Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock, 98180 Review

What Makes Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock, 98180 Stand Out?

The Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock, 98180 is a security solution designed for quick access to your AR or shotgun while maintaining a high level of tamper-proof protection. Hornady, a name synonymous with quality in the firearms industry, brings its expertise to home defense with this RFiD-enabled safe. It promises rapid access and certified child-resistant security in a compact, wall-mountable package.

I’ve always been concerned about the balance between accessibility and security when it comes to my home defense shotgun. I needed a way to keep it readily available in case of an emergency, but securely locked away from children and unauthorized users. Traditional gun safes were too slow to access in a high-stress situation, and simple storage solutions lacked adequate security.

The Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock, 98180 arrived well-packaged and ready to install. The initial impression was positive; the 14-gauge steel felt robust, and the overall design seemed well thought out. It was heavier than I anticipated, which instilled confidence in its ability to withstand tampering.

I considered the GunVault SV500 and the Stack-On Personal Firearm Safe with Electronic Lock, but ultimately chose the Hornady due to its RFiD technology and shotgun-specific design. The GunVault seemed too generic, and the Stack-On relied solely on a combination, which I found less convenient than RFiD for immediate access.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited by the potential for rapid access but also somewhat concerned about the reliability of the RFiD system under pressure. I needed to put it through its paces to determine if it lived up to its promises.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock, 98180 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place in my garage, simulating a home defense scenario. I mounted the Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock, 98180 vertically next to my bedroom door for easy access. I practiced accessing the safe using the RFiD wristband under various conditions, including dim lighting and simulated stress.

The safe performed flawlessly in dry conditions, with the RFiD reader consistently recognizing the wristband. However, with slightly damp hands, the reader occasionally struggled, requiring a second or third attempt. I found that maintaining a clean and dry RFiD tag was essential for consistent operation.

The ease of use was impressive. After a few practice runs, I was able to access my shotgun in under two seconds. The internal design securely held the shotgun in place, preventing any accidental movement or damage. There were no issues after the first use, but I was eager to see how it performed over time.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock, 98180 has proven to be a reliable and convenient security solution. There are no signs of wear and tear on the steel housing or the locking mechanism. The RFiD reader continues to function as expected, provided the tag is kept clean and dry.

Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean. The battery life has also been excellent, showing no signs of depletion after months of standby operation.

Compared to my previous storage method, which was simply leaning the shotgun in a closet, the Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock, 98180 is a significant improvement in both security and accessibility. It provides peace of mind knowing that my shotgun is secure from unauthorized access while remaining readily available in case of an emergency. It has definitely outperformed my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock, 98180

Specifications

• The Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock, 98180 is designed specifically for ARs or shotguns. This focused design ensures a secure and snug fit for long guns.
• The exterior housing is constructed from thick 14-gauge steel. This provides excellent protection against unauthorized entry and tampering.
• It features two internal hardened locking lugs. These lugs provide a robust locking mechanism, further enhancing security.
• It can be mounted in either a horizontal or vertical position. This versatility allows for flexible placement in closets, behind doors, or other discreet locations.
• The safe uses RFiD (Radio Frequency Identification) technology for touch-free entry. This provides rapid access in emergency situations.
• It includes a mobile security cable. This allows the safe to be secured to stationary objects for added security when traveling or in temporary locations.
• The safe meets TSA requirements for handgun safety in checked luggage. While designed for shotguns, this adds to the safe’s versatility.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the security, accessibility, and overall user experience. The heavy-duty steel construction and locking lugs provide a strong deterrent against theft, while the RFiD technology allows for rapid access in high-stress situations. The mounting options and included security cable provide added flexibility and convenience.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock, 98180 performs its job admirably. It provides a secure and accessible storage solution for my home defense shotgun. The RFiD system is generally reliable, allowing for quick access in emergency situations.

The main strength is the speed of access provided by the RFiD technology. A minor weakness is the occasional difficulty with the RFiD reader when the tag or hands are slightly damp.

It has met and exceeded my expectations. The Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock, 98180 delivers on its promise of rapid access and secure storage.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent; the 14-gauge steel feels solid and well-constructed. The weight is substantial, adding to the overall feeling of security.

The design is user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive RFiD system. There is a minimal learning curve, and accessing the safe becomes second nature after a few practice runs.

Durability & Maintenance

The Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock, 98180 is built to last. The steel construction and robust locking mechanism should withstand years of use.

Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean. The battery-powered operation eliminates the need for complicated wiring or power outlets.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock, 98180 comes with several accessories, including an RFiD wristband, RFiD key fob, and a mobile security cable. There are no specific customization options for the safe itself.

The safe is compatible with any standard AR or shotgun. It’s design ensures a secure fit.

Pros and Cons of Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock, 98180

Who Should Buy Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock, 98180?

Perfect for: Homeowners seeking a rapid-access, secure storage solution for their AR or shotgun; individuals with children or unauthorized users in the home; and travelers who need to secure their firearm in a vehicle or temporary location.

Who should skip this product? Those who prefer traditional combination or key-based safes; individuals who are not comfortable with battery-powered devices.

Must-have accessories or modifications? Ensure you have extra batteries on hand; consider purchasing additional RFiD tags for multiple users or locations.

Conclusion on Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock, 98180

The Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock, 98180 is a well-designed and effective security solution for ARs and shotguns. The combination of rapid access, robust security, and flexible mounting options makes it an excellent choice for homeowners seeking peace of mind.

At $186.29, the price is justified given the level of security and convenience it provides. The Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock, 98180 offers a compelling value proposition for those prioritizing quick access and secure storage.

I would personally recommend the Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock, 98180 to anyone looking for a reliable and convenient way to secure their home defense firearm. Take control of your home security today!