As responsible gun owners, it’s essential to prioritize secure firearm storage—keeping them safely out of reach from children, visitors, or unauthorized access, while still ensuring quick and reliable access when needed.
When I realized I needed a bigger gun safe for my girlfriend’s house (where I live as well), I started exploring options to safely store additional firearms and accessories. We had been using a small box safe bolted to the floor in a closet, which worked fine for a couple of pistols and important documents. But as I wanted to store an AR-15, a SIG Rattler AR pistol, and more handguns—since I’ve been reviewing more firearms lately—it became clear we needed a larger safe. Just as I started looking, Blacksmith reached out to see if I’d be interested in reviewing one of their rifle safes. Perfect timing!
After some back-and-forth with Blacksmith, I decided on the Blacksmith 6 Biometric Gun Safe. Initially, I may have pitched the idea to my girlfriend as a garage addition, but eventually, I convinced her that it would fit perfectly in the bedroom next to our dresser. And it does—it’s a slender design that integrates seamlessly into the room.
Specs at a Glance
Here’s what Blacksmith lists for this model:
- External dimensions: 57″H x 13.8″W x 11.8″D
- Capacity: Up to 6 rifles with adjustable racks and a separate locking drawer
- Biometric access: Swiss FPC fingerprint recognition (508 DPI scanner) for access in just 0.1 seconds, with storage for up to 30 fingerprints
- Keypad & emergency options: 10-digit keypad for a 3-8 digit password, backup keys, and Type-C charging port for emergency power
- Security features: Alarm triggered by incorrect entries or strong vibrations, and a mute mode for stealth
- Construction: 16-gauge alloy steel, pre-drilled for easy installation, with LED lighting
Installation and Setup
At about 83 pounds, the safe was relatively easy for my girlfriend and me to carry upstairs. Once in place, it fit perfectly next to our dresser, making it a convenient yet unobtrusive addition to the bedroom.
Setting up the biometric system was straightforward, thanks to the clear instructions provided. I programmed a few fingerprints and was immediately impressed by the speed and accuracy of the scanner. It unlocks the safe in just a fraction of a second, which you can see demonstrated in my Youtube video, “Secure Your Guns – My Setup for Home, Vehicle, and Travel“. Backup keys are included for the main safe and the bottom drawer, and the keypad’s Type-C charging port is a nice touch for ensuring access if the battery dies.
Interior Features and Functionality
The interior is well-designed for efficient firearm storage:
- Rifle racks: The two removable racks can be adjusted to different heights and comfortably hold up to six rifles. Like most safes, you can usually fit more with some creative organization.
- LED lighting: The built-in lights are a significant upgrade compared to my older safe, where I rely on a flashlight. The lights make accessing firearms and gear in low light a breeze.
- Door storage: The felt-lined door is thoughtfully designed with two pistol pockets and built-in magazine organizers, providing a convenient way to keep smaller firearms and magazines neatly arranged. Additionally, the interior of the door features a sturdy metal top shelf and bottom shelf, offering even more storage flexibility. These shelves are ideal for holding magazines, firearm accessories, or other small items you want to keep secure and easily accessible. For further customization, the felt lining allows you to expand storage with velcro-backed accessories, widely available online, to maximize the safe’s organization potential.
- Top Shelf: The safe includes a removable top shelf that provides additional storage for smaller items like ammunition, accessories, or documents. The shelf can be removed entirely if you need extra vertical space for larger firearms or other gear, offering flexibility based on your storage needs.
- Bottom Locking Drawer: The bottom of the safe features a separate locking drawer that comes with its own key, independent of the main safe lock. This is particularly useful for securely storing items like documents, valuables, or ammunition while restricting access to the firearms in the main compartment. Currently, I’m using the drawer to store extra ammo, but its versatility makes it a standout feature for various storage needs.
Real-World Use
While this safe isn’t fire-rated, it serves its primary purpose well: keeping firearms secure and out of reach from unauthorized access. It’s a solid deterrent for quick smash-and-grab thefts and an ideal solution for households with kids. Having a biometric lock adds an extra layer of safety and peace of mind, ensuring that firearms are secure and inaccessible to unauthorized individuals, including children in the household.
Final Thoughts
The Blacksmith 6 Biometric Gun Safe hits the sweet spot for anyone looking for an affordable, secure, and space-efficient option. Its slim profile, advanced biometric tech, and customizable storage make it a standout choice for both beginners and seasoned firearm owners. While it’s not fire-rated, its robust build and thoughtful features make it a great addition to any home.
You can find it on Amazon—and don’t forget to use code CarryBS20 for 20% off!
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