Responsible firearm ownership begins with secure storage. A proper gun lock is a critical layer of protection, preventing accidents and unauthorized access while keeping your firearms ready for their intended purpose. The right device depends on your needs, from simple trigger guards to quick-access bedside safes.
This roundup covers eight highly-rated options to enhance your safety protocol. Whether you prioritize quick combination access, robust physical security, or biometric speed, there is a solution here for your handguns, rifles, and shotguns. Review the features to find the best fit for your home and lifestyle.
Our Top Picks for Firearm Security
- Master Lock Black Gun Trigger Lock, Set Your Own Combination
- FSDC 15″ Gun Cable Lock with 2 Keys – California DOJ Approved
- Mind and Action California DOJ-Approved Keyed 15” Cable Gun Lock 3-Pack
- Master Lock 107DSPT Keyed Gun Lock Padlocks, 14 in cable
- SentrySafe Gun Safe with Digital Keypad Lock, Pistol Safe
- Fort Knox Original Pistol Box, Quick-Access Mechanical Lock
- Hornady Security Rapid Safe Keypad Handgun Safe
- VAULTEK VT20i Biometric Handgun Safe with Auto-Open
Master Lock Black Gun Trigger Lock, Set Your Own Combination
This trigger lock from Master Lock offers keyless convenience with a user-set three-digit combination. Its compact design fits directly over the trigger guard of many handguns, rifles, and shotguns, physically blocking the trigger from being pulled. The steel and zinc body provides durability, while a 4-pin tumbler mechanism adds a layer of pick resistance.
It is a straightforward and portable option for basic firearm security. Always verify compatibility with your specific firearm model before use, as the manufacturer notes it may not fit all types. For those who prefer not to manage keys, this combination lock provides a simple and reusable security solution.
FSDC 15″ Gun Cable Lock with 2 Keys
The FSDC cable lock is a California DOJ-approved device designed for universal use. Its 15-inch braided steel cable fits through the action or magazine well of most pistols, rifles, and shotguns, rendering the firearm inoperable. The lock body features a scratch-resistant plastic cover to protect your firearm’s finish.
This model includes two keys for reliable access. The manufacturer emphasizes its role in accident prevention and as a deterrent for unauthorized use, highlighting its importance for household safety. It is a practical and affordable choice for securing a wide variety of firearms.
Mind and Action California DOJ-Approved Keyed 15” Cable Gun Lock 3-Pack
This three-pack from Mind and Action provides excellent value for securing multiple firearms. Each lock features a 15-inch heavy-duty steel cable with a protective coating to prevent scratches. Like the single FSDC model, it is approved by the California Department of Justice as a safety device.
The pack is ideal for households with several guns or for those who want to keep locks available in different locations, such as a primary residence and a vehicle. The keyed design is simple to operate, and having three locks ensures you can secure your collection or share with family members.
Master Lock 107DSPT Keyed Gun Lock Padlocks
This Master Lock option combines a laminated steel padlock with a 14-inch vinyl-coated braided steel cable. The design allows you to secure a firearm to a fixed object, like a closet rod or bed frame, adding an extra layer of theft prevention. The vinyl coating on the cable protects your firearm from scratches.
It is constructed for strength and flexibility, suitable for handguns, rifles, and shotguns. This lock is best for situations where you want to physically tether a firearm in addition to preventing its operation, offering a higher level of security than a standalone trigger or cable lock.
SentrySafe Gun Safe with Digital Keypad Lock
Moving beyond locks, the SentrySafe QAP1E is a compact pistol safe offering enclosed storage. It features a digital keypad for programmed access and includes an override key for backup. A gas strut allows the door to open quickly and quietly with one hand, making it a popular choice for bedside security.
Constructed from solid steel with a pry-resistant door, it is California DOJ certified. The safe includes a pre-drilled hole and hardware for bolting it down in a closet, vehicle, or to a nightstand. This model balances quick access with secure containment.
Fort Knox Original Pistol Box
The Fort Knox PB1 is renowned for its mechanical simplicity and robust build. It uses a simplex mechanical push-button lock, which requires no batteries or keys, ensuring reliable access under all conditions. The safe is constructed from heavy 10-gauge steel, providing substantial physical resistance.
A gas-strut-assisted door opens smoothly, and the interior is lined to protect your handgun. Its California DOJ certification confirms its effectiveness as a safety device. For those who prefer a purely mechanical, no-frills, and extremely sturdy safe, the Fort Knox is a top-tier choice.
Hornady Security Rapid Safe Keypad Handgun Safe
The Hornady Rapid Safe series is designed for speed and various access methods. These safes typically offer digital keypad, RFID card/tag, or biometric entry options, allowing you to open the safe in seconds. Many models feature a patented door mechanism that springs open for immediate access to your firearm.
Built from sturdy steel, they are often equipped with a security cable for temporary anchoring and include backup override keys. Hornady safes are engineered for scenarios where a fraction of a second matters, providing a high-security container without sacrificing rapid accessibility.
VAULTEK VT20i Biometric Handgun Safe with Auto-Open
The VAULTEK VT20i represents advanced smart safe technology. It features biometric fingerprint scanning for near-instant access, storing multiple fingerprints for authorized users. The “Auto-Open” function means the door opens automatically upon successful fingerprint or code verification.
This safe includes Bluetooth connectivity for smartphone management, anti-pry bars, and a rechargeable battery. Its compact design is tailored for handguns and is built with a heavy-duty alloy construction. For those seeking the fastest possible access through modern technology, the VAULTEK is a leading option.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in the Best Gun Locks
When I’m looking at the best gun locks for added safety, my first thought is always about the type. Not every lock works for every situation, and using the right one is a big part of responsible ownership. The main types you’ll see are cable locks, trigger locks, and chamber locks. Cable locks are super versatile; you thread a steel cable through the action of the firearm, making it impossible to chamber a round or close the action. They’re a great, affordable choice for many types of guns. Trigger locks clamp around the trigger guard to block access to the trigger. A word of caution here: you must ensure the lock doesn’t actually touch the trigger, as pressure could theoretically cause a discharge. For me, chamber locks (or barrel locks) are excellent for added security. They insert directly into the chamber of a pistol or the barrel of a rifle, physically blocking a round from being chambered.
My next non-negotiable is certification. I always look for locks that meet or exceed specific safety standards. In the U.S., the gold standard is certification from the California Department of Justice (CA DOJ) or approval from the nonprofit organization Project ChildSafe. These aren’t just stickers; they mean the lock has been independently tested for strength, durability, and tamper resistance. A certified lock gives me confidence that it’s not just a flimsy piece of hardware.
Durability and construction are huge. I check what the lock body and cable or shackle are made from. A hardened steel cable is much harder to cut than a basic braided wire. The locking mechanism itself should feel robust. I avoid locks with thin, easily-picked keyways or combination dials that feel loose or cheap. For combination locks, I prefer models with discrete, clickable dials over smooth dials, as they can be more precise and harder to decode by feel.
Finally, I think about my specific use case. Is this for long-term storage in a safe (where it acts as a secondary layer), or for quick access in a home-defense scenario? For quicker access, I might lean towards a reliable biometric lockbox that secures the entire firearm, rather than a device that attaches to it. But for general storage and safety, especially to prevent unauthorized access, a traditional cable or trigger lock is a solid choice. Remember, the best gun lock for added safety is the one you will actually use consistently every single time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are gun locks required by law?
Laws vary significantly by state and locality. Some states have mandatory locking device laws, often requiring a safety device like one of the best gun locks for added safety to be sold with every firearm. Other laws, often called “safe storage” or child access prevention laws, mandate that firearms be stored in a locked container or with a locking device if they could be accessed by a prohibited person, like a child. It’s my responsibility to know and follow the laws in my area.
Can a determined person defeat a gun lock?
Like any security device, gun locks are a deterrent, not an absolute guarantee. A very determined individual with specialized tools and time might defeat some models. However, their primary purpose is to prevent unauthorized, impulsive access—especially by children or visitors. A quality, certified lock significantly increases the effort and time required, which is often enough to prevent a tragedy. They are a critical layer in a complete safety plan.
What’s the difference between a cable lock and a trigger lock?
The main difference is how they secure the firearm. A cable lock threads a steel cable through the gun’s action (e.g., through the magazine well and out the ejection port of a pistol), rendering it inoperable. A trigger lock clamps around the trigger guard to block access to the trigger itself. I find cable locks generally more versatile for different gun types and often consider them more secure, as they physically disable the cycling of the firearm.
Should I use the free lock that came with my gun?
Often, the free lock provided is a basic cable lock that meets certain regulatory requirements. My rule is: using it is infinitely better than using nothing at all. It provides a fundamental level of safety. However, if I’m looking for maximum durability, tamper resistance, or a specific feature like a combination dial, I might invest in a higher-end model from a dedicated security company. The free lock is a great start, but upgrading is never a bad idea.
How do I properly use a chamber or barrel lock?
It’s vital to follow the manufacturer’s instructions exactly. For a pistol chamber lock, you first must confirm the firearm is completely unloaded. Then, you insert the specific locking rod into the chamber. For a rifle or shotgun barrel lock, you insert the device down the barrel from the muzzle end until it seats. The goal is to physically block a round from being chambered. Always, always verify the gun is unloaded before installing any lock, and store the key or combination separately.