Finding a secure place to store your firearms is a fundamental part of responsible gun ownership. Whether you’re looking to keep your collection safe from unauthorized access, protect it from theft, or simply organize your gear, a reliable gun safe is the answer. The good news is that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a quality safe that offers peace of mind. The market is filled with excellent options that balance security, features, and affordability.
This guide is designed to help you navigate those choices by presenting a carefully curated list of the 10 Best Gun Safes Under $300 – 2025 Review. We’ve looked at a wide range of models, from compact pistol safes to larger long-gun cabinets, focusing on those that deliver the best value without breaking the bank. Our goal is to help you find the perfect safe that fits both your budget and your security needs.
What to Look for in a Budget Gun Safe
Before we jump into our top picks, it’s helpful to know what features matter most when you’re shopping in this price range. While you may not get bank-vault level security for under $300, you can still find safes with robust construction and smart features.
Pay close attention to the locking mechanism. Electronic keypads offer quick access, while combination dials are incredibly reliable and don’t require batteries. Also, consider the construction material and gauge of the steel; a lower gauge number means thicker, stronger steel. Look for reliable locking bolts and a pry-resistant design. Finally, think about how you’ll mount the safe. Nearly all quality safes come with pre-drilled holes and hardware so you can securely bolt them to a floor or wall, which is a critical step often overlooked.
10 Best Gun Safes Under $300 – 2025 Review
Here are our top selections for reliable and affordable gun safes that provide excellent security for their price point.
1. The All-Rounder: Stack-On GCDB-924 10-Gun Security Cabinet
A fantastic entry-point for securing long guns, this cabinet offers a great balance of capacity and price. It features a three-point locking system and adjustable shelves, making it versatile for shotguns, rifles, and ammunition. While it’s a security cabinet rather than a heavy-duty safe, it provides a solid barrier and is an excellent choice for deterring casual theft.
2. The Quick-Access Champion: Vaultek VT10i Biometric Pistol Safe
For handgun security with lightning-fast access, the Vaultek VT10i is a standout. Its advanced biometric scanner can store up to 20 fingerprints, and it includes a backup keypad and keys. Built from 16-gauge steel and featuring an internal light, it’s a premium-feeling safe that often falls under the $300 mark during sales.
3. The Compact Powerhouse: SentrySafe QAP1BE Gun Safe
This popular model is a workhorse for pistol storage. Its simple electronic keypad is easy to program and use, and the solid steel construction feels reassuringly sturdy. It includes a interior light and pre-drilled holes for bolting it down, making it a reliable and no-fuss choice for bedside or closet storage.
4. The High-Capacity Value: SnapSafe Treklite Under Bed Safe
Maximize your storage space without taking up valuable closet real estate. This low-profile safe slides neatly under your bed, offering a large interior that can hold multiple long guns, handguns, and other valuables. It features a digital keypad and comes with a cable to secure it to your bed frame.
5. The Biometric Bargain: Awesafe Gun Safe with Fingerprint Identification
This safe brings advanced biometric technology to a very accessible price. It features a fast and accurate fingerprint scanner alongside keypad and key backup options. The interior is nicely carpeted to protect your firearms from scratches, and it offers a great blend of high-tech access and solid construction.
6. The Tactical Cabinet: Stack-On GCWB-10 10-Gun Convertible Cabinet
Similar to our top pick but with a convertible shelf system, this cabinet allows you to customize the interior layout to fit your specific collection. It’s a practical and spacious option for the budget-conscious gun owner who needs to organize more than just firearms.
7. The Portable Protector: Hornady 98150 Lock Box
For those who need security on the go, this compact lock box is a great solution. It’s built from heavy-duty steel and includes a high-strength security cable to lock it to a fixed object in your car or hotel room. The simple four-button keypad ensures reliable access wherever you are.
8. The Classic Dial Choice: Fort Knox PB1 Handgun Safe
If you prefer the absolute reliability of a mechanical lock, the Fort Knox PB1 is a legendary option. Its simplex mechanical pushbutton lock is immune to electronic failure and offers swift access. The gas strut gently and quietly opens the lid, revealing a fully carpeted interior.
9. The Multi-Purpose Safe: SentrySafe SFW123GDC Fireproof Safe
While not exclusively a gun safe, this model is worth considering if you want to protect important documents and a handgun from both theft and fire. It offers a one-hour fire rating for paper and a digital keypad, providing versatile protection for your most critical items.
10. The Slim Profile Savior: V-Line Top Draw Security Case
This unique, slim-style safe uses a simple and reliable mechanical Simplex-style lock with no keys or electronics. Its drawer-style design makes it easy to access in tight spaces like between a bed frame and mattress or in a drawer, offering discreet and dependable security.
Getting the Most from Your New Safe
Once you’ve chosen your safe, proper installation is key. Always take the time to bolt it down. A safe that isn’t secured can simply be carried away, rendering its lock useless. Place it in a location that is both hidden from plain sight and easily accessible to you in an emergency. For electronic models, remember to change the batteries once a year to ensure they function when you need them most.
Finding the right gun safe under $300 is entirely possible. By focusing on solid construction, a reliable locking mechanism, and the commitment to install it properly, you can significantly enhance the security of your home and ensure your firearms are stored responsibly. We hope this 10 Best Gun Safes Under $300 review has given you a clear path to making a confident and secure purchase.