Equipment Review: Gunvault Minivault Standard Gun Safe

The Gunvault minivault gun safe is a small size safe intended to hold one or two handguns. The safe is small enough to fit under a bed or in a drawer. It is made of heavy gage steel, and lined with foam. The foam protects the internal contents of the safe. The safe features a spring assisted latch door. When the safe is opened, the door springs open unassisted. The safe features two unlocking methods. One is a standard key entry, and the other is a keypad made to mimic the position of fingers. The keypad runs on AA batteries, which are installed inside the safe. The safe has a low battery indicator light. The safe also includes mounting hardware and a template to allow the user to secure the safe to a floor or other solid surface.

The safe has an optional security cable available. It does not come standard with the safe. It must be purchased separately.
The deluxe version of the safe includes an internal light, an audible warning signal, and an AC connection for power. There is also a more advanced version that includes a biometric (fingerprint) reader to open the safe. This version is significantly more expensive than the standard and deluxe version.
The safe is large enough to fit 2 small guns. I was able to fit one revolver, plus two boxes of ammo in the safe.

I purchased the standard version. The safe appears to be a good option for firearm security in the home. The keypad is quick and easy to use, yet provides strong security. There is a key entry to back up the keypad, so even if batteries run out, the safe can be entered using the key. Additionally, the battery indicator light should remind the user to change the batteries. The spring-loaded door allows for only 1-step opening. As soon as the key is turned or the code is entered, the door springs open. No latches or hinges to operate.

I bought the Gunvault safe at Cabela’s for about $100. I am happy with the purchase.

Gun Show Disappoints

I made my way to the gun show at the Easter States Exposition in Springfield, MA this past weekend. It was not what I was looking for as a new gun shopper. I was expecting several booths where one could view and hold different guns. I was expecting salesmen trying to sell potential buyers on the virtues of their firearms. While there were some booths selling new guns, the majority of tables were devoted to antique items. All but one of the tables selling new guns had them behind glass. The one booth that had the guns available to handle was the most crowded booth at the show. One would thing the other sellers would catch on.


Perhaps my expectations were too high, but the show was closer to a flea market than a convention.

If you are in the market for a new gun, in my opinion the show is not the way to go. The selection at a store like Cabela's is likely better than the show. Additionally, there is no entry fee for Cabela's, and all the accessories you need are available in one place.

For the new firearm buyer, go to your local store. For antique items, check out the show.

West Springfield Gun Show

I've never been to a gun show before, but I plan on attending one this weekend.
This weekend there is an NRA sponsered gun show at the Easter States Exposition (Big E fairgrounds) in West Springfield, MA. 

The link for the show poster is below:

http://users.erols.com/fasttrack/loc/w-spr/SPRINGFIELD-FLYER-MARCH-10.pdf

There is also a coupon online for $1 off admission.  You can print that coupon here:

http://users.erols.com/fasttrack/loc/w-spr/w-spr-coupon.gif

Perhaps I'll see you there.