultek VE10 is made of 18-gauge carbon steel, it’s easy to transport in your car, backpack, or luggage. You can also use the provided security cable to secure it to a solid surface or bolt it down with the included mounting hardware.

A remarkable feature that you’ll appreciate is the adjustable audio quality of the safe; you can turn the audio on and off without making any noise with this unit. So, if you’ve got a burglar in your home, the safe won’t be beeping when you open it.

Another advantage is that this safe includes a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that provides on-the-go power for up to four months. Also, it charges in only 2.5 hours using the included micro-USB cable and any standard USB port or USB power adapter.

In addition, the safe has a Polarity-Sensing feature, which means you can insert the battery either way, and it’ll automatically adjust the polarity.

Takeaway

If you’re looking for a bedside pistol safe that’ll last forever with you, the Vaultek VE10 Essential would be your perfect match, thanks to its durable construction made of the finest high-quality steel. In addition, if you prefer to sleep in complete darkness, the LED light will come in handy for easier access.


2. Stack-On PDS-1500 – Best Drawer Safe

Stack-On PDS-1500 Drawer Safe with Electronic Lock

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The Stack-On PDS-1500 Bedside Pistol Safe is dependable, secure, and small. This model is intended to store weapons and other small handguns and is compact enough to fit into many bedside drawers.

However, if you don’t prefer to keep your handgun in your drawer, this safe has pre-drilled holes and mounting hardware so you can install it, whether inside a drawer or on the floor.

Related Article: 7 Best Biometric Gun Safes

The PDS-1500 includes an electric lock that’s extremely simple to use. You can program it with a 3 to 8-digit unique PIN code. Then, every time you press the dial, it emits a beep sound.

Also, the safe has an electronic locking mechanism and a timer that gets activated when the password is entered incorrectly three times in a row. With these features, you’ll be able to tell if somebody has fiddled with your safe, and it’d be the right time to move your safe to a different place.

It’s worth mentioning that this safe is highly resistant to pry attacks. The pry-opening technique is most commonly used by burglars. And because the PDS-1500 employs two live locking bolts and concealed hinges, it resists their attacks. The safe is also made of steel, making it extremely difficult to break into. This safety level is pretty amazing for such a small, inexpensive safe.

In addition, the interior of the Stack-On PDS-1500 is designed to keep your valuables safe. The floor is completely padded with foam to keep your items from getting scratched.

This bedside pistol safe also comes with four AA batteries that give power to the electronic dial lock. This should usually last with you for more than a year. After that, if the batteries die, you can open the safe with the backup key that comes with it. This way, you’ll never be locked out of your belongings.

I also need to mention that Stack-On has excellent customer service. In addition, it provides exceptional 3-year warranty service for the PDS-1500 model. This warranty eliminates the need for you to pay more money for any repairs required.

Finally, the California Department of Justice has approved the PDS-1500 safe for gun storage because it meets the firearm safety standards. However, it isn’t fire-resistant.

Takeaway

If you don’t like to grab attention that you’re keeping a handgun safe on your nightstand, then you’d be happy with the Stack-On PDS-1500 drawer safe. Thanks to its reliable electronic locking mechanism, it provides high security for your pistol and valuable items despite its compact size.


3. Amazon Basics P1EF – Design Pick

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The Amazon Basics P1EF is a unique bedside pistol safe. It comes with a distinctive construction that’s suitable for storing two handguns and various other valuable items.

This handgun safe has an extremely high construction quality, with a well-built anti-pry door that keeps your valuable items and guns safe. Moreover, it’s made of durable 16-gauge powder-coated steel, resulting in maximum durability for a very long time. Besides, its well-built construction features dual-layer security, providing maximum protection against break-ins.

In addition, this safe comes with a whisper-quiet rubber button that would work instantly to provide you with quick and easy access to your gun in just a couple of seconds. Also, the door comes with an auto-open feature, which ensures exceptional ease of access. 

In fact, this safety device provides you with a 500 DPI semiconductor biometric fingerprint sensor with a speed of one second or less for fast access. You’d also be able to add up to 50 different fingerprints to give access to every member of your family. And don’t worry; it has a touch scan lifetime of 1,000,000 times.

The safe includes mounting hardware and pre-drilled mounting holes, allowing you to install it inside a drawer or on the floor. 

Furthermore, the safe’s interior is lined with thick padding to protect your firearm. And you’ll have enough room to store other small items like your passport or ammo without difficulty.

When it comes to its warranty, this safe has a 1-year warranty service. This will put your mind at ease if any flaws are discovered.

And since the California Department of Justice has approved this unit as a firearm safety device, you can be confident that this safe meets firearm safety standards.

Takeaway

If you’re searching for a handgun safe with a unique design to decorate your nightstand while keeping all of your valuable items safe, then the Amazon Basics P1EF is your best choice. In addition, you’d benefit greatly from the incredible quick access, thanks to its unique biometric fingerprint sensor.


4. Liberty HD-200 – Best Value for Price

Liberty Handgun Vault - HD-200 - Quick Combo Vault

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If you want to buy a sleek gun safe that’s durable, look no further than the Liberty HD-200.

Despite its small size, the safe is built to last because it’s constructed with high-quality steel. With its durable, long-lasting design, this safe gives you the best value for your money.

Rather than the standard box design, Liberty has altered the game by the back-tilting of this door’s model. This makes it much easier to remove your handgun without having to reach deep into the safe or bang your pistol against the top of the safe.

However, due to the safe’s sturdy construction, you may need to put up with a relatively heavy unit, as this safe weighs 9.5 pounds. But it won’t only keep your guns safe but also your other valuables such as keys, passports, wallets, and phones.

Related Article: Best Hidden Gun Storage Furniture

In addition, this incredible safe comes with reliable and quick key access. It also includes a key backup override that allows you to access it even if the batteries run out or you forgot the combination.

And let’s not forget that this safe comes with a practical anti-pry feature that alerts you when someone tries to open your safe; that’s why the safe is hack-proof. Additionally, it has a tamper-proof design that ensures no one can successfully tamper with it.

Furthermore, the safe’s interior is illuminated, allowing you to see your items clearly whenever you open the safe.

Liberty offers a 2-year replacement warranty. As a result, if a fault in the safe’s system occurs, you’ll be able to replace it based on the replacement warranty.

It’s worth mentioning that the Liberty HD-200’s heavy-duty steel construction and anti-pry and tamper alert features are why it’s DOJ approved.

Takeaway

If you’re searching for a gun safe with a sleek, durable design and a good value for its price, the Liberty HD-200 should be your go-to option. It’s compact yet reliable enough to secure your valuables.


5. RPNB RP1136 – Budget Pick

RPNB Gun Safe,California DOJ Certified Gun Safe, Smart Pistol Safe Handgun Security Safe with LED & RFID Quick Access,11" x 7" x 1.8"

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The RPNB RP1136 safe is considered the most affordable bedside pistol safe on this list. Despite being affordable, it provides reliable security.

Because of its small and compact design, it’s well known for being a weapon safe that you can easily place in your carry-on luggage. And since the safe satisfies the Transporting Firearms and Ammunition regulations for handgun safety in checked baggage, you can travel with it.

This safe comes with a cable that can be easily attached to a bed stand and quickly accessed when needed. In addition, you can open it with an RFID key, a keypad, or a standard key. Finally, you can attach the fob to your keychain or wear it around your wrist for quick access.

This safe is made of heavy-duty 16-gauge steel; this means that it’s highly durable and would last with you for a lifetime. The safe’s interior is also nicely padded to hold your weapon firmly and securely.

The RPNB safe has a biometric fingerprint technology that allows single-handed entry. And it has a 5-minute lock-down mode to protect your valuable items from intruders. Furthermore, this safe provides a large capacity of 20 individual fingerprints, allowing you to give access to all of your family members or trusted individuals in your circle.

This model also has interesting anti-theft and tamper-proof features, as well as anti-impact latches and a seamlessly welded pry-proof steel body to provide you with the ultimate break-in prevention. These features combined are why this safe is DOJ-approved.

However, I have to mention that the safe needs AAA Alkaline batteries to work. And you’ll need to replace those batteries regularly before they die, so you can access the safe without any setbacks.

Finally, RPNB provides its customers with a 1-year warranty for any defaults that might appear in the safe.

Takeaway

If you’re on a tight budget and you need a reliable bedside pistol safe that won’t break your bank, then you’ll love the RPNB safe. Thanks to its solid steel construction, it’s a compact and reliable gun safe. In addition, you can easily pack it in your luggage if you prefer to have your firearm with you on your travels.


6. V-Line Compact – Best Mechanical Safe

V-Line Compact Keyless Gun Safe, CA DOJ Certified Portable Quick Access Pistol Safe for a Handgun and Ammo. Mechanical Lock. Great for Single Handgun When Traveling.

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The V-Line Compact safe is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a dependable bedside pistol safe with a mechanical locking system that you can open quickly and easily. Since this safe has a mechanical locking system rather than an electronic one, you won’t rely on using electronics in emergencies.

Additionally, it has a Simplex 5-button mechanical lock that’s easily programmed and doesn’t require batteries. And because there are 1081 possible combinations, it’s difficult for anyone to “guess” your combination.

This safe is the ideal size for a pistol safe, weighing only five pounds, which makes it easily transportable when traveling. It can also be used in your car or when there isn’t enough room in the house for a larger pistol safe.

Related Article: 7 Best Pistol Gun Safe

In terms of construction, the V-Line Compact Safe is made of a relatively solid 18-gauge steel, with a 3/8 inches steel lock block that adds strength to the lock bolt and cover guides. This stable structure will ensure the safety of your firearm for many years to come.

In addition, the safe comes with a high-density foam interior that protects up to two pistols and valuables while in travel.

When it comes to security, the safe has a pry-resistant retractable design since the upper clamshell lid folds over the body. And it also has large overlapping sides to provide additional protection against prying.

Moreover, this compact pistol safe has an enlarged hole in the back right-hand corner of the case to facilitate a padlock or cable lock for securing your case at home or in your car.

And if you experienced any defaults in the safe, don’t worry; V-Line provides you with a 1-year warranty. This safe also complies with California Penal Code Section 12088.

Takeaway

If you prefer to buy a bedside pistol safe with a mechanical locking system that you can rely on to highly secure your valuables, the V-Line Compact would be your best fit. In addition, the mechanical locking system will spare you the hassle of electronics in times of emergency.


7. SentrySafe QAP2BEL – Best Biometric Access

SentrySafe QAP2BEL Gun Safe with Biometric Lock, 2 Capacity & Interior Light

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The SentrySafe QAP2BEL Bedside Pistol Safe will provide you with the best biometric access. This is because the safe’s biometric finger scanner will let you open the safe quietly and quickly. Also, it’ll allow you to use it in complete darkness. 

Moreover, this biometric lock has a high accuracy access rate due to its comprehensive image scanning feature. A total of four different finger scans can be saved as it has a maximum capacity of four other users. And in addition to the fingerprint scan, you can use the backlit backup keypad in the safe.

The Sentry Safe QAP2BEL has a sleek, modern, and futuristic appearance. It’s compact enough to fit in most drawers and has space for one handgun plus other small valuables like extra ammo, a passport, and cash or only two guns.

And there are mounting holes on the bottom of this safe so that you can mount it on a shelf or the floor. It also comes with mounting bolts.

Regarding the construction of this safe, it’s made of 12-gauge hardened steel. It’s one of the thickest among safes of its size. This construction ensures that your weapon is highly secured. In addition, it’s stiff and will resist any attempts to bend it.

Also, this safe is made with great care to eliminate any possibility for prying. There are only straightforward ways to open this safe: use the key, keypad, or biometric scanner.

Additionally, the safe opens easily with a gas strut compression that allows you to open it in complete silence. Moreover, the LED internal light creates a blue neon inside the safe to provide easier access to your belongings even in the dark.

However, this safe is powered by four AA batteries rather than a lithium-ion battery, so make sure to check on them regularly to avoid access issues during an emergency. In addition, it comes with a 1-year warranty in case something goes wrong with it.

Takeaway

If you prefer a bedside pistol safe with biometric access, you should choose the SentrySafe QAP2BEL. Besides the fingerprint scanner, it’ll also offer you the option to open it using the backup backlit keypad. And thanks to the safe’s gas strut, it guarantees you easy, silent access.


Buying Guide: What to Think About When Shopping for a Bedside Pistol Safe

When shopping for a bedside pistol safe, consider factors like size, which should accommodate your gun and possibly extra magazines; quick access mechanisms for emergencies; and robust security features like biometric locks or keypads. Durability, with sturdy construction materials, and interior padding to protect the gun, are also crucial. Price, balancing affordability with quality, and additional features like tamper alerts or internal lighting enhance the safe’s usability and effectiveness.

Before you make the final decision to buy a specific bedside pistol safe, there are various features that you should consider. We’ll cover these features in detail and explain why they’re essential to you.

Biometric vs. Keypad

Biometric and keypad entries are the two most common safe entry methods. 

To gain access to a biometric safe, you must scan your fingerprint. Therefore, it’d be best to look for how many fingerprint impressions the safe can store in its memory. Of course, the more fingerprints, the better. 

The standard is 5, 10, 20, and 50 fingerprints. Also, try to avoid biometric safes that demand a “swipe” scan; instead, opt for touch and hold scans.

On the other hand, keypad entry produces fewer false results but necessitates memorizing a code to gain access. Most keypad entry systems have only four or five buttons, and you must use a combination of those buttons. However, you’d need to look for controls that are spaced apart so that you can notice them in the dark.

However, some keypad entry systems have backlit keys, which improves the user experience significantly. Other models even have a motion sensor that turns on the backlight as you approach the safe.

Security

When it comes to security, we need to look at some features. For starters, make sure that you obtain a heavy gauge steel safe. Steel safes of 10, 12, and 18 gauges are available. The higher the number, the thinner the steel.

Then, look for anti-pry bars around the safe’s lip to prevent crowbar strikes. Finally, look for a safe with internal hinges because they support and strengthen the safe’s back.

Connectivity

Some safes communicate with an app to notify you when someone tries to open the safe or when the battery is dying. Other safes use Bluetooth to detect your presence and open the safe for you. If you’re a tech-savvy person, this feature may be helpful to you.

Battery vs. Mechanical

A mechanical entry system, such as the Simplex automatic locking system or a combination lock, is an alternative entry mode into your safe. The Simplex lock is made in the United States and is a standard locking mode because it doesn’t require batteries.

If you decide to buy a battery-powered safe, look for models that use lithium-ion batteries recharged via USB. These batteries last longer and are simple to recharge.

Size

One of the issues that you might face during your research is that many slider-style safes can’t accommodate a large number of handguns. As a result, it’s very important to double-check this before purchasing a slider model.

Aside from that, the other options are usually single or dual gun safes. Dual gun safes are large enough to accommodate two standard-sized handguns.

However, you can use these safes to store whether one gun and some spare ammo, or one gun and some valuables items such as watches, passports, or cash.

Mounting Capacity

Most bedside safes can be mounted, but make sure they include the mounting accessories out-of-the-box, or else you’ll need to buy them separately.

With a mount, you can ensure that the safe won’t be stolen too quickly (you could also use a cable for this purpose).

The safe is usually installed inside a nightstand drawer or, in the case of slider safes, on the nightstand’s edge. In this manner, the safe wedges between the nightstand and the bed.

Quick Access

It’s worth noting that a quick access nightstand gun safe can come in handy during an emergency. For example, if your home has been broken into, you shouldn’t expect to take so much time to find the keys or try tampering with the lock several times at night.

As a result, mechanisms for quick access such as RFID, keypad locks, backup keys, and fingerprint locks should be available in your bedside safe.

You won’t have to worry about the batteries running out or losing your credentials because most safes now have locking mechanisms.

Warranty

As with any safe purchase, carefully examine the warranty by reading the small print. A standard warranty would last a year because any malfunction could occur during that time.

Some manufacturers also offer one-of-a-kind plans that allow you to extend your warranty period. If a lifetime warranty is available with the safe you’re going to buy, then take advantage of this warranty to save you from any future hassle.

Interior Lining

If you buy a nightstand pistol safe, you’ll need to keep some valuables in it. The valuables could be your handgun, jewelry, media, or any other item you don’t want to get scratched.

As a result, an interior lining in the gun safe prevents your valuables from being scratched even if they’re handled roughly. Furthermore, if a person attempts to shake the safe to gain forceful entry, the contents inside will remain intact and secure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where Should I Keep My Gun in the Bedroom?

You can keep your gun in different places in your bedroom. Let’s have a look at these places.

– Bedside gun safe
– Under the bed 
– Inside a nightstand
– Alternate drawer
– Fixed magnetic gun mount near the bed
– Under the Pillow
– Hidden drawer

Are There Legal Compliance Requirements for a Handgun Safe?

Yes, absolutely! The requirements differ from one state to another. So, you need to make sure that you’re well aware of the local laws of the country you’re living in. For example, you may need to keep your firearms and ammunition separate or in a handgun safe with specific features.

Can I Travel With My Handgun Safe?

Because of their compact and lightweight construction, handgun safes are ideal for traveling. However, different jurisdictions have different regulations for weapons. 

So, when traveling within the United States, be careful to verify your state laws as well as airline or transportation authority policies. Also, check that the safe you buy complies with TSA regulations for firearms in checked-in luggage.

What Is the Most Reliable Handgun Safe?

The Vaultek VE10 Essential series is the most reliable handgun safe. This safe provides you with quick access to your firearm, valuables, and documents, as well as the convenience of portability.

How Thick Does a Gun Safe Have to Be?

The gun safe must be made of at least 3 mm steel sheeting, and it must have hidden hinges and a high-quality flush-mounted lock. In addition, the thickness of the door must be no less than 6 mm.

Do I Have to Store Ammo in a Gun Safe?

Yes, but it’s important to keep your ammo in a separate locked safe from your gun safe. This reduces the possibility of your child or other family members loading the ammunition into the weapon.

Final Verdict

After this intensive review, you probably agree with me that the Vaultek VE10 Essential Handgun Safe is the best bedside pistol safe out there. It outperforms its rivals with the unique proximity sensor feature, which will allow you to access your safe’s keyboard even in the darkest atmosphere. 

It’s the only bedside handgun safe on this list that’ll give you an outstanding, responsive keypad for the quickest and easiest access to your firearm at the time of need. It’s also made of heavy-duty steel, giving it impressive durability.

Moreover, it can be secured to a solid surface using the security cable attached to the safe or bolted down with the included mounting hardware. Finally, it’s highly portable; it can be transported in your car, backpack, or luggage.

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