Gear Review: Hornady RAPiD Safe 2700

Hornady RAPiD Safe 2700—open and ready for business. (Photo: Kristin Alberts)

One of the longest lines at SHOT Show 2016 circled the Hornady booth, where throngs wearing and carrying RFID wristbands waited to see if their band would open and win one of several new RAPiD safes. Marketed as fast, dependable, touch-free entry, the new and improved RAPiD 2600 and 2700 Safes are the best of their kind.  Here’s why.

How it works

Trio of RFID access options: wristband, key fob and sticker. (Photo: Kristin Alberts)

The touchless RAPiD safes can be activated by three RFID means: sticker, key fob, or wristband, all of which instantly open the spring-assist lid. What is RFID?  Radio Frequency Identification access technology that allows for rapid, programmable, touchless methods of entry.  Simply waving or placing one of the pre-programmed activators above the safe’s sensor causes the top to spring open for super-fast access to your firearm.

Very simple programming instructions, right under the hood. (Photo: Kristin Alberts)

Hornady offers additional RFID stickers ($2.99), H-key fobs ($3.99), and wristbands ($14.99).  But not to worry—you’re not buying a key into just any safe—rather, the entry tools must be programmed to your own particular unit.  It’s actually a very simple process that takes less than 10 seconds, with basic two-step instructions printed inside the safe.  Each RAPiD safe will accept up to five RFID tags, so having ready access should never be an issue.  And just in case RFID is not your style or you prefer a power-free backup, the safe can always be unlocked using the provided barrel keys.

The New RAPiD Safes 2600 and 2700

Hornady has debuted two new models—2600 and 2700—to supplant the existing original RAPiD Safe.  The new units exceed ASTM International safety standards for child and pry resistance, lock strength, drop/pick/saw tests and hinge attack resistance.

Battery access door drops down from interior front. (Photo: Kristin Alberts)

Exterior housing is built of 14-gauge steel with two internal hardened locking lugs for superior tamper-proof construction.  The original RAPiD safe was built of lighter 16-gauge steel, had a higher retail price, and was not touchless, so these newbies are an improvement on all fronts. Both AC and/or 4-AA battery power sources ensure your handgun is protected and ready for access 24/7. The included 1500-pound cable allows the safe to be secured in virtually any location. Interestingly, the RAPiD Safes meet TSA requirements for handgun safety in checked luggage as well.

bottom of unit showing mounting holes, AC power feed, and foot pads. (Photo: Kristin Alberts)

The 2600 is the smaller model, with exterior dimensions 10.7″ x 8.7″ x 2.9″ and interior space measuring 7″ x 7.7″ x 2.2″.  The 2600 is touted to accommodate most 2” barreled revolvers and compact handguns.  The XL sized 2700 measures 12.7″ x 8.7″ x 2.9″ exterior and  9″ x 7.7″ x 2.2″ interior. It fits most 4” revolvers and full sized handguns. Both are of sleek, modern design with an unassuming silver/gray finish.

Well packed in a metallic-reflective cardboard box, both of the safes come with a wall power supply, RFID wristband, two RFID stickers, RFID key fob, two circular barrel keys, and a security cable.  Retail price on the RAPiD Safe 2600 is $199.47 while the XL 2700 is $203.17.  MidwayUSA currently lists the models on sale for $149.99 and $154.99.

Practical use

Springfield EMP fits with plenty of room to spare. The 2700 will hold a full size 1911. (Photo: Kristin Alberts)

Our test safe was the 2700 and was heavier and even more sturdy than we expected.  Our 2700 will fit a full-size 1911 with room for extra mags or any 4” revolvers we could muster. Most full-sized pistols should fit as well.  We used it primarily for a Springfield EMP, which left lots of extra space.  As for access, we tried the wristband, key fob, and stickers all with the same flawless results.  The wristband is very unassuming, resembling any of the common sport-type rubber bracelets.  The fob is easy enough to carry on a key ring.  Our favorite, however, for discreet carry and probability of having it with you all the time, was the sticker.

Rear hinge detail. (Photo: Kristin Alberts)

Hornady reps advised that most buyers like to place a sticker on the back of their phone, as most of us never get more than a few feet away from our cells these days.  As we weren’t crazy about having a sticker on the back of the phone, for fear it might come loose with repeated pocketing, we put the sticker underneath the phone’s case, and it still functioned the same.  Any of the devices will activate the launch from around 1/2 – 3/4” away from the top-mounted sensor.  A green light on the large rubberized sensor shows that AC power is active and adequate. When run on battery power alone, the pad is not lighted to conserve power.  Should you somehow lose both power sources, the barrel keys still open the safe, so we made sure to stash those nearby just in case.

The case can also be unlocked using the included barrel keys. (Photo: Kristin Alberts)

The spring mechanism is actually quite strong and causes the unit to jump a little upon opening if it’s not mounted, which is no problem and further demonstrates the strength of the unit. On the plus side, we noticed no difference in the speed or effectiveness of the unit opening on either AC or AA-battery power.  Once activated, the opening is not incredibly wide, but allows plenty of access to grab your gun.

One of several mounting spots for the 1500# security cable. (Photo: Kristin Alberts)

Both the 2600 and 2700 are built with multiple rear mounting holes for securing the unit. We’ve heard of people screwing or bolting it to furniture, like the top of a bedroom dresser, closet shelf, nightstand, or bookcase.  Because the safe would have to be open to access the mounting hardware, it would be quite secure, and physical location alone would help keep it out of the reach of children.  Speaking of little ones, the RAPiD 2600 and 2700 packaging wears the Project Childsafe seal. Not only do the safes keep the gun out of the wrong hands, but they really excel at getting your defense gun in your hands when time matters most.  Check out Hornady’s video on real-life scenarios where the safes shines.

We are intrigued by the idea of using the RAPiD 2600 or 2700 safe for travel, as it can easily be tethered to a seat frame in a vehicle with the included cable, or be packed in luggage, as the RAPiD safes are approved by the TSA.  Given the slight price difference of less than $10, unless you’re pinched for space, the bigger 2700 is definitely the way to go, as it even allows room for a pair of small-frame pistols or snubbies.

Conclusion

Hornady RAPiD Safe 2700 can be bought for less than $200. (Photo: Kristin Alberts)

The typical high Hornady quality is all over the new 2600 and 2700 RAPiD touchless safes.  Whether you want to secure a firearm by the bed for a moment’s notice or need a safe approved for travel, Hornady has you covered.  Forget fingerprints, codes, or keys and try the touchless RFID technology to keep your gun out of the wrong hands and in yours when time matters most.