Best Lightweight Gun Safe For Protection

Responsible gun owners know that choosing to own a deadly weapon comes with an obligation to ensure security. Having secure storage for guns, like a lightweight gun safe, will ensure no unforeseen accidents will happen, including possible theft and access by children.

However, safes are usually heavy. If you seek flexibility and easy access, lightweight safes are a better choice. While weight is a subjective matter and there are tons of options in the market today, you can start with the top lightweight safe options from our reviews.

What Is A Lightweight Gun Safe?

A lightweight gun safe works like any other safe—they are originally created to limit access to certain people and keep everybody else out. You can use them at home, at a store, or at a firing range.

Using gun safes to store your firearms is the first step toward increasing security. Since they are designed for guns, accessing, storing, and organizing guns will be more convenient. However, not all gun safes are created equal, it’s crucial to look at the features before you decide on buying one.

10 Best Lightweight Gun Safes In 2022

Finding the best lightweight gun safes can be quite a challenge. It requires some research on measurements, storage capacity, fire protection rating, locking mechanisms, and so much more. Here is a quick guide on the best lightweight safes on the market today.

Product Name	VAULTEK LifePod 2.0	SentrySafe Fireproof and Waterproof Steel Home Safe	V-Line Compact Keyless Gun Safe	RPNB California DOJ Certified Gun Safe	SnapSafe Tall Titan Digital Modular Safe
Cost	$159.99	$208.55	$166	$49.99	$1,999.99
Weight	3.3 lbs	86.69 lbs	5 lbs	3.5 lbs	400 lbs
Height	2.125”	17.8″	4.8″	3.62″	59″
Interior	9.625″ x 7.25″ x 2.125”	12.6″ x 11.9″ x 13.8″	9.25″ x 7.25″ x 2″	12.00″ x 9.05″ x 3.34″	55.125″ x 17″ x 14.5″
Exterior	12.25″ x 8.5″ x 2.875″	16.3″ x 19.3″ x 17.8″	12.5″ x 8.4″ x 4.8″	14.56″ x 9.25″ x 3.62″	59″ x 22″ x 17.5″
Fireproof	No	One Hour @ 1700°F	No	No	One hour at 2300°F
Lock	Manual keys, touch-activated keypad	Electric keypad, manual key	Push-button mechanical lock	5-Digit PIN keypad, manual key, RFID	Electronic lock, 8 one-inch steel locking bolts

Product Name	Awesafe Gun Safe	V-Line 31242-SA Quick Access Keyless Long Gun Safe	Barska Quick and Easy Access Biometric Rifle Safe	SentrySafe QAP1E Gun Safe with Digital Keypad	Moutec Large Rifle Safe
Cost	$129	$344.30	$368.99	$124	$379.99
Weight	10 lbs	10.91 lbs	62 lbs	12.20 lbs	88 lbs
Height	3.3″	47.99″	52.13″	9.7”	57”
Interior	9.6″ x 6.3″ x 2.4″	42″ x 12″ x 3.5″	6.3″ x 9.7″ x 51.75″	6.7″ x 9.7″ x 2.2″	56.5″ x 13.4″ x 12.4″
Exterior	12″ x 10″ x 3.3″	47.99″ x 12.52″ x 8.7″	9.75″ x 8.63″ x 52.13″	9.9″ x 12.1″ x 3.2″	14”x 13.8” x 57”
Fireproof	No	No	No	No	No
Lock	Electronic locks, biometrics	KABA Simplex Mechanical Lock, manual keys	Biometric scanner, backup keys	Digital keypad, manual key	Keyboard, manual key

1. VAULTEK LifePod 2.0 – Best Overall

VAULTEK’s LifePod 2.0 is the ideal pick for people looking for a compact lock box that does the job well. This safe is made with the most rigid material and can store handguns up to 9.25 inches in length.

For security, it includes a LED touchpad to enter a master code. You can also opt to use the backup key to open it. It also has an extra layer of security with an anti-picking mechanism you can enable from the inside.

• Cost: $159.99
• Weight: 3.3 lbs
• Height: 2.125” H
• Interior: 9.625″ x 7.25″ x 2.125”
• Exterior: 12.25″ x 8.5″ x 2.875″
• Fireproof: No
• Lock: Manual keys, touch-activated keypad

Pros	Cons
Light and rugged construction makes it easy to carry	Battery not included
Weather-resistant IP65 with airtight interior	Pluck foam sold separately
Dual compression latches enable airtight storage and security against physical impact	Not the best option for double-stack handguns

2. SentrySafe Fireproof and Waterproof Steel Home Safe – Best Small Fireproof

Are you looking for a lightweight safe that can also save your firearms from fire and water damage? The SentrySafe Steel Home Safe is a perfect buy. It can save your handguns from fire  for at least 1 hour at 1700°F with UL classification. Plus, if there is flooding, it offers at least 24-hour protection at 8 inches deep water.

• Cost: $208.55
• Weight: 86.69 lbs
• Height: 17.8″ H
• Interior: 12.6″ x 11.9″ x 13.8″
• Exterior: 16.3″ x 19.3″ x 17.8″
• Fireproof: One Hour @ 1700°F
• Lock: Electric Keypad & Manual Key

Pros	Cons
Unit has exterior lighting and backlit keypads	Internal clutch mechanism needs improvement
Removable inside drawer	Poor customer support
One Hour @ 1700°F fire rating	Handle bar can be quite flimsy

3. V-Line Compact Keyless Gun Safe – Best Lightweight Handgun Safe

The V-Line Compact Keyless Gun Safe is created as a smaller version of the company’s leading firearms safe. This California-approved safety device is under five pounds in weight, so it is an ideal choice for people who travel with their firearms. Moreover, it features a five-button SIMPLEX locking system to ensure durability.

• Cost: $166
• Weight: 5 lbs
• Height: 4.8″ H
• Interior: 9.25″ x 7.25″ x 2″
• Exterior: ‎12.5″ x 8.4″ x 4.8″
• Fireproof: No
• Lock: Push-button mechanical lock

Pros	Cons
Pry-resistant clamshell design	Interiors aren’t large enough to accommodate more things
Compact safety device ideal for traveling	Locking system is not padded
18-gram heavy-duty steel construction for added durability	Handgun can only be placed in one direction because of locking mechanism

4. RPNB California DOJ Certified Gun Safe – Best for Air Travel

The RPNB California DOJ Certified Gun Safe satisfies if you are looking for an innovative and secure gun safe. It’s a very lightweight option that weighs less than five pounds. With its compact size, you get a safe box, security cables, two RFID keys, two manual keys, and a button tool in one place. For emergencies, you can access a hidden key override for backup.

• Cost: $49.99
• Weight: 3.5 lbs
• Height: 3.62″
• Interior: 12.00″ x 9.05″ x 3.34″
• Exterior: 14.56″ x 9.25″ x 3.62″
• Fireproof: No
• Lock: 5-Digit PIN Keypad, manual key, RFID

Pros	Cons
Three ways to access: RFID tag, password, and key mechanism	No weather protection or water resistance
Tamper-resistant latches with anti-theft design	No protection against fires
Meets the TSA standards for gun safety in luggage	May be difficult to set up

5. SnapSafe Tall Titan Digital Modular Safe – Best Tall Fireproof

Though it may be one of the priciest, the SnapSafe Tall Titan is one of the most promising safes on this list. This safe is perfect for storing long guns while ensuring a reliable fire rating of one hour at 2300°F. It also comes with a modular design, so you can break it down and carry it easily like any lightweight safe.

• Cost: $1,999.99
• Weight: 400 lbs
• Height: 59″ H
• Interior: 55.125″ x 17″ x 14.5″
• Exterior: 59″ x 22″ x 17.5″
• Fireproof: One hour at 2300°F
• Lock: Electronic lock, 8 one-inch steel locking bolts

Pros	Cons
Has a fire rating	Expensive in comparison to other options on this list
9-gauge steel for optimum durability	Heavy once you put it all together
Quick assembly	May require more than one person to assemble

6 Awesafe Gun Safe – Best Budget Biometrics Safe

If you are looking for a reliable biometric safe that won’t hurt the bank, the Awesafe Gun Safe is a good choice. It combines the old safe mechanisms with modern fingerprint scanner technology for a reliable gun storage system. You can use this safe for two handguns or a large pistol and some ammunition.

• Cost: $129
• Weight: 10 lbs
• Height: 3.3″
• Interior: 9.6″ x 6.3″ x 2.4″
• Exterior: 12″ x 10″ x 3.3″
• Fireproof: No
• Lock: Electronic locks, biometrics

Pros	Cons
Portable handgun and pistol safe	The lid is not aligned very well
LED lights for additional visibility	Biometrics can be improved
Digital keypad and fingerprint scanner for added protection	The quality of doors can be improved

7. V-Line 31242-SA Quick Access Keyless Long Gun Safe – Best Keyless Long Gun Safe

If you prefer a safe that doesn’t require electricity or batteries, the V-Line 31242-SA Quick Access Keyless Long Gun Safe is a considerable choice. It offers a Simplex locking system, which is still a robust and effective manual lock. The gun cabinet, however, appears to be primarily used for keeping kids out of it and for long-term storage of guns.

• Cost: $344.30
• Weight: 10.91 lbs
• Height: 47.99″
• Interior: 42″ x 12″ x 3.5″
• Exterior: ‎ ‎47.99″ x 12.52″ x 8.7″
• Fireproof: No
• Lock: KABA Simplex Mechanical Lock, manual keys

Pros	Cons
No need for batteries	Not an anti-theft safe
Large interior space	Not as durable as others
Quick and easy access	More of a gun cabinet than a safe

8. Barska Quick and Easy Access Biometric Rifles, Firearms and Long Guns Safe – Best Biometric Rifle Safe

The Barska Quick and Easy Access Biometric Rifles Safe is an excellent solution to keep firearms and valuable items safe. Its quick access features and extended durability earned it approval from the Department of Justice. Biometric security is one of its best features, offering exceptionally reliable performance.

• Cost: $368.99
• Weight: 62 lbs
• Height: 52.13″
• Interior: 6.3″ x 9.7″ x 51.75″
• Exterior: 9.75″ x 8.63″ x 52.13″
• Fireproof: No
• Lock: Biometric scanner, backup keys

Pros	Cons
High quality biometric authentication system stores up to 120 fingerprints	Large and heavy gun safe
Silent mode for discreet access	Cannot travel or move
14-gauge heavy duty steel construction for extended durability	Meant to be mounted in a specific location

9. SentrySafe QAP1E Gun Safe with Digital Keypad – Best Bedside Safe

Among the gun safes available, the SentrySafe QAP1E Gun Safe is a good choice if you want something perfect for your bedside table. While it allows easy access to your firearm, it will also keep it out of the reach of children.

This safe goes into sleep mode but it can be accessed with just a press, which can come in handy when a home intruder is spotted lurking on the security cameras. Once you enter your code, you can quickly access your gun with LED lights that will help you see in the dark.

• Cost: $124
• Weight: 12.20 lbs
• Height: 9.7 inches
• Interior: 6.7″ x 9.7″ x 2.2″
• Exterior: 9.9″ x 12.1″ x 3.2″
• Fireproof: No
• Lock: Digital keypad, manual key

Pros	Cons
Easy set-up	Goes into sleep mode
Enough space to store one handgun	Battery runs out quickly
Quiet and easy access	Bulkier than others

10. Moutec Large Rifle Safe – Best Electronic Long Guns Safe

The Moutec Large Electronic Rifle Safe is the largest and deepest gun safe on our list. It is an ideal option for those looking for a spacious lightweight safe while on a budget. This large safe can secure up to six rifles measuring 50 inches long, plus you get a small-sized lockbox for smaller guns or storing other valuable items.

• Cost: $379.99
• Weight: 88 lbs
• Height: 57”
• Interior: 56.5″ x 13.4″ x 12.4″
• Exterior: 14”x 13.8” x 57”
• Fireproof: No
• Lock: Keyboard, manual key

Pros	Cons
Ample interior space that can keep up to six rifles inside	No biometric authentication
Reliable PIN code keyboard or manual lock mechanism	No fire protection
With separate small lockbox inside for handguns	Has to be mounted on walls or floors

What Are The Pros and Cons Of Having A Lightweight Gun Safe?

Beyond gun safety, there are many advantages to owning a lightweight gun safe. However, it also comes with its own set of disadvantages. Here are a few to look out for:

Pros	Cons
Protection against burglars	May be expensive
Protection against destruction by fire	Not the most travel-friendly
Protection against access by children	More difficult to access guns
Tax rebates or deductions are offered depending on your state	Lack flexibility in placement
Some purchases lead to possible insurance discounts	Can’t guarantee 100% protection

How To Choose Lightweight Gun Safes

Find the best lightweight gun safe for you by putting the most important factors into consideration. If this is your first time getting a gun safe, here are some essentials to think about to help maximize your value for money.

Design

Gun safes are usually made from either steel or concrete. In shopping for a shape, it’s important to look at the wall thickness, how the doors are designed, and how thick the door gap is. Intruders will have a difficult time getting to what’s inside if these factors are in check.

Fireproof Feature 

Most gun safes come with fireproofing features. Some use wool blanketing or ceramic sheet rocks for insulation. For the best gun safe, it should have a rating of 350°F for an hour, including a Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or Intertek (ETL) certificate.

Type of Lock

Recently, digitalized safes are available. There are locking mechanisms you can get including password, voice activation, and fingerprint detection. However, there are safes that still feature mechanical locks, for those who want to avoid electronic problems or aren’t tech-savy. 

Portability

One thing to consider is how well you will be able to move the gun safe from one place to another. The characteristic of being lightweight changes depending on who you ask, but generally, you’d want something one or two persons can comfortably carry.

Frequently Asked Questions

To help you pick the best lightweight gun safe you can install on your property, here are the answers to some of the most popular questions about it.

How much does a lightweight gun safe cost?

You can get good quality lightweight gun safes for $200 to $600. However, if you are looking for a higher quality and capacity gun safe, it might cost up to $2,000.

How long can a lightweight, fireproof gun safe withstand fire?

Most gun safes come with a 30-minute fireproofing treatment, but there are models that can offer protection for up to 90 minutes.

How much does a lightweight gun safe weigh?

Lightweight gun safes are available at an average of 10 to 15 pounds, but those with extra features can go a few pounds higher.

Lightweight gun safes offer the flexibility and durability that every gun owner needs. With these gun safes, you can rest assured of your safety without too much of a hassle.

Overall, the Vaultek LifePod is the best choice, especially if you’re quite the traveler. However, if storage is the priority, we recommend the Barska Quick and Easy Access Safe for its overall value for money and storage capacity. Learn more about other essential security measures with Security Forward today. Check out our tips and guides for optimum home safety to start.