Buyer's Guide to Purchasing a Biometric Gun Safe
Pros of Owning a Biometric Gun Safe
The most significant benefit of a biometric safe is high-level security. It provides limited access only to authorized people that save their fingerprints. Most models can store several different prints so you can actually give access to other people, too. Still, instead of anyone being able to get a hold of the key and open the vault, only the selected fingerprints can do so.
These are easy to use and take a few seconds to open which is especially useful in emergency situations. Key systems and PIN codes usually take much longer to allow access.
Plus, there’s the convenience since you won’t have to remember any passcodes or where you’ve left the key. These are also handy in low-light situations since you won’t have to look for any keys and keyholes.
Cons of Owning a Biometric Gun Safe
Though there are only several cons, they are quite big. One of the most significant problems is commonly known as false positive. This is when an unauthorized fingerprint that’s not saved in the system manages to open it. Another great issue is when it won’t read a saved fingerprint. This is called non-scan, and it’s equally as disastrous as false positive, especially if it happens during emergency situations.
You may experience false positive or non-scan if your fingers are wet, dirty, injured or damaged. Anything that changes the print of your finger may give you mixed results. However, keep in mind that biometric models use developing technology that’s still expected to evolve. With time, these cons won’t be as common, and the odds of these things happening will be even smaller.
How Accurate is a Biometric Reader?
As we said, there are pros and cons to this technology. Though these are some of the easiest to use gun safes, there are a few factors that affect their accuracy.
For example, the batteries in your vault must be strong. If the battery life is close to an end, it’s more likely that the biometric reader won’t be as accurate. Also, you must keep it clean because any dirt can cause faulty reading. It’s recommended you clean it with a Q-tip once in a while to prevent dirt build-up.
Though this seems a little risky, remember that all these come with a backup opening method. Most models work just fine with full batteries and clean fingerprints. Still, make sure to save all your ten fingerprints so you can use any in case some are maybe injured.
Is There Backup Access To A Biometric Gun Safe?
If you read the reviews above you probably noticed how each of these models comes with an alternative opening method. Most can be opened with a backup key or PIN code. You may wonder why you would need a key for something that opens with your fingerprint. As we previously explained, there are some faults to this system, and there are chances of faulty readings.
What if you cut your finger and the scar has no changed the one fingerprint you saved? This is why it would be handy to have a key or a PIN code option. Plus, it might not recognize your print if the battery is empty. The backup system can be any traditional method that doesn’t need electricity. The thing with this is that even though you may never need it, it’s good to know you could rely on it if need be.
Frequently Asked Questions About Biometric Safes
How Many Fingerprints Can I Store?
This really depends on the safe you choose. Pretty much every model comes with different specifications, so it’s just a matter of deciding which one suits you the best. You can find some that store from up to 30 to 120 fingerprints and all in between.
Why Choose A Biometric vs. Electronic (Digital) Safe?
Biometric safes are simply more convenient than any other type of safe. Digital models usually require you to remember a passcode, while biometric just need a swipe of your finger. They are somewhat more secure, too, since it’s only your fingerprint that can open it. Anyone can open your electric safe if they get a hold of the PIN code.
These are the easiest to use. You don’t need to remember any passcodes or where you’ve left your keys. It’s as simple as just scanning your finger as opposed to having to look for your keys in emergency situations.
Should I Buy A Pistol or Rifle Biometric Safe?
Biometric safes all operate in the same way with the size being their most significant difference. You should decide on the size of your safety box before you start looking into any options.
Think about the different kinds as well as the number of weapons you have. Do you have a handgun or a rifle? Is it just one piece or you have an entire collection? Answer these questions as they can help you decide on whether you need a small box for handguns or a large one for rifles.
Safeist's Final Verdict and Thoughts
We hope our comprehensive list and buyer’s guide were helpful in your search. Finding a safe isn’t as easy as most people think so it’s something you should dedicate some attention to. Make sure you’ve read all the reviews carefully so you can make the right decision. If you need more portability and something you won't be afraid to lug around every once in a while, check out our
best car gun safes!
Our top choices are the
SentrySafe QAP1BE as the best biometric pistol safe and the
BARSKA Large Quick-Access Biometric Safe if you want one for your rifle(s). These two offer the best quality, durability, and ease of use you can find on today’s market. Still, make sure they fit your needs regarding the number of guns you need to store as well as their sizes.
Think about what you need and check the gun laws in your state to make sure you get the best biometric safe.
Biometric safes all operate in the same way with the size being their most significant difference. You should decide on the size of your safety box before you start looking into any options.
Think about the different kinds as well as the number of weapons you have. Do you have a handgun or a rifle? Is it just one piece or you have an entire collection? Answer these questions as they can help you decide on whether you need a small box for handguns or a large one for rifles.
