Gun Locks

Gun Locks: Trigger Locks, Cable Locks, and Secure Firearm Storage

A gun lock is a mechanical or electronic device that disables a firearm by blocking the trigger, action, or barrel to prevent unauthorized use. Gun locks serve 3 functions: preventing accidental discharge, restricting access from unauthorized users including children, and meeting state-mandated safe firearm storage requirements. TactaBlue stocks gun locks in 5 categories: keyed trigger locks, biometric trigger locks, combination trigger locks, cable gun locks, and lockable gun racks. Manufacturers include ONNAIS, Master Lock, and Hold Up Displays. A gun lock consists of a locking mechanism (key cylinder, fingerprint sensor, or keypad), a body (steel, zinc, or polymer housing), and a securing element (trigger guard clamp, cable, or rack mount).

Types of Gun Locks

Trigger Locks

A trigger lock is a two-piece clamp that fits around the trigger guard of a firearm and locks in place to prevent the trigger from being pulled. Trigger locks are available in 3 access types: keyed, biometric (fingerprint), and combination (keypad code). A keyed gun trigger lock uses a four-pin tumbler cylinder with a physical key for access. A biometric trigger lock uses a fingerprint sensor that stores multiple authorized prints for sub-second recognition. A combination trigger lock uses a numeric keypad for code-based entry without a physical key.

Cable Gun Locks

A cable gun lock is a flexible steel cable with a padlock mechanism that threads through a firearm's action, chamber, or barrel to prevent loading and firing. Cable gun locks use heavy-duty aircraft cable coated in plastic or rubber insulation that protects the firearm's finish from scratching. A cable gun lock fits 5 firearm types: semi-automatic pistols (threaded through the ejection port), revolvers (threaded through the cylinder), modern sporting rifles including AR-15 platforms (threaded through the magwell or ejection port), semi-automatic and pump-action shotguns (threaded through the ejection port), and bolt action rifles (threaded through the open bolt).

To lock a cable gun lock, confirm the firearm is unloaded, thread the cable through the firearm's action, insert the cable end into the padlock with the key turned clockwise, turn and remove the key, and verify the cable is secure. The locked cable occupies the chamber or action space, which physically prevents a round from being chambered.

Lock Boxes

A lock box is a small, portable steel container that holds 1 to 2 handguns with keyed, combination, or biometric access. Lock box dimensions typically range from 8 x 6 x 2 inches (203 x 152 x 51 mm) for single-pistol units to 12 x 9 x 4 inches (305 x 229 x 102 mm) for dual-pistol units. Lock boxes are compact and lightweight for bedside, vehicle, and travel use.

Gun Safes

A gun safe is a heavy-duty steel enclosure with bolt-locking doors, fireproof insulation, and electronic or mechanical lock access that stores multiple firearms and ammunition. Gun safes range from compact handgun vaults (4-gun capacity) to full-size units that hold 48+ long guns. Gun safes and gun cabinets at TactaBlue provide full-size firearm storage with fire ratings from 30 to 120 minutes at 1,200 degrees F (649 degrees C).

Lockable Gun Racks

A lockable gun rack is a wall-mounted or free-standing firearm display with an integrated keyed or cable locking system that prevents unauthorized removal. Lockable gun racks secure rifles, shotguns, and handguns in an accessible position while maintaining firearm security. Browse gun racks at TactaBlue for wall-mounted and free-standing storage options with and without locking mechanisms.

ONNAIS Defender Series Trigger Locks

The ONNAIS Defender Series is a line of universal gun trigger locks with 3-way unlock capability: biometric fingerprint, keypad code, and mechanical backup key. TactaBlue stocks 5 ONNAIS Defender models and 2 certified refurbished units.

ONNAIS Defender Se Universal Gun Trigger Lock 3-Way Unlock

The ONNAIS Defender Se is a universal gun trigger lock with 3 access methods: fingerprint, keypad code, and mechanical key. The Defender Se fits most handguns, rifles, and shotguns and stores multiple fingerprints for multi-user authorized access. ONNAIS manufactures a Defender Se Wall Mount version that adds a wall-mounted bracket for fixed-position firearm security with the same 3-way unlock system.

ONNAIS Defender Pro Gun Safe Lock Fast Access 3-Way Unlock

The ONNAIS Defender Pro is a compact gun safe lock with the same 3-way unlock system as the Se: fingerprint, keypad, and mechanical key. The Pro model is more portable and lightweight than the Se, which makes the Defender Pro suited for vehicle storage and travel carry. The Defender Pro includes a low-battery alert and mechanical key backup for access when the electronic battery is depleted.

ONNAIS Defender EDC Tray Stand with Biometric Gun Lock

The ONNAIS Defender EDC (Everyday Carry) Tray Stand is a biometric gun lock with an integrated organizer tray that secures a handgun and 2 spare magazines in a single bedside unit. The EDC Tray Stand combines biometric fingerprint access with a compartmentalized tray for nightstand or dresser placement. The Defender EDC holds a pistol in a locked position while organizing daily carry items in separate tray compartments.

Defender MAG Magnetic Biometric Trigger Lock

The Defender MAG is a magnetic biometric trigger lock that attaches to metal surfaces without tools using built-in magnets. The MAG model combines fingerprint access with magnetic mounting for quick-access firearm security on metal gun safes, filing cabinets, or vehicle surfaces. The magnetic mount allows repositioning without drilling or permanent hardware installation.

Master Lock Keyed Gun Trigger Lock

The Master Lock Keyed Gun Trigger Lock (Model 90KADSPT) is a keyed-alike trigger lock with a steel and zinc body, a four-pin tumbler cylinder that resists picking, and rubber pads that protect the firearm's finish from marring. The 90KADSPT fits most handguns, rifles, and shotguns. The keyed-alike design means one key opens all locks in a matched set, which simplifies key management for owners with multiple firearms. The Master Lock gun trigger lock includes a limited lifetime warranty.

Hold Up Displays Gun Locks and Accessories

Hold Up Displays manufactures cable gun locks, pistol trigger locks, and lockable gun racks made from American steel with a black powder coat finish. Hold Up Displays cable locks are 2-piece heavy-duty aircraft cable systems that run through the trigger guards of 1 or more handguns or long guns. The aircraft cable is insulated to protect the firearm's surface at every contact point from scratches and marring. Hold Up Displays cable gun locks are used in home displays, gun stores, and trade show booths.

Hold Up Displays manufactures 3 lockable gun rack configurations: the Locking Firearm Display in slatwall and flat wall versions, and the HD70 handgun mount. The Locking Firearm Display secures a rifle, shotgun, AR-15, or long-barreled firearm horizontally with a keyed BedSide Gunlock. The HD70 mounts a semi-automatic pistol or revolver with a locking mechanism for individual handgun security.

How to Choose the Right Gun Lock

To choose the right gun lock, evaluate 4 factors: access speed, security level, number of firearms, and storage location. A biometric trigger lock provides the fastest access at under 1 second for fingerprint recognition. A keyed trigger lock provides reliable mechanical function without batteries. A cable gun lock secures multiple firearms with a single lock at the lowest cost per firearm. A gun safe provides the highest security for long-term storage. Match the gun lock type to the firearm's primary role: home defense firearms benefit from faster access, while stored or displayed collections prioritize security.

Biometric vs Keypad: Speed and Reliability

A biometric gun lock recognizes an authorized fingerprint in under 1 second and stores 10 to 20 fingerprints per device. A keypad gun lock requires a 4- to 6-digit code that takes 2 to 3 seconds to enter. Both biometric and keypad gun locks include a mechanical backup key for access when the battery runs out. Biometric locks have 1 additional failure mode: wet or dirty fingers reduce sensor accuracy. All electronic gun locks include a low-battery indicator to signal when the battery needs replacement.

Gun Lock Installation and Usage

To install a trigger lock, confirm the firearm is unloaded, open the two-piece clamp, position the clamp around the trigger guard, press the halves together, and engage the lock with the key, fingerprint, or code. Trigger lock installation takes under 10 seconds per firearm. Cable gun lock installation requires threading the cable through the action or chamber and securing the padlock.

ONNAIS trigger locks allow multiple fingerprints and PIN codes for authorized multi-user access. To mute operation sounds on an ONNAIS trigger lock, long press the "Reset" button for 3 seconds. To restore sound, repeat the same long press. To reset or reprogram fingerprints and codes, follow the ONNAIS manual or online guides for the specific Defender model (Se, Pro, EDC, or MAG).

Gun Lock Security and Reliability

ONNAIS trigger locks use reinforced construction with biometric and keypad technology for multi-layer unauthorized access prevention. The Master Lock 90KADSPT uses a four-pin tumbler cylinder that resists common picking techniques. Hold Up Displays cable locks use heavy-duty aircraft cable rated for anti-tamper resistance. The Defender Se model is the most adaptable for home and wall-mount use, while the Defender Pro model is optimized for portability and on-the-go carry. All ONNAIS trigger locks include a manufacturer's warranty, and refurbished units are fully inspected and certified before sale.

Safe Firearm Storage and Free Cable Gun Lock Programs

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) distributes free cable gun locks to all veterans at VA medical centers and clinics across the United States with no paperwork required. The Suicide Awareness Voices of Education (SAVE) organization provides free cable gun locks through a request form on the SAVE website for U.S. states and territories (requests above 20 locks require additional information, allow 1 to 2 weeks for delivery). The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) distributes free gun locks through Project ChildSafe in partnership with law enforcement agencies nationwide. Cable gun locks from all 3 programs fit most handguns, shotguns, and rifles. Use gun socks inside a gun safe or cabinet for additional scratch and moisture protection during storage.