In this article, we’ll be giving you our in-depth and hands-on review of the Fort Knox PB1 original pistol box.
You’ll learn everything you need to know about this popular pistol safe through our hands-on experience with it.
Our Video Review
Below, you can see a quick video review (featured on our YouTube channel) that goes over what comes with the Fort Knox original pistol box.
To learn all of the criteria we use to rank gun safes, see: How We Test Gun Safes
Fort Knox PB1 Pistol Box Review
The Fort Knox Original Pistol Box Safe sets the standard for secure firearm storage. With its robust construction, simple features, and stellar reliability, this pistol box takes secure gun storage seriously.
Fort Knox PB1 Pistol Box
Unboxing Experience
Unfortunately, the Fort Knox exterior packaging is rather conspicuous with its branding and doesn’t try to hide what’s inside very well. At least thieves might pull a bicep trying to snatch this heavy sucker!
The exterior looks a little rough for wear and the inside shows you just how much damage this heavy safe does to the poor styrofoam trying to keep it protected.
Unfortunately, this also means there was a fair amount of styrofoam particulate cleanup, which is never a fun ordeal!
Everything else that comes with the Fort Knox can be found inside.
What’s Included:
- Fort Knox Original Pistol Box Safe
- Mounting hardware
- User manual and instructions for changing the lock combination
First Impressions
We were impressed with this heavyweight behemoth that weighs in at 22 lbs empty! We dig the rugged finish that will no doubt stand up to loads of abuse without showing much wear or tear.
The classic design on the lid proudly displays the Fort Knox branding with the excellent Simplex punch keys and door lock directly below.
Inside, you can see the huge amount of space this pistol box offers, and the amount of storage it provides is commendable.
Here’s a good look at the top of the locking mechanism that securely bolts into place when locked.
We appreciate the attention to detail and the smooth and rounded edges that look like a battle-worn treasure chest that was fished out of the bottom of a lake.
Setup and Programming
The setup process for the Fort Knox Original Pistol Box Safe is straightforward. The safe comes pre-drilled with holes for easy mounting.
It does not require any programming, as it features a mechanical lock system, eliminating the need for batteries or electronic components. Simply secure the safe in your desired location, and it is ready to use.
Below, you’ll find our video demonstrating how to reprogram the mechanical Simplex lock this safe employs:
Storage Capacity
We were able to stuff 6 handguns of various sizes into this spacious safe by laying the thinner foam liner on top of the 4 guns beneath.
Once we closed the heavy lid, the thick foam under the lid locked down on the guns and kept them from moving even a little.
This is pretty impressive but it is only really advisable if you’re using this safe as a long storage solution!
You obviously wouldn’t want to do this if you’re using this safe for defensive purposes where too much clutter will prove to be a hindrance instead of a help in your time of need.
Most likely, you’ll be storing no more than 2 or 3 pistols or 1 to 2 pistols with a box of ammo and a spare magazine or two.
As you can see in the above picture, Fort Knox PB1 has no problems fitting 3 full-size semi-autos and a couple of extra pistols on top.
A more sensible scenario would be 2 large handguns with a box of ammo as shown below.
We’ve included a few more examples of the types of pistols you can store in this safe in various positions and layouts.
This truly is a larger pistol safe than most in this form factor, and the largest one we own that’s still relatively low-profile.
Pros & Cons
In this section, we explore all of the pros and cons regarding the Fort Knox pistol box handgun safe.
What We Like:
- 22 lbs Of Pure Steel
- Excellent Fit & Finish
- Great Simplex Punch Button Entry
- Tons Of Storage
- Loads Of Foam Padding
- Easy To Mount
What We Don’t Like:
- Too Heavy To Tote Around
- Expensive, But Worth It
- External Hinge
- No Interior Lighting
Additional Pros:
- Uncompromising Security: The heavy 10-gauge steel body construction with a 3/16″ plate door, reinforced locking mechanism, and pry-resistant design ensure unparalleled protection for your handguns.
- Quick and Reliable Access: The simplex mechanical lock allows for fast and hassle-free access, even in high-pressure situations.
- Portable Design: The compact and rugged construction of the Fort Knox Original Pistol Box Safe makes it easy to transport and secure your firearms wherever you go.
- Customizable Options: Users can choose from various lock configurations, including simplex or biometric locks, to suit their specific preferences and needs.
- Resistant to Tampering: The safe’s robust construction and anti-pry features provide excellent defense against unauthorized access attempts.
Who This Safe Is For
Who It’s For:
- The Fort Knox Original Pistol Box Safe is an excellent choice for firearm owners who prioritize top-tier security and quick access to their handguns.
- It is particularly suitable for responsible gun owners, law enforcement officers, and those who frequently travel with their firearms.
Who It’s Not For:
- This safe may not be suitable for gun owners who need storage for more than 5 or 6 handguns.
- Additionally, those seeking a technologically advanced safe with electronic features may find the Fort Knox Original Pistol Box Safe less suitable for their needs.
Key Takeaways
Here are some of the key takeaways to help you decide if the Fort Knox safe is the right choice for securing your firearms:
- Unmatched Security: The Fort Knox Original Pistol Box Safe boasts exceptional build quality and tamper-resistant features, ensuring the highest level of firearm security.
- Quick Access: The safe’s reliable locking mechanism and intuitive design enable rapid access to your handguns during critical moments.
- Solid Construction: Crafted with heavy-duty steel, this safe provides excellent protection against physical attacks and unauthorized access.
- Compact and Portable: Designed for portability, this safe is ideal for individuals who need to transport their handguns securely, or securely mounted in a home or vehicle.
Where To Buy
The best place to buy the Fort Knox PB1 pistol box is on Amazon. With the lowest price we could find online and hassle-free returns, there’s no chance of getting stuck with the bill should anything go wrong with your order.
Fort Knox PB1 Pistol Box
Why it’s a Great Safe for the Money: The Fort Knox Original Pistol Box Safe justifies its value through its impeccable build quality, uncompromising security features, and ease of use.
It provides a solid and dependable solution for securely storing your handguns, making it an excellent investment for gun owners seeking peace of mind and reliable firearm protection.
Compared to all of the safes we’ve tested, the Fort Knox Original Pistol Box Safe stands out as an industry-leading option for handgun storage.
With its unmatched security, quick accessibility, and durable construction, it surpasses expectations. If you prioritize top-tier firearm security, this safe is undoubtedly an exceptional choice.
Features:
- 10 gauge body
- 3/16″ plate door
- Simplex® Mechanical Lock
- Lock-Reinforcing Back Plate
- Durable antique silver textured powder coat finish
- Foam Lined
- Internal dimensions (11 5/8″W X 3 5/8″H X 10 1/4″D)
- Mounting Holes: 4 holes, 3/8″dia (2-1/8″ from each side, see pic)
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
Q&A Section
In this section, we tackle relevant questions people might ask about the Fort Knox pistol box.
Can I mount the Fort Knox Original Pistol Box Safe in my vehicle?
Yes, the safe can be securely mounted in a vehicle using the appropriate mounting brackets and hardware, ensuring your firearms are safely stored during travel.
Does the Fort Knox Original Pistol Box Safe come with a warranty?
Yes, Fort Knox offers a limited lifetime warranty for their Original Pistol Box Safe, providing added peace of mind to customers.
Can I store other valuables in the safe besides handguns?
While primarily designed for handguns, the Fort Knox Original Pistol Box Safe can be used to store other small valuables, such as jewelry, cash, or important documents, thanks to its sturdy and secure construction.
Can I change the lock combination on the Fort Knox Original Pistol Box Safe?
Yes, the safe features a Simplex mechanical lock that allows users to change the lock combination easily. Detailed instructions are provided to guide you through the process.
Is the Fort Knox Original Pistol Box Safe Fireproof?
No. While the Fort Knox is a heavy steel box, it doesn’t have space for insulation since it’s not made out of sandwiched walls of steel like fireproof safes are. No safe at this price point offers fireproof ratings, unfortunately.
How durable is the Fort Knox Original Pistol Box Safe?
Constructed with heavy-gauge steel and featuring a reinforced lid, this safe is exceptionally durable and designed to withstand significant physical force and attempts at tampering.
Final Thoughts
The Fort Knox Original Pistol Box Safe is an unrivaled storage solution for handgun owners who prioritize maximum security and quick access.
Its robust construction, reliable locking mechanism, and customizable options make it an excellent investment.
