Behind the Fingerprint: The Only Biometric Safe Locks We Recommend

Gun Safe biometric locks have been around for a while now. The ability to open your safe with the touch of a finger can be very convenient, offering an easier way to open your safe and a quicker process to open your safe.

But after nearly two decades of hands-on experience as a Master Safe Technician, I can confidently say there are only two clear winners: Securam and Vaultek.

These brands stand out for very different reasons. Securam dominates when it comes to traditional safes with UL Listed lock footprints. Vaultek, on the other hand, is the go-to choice for quick-access home defense safes.

Why Most Biometric Safe Locks Don’t Make the Cut

Over the years, I’ve seen several attempts at biometric safe locks. Some early models, like the Sargent & Greenleaf biometric keypad paired with the 6120 lock body, had promise but didn’t make the cut. Others, like various non-UL listed options — including some from Sentry — struggled with reliability and security. Even the La Gard (LG) biometric lock used by Brown Safe has issues, mainly with excessive battery drain.

What’s become clear is that most biometric locks on the market simply can’t compete with Securam or Vaultek in terms of reliability, speed, and build quality.

The Gold Standard for Traditional Safe Locks: Securam ScanLogic

If you’re looking for a high-performance biometric lock for a traditional safe, Securam’s ScanLogic series is the clear choice.

These locks offer two access methods:

• Fingerprint scan, which reads the ridges of your print

• Keypad entry, which allows manual code access

You can even set it to require both, adding an extra layer of security.

What sets the ScanLogic apart is its digital binary communication system, which functions more like an automotive computer than an old analog lock. This makes it faster, more secure, and less prone to communication or signal errors.

Securam offers models for every level of need—from the ScanLogic Basic, which supports three codes and five fingerprints per user, to the ScanLogic D66 and Smart B22, which include advanced features like:

• Up to 50 users and 50 fingerprints

• Time delay and time lock

• Audit trail

• Alarm duress features

• Mobile app access and monitoring

If you're serious about safe security, this lock line is as good as it gets.

Securam ScanLogic Locks are UL Listed

Another really important factor of Securam locks is they are UL listed. UL Stands for Underwrite’s Laboratories, an independent third-party testing agency that tests the lock’s resistance to a wide variety of attacks ranging from punch attacks to vibration attacks.

UL listed locks never have a key backup and always have a magic module footprint (a standard mounting platform that allows your lock to be quickly and easily swapped out for another UL listed lock, as needed).

Best Biometric Option for Home Defense: Vaultek

For quick-access safes in the home defense category, Vaultek is unmatched.

While we just touted the importance of UL listed locks, it’s very rare to find a quick access safe with a UL listed lock (more on this below). In the world of home defense safes, Vaultek makes purpose-built biometric boxes that excel in every major category:

• Reliable fingerprint reader that doesn’t falsely open with unregistered prints

• Keypad and backup key for multiple access methods

• Exceptional battery life compared to competitors

• Multiple mounting and size options for flexibility

• Durable internal components that outlast brands like GunVault

Vaultek doesn’t just build great safes—they also listen. They actively collaborate with dealers and customers to improve and evolve their product line, which is why their safes continue to lead the pack.

Top 3 Quick Access Safes from Vaultek

1. Vaultek Safe® Essential Slider SL2e

The Vaultek Essential Slider Safe is a compact, vertical safe designed to securely store a handgun up to 8.875 inches long, even with optics attached. It features a backlit 5-digit keypad and a manual key for quick access, and includes a foam holster and LED lighting inside to protect and illuminate your firearm. Made from strong 16-gauge steel, this safe can be mounted under a desk, beside a bed, or in a vehicle, making it a smart choice for keeping your firearm safe and ready.

2. Vaultek Safe® DS5i Smart Station

The Vaultek DS5i Smart Station is a high-tech safe that keeps your belongings secure while also charging your devices. It can store two full-size pistols and features a fingerprint scanner, keypad, and smartphone app for quick access. With dual wireless charging pads and USB ports, it's perfect for your nightstand, blending safety and convenience in one sleek design.

3. Vaultek Safe® Barikade Series 1 (Biometric)

The Vaultek Barikade Series 1 Biometric Safe is a small, strong box designed to keep your important items like a handgun, passport, or money safe. It uses a fingerprint scanner that can remember up to 20 fingerprints, so you can open it quickly without a key. Made from tough steel and built to resist tampering, this safe is great for keeping your valuables secure at home or on the go.

Quick Access Safe with a UL Listed Lock: American Security® Under Bed Safe UBS648

As I stated above, it’s very rare to find a quick access safe with a UL listed lock. The folks at AMSEC (aka American Security) have built one. AMSEC’s Under Bed Safe UBS648 features a UL listed lock. It’s not the best lock in the world, but thanks to the Magic Module Footprint, we’ve been able to swap out quite a few with better lock setups, like the Sargent and Greenleaf Titan that features a dual battery keypad.

Why NW Safe Trusts These Brands

At NW Safe, we’ve worked closely with both Securam and Vaultek, giving us deep knowledge of their systems. That means:

• We can help you choose the right safe and lock for your specific needs

• We can install, service, and troubleshoot these locks quickly and effectively

• And most importantly, we stand behind their products—because we know they work

Upgrade to a Biometric Lock

Biometric locks can be a great upgrade, if you choose the right one. Skip the frustration of low-quality tech. Whether you need a traditional safe lock or a quick-access unit for home defense, Securam and Vaultek are the only names you need to know.

Ready to upgrade your lock? In order to not void the warranty on your safe, your lock must be swapped by a certified safe technician (like me). You can easily schedule a service call and I will come to your home or business to do a lock swap and check to make sure your safe is functioning properly.