I'm looking for a single-handgun easy-open safe for our "bedside companion." I really want one that is 100% mechanical.

A few years ago, I picked one up at Costco. It was nice enough. Biometric sensor, 5-button combo for redundancy, key lock for redundant redundancy. The biometric sensor was spotty at best, but the keypad worked reliably. For a few years, anyway. Now, the keypad is temperamental, and worse, the hydraulic cylinder that supports the lid is dead, so it no longer pops open. I've added a string so that we can get it open without finding a nail file to pry it up.

Also, there's rust forming on my bedside companion. Rust! How embarrassing!

I like the form of it, a flat box that I've bolted to the top of a chest of drawers. What I've come to dislike are the electronics and the hydraulics. In other words, anything fancy. Oh, also the lack of weather sealing.

I want a box that locks with a purely physical mechanism. You know those 5-button locks you see on doors in old government buildings? I want THAT. A pushbutton combination lock that does not rely on batteries. Ever. And I want one that doesn't require a spring or hydraulics to open. Just a hinge. I want a steel box with a hinged lid and a manual, physical, push-button combination lock. And, of course, a key for backup. I want a safe that can sit for 35 years, undisturbed, and still open the first time you hit the combo. And, while we're at it, i want it to be environmentally sealed.

As far as I can tell, no one makes this box. If you know of someone who does, please share! Alternately, if you're a skilled engineer or machinist, start making and selling these!

I think what you're looking for might be the FAS1 safes.

They have the hydraulic lift to swing the door open in any orientation you have the safe sitting, and when you feel the weight of the metal used, you just might want that feature!  If not, it's nothing to remove that spring/lift.  The issue then becomes trying to use the knob on the lock to pull the lid open, since the lid is made with no areas that can be easily pried open, thus no lip to lift with.

There's a holster attached to the lid that presents the grip to the user when opened.  The pistol is kept in the holster with a strap and single button snap that's quick to release.  If you don't like this setup, the holster can be removed completely so the pistol rests on the side or bottom of the safe.

The simplex lock can be ordered with or without the keyed backup, which has open, closed and "push-button disabled" positions.  If for some reason you want it to be key-only, it prevents the push-button combo from opening it.  Maybe you want to keep another household member from having access temporarily?  Or, you can disable the simplex combo while at work and reenable it while at home?

The units are lined with carpeting to protect from scratches.  The holsters can be matched to the size handgun/s you will be storing including those with weapons lights, red dots and lasers.  They can also accommodate revolvers.  They have a variety of sizes that can accommodate the pistol, extra mags/ammo, other valuables, and even attached suppressors.

The safes are heavy as heck!  Shipping to HI wasn't cheap, but the owner worked with me to find the cheapest options.  They came in super heavy cardboard packaging with about 1"-2" thick dense foam formed around the safe.  I kept the packaging, just in case i ever needed it.

There are no mounting holes or hardware, so you can make your own holes on any side or locate it in a hidden spot.  So, if you want it bolted to a bed, nightstand, inside a dresser door, or a closet shelf, you get to choose the location was well as the orientation. 

I've purchase 3 of these, all different sizes and configurations.  The key lock was not initially available, so only the last one has that.

Did I mention how heavy they are?  The steel is way thicker than what's used on my Costco Bighorn gun safe.

The closest other brand I know of is Fort Knox, although I haven't really shopped around for a few years.

If you're looking for something more like a clamshell lockbox, then Fort Knox would be better for you.

https://fas1safe.com/features

https://www.ftknox.com/product-category/pistol-boxes/

Oh, yeah.  If you sign up at the FAS1 website and follow them on FB and X-ter, you'll be notified when they have promos -- normally around Memorial Day, Christmas, etc.  They might have a certain size that's overstocked and will have those discounted, or the various options like keyed entry will be included for free. Most of the time its that or a percentage discount on any order.

If you're in the market and are interested in the FAS1 products, the owner will be more than happy to answer any questions you have.  All my emails were answered promptly.  If you want one that's customized for your needs/wants, i'm sure he'll work with you on that.

 

They have the hydraulic lift to swing the door open in any orientation you have the safe sitting, and when you feel the weight of the metal used, you just might want that feature!  If not, it's nothing to remove that spring/lift.  The issue then becomes trying to use the knob on the lock to pull the lid open, since the lid is made with no areas that can be easily pried open, thus no lip to lift with.

I like the lock, that's exactly what I had in mind. However, the "needs a hydraulic cylinder in order to open" is a deal-breaker. I've got that with my Costco safe. WHen (not if) that cylinder goes, opening becomes a hassle. If you're lucky and discover the failure in a noin-critical time, you can engineer a band-aid. But if it happens during a moment of need, well... Maybe I'll email the owner and see if there are alternate deisgns on the table.

In the spirit of "post-then-solve," I found this on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09J8H8JTN/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_2?smid=AYUI255ZFM4ZA&th=1
It's from Viking Security. It has much of what I want, but not a keyed backup.

Those Ft Knox also look promising, but lack the key.

Wow... three choices, each 2/3 of a solution!

I like the lock, that's exactly what I had in mind. However, the "needs a hydraulic cylinder in order to open" is a deal-breaker. I've got that with my Costco safe. WHen (not if) that cylinder goes, opening becomes a hassle. If you're lucky and discover the failure in a noin-critical time, you can engineer a band-aid. But if it happens during a moment of need, well... Maybe I'll email the owner and see if there are alternate deisgns on the table.

In the spirit of "post-then-solve," I found this on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09J8H8JTN/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_2?smid=AYUI255ZFM4ZA&th=1
It's from Viking Security. It has much of what I want, but not a keyed backup.

Those Ft Knox also look promising, but lack the key.

Wow... three choices, each 2/3 of a solution!

I can't talk you out of your concerns, but in my experience, the FAS1 products use some of the best materials and components on the market.

All 3 of my safes are opened and closed at least a few times a month more or less.  It takes a good deal of effort to close the lid, indicating the hydraulics are very strong compared to most I've ever seen for cabinet door lifts, ottoman lid lifts, etc.  None of mine have shown any signs of weakening or other problems.

You need some leverage to force the lid shut against the force of the lift.  If you are just holding the safe with one hand and closing it with the other, you're going to feel like it's an isometric exercise! 

Even though the force needed to close it is surprising, it still doesn't slam the lid open.  It opens in a nice, smooth, controlled pace -- fast enough for a quick draw, but not so fast that it would hurt if your hand's in front of the lid.

As for the Fort Knox, FAS1 sells retrofit locks for their safes.  You might be able to either add the key lock separately or replace the simplex lock to include the key lock. 

The 3-position lock as advertised by FAS1 is an exclusive feature for their product line.  Most others only have 2 positions -- locked and open.  FAS1 also lets you lock out the simplex lock so you must use the key to open.  May or may not  be of interest to you, but it's good to know.

Basically, if you remove the mechanism intended to open the lid, you're going to need to add an alternative method -- one that let's you open it manually.  Maybe a different knob can be attached to the lock that is better suited for pulling the lid than the one they normally use?  Might be the best alternative, since you would push the combo, then do a twist & pull with your hand on the same knob.  Just a thought. 

Seriously, you should contact FAS1 and see what they can do for you.  Each safe sold is customized for the customer -- with or without keyed entry, no holster, various sized holsters, carpet, ... I imagine they can figure out a design for you without the lift.  Since they designed it, they would have the knowledge of what might and might not work for you.

 

I went through two electronic bedside safes before finally giving up on anything with batteries. First one’s keypad died randomly, the second’s gas strut failed just like yours. Ended up switching to a simplex-style mechanical lock, and it’s been rock solid. No beeping, no batteries, no surprises—just press the combo and go. Hard to find one that’s fully weather-sealed, though. Have you checked www.libertysafe.com? Their handgun safes lean modern, but they might have something close.

https://www.amazon.com/STOP-BOX-PRO-Handgun-Magazine/dp/B0CM5FLLFH/ref=sr_1_8?crid=25ZVBMIW2QEDU&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.RVVZpl5n24PNIsRbM7AcZgFkHlitqQTRiLq1WPVNIBvkedmgU5xqXPDB7iY_Cu8aVGvABEV_IMcad9JwpBydTEWlhtFKyDyjA9goGuWr3XwpiLbvc7xr3kD9QKM0JrAAqCTpyrP0vZYjgDPpiHamuudIZyj9xxH2b9tD8-Qw19sckhVsw_tzVpGxKZfYdSOWROR5e368amvpWAFnBTvZ-BxeMbrbGSSsIjG3dl_iCADugAzg4l1vMaC_83PyGpP1T_IRQ7gfWWj-lLTo7ItzxPKdqNXtQYb_5cc7Bj3MNFzzIGK8qTFp0CqRKWFQwQZqYl8D4X5H50NIjwNHkGxoN-TPH50efH1_17ZflrknEu-1SatVrZKdtucpU4mXPwIq9QiYKALjODW537Vtud4O5UlNRWfpf9yYanqUCaq85FR36vU5UZq23E-BxCTir9mT.28GXeLj8_NkFq4mmlnNxtte0RjauUI7jHuc1J1aOb5A&dib_tag=se&keywords=stopbox&qid=1740092582&sprefix=stopbo%2Caps%2C272&sr=8-8

It isn't a good "safe", as a screwdriver can easily break it open,but it's design is to keep unauthorized users like children out.

https://www.amazon.com/STOP-BOX-PRO-Handgun-Magazine/dp/B0CM5FLLFH/ref=sr_1_8?crid=25ZVBMIW2QEDU&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.RVVZpl5n24PNIsRbM7AcZgFkHlitqQTRiLq1WPVNIBvkedmgU5xqXPDB7iY_Cu8aVGvABEV_IMcad9JwpBydTEWlhtFKyDyjA9goGuWr3XwpiLbvc7xr3kD9QKM0JrAAqCTpyrP0vZYjgDPpiHamuudIZyj9xxH2b9tD8-Qw19sckhVsw_tzVpGxKZfYdSOWROR5e368amvpWAFnBTvZ-BxeMbrbGSSsIjG3dl_iCADugAzg4l1vMaC_83PyGpP1T_IRQ7gfWWj-lLTo7ItzxPKdqNXtQYb_5cc7Bj3MNFzzIGK8qTFp0CqRKWFQwQZqYl8D4X5H50NIjwNHkGxoN-TPH50efH1_17ZflrknEu-1SatVrZKdtucpU4mXPwIq9QiYKALjODW537Vtud4O5UlNRWfpf9yYanqUCaq85FR36vU5UZq23E-BxCTir9mT.28GXeLj8_NkFq4mmlnNxtte0RjauUI7jHuc1J1aOb5A&dib_tag=se&keywords=stopbox&qid=1740092582&sprefix=stopbo%2Caps%2C272&sr=8-8

It isn't a good "safe", as a screwdriver can easily break it open,but it's design is to keep unauthorized users like children out.

I like this one.  I'm looking for a specific type that would fit my needs.  This one is the closest so far.

Thanks for sharing this.

Been researching this lately.

For non-electric quick access safes, the simplex lock is the most secure.  There are several different companies that make them which cost around $200 - $300.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0988743Q2

I like this one.  I'm looking for a specific type that would fit my needs.  This one is the closest so far.

Thanks for sharing this.

I got mine on black friday. BOGO free. I've seen the same sale during Xmas.

I got mine on black friday. BOGO free. I've seen the same sale during Xmas.

if you go to the seller's webpage, they have the BOGO deal.

https://stopboxusa.com/products/stopbox-pro-bogo-offer

The Amazon listing also describes it as a "2-pack" with an image showing a second "+1 Free" on both the compact & full-size models.

I don't recommend the stopbox as it really only has 6 combinations.  That is very easy to figure out even for kids.  Someone can take your gun out and return it without you knowing.

I don't recommend the stopbox as it really only has 6 combinations.  That is very easy to figure out even for kids.  Someone can take your gun out and return it without you knowing.

I dunno.  I thought these things had a lid safety.  Your palm needs to be pressing it down simultaneously while working the buttons.

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/R0f96vD2L_M

I don't recommend the stopbox as it really only has 6 combinations.  That is very easy to figure out even for kids.  Someone can take your gun out and return it without you knowing.

Stopbox sells an actuator expansion pack.  It allows up to 81 different combinations -- way more than 6.  It's listed on the website for about $10.

https://stopboxusa.com/products/pro-actuator-pack

There's also an included padlock with the Stopbox that fits through the thumb button to prevent it from opening al all.  You could remove the padlock when it's sitting near you in the evening or right before going to bed.

The Stopbox is advertised as the in-between storage device, when you want your firearm safe in between having it on your person and securing it in a safe.  It's supposedly TSA-approved, so i think it's a viable option for travel -- in a suitcase, a vehicle as well as a hotel room.

They also sell a tamper alert product called KINI that sends a text if someone tries to mess with it.  It's about $65.  Cheaper than many gun safe monitors out there.

I believe it requires a WiFi connection to work, similar to the Liberty Safe's Elertus monitor. 

https://stopboxusa.com/products/kini-tamper-alert

Stopbox sells an actuator expansion pack.  It allows up to 81 different combinations -- way more than 6.  It's listed on the website for about $10.

81's not bad.  I can see this used on a nightstand or around the house when the owner is in close proximity.  Or on an airplane where a thief would just steal the whole box anyways.  However a lot of people will use it as a safe even though it says it's not a safe.

Im interested in the durability of it.  How difficult is it to pry open or knock the hinge pins out.  This product is heavily marketed which makes me more suspicious.  The videos show people driving over them and dropping it on the ground.  But prying it open or knocking out the pins would likely be the way in.  I'd buy one just to test it's durability.

Stop box is more expensive than I thought $85 after the bogo offer

Stop box is more expensive than I thought $85 after the bogo offer

I also have a 3 digit combo lock box, which means 999 combos. A child can easily start at 001 and remember to work their way to 999. Doing a logical series of combos for StopBox would be much more difficult.

Running something over with a rubber tire is a BS marketing gimmick.

Again, the box is designed more to keep unauthorized users out, so any motivated individual can pry it open.  Which is why it's not a "safe".  But it is more sturdy than my $9.99 3 digit combo lockbox I got on amazon.

I've seen a youtuber who has an infant even leave his handgun out, but no round in the chamber with the excuse "there is no way my infant can rack the slide".  I mean, he could also get a lvl3 Safariland holster (like the ones HPD uses) and that adds even more layers of security for his infant to have to defeat.

Got this V-line slide drawer style, I like it a lot. Uses a simplex lock and got holes pre dilled to mount it below or above a shelf.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0100WUX6I?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_3

If it works for you, fine.  If not, just have to keep researching.

Everyone's situation is different.  Some people have infants around the house.  Some have teenagers who don't know if they have a boto or belot.  Some have people with suicide tendencies and some people just have fricken stupid retards as relatives.  (I have one.)

By the way, I mean stupid retards (dum-asses) that should know better.  Retarded people are not stupid.

The product is definitely not a one size fits all type of product.