Suggestions for bedside gun safe

[BJJ]

I am looking for suggestions for a small reliable gun safe to keep a pistol accessible but secure in our bedroom. It only needs to be big enough to hold a pistol and a spare magazine. Any suggestions on what has worked well for you and also what to avoid would be appreciated. I am looking for something that does not require a key or fingerprints. I guess that involves a combination or some kind of pattern being entered on the device.

Thanks.

[Hizzie]

I use a V-Line. My brother and father both had the small GunVault fail. I had a full sized GunVault fail. Three failures in one family? No more electronic locks.

[5pins]

My first GunVault worked great for over 10 years. The motor finally gave out. I opened it about two times a day when I had it, so I felt I got my money’s worth. When I bought a replacement I could tell the quality was not the same. Cannon safes bought them out and cheapened the product. It only lasted me about two years.

I now use the Sentry safe quick access safe.

http://www.amazon.com/Sentry-Safe-Quick-Access-Cubic/dp/B00A75EVJO/ref=sr_1_7?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1408127314&sr=1-7

So far I like it, but I’ve only had it for a few months now. If you look at post #62 in this thread you will see what it looks like.

http://pistol-forum.com/showthread.php?12563-What-Go-To-Gun-Guns-do-you-keep-close-when-you-sleep/page7

[Sheep Have Wool]

Has anyone had further experience with the Gunbox (http://www.thegunbox.com/)? It looks cool, but I know they had a recall at some point. Any thoughts on it?

[punkey71]

I use a V-Line. My brother and father both had the small GunVault fail. I had a full sized GunVault fail. Three failures in one family? No more electronic locks.

Same experience with GunVault and conversion to V Line's for me.

[BJJ]

I should have mentioned that the gun would be a Glock 22, ideally with a 23 round mag.

[23JAZ]

I should have mentioned that the gun would be a Glock 22, ideally with a 23 round mag.
You're gonna need a big safe to fit a 23 round mag.

[CCT125US]

If it has a battery, do scheduled changes every 3-6 months. One day my latch didn't get enough juice to release. Fortunately i only "needed" my dry fire P30. I have started writing the install date on the batteries and using an aggressive change schedule.

[busykngt]

I bought the V-line Brute and am extremely pleased with it. I had come close to buying the Fort Knox pistol safe but know they've cut some quality corners in the last year or two. The V-line Brute was the ideal choice for my needs (and no, I have no connection with them). The Brute is an awesome pistol safe; push button combo (no batteries). Bought mounting hardware at Lowes (~$15) four of each: Elevator bolts 5/16 x 18, Fender washers SS 5/16 x 1-1/2, and SS Nylon Lock Nuts 5/16 - 18. My bolts were 2" long and used a Dremel with cut-off wheels to cut the bolts level {flush} with the top of the nuts, once mounted. Definitely will keep the kids out and quick to open when needed - absolutely does as much as can be expected of this kind of product to do. Got it from Wayfair (via eBay) for $212 delivered (V-line Brute).

[rudy99]

Bit of an older post, but I've been looking into this lately as well.

Does anyone have any thoughts on the issue of a "garage door" style of safe (e.g., v-line desk mate (http://amzn.com/B000T2C7Z0) or Gunvault style (http://amzn.com/B002HOLG2I)) vs an open top style (e.g., sentry quick access (http://amzn.com/B00A75EVJO) or v-line top drawer (http://amzn.com/B000T24OFG)). I'm just thinking about this from a "finger off the trigger" perspective, in that it seems like it would be easier to pick up a pistol with a side-entry safe as opposed to a top entry, if that makes sense.

[MikeW]

I have a Fort Knox brand safe. Love it, so when I needed a small desk type, I bought Fort Knox small safe. Uses a combination punch type, you set your own combination in the sequence you want. Very heavy, very well built. Lifetime warranty and made in the USA to boot FortKnox.com

[23JAZ]

Just wanted to say thanks for the advice. I finally got a V-Line Too Drawer compact and its worlds better than any of the Gun Vaults! I love the Simplex lock.
https://pistol-forum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=8468&stc=1

[Kennydale]

I picked this one up at Costco (on sale for $59.00)
https://www.amazon.com/Fortress-Alarming-Quick-Access-Pistol/dp/B00KD7H9D6/ref=sr_1_1?srs=13177953011&ie=UTF8&qid=1465683637&sr=8-1&keywords=fortress+safe
It can be bolted to furniture. Keeps grand kids away from loaded ready handguns.

[23JAZ]

I picked this one up at Costco (on sale for $59.00)
https://www.amazon.com/Fortress-Alarming-Quick-Access-Pistol/dp/B00KD7H9D6/ref=sr_1_1?srs=13177953011&ie=UTF8&qid=1465683637&sr=8-1&keywords=fortress+safe
It can be bolted to furniture. Keeps grand kids away from loaded ready handguns.
The V-Line is bolted to the drawer. The mechanical lock was the deciding factor. Too many stories of eclectic locks not working or batteries dying.

[Wondering Beard]

Well, if they're eclectic ...

;-)

[23JAZ]

Well, if they're eclectic ...

;-)
LMAO. Those damn eclectic lock always screw you!

.... I hate auto correct!

[bornandraisedlv]

I currently have one of the gunvaults but I am soon going to update to a fas1 safe and then switch to an abloy lock as they are very hard to pic, from what I've read.

http://products.fas1safe.com/product.sc;jsessionid=5423D9C6980247251E8AF324EFB6 7673.m1plqscsfapp03?productId=1&categoryId=1


http://www.ghlocks.com/sell-665756-high-security-abloy-key-lock-with-s-shape-key.html#.V1zIm_RHanO



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[Edster]

I had a similar experience to Hizzie and Punkey71. I kept the backup batteries fresh in the electronic safe. Nevertheless, there was a weird power glitch during a storm and it wouldn't open with the combination. I had to open it with the key and reset it. No. No. No.

The VLine that replaced it has given me no problems in 10 or so years.

[Spurholder]

I have a Fort Knox brand safe. Love it, so when I needed a small desk type, I bought Fort Knox small safe. Uses a combination punch type, you set your own combination in the sequence you want. Very heavy, very well built. Lifetime warranty and made in the USA to boot FortKnox.com

Same here - love mine. Simple and solidly constructed. It'll hold a G17 w/X300 and a G19 with ease, too.

[TGS]

In addition to the V-line, check out the Shot Lock.

Also a mechanical combo, and they make them for shotguns and AR15s too.

[FAS1]

I currently have one of the gunvaults but I am soon going to update to a fas1 safe and then switch to an abloy lock as they are very hard to pic, from what I've read.

http://products.fas1safe.com/product.sc;jsessionid=5423D9C6980247251E8AF324EFB6 7673.m1plqscsfapp03?productId=1&categoryId=1


http://www.ghlocks.com/sell-665756-high-security-abloy-key-lock-with-s-shape-key.html#.V1zIm_RHanO


Hi guys, I just registered as a member and saw this thread. Thanks bornandraisedlv for considering a FAS1 safe in the future. I just wanted to chime in and let you know that while the Abloy lock is a great product, it will not work in our application. It's only available with one key pull and we use two. With the Abloy you can only remove the key in the locked position.

That being said we looked hard to find a suitable lock. Remember, we were looking for enhanced security by being able to deadbolt the push-button lock when quick access isn't desired. This isn't just a cheap lock like most electronic handgun safes use for a backup entry. They purchase a lock for that reason only and their purchase is based on cost. All electronic safes need a backup key for when the electronics fail to open the safe.

The backup entry function is just a side benefit. Here is a link to the Camlock T8 lock that we are using showing all the great features this lock offers.

http://www.camlock.com/en-uk/extra-security-10-pin-hardened-steel-cam-lock-series-t8

[Dddrees]

After doing some research which included referring to this thread I decided to go with one in the same class as the Ft Knox safe with a lot of the same features. The handle and the supposed ease of changing the combination convinced me that this was the right one for me. The reviews at this site also mention other safes in the same class with the same type of lock. Ability and difficulty to change the combination however seems to vary.

https://www.amazon.com/Stealth-Original-Handgun-Concealed-Storage/dp/B00UIKSF54/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1465918961&sr=8-1&keywords=Stealth+original+handgun+safe

[bornandraisedlv]

Hi guys, I just registered as a member and saw this thread. Thanks bornandraisedlv for considering a FAS1 safe in the future. I just wanted to chime in and let you know that while the Abloy lock is a great product, it will not work in our application. It's only available with one key pull and we use two. With the Abloy you can only remove the key in the locked position.

That being said we looked hard to find a suitable lock. Remember, we were looking for enhanced security by being able to deadbolt the push-button lock when quick access isn't desired. This isn't just a cheap lock like most electronic handgun safes use for a backup entry. They purchase a lock for that reason only and their purchase is based on cost. All electronic safes need a backup key for when the electronics fail to open the safe.

The backup entry function is just a side benefit. Here is a link to the Camlock T8 lock that we are using showing all the great features this lock offers.

http://www.camlock.com/en-uk/extra-security-10-pin-hardened-steel-cam-lock-series-t8

Thanks for the info!! Will be ordering in the next 3 - 4 weeks.


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[Irelander]

I am also in need of a "bedside" pistol safe. I have bought into the the simple is better for middle of the night dazed and confused grab your pistol scenario. IE...punching in a code while someone is kicking down your door, your wife is screaming, and you can't remember your name because you were woken out of a deep sleep is a recipe for disaster. Is this a valid concern? I definitely see a benefit to to "stick your finger in this hole" and BAM! you have access to your gun as opposed to punch in a 4 digit code and then turn this knob.

So I assumed that biometric was the way to go. My dad bought one brand and it did not work well (can't remember what brand) now he has a LokSAF (http://www.locksaf.com/biometric-safe-manufacturer/) and so far is happy with it after a few years of use. But I know that finger scanners are not fool proof.

However I work in the electronics field and understand that batteries die and can be unreliable, ESD/EMI could be a concern, and generally am wary about trusting my life to electronics unless I know the design is sound. So what is the best option?

[breakingtime91]

I am also in need of a "bedside" pistol safe. I have bought into the the simple is better for middle of the night dazed and confused grab your pistol scenario. IE...punching in a code while someone is kicking down your door, your wife is screaming, and you can't remember your name because you were woken out of a deep sleep is a recipe for disaster. Is this a valid concern? I definitely see a benefit to to "stick your finger in this hole" and BAM! you have access to your gun as opposed to punch in a 4 digit code and then turn this knob.

So I assumed that biometric was the way to go. My dad bought one brand and it did not work well (can't remember what brand) now he has a LokSAF (http://www.locksaf.com/biometric-safe-manufacturer/) and so far is happy with it after a few years of use. But I know that finger scanners are not fool proof.

However I work in the electronics field and understand that batteries die and can be unreliable, ESD/EMI could be a concern, and generally am wary about trusting my life to electronics unless I know the design is sound. So what is the best option?

I got the sentry code one. Change the batteries every six months and it has a back up key option

[Irelander]

I got the sentry code one. Change the batteries every six months and it has a back up key option

Funny, I was just watching the video on Amazon about that one. I definitely like the price and lit keypad and biometric scanner.

A friend recommended the Liberty Smart Vault (http://www.libertysafe.com/handgun-vault-hdx-250-smart-vault-ps-31-pg-107.html). I like the Liberty name and quality but that is just over my budget. I am a little disappointed that they only use 14ga steel for the door. But they do have the anti-pry feature.

[breakingtime91]

Funny, I was just watching the video on Amazon about that one. I definitely like the price and lit keypad and biometric scanner.

A friend recommended the Liberty Smart Vault (http://www.libertysafe.com/handgun-vault-hdx-250-smart-vault-ps-31-pg-107.html). I like the Liberty name and quality but that is just over my budget. I am a little disappointed that they only use 14ga steel for the door. But they do have the anti-pry feature.

Should have it from Amazon next week. I'll let u know what I think. I didn't get the bio feature, heard too many horror stories of blood or sweat messing it up

[Dddrees]

Funny, I was just watching the video on Amazon about that one. I definitely like the price and lit keypad and biometric scanner.

A friend recommended the Liberty Smart Vault (http://www.libertysafe.com/handgun-vault-hdx-250-smart-vault-ps-31-pg-107.html). I like the Liberty name and quality but that is just over my budget. I am a little disappointed that they only use 14ga steel for the door. But they do have the anti-pry feature.

I initially purchased that from Cabellas and it does have a power adapter as well as a battery. To get to the admin button to change the biometric code you follow a strip of paper into the cubby hole. Anyway I was unable to get the finger print thing to work. I returned it and decided to go with the push button lock instead.

[SLG]

I want to put in a plug for V-line. I have been using several of them for almost 25 years now. They are in the exact same shape today as they were when I bought them. It's called a simplex lock for a reason :-)

As far as using under stress, the best way to use them is to open them at night when you go to bed. Then, you just grab your gun as needed and go. When you get up from bed, just close and lock the box so no one can get to it when you are not there. I don't actually do this, because I have a specific system base don my room and family, but assuming a standard bed and night table set up, this works well.

If you prefer to leave it locked while you sleep, another option is to program the buttons based on index. First of all, you don't need to use all of the buttons, and you can select buttons and combinations based on how you handle the box. This makes it much easier to open with your eyes closed, with one hand, under stress.

[redbone]

In addition to the V-line, check out the Shot Lock.

Also a mechanical combo, and they make them for shotguns and AR15s too.

I've been looking at the Shot Lock. There's lots to like, but I actually wish it didn't have the key override. (Since that can be picked.)

I admit I'm probably overthinking it.

[Irelander]

I think I'm over thinking things too. I need to keep my daughter and other little ones away from the gun while I am at home and the gun is not on me (which is rare) or when I am asleep. If I am not at home, my gun is either on me or in my big gun safe. I think something like the Sentry Quick Access Safe will be fine for my needs. Its also small enough that I can put it in the car if need be.

[nalesq]

If you don't already use the bedside security container locking mechanism every day (I use the V line simplex locked box as well) a good way to force yourself or or spouse to do so is to lock your car keys in it. If you do this every day, you'll eventually build up the needed automaticity to be able to do it under stress.

[Dddrees]

Funny, I was just watching the video on Amazon about that one. I definitely like the price and lit keypad and biometric scanner.

A friend recommended the Liberty Smart Vault (http://www.libertysafe.com/handgun-vault-hdx-250-smart-vault-ps-31-pg-107.html). I like the Liberty name and quality but that is just over my budget. I am a little disappointed that they only use 14ga steel for the door. But they do have the anti-pry feature.

After trying and failing or not being able to open the Liberty Smart Safe I did some more searching online to include this thread as I stated earlier. I decided to go with safe that uses the simplex lock due to issues with other types of locks and the whole battery issue.

I decided to go with the Stealth Safe which appears to be in the same class as the Ft Knox, VLine, and some others in the same category with regards to size, and steel gage which use the simplex lock. Initially I thought I might go with another version but the reviews for this particular safe convinced me that the Stealth Safe was the right one for me. Not only does it have a handle which is extremely handy for something this heavy, the combination lock is easier to administer or change once it is open when compared to other safes in this category. So although I initially choose the American Security Safe which also has a handle but supposedly the lock is much harder to administer.

Anyway I received the Stealth Safe today and I must say I'm very happy I didn't stick with the Liberty Smart Safe as I feel much more comfortable with the simplex lock. Also there is a dramatic difference in the thickness of steel being used on the Stealth Safe. Besides the internals of the Liberty Smart Safe are extremely cheap and flimsy and poorly designed with regards to the biometric controls on the inside anyway. It also uses some sort of barrel lock as a back up. Not sure if it is as easily defeated as others or not.

But anyway if your looking for a safe you might want to consider this one. It cost the same as a Liberty Smart Safe and it doesn't have the biometrics but in my opinion it's a much better safe.


https://www.amazon.com/Stealth-Original-Handgun-Concealed-Storage/dp/B00UIKSF54/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1465918961&sr=8-1&keywords=Stealth+original+handgun+safe

[FAS1]

I thought I might go with another version but the reviews for this particular safe convinced me that the Stealth Safe was the right one for me. Not only does it have a handle which is extremely handy for something this heavy, the combination lock is easier to administer or change once it is open when compared to other safes in this category. So although I initially choose the American Security Safe which also has a handle but supposedly the lock is much harder to administer.


Not sure what you mean? All Simplex style locks function exactly the same, including to reset the combination. Isn't the Stealth exactly the same as the AMSEC, just a different color? I assumed it was Dean's Safes private label made by American Security.

[Dddrees]

Not sure what you mean? All Simplex style locks function exactly the same, including to reset the combination. Isn't the Stealth exactly the same as the AMSEC, just a different color? I assumed it was Dean's Safes private label made by American Security.

Not according to the review I read on Amazon and that's why I included the link.

In fact if you look at one of the reviews for the American Security Safe which uses the simplex lock at least one reviewer talks about the difficulty of changing the combination on this simplex lock safe.

https://www.amazon.com/American-Security-PS1210HD-Pistol-Handgun/dp/B00MOUOYJ2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1466274212&sr=8-1&keywords=amsec+gun+safe#customerReviews

Without having the ability to compare the two in person I choose to go with the one that received the more favorable reviews.

[FAS1]

In fact if you look at one of the reviews for the American Security Safe which uses the simplex lock at least one reviewer talks about the difficulty of changing the combination on this simplex lock safe.

https://www.amazon.com/American-Security-PS1210HD-Pistol-Handgun/dp/B00MOUOYJ2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1466274212&sr=8-1&keywords=amsec+gun+safe#customerReviews


I think either one and the Fort Knox, which both the AMSEC and Stealth copy, are good choices if that is the style you are looking for. The handles being one of the differences if portability is an issue.

Looks like 1 reviewer had some problems that he blamed on the lock, but the other 9 were 5 stars. My experience is that with that ratio you can't eliminate operator error. Lots of variables can effect that. I once had a customer try pushing 3 buttons at a time, and I don't know about you, but that would cause me consistency problems. These locks are very durable and reliable, but certainly one could fail to operate like it should and maybe that reviewer had one as he said in his update.

There are only two brands of what is referred to as the "Simplex" lock and all three above are currently using the Kaba brand. The Illinois Lock brand is the same lock with squared buttons instead of round and the knob is a different shape. You see them on the V-Line and FAS1 safes. All lock functions are the same.

Anyway, congrats on your new safe and I think you made a good choice going all mechanical!

[Dddrees]

I think either one and the Fort Knox, which both the AMSEC and Stealth copy, are good choices if that is the style you are looking for. The handles being one of the differences if portability is an issue.

Looks like 1 reviewer had some problems that he blamed on the lock, but the other 9 were 5 stars. My experience is that with that ratio you can't eliminate operator error. Lots of variables can effect that. I once had a customer try pushing 3 buttons at a time, and I don't know about you, but that would cause me consistency problems. These locks are very durable and reliable, but certainly one could fail to operate like it should and maybe that reviewer had one as he said in his update.

There are only two brands of what is referred to as the "Simplex" lock and all three above are currently using the Kaba brand. The Illinois Lock brand is the same lock with squared buttons instead of round and the knob is a different shape. You see them on the V-Line and FAS1 safes. All lock functions are the same.

Anyway, congrats on your new safe and I think you made a good choice going all mechanical!

Thank you sir.

That's entirely possible as all I have to go on at this point are reviews and no actual experience with the other products but the two I mentioned to this point.

[Irelander]

I went with the inexpensive SentrySafe Quick Access safe.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/47624012/DSC_0497.JPG

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/47624012/DSC_0495.JPG

Funny thing is I ordered the version without the biometrics but Amazon shipped me the biometric version. I plan on using the keypad but the biometric finger scanner is pretty neat.

I lock up my G19 every night. In the morning I take it out and put it in my large safe and get out my PPS for EDC.

We'll see how the safe works out but so far I am happy with it.

[SCSU74]

I just started looking into getting a safe to prevent our newly arriving child from accessing my duty gun. I really like the simplex lock, but the lack of combinations worries me. There's only 1K or so combos and the entire list is available to print out online, I'm more worried a bored teen could sit there and just check the combos off one by one.. Anyone else have this concern or recommend a different type of lock?

[SLG]

I just started looking into getting a safe to prevent our newly arriving child from accessing my duty gun. I really like the simplex lock, but the lack of combinations worries me. There's only 1K or so combos and the entire list is available to print out online, I'm more worried a bored teen could sit there and just check the combos off one by one.. Anyone else have this concern or recommend a different type of lock?

I'm not personally worried about this. My teens will be trustworthy, or no guns will be anywhere they could get to them. The Simplex pistol safe is for my duty gun, while I'm in bed. If I'm up, the gun is on me, so no real opportunity for a bored teen to play with it. Do you envision leaving a gun in there all the time?

[FAS1]

I just started looking into getting a safe to prevent our newly arriving child from accessing my duty gun. I really like the simplex lock, but the lack of combinations worries me. There's only 1K or so combos and the entire list is available to print out online, I'm more worried a bored teen could sit there and just check the combos off one by one.. Anyone else have this concern or recommend a different type of lock?

That's exactly why this keyed supplemental lock was developed. It's an option for those that have your same concerns. It is an exclusive feature that you won't find anywhere else. The lock also provides a back up entry if desired (it can be disabled by the owner). If you watch this from a computer, there are annotations.

I will say though, that in almost 8 years I have never personally seen someone crack the code that way. Most of my experience has been with customers that somehow messed up trying to reset the combination.


https://youtu.be/ZobYh_YX1Vs

[SCSU74]

I'm not personally worried about this. My teens will be trustworthy, or no guns will be anywhere they could get to them. The Simplex pistol safe is for my duty gun, while I'm in bed. If I'm up, the gun is on me, so no real opportunity for a bored teen to play with it. Do you envision leaving a gun in there all the time?

No, I'm planning on making my front entry closest an area where I walk in the house and put all my duty gear (vest, belt, boots etc.). I'm going to change the handle out so it'll have a lock and then bolt whatever pistol box I end up with to the shelf in there. I'll then put my duty gun and BUG in there while not at work. While at work it will be empty or have my off duty gun in it.

[Shellback]

Any real difference between the V-Line, Stealth, and AMSEC?

AMSEC and Stealth look very similar while the V-Line looks like more of a clamshell design. Not sure if that's really a positive or not?

[blues]

Old thread, I get it...but I just happened on it the other day and wanted to thank those whose posts motivated me to order a V-Line Brute earlier today.

Looks like it will be a nice little home addition to the Lock'er Down console safe recently installed in the 4Runner. Nice to have some small and convenient options both at home and on the road.

[SteveB]

For me, the bedside safe is about security and convenience. I don't care about quick access because none of these is quick and reliable enough for me. Worst case: I wake up and someone's in the house? I do not want to be dicking around with buttons or keys. So I have an older GunVault at bedside. Every night, I open it, take the pistol out and put it on my bedside table. Every morning, it gets locked back up, when my EDC goes on. Gives me access and security.

[blues]

For me, the bedside safe is about security and convenience. I don't care about quick access because none of these is quick and reliable enough for me. Worst case: I wake up and someone's in the house? I do not want to be dicking around with buttons or keys. So I have an older GunVault at bedside. Every night, I open it, take the pistol out and put it on my bedside table. Every morning, it gets locked back up, when my EDC goes on. Gives me access and security.

Couldn't agree more and that is precisely the usage intended for my new addition.

[blues]

Couldn't agree more and that is precisely the usage intended for my new addition.

The V-Line "BRUTE" arrived a couple hours ago and looks to be just what the doctor ordered. Thanks again for the excellent recommendations.

[rob_s]

I'm glad to hear folks are speaking positively about the V-Line.

I'm looking at this guy for our campervan
https://www.vlineind.com/shop/slide-away-heavy-duty-large-capacity-handgun-safe/

The stated dimensions are
Outer Dim: 10″x13″x4″

my opening is 10.5"x5" so it seems almost ready-fit.

https://www.vlineind.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/201505291654120.Slide-Away-Open-Empty.jpg

[blues]

In the three years since my post above regarding the purchase of the V-Line "Brute", I've been nothing but satisfied. I think you will be as well. They build a quality product.

[23JAZ]

In the three years since my post above regarding the purchase of the V-Line "Brute", I've been nothing but satisfied. I think you will be as well. They build a quality product.

The one I bought was defective. 6 months in the lock seized! Would not budge. I called customer service and told them I was going to pry my gun out. After them walking me through several things to no avail they said pry it open take the gun out and send it back to them for a full refund or exchanged. I ended up taking the refund and bought a Hornady safe that allow me to use battery back up, AC power, pin code, key, and/or RFID. I’ve had that for 2 years now with no issues.

[blues]

The one I bought was defective. 6 months in the lock seized! Would not budge. I called customer service and told them I was going to pry my gun out. After them walking me through several things to no avail they said pry it open take the gun out and send it back to them for a full refund or exchanged. I ended up taking the refund and bought a Hornady safe that allow me to use battery back up, AC power, pin code, key, and/or RFID. I’ve had that for 2 years now with no issues.

I hope I never have to do that as I have mine screwed down to the floor in a corner of the room (out of sight).

Glad they stood behind the product though.

[UNK]

The one I bought was defective. 6 months in the lock seized! Would not budge. I called customer service and told them I was going to pry my gun out. After them walking me through several things to no avail they said pry it open take the gun out and send it back to them for a full refund or exchanged. I ended up taking the refund and bought a Hornady safe that allow me to use battery back up, AC power, pin code, key, and/or RFID. I’ve had that for 2 years now with no issues.

I assume that is a simplex lock. There were problems with older ones I heard but dont know for a fact the simplex lock has been upgraded. Hope so I just got this. Its 10 ga vs the Vline 12 ga.

https://www.ftknox.com/product/original-pistol-box-wfront-sight-training-certificate-included/

64746

[blues]

The V-Line "Brute" is 10 gauge. I can't speak to the other boxes.



The “BRUTE” is the perfect solution for keeping hand guns and valuables safe and out of reach of the wrong hands. Constructed of rugged 10ga. steel with an overlapping lid making it virtually pry-proof when bolted down to a solid surface. The “BRUTE” is nicely finished in a durable tactical black powder coating. The reliable SIMPLEX five pushbutton mechanical never requires batteries. If you are looking for a quality, heavy duty, tough and secure pistol case, look no further than the BRUTE.


The lid comes down lower to protect against prying attempts, and the lock mechanism is also protected from tampering with.


https://www.vlineind.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/201609061818380.Brute-Closed-640x640.jpg

[23JAZ]

I assume that is a simplex lock. There were problems with older ones I heard but dont know for a fact the simplex lock has been upgraded. Hope so I just got this. Its 10 ga vs the Vline 12 ga.

https://www.ftknox.com/product/original-pistol-box-wfront-sight-training-certificate-included/

64746
I don’t remember the model but it’s pictured in post 12 in the thread.

[UNK]

I don’t remember the model but it’s pictured in post 12 in the thread.

I went to their website its a Simplex.

[FAS1]

I assume that is a simplex lock. There were problems with older ones I heard but dont know for a fact the simplex lock has been upgraded.

What was the problem that you heard of with the older Simplex locks?

[UNK]

What was the problem that you heard of with the older Simplex locks?

People couldnt get it open. Sometimes it would take multiple attempts.

[FAS1]

People couldnt get it open. Sometimes it would take multiple attempts.

From my experience with the Simplex lock, that sounds more like user issues.

I have seen people try to push 3 buttons simultaneously in their combo, but couldn’t do it consistently.

Sometimes the buttons aren’t pushed all the way when entering the combination.

Most commonly is that people that don’t use them frequently will just forget the combination or after entering the combination will turn the knob the wrong way and clear it rather than open it.

While it is mechanical and possible to have something break or over time wear one out, I haven’t experienced that myself.

[UNK]

From my experience with the Simplex lock, that sounds more like user issues.

I have seen people try to push 3 buttons simultaneously in their combo, but couldn’t do it consistently.

Sometimes the buttons aren’t pushed all the way when entering the combination.

Most commonly is that people that don’t use them frequently will just forget the combination or after entering the combination will turn the knob the wrong way and clear it rather than open it.

While it is mechanical and possible to have something break or over time wear one out, I haven’t experienced that myself.

Cant remember for sure but Id say probably Amazon reviews. I remember locks or safe being replaced. Also there was a period of time you could open one of these locks with s rare earth magnet. There was a class action lawsuit over that issue. Simplex upgraded the design to non ferrous parts so a magnet couldnt be used to pick the lock.

[FAS1]

Also there was a period of time you could open one of these locks with s rare earth magnet. There was a class action lawsuit over that issue. Simplex upgraded the design to non ferrous parts so a magnet couldnt be used to pick the lock.

While that was a real issue with the Simplex lock it did not apply to the models used on handgun safes. It was specific to the type used on hotel doors and they use a variant of this lock with some additional parts to function in that type of housing. The issue was with one of those parts. That issue was corrected on 2011.

[UNK]

While that was a real issue with the Simplex lock it did not apply to the models used on handgun safes. It was specific to the type used on hotel doors and they use a variant of this lock with some additional parts to function in that type of housing. The issue was with one of those parts. That issue was corrected on 2011.

I read it was all of them but Im not a locksmith.
The 9000 series are used on lockboxes.
Ive also read of 2015 locks still being susceptible.


https://www.yourlawyer.com/lawsuits/kaba-simplex-locks-lawsuit/


Home > Practice Areas > Kaba Simplex Locks Class Action Lawsuit Claims Magnet Can Override PIN Code Technology
Kaba Simplex Locks Class Action Lawsuit Claims Magnet Can Override PIN Code Technology

50 states
Kaba Simplex Locks

Anyone Can Open a Kaba Simplex Locks. According to the lawsuit, anyone – an amateur – can open a Kaba Simplex Keyless Lock in just a matter of seconds. The Kaba keyless locks class action lawsuit accuses Kaba Ilco of, among other things, negligence, failure to warn, breach of warranty, and fraud.

The Kaba Simplex lock lawsuit involves Series 1000, 2000, 3000, 6000, 7000, 9000 locks. These locks feature a technology in which a PIN number chosen by the lock’s owner is used to operate them, rather than a key, magnetic card, or other means. Kaba Ilco claims this system is more secure than other types of access control. These popular locks are used by countless businesses, apartment buildings, hotels, motels, college dorms and even public bathrooms.


ETA As I said Im not a locksmith I just know what I read online. Im not disputing what you say or know.

[FAS1]

I read it was all of them but Im not a locksmith.
The 9000 series are used on lockboxes.
Ive also read of 2015 locks still being susceptible.


https://www.yourlawyer.com/lawsuits/kaba-simplex-locks-lawsuit/


Home > Practice Areas > Kaba Simplex Locks Class Action Lawsuit Claims Magnet Can Override PIN Code Technology
Kaba Simplex Locks Class Action Lawsuit Claims Magnet Can Override PIN Code Technology

50 states
Kaba Simplex Locks

Anyone Can Open a Kaba Simplex Locks. According to the lawsuit, anyone – an amateur – can open a Kaba Simplex Keyless Lock in just a matter of seconds. The Kaba keyless locks class action lawsuit accuses Kaba Ilco of, among other things, negligence, failure to warn, breach of warranty, and fraud.

The Kaba Simplex lock lawsuit involves Series 1000, 2000, 3000, 6000, 7000, 9000 locks. These locks feature a technology in which a PIN number chosen by the lock’s owner is used to operate them, rather than a key, magnetic card, or other means. Kaba Ilco claims this system is more secure than other types of access control. These popular locks are used by countless businesses, apartment buildings, hotels, motels, college dorms and even public bathrooms.

The locks on handgun safes are the 9600 series.

The housings on the ones used on door applications are mounted in a non ferrous housing allowing all the force of the magnet to get to the “flag” that pulled the lock open. I’m sure there are still plenty of them
In use.

Even if that lock was mounted in a steel case like a handgun safe the magnet’s energy would be dispersed in the steel box and wouldn’t open the lock.

[UNK]

The locks on handgun safes are the 9600 series.

The housings on the ones used on door applications are mounted in a non ferrous housing allowing all the force of the magnet to get to the “flag” that pulled the lock open. I’m sure there are still plenty of them
In use.

Even if that lock was mounted in a steel case like a handgun safe the magnet’s energy would be dispersed in the steel box and wouldn’t open the lock.

Thats good to know. Are you a locksmith or in sales by any chance? You seem to know a lot about this subject. I could use some good advice for a small safe for an apartment. Something big enough to hold three small guns like 2 j frames and a sub/compact pistol plus 2000-3000 rds of ammo.

[FAS1]

No, I do work with the Simplex 9600 locks though so I am fairly familiar with them.

[Flamingo]

Thats good to know. Are you a locksmith or in sales by any chance? You seem to know a lot about this subject. I could use some good advice for a small safe for an apartment. Something big enough to hold three small guns like 2 j frames and a sub/compact pistol plus 2000-3000 rds of ammo.

I found a safe at a estate sale, you might want to check some of them out.

64763

This one cost me $25. It is not a fire safe, but it is really solid. The dimension is 18" W X 18" D X 30" H.

[UNK]

I found a safe at a estate sale, you might want to check some of them out.

64763

This one cost me $25. It is not a fire safe, but it is really solid. The dimension is 18" W X 18" D X 30" H.

That would be perfect. Ive been looking online but havent found anything yet.

[Flamingo]

There is an app called estatesales.net that has a map of estate sales and has pictures of what is for sale.

[FAS1]

The locks on handgun safes are the 9600 series.

The housings on the ones used on door applications are mounted in a non ferrous housing allowing all the force of the magnet to get to the “flag” that pulled the lock open. I’m sure there are still plenty of them
In use.

Even if that lock was mounted in a steel case like a handgun safe the magnet’s energy would be dispersed in the steel box and wouldn’t open the lock.



Here's a video from the LPL showing the issue.


https://youtu.be/cCay5ek_cW0

[rob_s]

Thats good to know. Are you a locksmith or in sales by any chance? You seem to know a lot about this subject. I could use some good advice for a small safe for an apartment. Something big enough to hold three small guns like 2 j frames and a sub/compact pistol plus 2000-3000 rds of ammo.


No, I do work with the Simplex 9600 locks though so I am fairly familiar with them.

UNK you may have figured it out from the screen name but he’s a safe manufacturer/seller
http://www.fas1safe.com/

[UNK]

UNK you may have figured it out from the screen name but he’s a safe manufacturer/seller
http://www.fas1safe.com/

Good to have another SME on board.