Let’s Dive into Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock
The Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock promises quick, secure access to your shotgun when you need it most. Designed by Hornady, this safe uses RFID technology for touch-free entry, offering peace of mind and rapid deployment in emergency situations. I needed a secure, yet easily accessible solution for storing my home defense shotgun, especially with young children in the house.
I remember years ago fumbling with keys during a simulated home invasion drill, realizing the critical need for speed and reliability. Unboxing the Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock, I was immediately impressed by its solid construction and compact design. The 14-gauge steel housing felt robust, and the included RFID accessories suggested a well-thought-out system.
I considered the GunVault SV500 SpeedVault and the StopBox Biometric Handgun Safe, both offering quick access. Ultimately, I chose the Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock for its shotgun-specific design and RFID technology. The GunVault is more generic, while the StopBox is designed for handguns only. My initial excitement stemmed from the promise of near-instant access combined with robust security.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock to the Test
First Use Experience
I mounted the Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock in my master closet, strategically positioning it behind hanging clothes for discreet storage. I tested the safe repeatedly, simulating different emergency scenarios. The RFID key fob proved incredibly fast, opening the safe within a second of touching the reader.
I tested the safe under various conditions. I was wearing gloves, and it still worked. I tested it in low light conditions, and was still able to successfully open the safe. The ease of use was remarkable; programming the RFID tags and the backup keypad code took only a few minutes.
The only initial issue was the mounting hole placement, a concern echoed in some user reviews I had read. The horizontal spacing didn’t align perfectly with standard wall studs.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock continues to perform flawlessly. There are no signs of wear and tear on the exterior. The internal mechanisms operate smoothly.
Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a wipe-down with a damp cloth. Previously, I relied on a traditional gun safe, which offered security but lacked the speed of access needed for home defense. The Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock significantly outperforms my previous solution in terms of accessibility and convenience.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock
Specifications
The Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock features a 14-gauge steel housing, providing substantial protection against forced entry. It is designed specifically for shotguns and utilizes RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology for rapid, touch-free access. The safe can store one standard shotgun, and the dimensions are approximately 14 inches high, 6 inches wide, and 4 inches deep.
The safe includes a keypad for backup entry, allowing access even without RFID tags. It comes with one RFID key fob, two RFID stickers, and one RFID wristband, offering multiple access options. The pre-drilled mounting holes allow for easy installation in either a horizontal or vertical position. These specifications are important because they directly impact the safe’s security, accessibility, and ease of installation.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock excels at its primary function: providing secure and rapid access to a shotgun. The RFID system is exceptionally fast and reliable, opening the safe almost instantly. The keypad offers a reliable backup entry method.
The main strength is its speed and ease of use. A potential weakness is the limited mounting options due to the hole placement. The safe meets and exceeds expectations for quick access and security.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock features a simple, unobtrusive design that blends well into most home environments. The build quality is solid, with the 14-gauge steel providing a reassuring level of protection. The weight is manageable, making installation relatively easy.
The operation is incredibly user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. Programming the RFID tags and keypad code is straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
The heavy-duty construction suggests the Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock will last for many years with normal use. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning. The electronic components are well-protected, minimizing the risk of failure.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock comes with several useful accessories. These include an RFID key fob, two RFID stickers, an RFID wristband, a wall power supply, and two circular barrel keys. There are limited customization options beyond this.
The safe is compatible with standard shotguns, but modifications may be required for shotguns with oversized accessories. Aftermarket accessories such as different RFID tags could potentially be used, although Hornady does not explicitly advertise this compatibility.
Pros and Cons of Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock
Pros
- Extremely fast and reliable RFID access. This is the primary selling point and delivers as promised.
- Robust 14-gauge steel construction provides excellent security. Offers significant protection against unauthorized access.
- Multiple access methods (RFID, Keypad, Keys). Ensures access even if one method fails.
- Easy to program and install. Straightforward setup process.
- Discreet design allows for concealed storage. Blends into most home environments.
Cons
- Mounting hole placement may not align with standard wall studs, requiring modification or alternative mounting solutions.
- Limited internal space may not accommodate shotguns with large accessories.
Who Should Buy Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock?
The Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock is perfect for homeowners seeking a secure and rapidly accessible storage solution for their home defense shotgun. It’s ideal for those with children or other unauthorized individuals in the home. It is for anyone who wants peace of mind knowing their firearm is safe yet readily available in an emergency.
This product might not be suitable for individuals who need to store multiple firearms or those with heavily customized shotguns that may not fit within the safe’s dimensions. Those comfortable with slower access methods, like traditional safes, may not find the RAPiD Safe’s speed advantage worth the price. A must-have accessory is a set of heavy-duty wall anchors if you cannot directly mount to wall studs.
Conclusion on Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock
The Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock is an excellent product that delivers on its promise of secure and rapid access to your shotgun. While the mounting hole placement is a minor inconvenience, the overall performance, ease of use, and robust construction make it a worthwhile investment for home defense. The price is justified by the peace of mind and rapid accessibility it provides.
I would highly recommend the Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock to anyone seeking a reliable and efficient solution for storing their home defense shotgun. Don’t wait until it’s too late – secure your peace of mind today with the Hornady RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock.