Safe gun storage is one of the most critical decisions every household must make. Whether you have children at home, want to prevent theft or simply want to ensure your firearms remain in top condition, it’s important to understand how to store guns safely. Fortunately, there are a variety of storage solutions available, each catering to a variety of factors — from budgeting or size restrictions, all the way to fireproofing and technological features. No matter your preferences or needs, there are storage solutions that can work for your lifestyle and your situation.

Portable Gun Safe Options

If you’re new to firearms or you are looking to safely secure a home-defense firearm that you also carry for self-defense, you might want to invest in something compact, and lightweight. This small option could be considered a type of beginner safe, but it could also be something that would be useful for travel, whether by car or by plane. Brands like Vaultek offer portable, quick-access safes that allow you to retrieve your firearm swiftly in case of an emergency. Many portable safes also come with biometric locks or keypads for added security.

  • Best for: New gun owners or those needing a mobile, quick-access solution
  • Pros: Compact; easy to transport
  • Cons: Limited capacity; less protection from theft compared to larger safes

Vehicle Firearm Storage

If you need to store a firearm in your vehicle, a specialized vehicle safe is a preferred option. These safes can be mounted under a seat, in the console or in other concealed spots within the vehicle. Vehicle-specific gun safes are particularly useful for situations where firearms cannot be brought inside a building or if traveling to areas where firearms are prohibited. Many of these safes are made to be tamper-resistant and come with mounting brackets for additional security. Just be sure to select an option that can protect your firearm from theft and/or environmental damage.

  • Best for: Storing firearms in vehicles while traveling or when carrying isn’t possible
  • Pros: Convenient; discreet
  • Cons: Limited to vehicle storage; not ideal for home use

Quick-Access Storage

For those who need quick access to a firearm for home-defense situations, there are several options that offer both security and convenience. Quick-access safes typically feature biometric locks, RFID technology and/or keypads to allow fast entry to authorized users when necessary. One unique option is the Reach 2S from VaraSafety. This safe, which can be bolted to a wall or a piece of heavy furniture, uses fingerprint recognition to grant access, making it both secure and convenient. With the firearm in its sturdy, holster-like compartment, it remains locked until approved users unlock it with their thumbprints. Brands like Hornady also offer a variety of safes in a several sizes that open using RFID technology (via a key fob, wristband or decal) or via the more traditional, programmable keypad.

  • Best for: Home-defense situations where fast, secure access is crucial
  • Pros: Quick access; technologically advanced
  • Cons: Can be expensive; battery dependent

Hidden Storage Solutions

For those seeking unique and discreet firearm storage, hidden storage options can be a great choice. These solutions combine security with camouflage, concealing firearms in innocuous, everyday objects. Companies like Tactical Walls offer products such as mirrors, shelves and even clocks that conceal a hidden compartment for guns. These concealment pieces are great for those who want to keep their firearms out of sight but still accessible in case of emergency. Some hidden safes require a special lever, a magnetic fob or other device to unlock. Others hide one or multiple guns behind a façade that no one would suspect. For example, Skinner Sights features a durable, lockable garment bag that is designed to hold firearms, ammunition and other defense tools, hanging plainly but unobtrusively in a closet. (This bag can also double as a great bug-out bag for emergencies.)

  • Best for: Those who want secure yet discreet storage
  • Pros: Camouflaged; convenient
  • Cons: May take longer to access in an emergency; may require installation or setup

Traditional Gun Safes

For the most robust, long-term storage of firearms, traditional gun safes are still the gold standard. These safes, offered by manufacturers like Liberty Safe and Fort Knox, come in a variety of sizes and can accommodate handguns, long guns, magazines, ammunition, holsters and a host of other firearms-related gear. Many high-quality gun safes are also designed to offer protection against fire, water and other environmental hazards. Though usually larger and heavier that the other options mentioned, traditional gun safes provide unparalleled security. And while they often require dedicated space in your home, their ability to protect your firearms and valuables makes them a worthwhile investment.

Traditional gun safes are also ideal options for storing firearms that will not be immediately or repeatedly accessed or used. In this case, just be sure to clean those guns before putting them away and use a lint-free cloth to wipe down all the metal surfaces to get off any fingerprints or moisture before storing. If the guns will be put away for a long time, running an oil-soaked patch through the barrel can help protect it, too. Just remember to wipe this oil off before shooting again. (Leave yourself a note to remind you which guns are stored this way!)

  • Best for: Long-term storage of multiple firearms
  • Pros: Maximum security; fireproof; waterproof; spacious
  • Cons: Expensive; heavy; require dedicated space

The Right Option for Your Gun Safety Needs

Ultimately, when it comes to storing firearms, safety is the top priority. And the right storage option will depend on your specific needs and circumstances. Whether you’re a new firearm owner with just one or two guns or an experienced collector with multiple firearms, it’s important to invest in a storage solution that prevents unauthorized access while still allowing you to retrieve tools quickly in an emergency. By choosing the right gun storage system, you can ensure that your firearms are secure, accessible and stored safely for both your peace of mind and the safety of others.

Additionally, as you choose a storage solution that meets your specific requirements, be sure to pay close attention to local and state laws regarding firearm storage, especially those that pertain to children’s access. Safe storage is not only about protecting your firearms but also ensuring that they are kept out of the wrong hands.

States with Safe Storage Laws

State When does law apply?
California Under 18 and anytime when not in immediate control of the firearm by the owner
Colorado Under 18 and when child may or is likely to gain access
Connecticut Under 18 and anytime when not in immediate control of the firearm by the owner
Delaware Under 18 and after child gains access
Florida Under 16 and after child gains access
Hawaii Under 18 and after child gains access
Illinois Under 14 and after child gains access
Iowa Under 14 and after child gains access
Maine Under 16 and after child gains access
Maryland Under 18 and when child may or is likely to gain access
Massachusetts Under 18 and anytime when not in immediate control of the firearm by the owner
Michigan Under 18 and after child gains access
Minnesota Under 18 and when child may or is likely to gain access
Nevada Under 18 and when child may or is likely to gain access
New Hampshire Under 16 and after child gains access
New Jersey Under 16 and after child gains access
New Mexico Under 18 and after child gains access
New York Under 16 and when child may or is likely to gain access
North Carolina Under 18 and after child gains access
Oregon Under 18 and anytime when not in immediate control of the firearm by the owner
Rhode Island Under 18 and anytime when not in immediate control of the firearm by the owner
Texas Under 17 and after child gains access
Vermont Under 18 and after child gains access
Virginia Under 14 and when child may or is likely to access
Washington Under 18 and after child gains access
Wisconsin Under 14 and after child gains access