Review for Gunvault Nanovault Portable Handgun Safe w/ Key Lock System, 8.25x6x1.75in - NV100

Author: Chad {!} from Seattle, WA on Feb 4, 2011
Pros:  Good price, reasonable construction, fits under seat
Cons:  Included foam smells like mothballs, exposed latch barrel and catch can mar contents when turned
Would recommend:  yes

Chad wrote:

Was looking for a reasonable in-vehicle option to leave a pistol when visiting a premise where carrying's not permitted. Wanted something that would tuck under a seat, out of sight, with a simple barrel lock (didn't want to remember another combination) and some means of securing to the vehicle. This met all the criteria. Saw the reviews about the foam smelling very bad; all true. Bagged and discarded the included foam and replaced it with other foam I had available. The barrel of the lock is exposed in the case interior; when it turns, the barrel or the pivoting latch on the end of it can mar the case contents if they contact. NV100 just fits M&P 40c with a mounted light that doesn't extend past the barrel or beneath the trigger guard. Safe lengthwise clearance inside the NV100 is 6". Purchased both an NV200 and an NV100. Keys are of the same type between an NV100 and an NV200, and they're keyed differently -- NV100 key fits but doesn't turn in an NV200 lock, and vice versa. The keys are labeled with a three-digit code stamped into the metal, so there aren't many variations, but there's enough to deter casual theft. Keys are relatively weak metal; one of the two keys included with the NV200 arrived bent about 5 degrees, and gently bending it back straight made apparent a crack in the metal of the key. Won't be using that particular key except as a last resort.