In this article, we’ll be introducing you to some of the best safes for shotguns and go into detail on the most important features to look out for when considering a quick-access shotgun safe for home defense.
After some thorough research and hours of testing a variety of options, I know what I want in a safe to protect my arsenal of weapons, and I’ll show you how to protect yours too.
To learn all of the criteria we use to rank gun safes, see: How We Test Gun Safes
Best Home Defense Quick Access Shotgun Safes
When looking for a safe, there are a few options: safes designed for a single shotgun or multi-shotgun (think tactical locker rather than long-term storage safe).
Then, there are more conventional compact shotgun safes (the latter, I’ve found a few budget options that grant you the redundant access required, should the electronics fail).
If you can’t afford a $2000+ gun safe, rest assured, there are more budget-friendly ways to protect your firearms.
These are my top picks for quick-access safes, wall safes, and safe boxes:
Single Shotgun Safe Top Pick
My top single shotgun safe is the V-line quick access keyless safe. V-line has an excellent reputation, and I love V-line’s fast-to-use push-button access with no batteries needed.
V-Line Keyless Shotgun Safe
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You can mount this safe anywhere using the pre-drilled ¼” holes in the bottom of the case so you can mount the safe in a horizontal or vertical position.
This is my top pick for a single shotgun lockbox.
Quick Access Shotgun Safe Top Pick
Now, If you need a little more capacity and want a hands-free truly quick-access shotgun safe, then Hornady’s rapid safe with RFID touchless entry is my next top pick.
Hornady RFID Rapid Safe AR Gun Locker
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Hornady’s safe has 3 optional pathways to gain access. The quickest is the RFID reader with the patented RFID technology providing unmatched security from unauthorized users.
It may be marketed as an “AR” locker, but it accommodates our 2 shotguns perfectly!
Simply place the included RFID wristband, key fob, or decal over the safe’s reader to immediately open and retrieve your firearm.
It also features a touch keypad as a backup to the RFID. In case of a no power condition, two barrel keys are provided making this the best pick for quick access shotgun safe with redundant safety features.
Multi Shotgun Safe Top Pick
My top budget pick is the KAER 3-5 gun safe. This safe is a more conventional style, giving you a few more storage options.
Built-In Organization
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There are other safes like this, with some featuring biometric opening mechanisms or fingerprint systems.
In this budget class multi-shotgun safe, my top safe pick features a reliable number keypad, and most importantly, an easy-to-access backup key override.
This makes for a good entry-level home defense shotgun safe.
Shotgun Wall Mount Safe Top Pick
Hornady offers a rapid wall mount safe that I own and enjoy. This single shotgun safe gives you the option to hide your shotgun behind a bedroom curtain.
Hornady Rapid Shotgun Wall Lock
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The possibilities are endless on how you can mount this safe and with a bit of imagination, this type of safe can be hidden in plain sight.
It features an RFID touchless entry with Hornady’s 3 optional pathways to gain access to your shotgun… just in case.
Quick Access Shotgun Wall Safe Pick
If you want something more analog, then the ShotLock wall mount safe gives you peace of mind because it requires no batteries or wall outlet.
Battery-Free Operation
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Using it is as simple as inputting the analog keypad code to gain access to your shotgun.
Featuring 14 ga steel, it’s one of the most formidable wall-mounted shotgun safes money can buy!
Under The Bed Safe Top Pick
Another great safe option that can hold up to 2 shotguns with a reliable and quick access electronic keypad is made by SecureIt.
There are two models available, model 40-A coming in at 40″ and model 47-A coming in at 47″.
SecureIt: Fast Box 47
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It also has a backup key override that is easily accessible- something I always like to see in a safe. You can’t go wrong with this pick, in my opinion.
This quick-access shotgun safe box is small and effective, allowing you to decentralize the weapons around your house.
It’s a two-fold solution, as I like to spread my arsenal around making it unlikely crooks will find them all, and gives me more options when at home for rapid defense deployment.
FYI: The more safes in multiple locations the better as the FBI time for home burglary is 8-10 minutes.
Biometric Shotgun Safe Top Pick
Now, if you want a value-packed biometric quick-access shotgun safe this top-rated fingerprint safe from Barska is worth checking out.
Barska Biometric Rifle Safe
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The Barska has a user-friendly fingerprint scanner, storing up to 120 unique fingerprints. Its external battery pack allows easy battery replacement.
For individuals who are reluctant to rely solely on a fingerprint reader to secure their lives, this product includes 2 keys for quick access as a backup in case the batteries or biometric reader malfunction.
Pro Tip: It is important to note that with smaller safes, bolting them down is essential, and Barska provides all the necessary mounting hardware.
Final Thoughts
Quick and secure access to a tactical shotgun is an important part of any home defense strategy. That’s why investing in one of these storage solutions should be on your shortlist for 2024
Once you’ve considered your budgetary constraints, space limits, and use-case requirements, go ahead and pull the trigger and join the club of well-prepared gun owners!
