Best Biometric Gun Safes: Fingerprint Technology Tested
Are biometric gun safes reliable? We tested fingerprint recognition on 8 gun safes in real conditions — sweaty hands, cold weather, and low light.
Can You Trust Fingerprint Locks?
The biggest question about biometric safes: will it open when you need it most? We tested 8 biometric gun safes 100 times each under normal conditions, with sweaty hands, with cold hands, and in total darkness.
Test Results Summary
Top-tier biometric safes from Vaultek and Barska hit 98-99% recognition rates under normal conditions. Cheaper safes dropped to 85-90%. Sweaty hands reduced all safes by 5-10%. Cold hands were the biggest challenge, with some safes dropping below 80%.
Best Biometric Safes
1. Vaultek VTi — 99% Recognition Rate
The Vaultek VTi uses a capacitive fingerprint sensor that stores up to 20 fingerprints. It achieved 99% recognition under normal conditions and 94% with sweaty hands. The key backup ensures access if biometrics fail. $349.
2. Barska Biometric Safe — 98% Recognition
Solid scanner performance at a lower price point. Stores up to 120 fingerprints, making it ideal for families. Key backup included. $199.
Our Advice
- Always enroll multiple fingers (index, middle, thumb on both hands)
- Re-enroll seasonal: sweat patterns change with seasons
- Always have a backup access method (key, keypad, or RFID)
- Test your safe monthly to ensure consistent recognition
- Keep the sensor clean — a microfiber wipe is all you need