The Safeist is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to the buyer. To learn more, please read our full disclosure page here.

GunVault Microvault XL MVB1000 Gun Safe Review

Last Updated: December 1st, 2020 | By Peter Robinson

Gunvault MicroVault XL MVB1000 - Biometric Safe

Gunvault MicroVault XL MVB1000 - Biometric Safe
Gunvault MicroVault XL MVB1000 - Biometric Safe
Gunvault MicroVault XL MVB1000 - Biometric Safe
Our Score

Simply put, Gunvault's Microvault MVB1000 is one of our top biometric gun safe picks to consider. It's versatile and durable which are arguably the two most important considerations for a safe.

Often referred to as the MVB1000, this microvault features a biometric lock. Its steel construction and protective interior make it suitable for both indoors and outdoors.

Our team reviewed the MicroVault XL and came to some astonishing conclusions. Continue reading to learn about its specifications, features, level of security, and overall performance. We'll also explain how to use it properly and what's the best way of storing it is.

General Overview of the MVB1000

SAFETY
89%
DURABILITY
90%
PRICE VALUE
97%
OVERALL SCORE
92%
Pros
  • Can Store Over 100 Fingerprints
  • Lined Interior
  • 5-Year Fire/Burglary Warranty
  • Nearly Impossible To Pry Open
Cons
  • Lack of Door Spring

Measuring the Safety of the MVB1000

A very big feature of the MVB1000 is that it memorizes and stores about 120 different fingerprints so you can give accessibility to other members of your family if you like. It will probably take you a while to get used to the biometric scanner, but that’s completely normal if you’ve never used one before. Since GunVault uses the same algorithm for all their safes, you know reliability isn't an issue.

It comes with a 4 foot security cable that allows you to secure the safe in place. This is great to prevent a thief from simply walking away with your vault.

The 18-gauge steel construction is well-combined with the foam-lined interior. The thickness of the walls gives you security against potential prying while the lined interior allows for everything to fit tightly.

There’s also the option of using a key. It’s a good backup method in case you’ve scared your fingerprint or the batteries have run out.

Fireproof/Waterproof Capabilities

As we said, the vault is made of thick steel, so it’s quite durable and resistant. Still, when it comes to any fireproof and waterproof capabilities, the MicroVault XL doesn’t stand out a lot.

The manufacturer offers a five-year warranty in case your belongings get stolen or they burn in a fire. With this said, you can expect a certain dose of protection against fire, but we weren’t able to find out the maximum temperature it can handle.

It’s also not certified as waterproof either. More so, it appears to have a small gap on the side when it’s closed which is probably where the water would get through.

Storage Capabilities

People choose this one mostly because of its storage capabilities. It’s more than just a box for your weapon since it has many other compartments. This allows you to store smaller items such as jewelry, valuable documents, passports, etc.

It holds just one handgun, but you could store an extra magazine in there, too. It could probably also hold a smaller laptop if you take the gun out.

The elastic pockets make all the difference. You can store lots of small items that would otherwise be amongst your firearms. The best thing is that they are all separated so the items cannot damage your gun, nor can the gun damage any of your other valuables.

It’s a clever solution so all your stuff is separated and protected from bumping into each other if you choose to carry the safe in your car.

Price Point

Overall, it’s one of the most affordable safes we’ve reviewed so far. For the price, you get quick access, large memory capacity, backup key, solid steel construction and reliable pry-resistance.

In most cases, people opt for the safe for the level of security it provides as well as its affordable price. It’s not at the same level as some high-end safe of its size, but it’s still reliable enough to keep the unauthorized hands away.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Ownership

Ease of use and level of safety is what our team liked the best when testing this vault. The safe makes no sound when you open it and you can even do it in pitch dark. These are the two most important pros of the MicroVault XL that make it as popular.

One setback we came across is the lack of a door spring. Though this isn’t a deal breaker, it’s well-known that spring-loaded doors are faster and somewhat easier to use.

Another thing to keep in mind is how you’ll set it up. Though the manufacturer claims you can mount in any direction, the reality says otherwise. You’ll probably have to go through some trial and error before you find what works the best for you.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts on the MVB1000

GunVault’s MicroVault XL MVB1000 is one of the best safes we’ve reviewed so far. It’s quiet and easy to use while also offering enough space for storage of different items. It holds more than just one gun, which is why we often recommend it as one of the most convenient gun safes.

On top of that, it's affordable and backed up by a five-year warranty in case someone does steal your belongings from it.

Though it’s not impossible to break in, the safe does put up a fight. More so, if you use the cable it comes with to secure it in place, you have nothing to worry about.
At The Safeist, we are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
The income we earn as an affiliate advertiser provides us the tools and resources required to service our community.
AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE  |  TERMS & CONDITIONS OF USE  |  PRIVACY POLICY  |  ABOUT US  |  CONTACT US
Copyright © 2021 The Safeist. All rights reserved.
linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram