I have two young kids (both under 4) who are super curious about everything. I already have a biometric safe for my handgun but need something for my home defense shotgun that allows me to access it quickly, without worrying about the kids getting to it. Any suggestions on the best safe/holder for this situation? Thanks!
You should check out the Fort Knox Shotgun Box or the V-Line Shotgun Safe.
Honestly, avoid anything with a biometric or electronic lock if you want it to be reliable. Mechanical locks are proven to work better, last longer, and don’t come with the risks that biometric or electronic locks can have. (Unless it’s something with a UL Type 1 electronic lock like the one Sturdy Safe uses for their pistol safes, those are solid.)
You don’t want to trust your safety to cheap electronics. If your smart fridge breaks, you might lose your food. If your biometric safe breaks, you could lose your life.
@Teo
Yeah, I’m starting to lean away from electronics after having a few issues with the biometric safe for my handgun. Appreciate the advice!
I have a Shotlock for my 300 blackout rifle, and I really like it. They also make one for shotguns. It mounts to the wall, and I have mine up high, so it’s harder for the younger kids to reach.
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Anything with a mechanical lock like the Simplex lock would be good. Or if you go for an electronic one, get one with mechanical pushbuttons. They’re tactile and you don’t have to memorize the code, just the pattern. That way, you can quickly open it in the dark and not worry about remembering the code when you’re half asleep. Biometric is great when it works, but the cheap ones are really hit or miss. Since your kids are little, you don’t need anything super expensive unless they’re really good with tools or something.
I have a Barska two-gun fingerprint safe for my home defense long gun, and I keep it right in my bedroom.
What kind of shot are you using in your shotgun?
Have you thought about where your kids’ rooms are in relation to where you would need to use it?
Sorry, I know that’s a bit off-topic, but it’s something I thought about once we had kids too.
@Val
I’m using 00 buck right now.
Just something to consider with 00 buck – it can go through walls, so with kids in the house, it might be something to think about when planning for home defense.
Val said:
Just something to consider with 00 buck – it can go through walls, so with kids in the house, it might be something to think about when planning for home defense.
Not sure why you’re getting downvoted. Buckshot does carry through walls way better than lighter rounds like 5.56.
I think it’s worth pointing out with kids in the house though, just to be careful with what you’re choosing for home defense.
With kids around, a short-barreled 5.56 with 55gr Hornady Critical Defense is a much better option. Less chance of hitting someone behind a wall.
If you’re set on a shotgun, though, try low-recoil #4 buck to reduce over-penetration. A longer barrel (around 24 inches) with a Buckshot choke would also be a good option to reduce shot spread.
Can we drop the SBR 5.56 talk? Try going into a small room (like 10x20 feet) without ear protection and shooting 5 rounds, then let me know how great of an idea that is.
Shotguns were the best all-around home defense option for a long time. Leave the SBR AR-15 stuff to the pros.
I never said you couldn’t use a suppressor.
But how is a shotgun any quieter in a small space?
And why would a shotgun be a better choice than an AR, especially when it’s easier to handle and less likely to hit someone in the next room?
@Shiloh
If you think about a beginner gun owner, you’ll realize why it’s not the best option. Very few people want to act like they’re military operators. I’d much rather my neighbor use a 12 gauge with 4 shot than a 5.56.
Even when that Buckshot ends up in your bedroom?
Oh, sorry man. I guess everyone needs to have an SBR and suppressor because that’s the sensible choice for a first gun. Gotcha!
It’s not about being ‘tacticool.’ The point is to not accidentally shoot someone you care about.
I don’t see why a shotgun is any easier to use under stress. An AR can be a great first gun for lots of reasons.
But you’re not interested in learning, so you’ve made your decision and now you’re just arguing. I hope you never have to learn the hard way.
Whatever you say, man. I own an SBR. But I think a 12 gauge with 4 shot is safer, and so do most people who have any practical experience with this. Don’t get too caught up in all the fancy gear.