FAQ

Your safe is a DOJ-approved firearm safety device for secure storage and transportation. It is also TSA-compliant.

Frequently Asked Questions

At TitanVault, we build our Compact Pistol Vaults to deliver unmatched security, reliability, and rapid access when it matters most. This FAQ section addresses the most common questions from new and experienced firearm owners so you can make an informed decision with confidence. Whether you're focused on safety, compliance, or real-world performance, the answers below reflect our commitment to quality engineering and responsible gun ownership.

1. Is your safe fire-rated?

No. We do not have a UL fire rating, nor does any manufacturer of quick-access handgun safes. These safes are designed to prevent unauthorized access while allowing fast, reliable access for the owner.

2. Do push-button locks have a key backup?

No. Backup key locks are meant to override electronic locks when power is lost, but they also create a significant security risk—anyone with the key can open the safe.
The Simplex® mechanical push-button lock (no batteries) has been an industry standard for over 40 years. The new knob and built-in clutch also help prevent forced entry. In addition, we have added our reinforcement. 
No code + no bypass = no entry = True Security.

3. What if I forget my combination?

There is no override combination or secret method to open the safe. Write your code down and store it securely (not inside the safe). If the code is lost, your options are:

  1. Cut the safe open with a torch (not recommended—contact us first).

  2. Hire a reputable locksmith familiar with Simplex® locks.

  3. Try random combinations. Ensure you turn the knob clockwise after entering your code; turning counter-clockwise clears the lock.

  4. If the safe is empty and unmounted, you may return it for a lock replacement (fees apply; forgotten combinations are not covered under warranty).

4. Can I carry a loaded handgun in my car if it's inside the safe?

In most states, no. If state law prohibits transporting loaded handguns in vehicles, using our safe does not override that law.
Many states, including California, require handguns to be unloaded and stored in a locked, approved container with ammunition secured separately. The Titan Pistol Vault & Ammo Box complies with these requirements.
Always check your local and state laws, as they vary widely. The NRA website is a helpful resource.

5. Is my safe childproof?

Your safe is California DOJ-approved and has passed tests, including:

  • 250-lb door pull test

  • 120 hacksaw strokes with 10-lb load

  • Lock manipulation test

  • Drop test

  • Impact test

However, no system is 100% childproof.
Always:

  • Lock the safe securely

  • Never share the combination with a child or anyone who may give it to a child

  • Do not let a child watch you enter the code

  • Change the combination if it is compromised

6. What about moisture?

The safe is designed for indoor use, but its black powder-coat finish is weather- and moisture-resistant.

7. Can I weld on my safe?

No. Welding voids the warranty and weakens the heat-treated steel.

8. Can I drill additional holes in the safe?

No. Use the two universal mounting brackets provided. Additional factory holes are included for mounting flexibility.

9. Where is the best place to install my safe?

Choose a location that is secure, concealed, and quickly accessible to you. Consider:

  • Entry points (garage, front door, mudroom)

  • Home office

  • Family or living rooms (situational)

  • Master bedroom—the most common and practical location, especially with the universal bed mount

Large homes or multilevel homes often benefit from multiple safes.
Always mount the safe securely and keep its location discreet.

10. What’s a good combination to use?

Change the factory combination immediately.
Guidelines:

  • Use 3–5 buttons (recommended minimum: three)

  • A button may be used only once

  • Multiple buttons may be pressed simultaneously
    Write your new combination down—but not inside the safe.

11. What if my safe has been physically attacked?

The safe is made from 14-gauge hardened steel and withstands attacks from hammers, screwdrivers, pry bars, drills, kicking, and even being run over. Cutting typically requires industrial tools or a torch.
If the faceplate or lock is damaged, you can still access the safe—but only if you know your combination.
We will provide instructions by phone with proper warranty verification.

12. Is it okay to store a loaded gun inside the safe?

This is a personal decision and responsibility. For safety, we recommend storing the gun unloaded unless you have appropriate training and know your safe handling procedures.

13. How many guns can the safe hold?

Each safe holds one handgun only. It is our philosophy that one reliable weapon is sufficient for defense.
For additional firearms or strategic placement, install multiple safes.
Use the Titan Ammo Box for extra magazines or a flashlight.

14. Do the buttons light up?

No, they are not illuminated. However, they are raised and spaced for easy operation in total darkness.
With practice, most users can open the safe in under 3 seconds without looking.

15. Should I bolt my safe down?

Yes. Mounting prevents theft and ensures children cannot remove or access the safe.
Two mounting brackets are included, and a cable lock option is available.

16. How does the safe handle extreme temperatures?

The Simplex® push-button lock is fully mechanical and not affected by heat or cold.
Electronic locks, by contrast, rely on batteries that can fail under temperature extremes or from vibration/static discharge.

17. Do you make long-gun safes?

Not currently, but they are planned for future product lines.

18. Do you have a safe that fits under a car front seat?

Yes. Both Models, AS-2020-01  and AS-2020-02, fits under many car and truck seats or alongside the center console using the universal mounts.
Seat removal is usually unnecessary.
(Refer to Question 4 regarding transportation laws.)
A cable lock may also be used.

19. Can I mount the safe upside down?

Yes. The safe operates correctly upside down, on its side, or vertically. Versatile mounting is one of its key features.

Specifications

Titan Gun Safe — Compact Vault

  • Weight: 8 lbs

  • Dimensions (without Ammo Box): 10" L × 8" W × 2¾" H

  • Dimensions (with Ammo Box): 10" L × 10" W × 2¾" H

  • Ammo Box can be mounted on the front or side panels

  • Fits firearms up to 8"L × 6¼"W × 1¾"H (no light/laser)

Titan Gun Safe — Pistol Vault

  • Weight: 11 lbs

  • Dimensions (without Ammo Box): 12" L × 8" W × 2¾" H

  • Dimensions (with Ammo Box): 12" L × 10" W × 2¾" H

  • Ammo Box can be mounted on the front or side panels

  • Fits firearms up to 10"L × 6¼"W × 1¾"H (with red-dot light/laser)

 

Q&A for Handgun Safe Shoppers

1. Q: Why should I invest in a quality handgun safe?

A: A reliable handgun safe protects your family, secures your firearm from unauthorized access, and ensures your handgun is ready the moment you need it. It’s peace of mind—engineered into a box.

2. Q: What makes your handgun safe different from others?

A: Our safes combine rugged steel construction with instant, dependable access. No flimsy parts, no guessing, no delay—just proven 20 years of performance when it matters most.

3. Q: How fast can I access my firearm?

A: With our quick-access design, you can open the safe in under 2 seconds. Whether you prefer mechanical or keyless entry, your firearm is always within immediate reach.

4. Q: Is the lock system reliable?

A: Absolutely. We use high-grade, field-tested mechanical and keyless systems that open every time—without batteries, electronics, or failures. Dependability is our priority.

5. Q: Is this safe? Strong enough to stop a thief?

A: Yes. Our safes are built from heavy-gauge hardened steel and engineered with pry-resistant features that outperform typical “sheet-metal boxes.” Strength you can trust.

6. Q: Can I mount the safe in my home or vehicle?

A: Definitely. Each safe includes secure mounting options, making it ideal for nightstands, closets, under-bed setups, or vehicle installations. Your safe stays exactly where you put it.

7. Q: Will my full-size handgun fit?

A: Yes. Our interior is designed to comfortably fit most compact and full-size pistols, plus extra magazines—without sacrificing quick access. Check Titan Compact Vault & Titan Pistolvault details for gun sizes.

8. Q: How long will this safe last?

A: Built with hardened steel, reinforced welds, and precision components, our safes are made for decades of dependable service, not just a few years.

9. Q: Are children able to open this safe?

A: No. Our locking mechanisms are designed specifically to prevent curious hands from gaining access, while still giving adults instant entry.

10. Q: Do I need to worry about batteries or electronics failing?

A: Not with our mechanical systems. You get consistent performance without battery changes, power issues, or fingerprint misreads—ever.

11. Q: Is this safe, approved, or certified?

A: Yes. Our safes meet or exceed California DOJ firearm safety requirements and undergo rigorous quality inspections to ensure top-tier protection.

12. Q: Why is this Safe a smart long-term investment?

A: Because it delivers proven security, lightning-fast access, and long-lasting durability. It protects both your firearm and the people you care about—every day, every year.