5 main types of locking devices and where to purchase them

What it is: A small safe designed to store a handgun.

How it works: Your handgun is locked inside the box. A push-button, combination, digital keypad, or key opens the lock.

Features: Most models have holes in the bottom to allow permanent mounting. Some have lighted locks for access in the dark. Most have padded interiors.

Price: $40 to $200+

Advantages:

• Quick access if the lock is push-button or digital.
• Difficult to steal if permanently mounted.
• May allow storage for more than one handgun.
• Keeps gun out of sight.

Disadvantages:

• Costs more than trigger locks or chamber locks.

What it is: A safe in a variety of sizes designed to store long guns, handguns, or other valuables.

How it works: Your firearms are locked inside the vault. A push-button, combination or digital key pad opens the lock.

Features: Varies by type and model.

Price: $100 to $2,000

Advantages:

• Allows storage of numerous long guns and handguns.
• Difficult to steal.
• Allows storage of other personal items.
• Usually fire resistant.
• Keeps valuables out of sight.

Disadvantages:

• Costs more than chamber locks or lock boxes.
• Heavy and difficult to move.

What it is: A device that blocks the chamber to prevent a cartridge from being fired.

How it works: Chamber locks are inserted in or through the magazine well or chamber, or are inserted through the gun barrel and chamber to block a cartridge from moving into position. A combination lock or key opens the lock.

Features: Metal cylinders, vinyl covered wire cables, or other designs. Locks may be “universal” or may only fit certain revolver or pistol models. Some models have anti-tamper alarms.

Price: Free to $20+

Advantages:

• Long cables may be threaded through several guns.
• Inexpensive.

Disadvantages:

• Thin cables could be cut.

What it is: A two-piece lock that fits over the trigger guard.

How it works: A rigid cylinder fits behind the trigger so the trigger cannot be pulled. A push-button keypad, combination, or key opens the lock.

Features: Some models have battery-operated locks, lighted keypads, and anti-tamper alarms.

Price: $5 to $35+

Advantages:

• Inexpensive.
• Widely available.
• Quick access (keypad models).

Disadvantages:

• Some models will not prevent access by older children or teens.
• May not prevent theft, as some locks may be removed later.
• May break easily.

What it is: A safety device permanently installed on a gun by the maker or owner.

How it works: These types of locks vary. Some have a built-in key or combination lock. Others are guns specially designed with a magnetic or electronic lock that only the owner can fire while wearing a special ring or bracelet. Some personalized firearms use fingerprint recognition technology.

Features: Locks are a part of the gun by design or as an after-market add-on. They may contain magnetic or electronic components. These locks are somewhat new and usually costly. For more information, talk with a federally licensed firearms dealer or a gun manufacturer.