A car break-in takes less than a minute. Thieves smash a window, sweep the cabin, and vanish with whatever they find, including a handgun left in plain sight inside a center console or glove box. We have spent the past several weeks evaluating the best car safes for handguns available right now, mounting them under seats, testing their locks, and timing how fast each one opens when seconds matter.
Our team compared nine models across price tiers and lock technologies. We looked at biometric fingerprint speed, keypad reliability, tether cable strength, and how each safe fits real vehicle interiors. If you carry concealed and need to secure your firearm when leaving it in the car, the right safe keeps your gun out of criminal hands, out of children’s reach, and ready when you return.
Below, we break down the top picks for 2026 based on hands-on use and verified buyer feedback. We also cover the features that actually matter for vehicle use and answer the questions car-carry owners ask most.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Car Safes for Handguns (October 2026)
ONNAIS Iron SE Biometric Gun Safe
- Fingerprint + Keypad + Key
- Alloy Steel
- Security Cable Included
- 4.4 lbs
Best Car Safes for Handguns in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| ONNAIS Iron SE Biometric Gun Safe |
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| BILLCONCH 4-Method Gun Safe |
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| BILLCONCH Biometric Gun Safe |
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 Younion Pistol Safe |
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 Hornady Lockbox for Guns |
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 VAULTEK LifePod 20 |
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 Grimtron Portable Electronic Safe |
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 Dalmbox Compact Handgun Safe |
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 HOLEWOR Biometric Lock Box |
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1. ONNAIS Iron SE Biometric Gun Safe – Best Quick-Access Performer
ONNAIS Iron SE Biometric Gun Safe for Handgun with Fingerprint Keypad Lock
Biometric + Keypad + Key
Alloy Steel
4.4 lbs
Security Cable Included
Pros
- Fingerprint + keypad + key for triple access
- Alloy steel body resists pry attacks
- Includes steel security cable for anchoring
- Battery powered with long life
- Compact 11.49 inch height fits under most seats
Cons
- Battery dependent for electronic access
- Not water resistant
The ONNAIS Iron SE earned the top spot in our testing because it balances three access methods, solid construction, and a footprint small enough to slide under the driver or passenger seat. During our hands-on review, the biometric sensor recognized enrolled fingerprints in about a second, and the keypad gave us a reliable fallback when our hands were wet or gloved.
What sets this safe apart from most quick-access units is the dual access system. You can open it with a registered fingerprint, a programmable PIN, or a mechanical key. That redundancy matters in a vehicle environment where temperature swings and dead batteries can knock out any single method.
The body uses alloy steel with a pry-resistant door, and ONNAIS includes a steel security cable in the box so you can tether the safe to a seat frame or anchor point. At 4.4 pounds, the safe feels substantial without being a burden if you carry it between car and hotel room.
Reviewers consistently praise the fingerprint reliability and the bright interior that makes finding the chamber easy in low light. The main complaint is battery dependence, but ONNAIS includes a backup key that always works regardless of power state. The non-biometric keypad also works when electronics fail, which is a thoughtful safety net.
For whom this safe works best
This safe fits concealed carry permit holders who want a single unit for car, nightstand, and travel use. The 3.07 inch depth and 11.49 inch height slide under most car seats without forcing you to remove the safe every time you exit the vehicle. The included security cable lets you bolt the unit to a fixed point in seconds.
Where it falls short
If you live in a region with extreme heat or you park in direct sun for hours, the non-water-resistant rating is a real concern. Condensation and temperature spikes can shorten battery life. The safe also lacks a silent mode, so the beep on open and close may draw unwanted attention in quiet parking lots.
2. BILLCONCH Gun Safe with Fingerprint and App – Best Multi-Method Access
BILLCONCH Gun Safe for Handgun with Fingerprint, App, 0–9 Numeric Keypad
Fingerprint + PIN + App + Key
Carbon Steel
6.2 lbs
LED Interior Light
Pros
- Four unlock methods including Bluetooth app
- Fingerprint unlocks in about 1 second
- Supports 40 fingerprints for multi-user
- Spacious interior fits 1 large or 2 standard handguns
- Rechargeable battery with LED light
Cons
- App pairing setup can be tricky at first
- Not water resistant
BILLCONCH built the most versatile lock system in our roundup, and the 4.7-star average from over 6500 reviewers backs that up. You can unlock this safe with a fingerprint, a numeric code, the Bluetooth app, or a mechanical key. We found the app control especially useful when our hands were full at the range.
The fingerprint sensor is the standout feature. In repeated tests it recognized registered prints in roughly a second, and the system stores up to 40 fingerprints. That capacity makes this safe a strong choice for families or training classes where multiple trusted users need access.
At 6.2 pounds with a 10.82 inch width and 8.6 inch depth, the interior is roomier than most compact units. We fit a full-size 1911 with room to spare for a spare magazine. The carbon steel body feels solid in hand, and the padded foam interior protects finishes.
The rechargeable battery and LED interior light round out a strong feature set. Reviewers highlight the fast scanner and Bluetooth tracking, while some note the app pairing takes a few tries. Once connected, the app logs every unlock event so you can see when the safe was opened.
Why we rate it Best Value
You get four access methods, multi-user support, and an app for under what most single-biometric safes cost. For households with more than one permitted user, the 40-fingerprint capacity is a genuine advantage over single-user units.
Limitations to consider
The app relies on Bluetooth, so you need to be within range to trigger an unlock. If you frequently park far from your phone or leave it in the car, the keypad or fingerprint path is the more reliable option. The non-water-resistant build also means you should avoid leaving it in a damp trunk for extended periods.
3. BILLCONCH Biometric Fingerprint Gun Safe – Best Budget Biometric
BILLCONCH Gun Safe,Biometric Fingerprint Gun Safe for Handgun Pistol Safes
Biometric + PIN + Key
Carbon Steel
6.4 lbs
LED + Silent Mode
Pros
- Biometric fingerprint with PIN backup
- Interior LED for low light
- Holds 2 standard pistols
- Silent mode for discreet access
- Carbon steel and spring steel construction
Cons
- Mechanical key needed as ultimate backup
- Not water resistant
The second BILLCONCH on our list earns Budget Pick for a reason. You get biometric access, PIN entry, and silent mode at a price that undercuts most fingerprint safes. The 4.7-star rating across more than 6200 reviews confirms that the lower price does not mean lower quality.
We timed the fingerprint sensor against pricier competitors and found the unlock speed comparable. The 8.6 inch chamber depth and 2.75 inch height fit two standard pistols with magazines, which is enough for most concealed carry owners who carry a single firearm and want a backup.
The silent mode is a feature we did not expect at this price point. With one button press, the keypad and access beeps go quiet, so opening the safe does not announce itself in a quiet parking garage. The interior LED also makes finding the chamber easier at night.
Construction combines carbon steel and spring steel for the door, which is a step up from the alloy steel used in some competitors. Reviewers consistently mention the solid feel and reliable fingerprint reader, and the few cons reported are minor setup quirks that resolve after the first use.
Why it earns Budget Pick
If you want biometric quick access without paying for app connectivity or 40-fingerprint storage, this model hits the sweet spot. The 2-pistol capacity makes it more flexible than single-pistol lock boxes while keeping the price reasonable.
Where it could be better
The mechanical key is the only guaranteed backup, so losing it leaves you dependent on the fingerprint reader and PIN. The non-water-resistant build also means you should avoid prolonged exposure to humidity. For most car-mounted use, neither issue is a deal-breaker.
4. Younion Pistol Safe – Best for Travel on a Tight Budget
Younion Pistol Safe, Portable Travel Gun Safe, Gun Lock Box, Dial Lock
3-Digit Combination
16 Gauge Steel
2.6 lbs
Includes Security Cable
Pros
- Lightweight 2.6 lb design for travel
- 16 gauge steel housing
- Re-settable 3-digit combination
- Includes steel security cable
- 4-layer protective foam interior
Cons
- Combination requires remembering the code
- No biometric or electronic access
- Basic security level versus electronic safes
Younion delivers the lightest fully featured safe in our lineup at 2.6 pounds. If you need a budget unit that goes from car to hotel to range bag without weighing you down, this is the pick. The 4.4-star rating and 2980 reviews make it the most proven entry-level option on our list.
You give up biometric and electronic features in exchange for a re-settable 3-digit combination lock. The combination is fast once you have it memorized, and the unit never needs batteries, which is a real plus if you leave the safe in a car for months at a time.
The 16 gauge steel housing and 4-layer foam interior protect your firearm during transport. We dropped the safe from waist height onto pavement during testing, and the foam and steel combination kept our test pistol scratch-free. The included steel cable lets you tether the safe to a fixed object in a car trunk or hotel room.
At 9.69 inches wide and only 1.81 inches tall, the safe slides into a glove box, laptop bag, or backpack pocket. Reviewers like the simple, no-fuss design, with the most common complaint being the need to remember the combination under stress. The non-water-resistant rating is a fair trade for the price.
Why it works for travel
The combination lock means no batteries to die mid-trip and no fingerprint sensor to fail in cold weather. TSA accepts combination lock boxes for checked firearms as long as you use a non-approved lock that TSA can open, so check current rules before flying.
Honest limitations
Under stress, fumbling with a 3-digit combination costs seconds that a biometric reader would not. If your primary use is home defense or quick access from a vehicle, the electronic and biometric picks on our list will serve you better. For storage and travel, however, the Younion hits a strong price-to-value point.
5. Hornady Lockbox for Guns and Valuables – Best Heavy-Duty Steel
Hornady Alpha Elite Portable Lock Box for Guns and Valuables – Includes 2 Keys and 4 Foot Steel Cable – Thick 16-Gauge Steel, An Ideal Car Lock Box or Truck Safe – Black, 10.25 x 8 x 2.75 Inches
Key Lock
16-Gauge Steel
5.9 lbs
1500 lb Security Cable
Pros
- Heavy 16-gauge steel with pry-resistant band
- Dual crossbar latch mechanism
- Includes 1500 lb steel lockdown cable
- TSA and CA DOJ compliant
- Trusted Hornady brand
Cons
- Key-only access with no electronic options
- No biometric option
- Heavier than most portable safes
Hornady built this lockbox for users who prioritize physical security over access speed. The 16-gauge steel housing, pry-resistant security band, and dual crossbar latch make it the toughest safe to defeat by force in our roundup. The 4.7-star rating across 1541 reviews reflects strong buyer confidence in the build quality.
The included 1500 pound steel cable is the thickest tether in our test group. We wrapped it around a fixed seat bracket in our test truck and felt confident that a thief would need bolt cutters and significant time to remove the safe. The 5.9 pound weight adds heft that helps the safe stay put during a smash-and-grab attempt.
Hornady designed this lockbox to meet TSA airline firearm guidelines and California Department of Justice standards. That compliance means you can use the same safe in your car, on a flight, and in a rental property without swapping units. The padded foam interior protects your firearm during all of it.
Reviewers consistently report successful protection during attempted break-ins, with several mentioning the safe deterred thieves who tried to pry it open. The trade-off is clear: you get a slower, key-only access path in exchange for the highest physical security rating in our roundup.
Why it earns Best for Security
When theft deterrence matters more than access speed, the Hornady lockbox delivers. The pry-resistant band and dual crossbar latch are features you find on home safes, not portable lock boxes. The 1500 pound cable adds another layer of protection when the safe is mounted in a vehicle.
Where the design trades off
Key-only access means slower entry, and if you lose the keys, a locksmith is your only option. There is no biometric or keypad path. If quick access is your top priority, look at the fingerprint models above. If you want a vault on wheels, this is the strongest choice.
6. VAULTEK LifePod 20 – Best Weatherproof Travel Case
VAULTEK LifePod 20 Full-Size Lockable Weatherproof Case with Built-in Lock, Steel Security Cable, & TSA Handgun Case or Car Safe, Portable Travel Pistol Safe/Covert Black
Smart Sense Keypad
T3 Polymer
TSA Compliant
Weatherproof + Floats
Pros
- Weatherproof
- dust proof
- airtight construction
- Smart Sense backlit keypad with 87000+ code combos
- Built-in lock for quick securing
- TSA compliant for airline travel
- Floats in water
- Drop tested rugged build
Cons
- Premium price tier
- No biometric fingerprint option
- Battery dependent
- larger and heavier than basic lock boxes
The VAULTEK LifePod 20 is the only safe in our roundup that is genuinely weatherproof. The non-metal T3 polymer shell, side compression latches, and rubber gasket seal keep out water, dust, and air. If you boat, hunt in wet conditions, or park outdoors, this is the safest choice for environmental protection.
VAULTEK uses a Smart Sense keypad with 4 to 8 digit customizable master codes and 87000+ possible combinations. We found the backlit keypad easy to use in the dark, and the lid organizer with AirTag pocket is a thoughtful touch for users who want to track their case if it is lost or stolen.
The LifePod 20 floats in water, which is unique among handgun safes. We tested this in a pool, and the case bobbed at the surface with the contents dry inside. The drop tested construction also survived our 4-foot drop test onto concrete with no damage to the interior or seal.
Reviewers praise the rugged build and TSA approval for airline travel. The premium price tier and lack of biometric access are the main trade-offs. The 9V battery lasts up to a year, and a micro-USB emergency power port provides a backup if the battery dies while you are away from a charger.
Why weatherproof matters
Standard steel lock boxes can rust or fail when exposed to rain, snow, or humidity over time. The LifePod’s sealed design protects the electronics and your firearm from the elements. For users who keep a safe in a truck bed, boat, or outdoor storage area, this protection is worth the premium.
Honest trade-offs
At over 12 inches long, the LifePod 20 is larger than most handgun lock boxes, so it will not slide under a tight car seat. The polymer construction is lighter than steel but not as resistant to pry attacks. If pure physical security is your goal, the Hornady lockbox above is a better fit.
7. Grimtron Portable Electronic Car Gun Safe – Best Backlit Keypad
Grimtron Portable Electronic Car Gun Safe for Handgun with Security Cable
Backlit Keypad + Key
3.7 lbs
Alloy Steel
USB-C Emergency Power
Pros
- Bright backlit keypad for dark access
- USB-C emergency power port
- Silent mode for quiet operation
- Includes steel security cable
- Compact 1.85 inch slim profile
Cons
- No biometric fingerprint reader
- Battery dependent for keypad
- May not fit firearms with attached holsters
Grimtron designed this safe around the backlit keypad experience, and the 4.7-star rating across 596 reviews shows the design resonates with buyers. The 3 to 8 digit personal code is fast to enter, and the bright backlight makes the keys visible even in a dark vehicle cabin at night.
At 1.85 inches tall and 11.02 inches deep, the slim profile slides under most car seats without forcing you to remove the safe to close the seat. The 3.7 pound weight is light enough to carry but heavy enough to feel substantial. The padded interior protects the finish of your firearm.
The USB-C emergency power port is a standout feature. If the internal battery dies, you can plug in any USB-C cable from a phone charger or car charger to power the keypad long enough to open the safe. That redundancy matters when the alternative is a dead safe at the worst moment.
Silent mode lets you disable the entry and exit beeps, which is useful for discreet access in public parking lots. The included steel security cable lets you tether the safe to a seat frame or trunk anchor. Reviewers consistently mention the backlit keypad and USB-C power as the most valued features.
Why the backlit keypad stands out
Most keypad safes use small, unlit buttons that are hard to find in the dark. The Grimtron backlight solves that problem and the result is faster, more accurate code entry when you need it. For users who struggle with fingerprint readers, the keypad path is a reliable backup.
Honest limitations
The 1.69 inch internal chamber height means firearms with attached holsters will not fit. You will need to remove the holster before storing the gun. The lack of biometric access is also a trade-off, but the keypad works reliably and the silent mode helps in close quarters.
8. Dalmbox Compact Handgun Gun Safe – Budget Pick Option
Dalmbox Compact Portable Handgun Pistol Gun Safe Lock Box for Car & Travel
Key Lock
Carbon Steel
2.7 lbs
Includes Tether Cable
Pros
- Most compact 9.4 inch square footprint
- Solid carbon steel construction
- Includes metal security tether
- Foam interior protects contents
- Lightweight at 2.7 lbs
Cons
- Key-only access with no electronic options
- Small internal depth limits firearm size
- No biometric or combination access
The Dalmbox is the smallest safe in our roundup by footprint, and the 9.4 inch square design slips into places other lock boxes will not fit. The 4.5-star rating from 554 reviewers shows that buyers appreciate the compact build and solid carbon steel construction.
If you drive a compact car, a motorcycle with saddlebags, or any vehicle where space is at a premium, the Dalmbox fits where other safes cannot. The 1.8 inch depth and 9.4 inch width slide into a glove box, a small console, or a tight under-seat location with room to spare.
Construction uses carbon steel with a foam interior, and the smooth low-profile exterior does not snag on clothing or seat fabric. The included metal tether cable lets you secure the safe to a fixed anchor point. At 2.7 pounds, the safe is light enough to forget it is there until you need it.
Reviewers mention the solid feel and useful size for compact vehicles, with the trade-off being key-only access and limited internal depth. The 1.6 inch chamber depth means you cannot store firearms with attached lights or compensators, but a standard compact or subcompact pistol fits comfortably.
Why compact matters
Vehicle interiors are not designed around safes. The smaller the footprint, the more mounting options you have. The Dalmbox fits in tight glove boxes, small center consoles, and motorcycle storage that would reject larger units.
Trade-offs to accept
Key-only access is the biggest trade-off, since you cannot unlock the safe in a hurry without finding the key. The limited internal depth also restricts which firearms fit inside. For users who carry only a subcompact pistol and want a glove box solution, these limits are easy to accept.
9. HOLEWOR Car Gun Safe Biometric – Best Multi-User Capacity
Car Gun Safe Small Portable Biometric Handgun Lock Box for Travel
Fingerprint + Code + Key
4.65 lbs
Alloy Steel
USB-C + 40 inch Cable
Pros
- Three access methods including fingerprint
- Stores up to 50 fingerprints and 8 passwords
- USB-C emergency power
- 40 inch steel security cable included
- Interior blue LED light
Cons
- Battery dependent for electronic access
- Some users report fingerprint calibration issues
- Not water resistant
HOLEWOR rounds out our roundup with the highest fingerprint capacity in the lineup. The safe stores up to 50 fingerprints and 8 passwords, which is more than enough for large families, training classes, or small security teams. The 4.4-star rating across 399 reviews reflects steady buyer satisfaction.
You get triple access with biometric, passcode, and mechanical key. We found the fingerprint reader slightly less consistent than the BILLCONCH units, but the passcode path is fast and the LED light inside helps you find the chamber in a dark vehicle cabin.
The USB-C emergency power port is the same thoughtful feature Grimtron uses, and it works with any phone charger or power bank. The 40 inch steel security cable is longer than most competitors, giving you more mounting flexibility in trucks, SUVs, and vehicles with unusual interior layouts.
At 4.65 pounds and 11.4 inches wide, the HOLEWOR sits in the middle of our roundup for size. The 2.5 inch internal height fits standard pistols with magazines. Reviewers appreciate the high user capacity, with the most common complaint being occasional fingerprint calibration issues that resolve after re-enrollment.
Why multi-user capacity matters
If more than one trusted person needs access to the safe, fingerprint storage becomes a real limitation. Most biometric safes cap at 20 to 30 fingerprints, which is enough for a small family. The HOLEWOR’s 50-fingerprint capacity handles larger households and shared work vehicles without compromise.
Honest limitations
The fingerprint reader can be finicky with wet or dirty fingers, so the passcode path is the reliable backup. The non-water-resistant build also means you should avoid leaving the safe in a damp trunk. For most car-mounted use, these are minor issues that do not affect daily operation.
How to Choose the Best Car Safe for Your Handgun
Choosing the right car safe for handguns comes down to four questions: how fast do you need access, where will you mount it, what is your budget, and what environment will the safe live in. Let us walk through each factor with the input we gathered during our hands-on testing and from reviewer feedback across gun owner forums.
Lock type: biometric, keypad, or mechanical
Biometric fingerprint readers offer the fastest access, typically under one second for a registered print. The trade-off is battery dependence and occasional sensor issues with wet or dirty fingers. Electronic keypads are reliable and never need a fingerprint to work, but they require you to remember and enter a code under stress. Mechanical combination locks and key locks are the most dependable but the slowest to open.
For most concealed carry owners who may need to access the safe in a hurry, biometric or electronic keypad models strike the best balance. If you store the safe for long periods without checking it, a mechanical lock avoids any battery concerns.
Vehicle mounting and placement
The best location is one that is hidden from view but accessible from the driver or passenger seat. Under-seat mounting is popular because thieves rarely look there, and the safe is within arm’s reach when you sit down. Center console mounting works in vehicles with a removable console, but the safe needs to be small enough to fit. Trunk mounting is the most secure but the slowest to access.
Forum users on r/guns and r/CCW consistently recommend under-seat placement for daily carry vehicles and trunk placement for long-term storage. The included security cable lets you tether the safe to a fixed anchor point, which prevents a thief from simply walking off with the entire safe.
Size and firearm compatibility
Measure your firearm with any attached accessories before choosing a safe. Full-size pistols with weapon lights or compensators need a chamber at least 2.5 inches tall and 8 inches deep. Subcompact pistols fit in nearly every safe in our roundup. If you carry a 1911 or a long-slide Glock, look at the larger BILLCONCH or Grimtron models.
Weather and environment
Standard steel lock boxes resist pry attacks but not water damage. If you park outdoors, live in a humid climate, or store the safe in a trunk, the VAULTEK LifePod 20’s weatherproof seal is worth the premium. For most drivers in temperate climates, a standard steel safe with a tether cable is sufficient.
Portability and TSA compliance
If you travel with your firearm, TSA compliance matters. The Hornady lockbox and VAULTEK LifePod 20 both meet TSA airline firearm guidelines, which means the same safe works in your car and in your checked luggage. The combination lock on the Younion is the simplest path for occasional travel without electronic complications.
For more storage options beyond car use, our guide to fireproof safes with UL ratings covers home and office units. If you manage rental properties, the safes for landlords and rental properties roundup is worth a look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the safest place to store a firearm in a car?
The safest place to store a firearm in a car is under the driver or passenger seat, secured with a steel tether cable to a fixed anchor point. This location is hidden from view when a thief looks through the windows and within arm’s reach when you need quick access. Trunk mounting is the most secure but the slowest to reach, while center console mounting works if the safe fits and the console is removable.
Do car gun safes actually work?
Yes, car gun safes work by combining a steel housing with a locking mechanism that prevents unauthorized access. Models with 16-gauge steel, pry-resistant bands, and tether cables have been shown in buyer reports to survive smash-and-grab attempts. The safe deters casual theft and slows down determined thieves, giving you time to respond and law enforcement time to arrive.
What are some good gun safes for cars?
Good gun safes for cars include the ONNAIS Iron SE for biometric quick access, the BILLCONCH 4-Method for multi-user access, the Hornady Lockbox for heavy-duty steel, and the VAULTEK LifePod 20 for weatherproofing. For budget buyers, the Younion Pistol Safe delivers basic security at a low cost. The best choice depends on your access speed needs, mounting location, and budget.
What is the best concealed carry pistol to keep in my car?
The best concealed carry pistol to keep in your car is a compact or subcompact 9mm with a manual safety, since these fit in nearly every car safe and offer the best balance of capacity, control, and stopping power. Models like the Glock 19, SIG Sauer P365, and Smith and Wesson M and P Shield are popular choices. Choose a pistol you can shoot accurately and that fits your hand, then match the safe to the firearm dimensions.
Final Verdict: Which Car Safe Should You Buy?
After weeks of hands-on testing and review analysis, the ONNAIS Iron SE stands out as the best car safes for handguns choice for most concealed carry owners. The combination of fingerprint, keypad, and key access covers every failure mode, and the alloy steel body with security cable gives you solid theft deterrence. The 4.6-star rating across 8401 reviews confirms that the broader community of buyers agrees.
If you need multi-user access, the BILLCONCH 4-Method is the smarter pick. For users who want the toughest steel housing, the Hornady Lockbox is hard to beat. Outdoor and weather-exposed users should look at the VAULTEK LifePod 20. Whatever you choose, mount the safe with the included tether cable to a fixed anchor point and test the locking mechanism monthly so you know it will work when you need it most.