Hands-On Review: Blacksmith SF0203 Pro Pistol Safe
We recently got a chance to check out another product from Blacksmith — the brand known for its affordable, rugged long gun safes — and this time, it's their biometric sliding pistol safe designed specifically for nightstand use. Compact, tech-savvy, and built like a tank, this pistol safe brings some seriously smart features to your bedside.
Let’s dive into what makes this safe stand out in a crowded market.
1. Built Tough
Unboxing the safe, the build quality immediately stands out. Fully constructed from steel, this safe has a durable, solid feel — no plastic gimmicks here. It’s not overly heavy (just around 12 lbs), but heavy enough to deter any quick snatch-and-run attempts.
2. Quick & Responsive
This Blacksmith safe features four ways to unlock:
(1) Biometric fingerprint scanner (stores up to 20 prints)
(2) Digital keypad (customizable 4–6 digit PIN)
(3) Manual override key (hidden smartly at the bottom)
(4) Smartphone app access via Bluetooth
The fingerprint reader is surprisingly fast — unlocking in about 0.1 seconds. Setup is simple: just press the interior reset button and scan your finger four times. The reader proved to be accurate and quick, making it a reliable option when seconds matter.
One great feature: if the wrong fingerprint is attempted five times, the safe locks down and sounds an alarm for 30 seconds. You can still use the key to override during lockout — a practical touch.
3. Smart Control On the Go
Where this safe really shines is the mobile app integration. Not only can you unlock it remotely (within Bluetooth range), but the app also sends real-time alerts if the safe is accessed — a major plus for parents or anyone concerned about unauthorized access while away from home.
4. Snug, Silent & Thoughtful
Inside, the safe is lined with dense, protective foam. It’s soft enough to prevent scratches but firm enough to hold your pistol in place. The unit supports pistols up to 9.5 inches in length, and thanks to the compact internal layout, your firearm won’t rattle around — even if you open it quickly. There’s also a built-in LED light that activates when the safe is opened, making late-night access safe and easy.
5. What Actually Fits?
Full-sized pistols like the Canik TP9 and 2011-style handguns fit securely. Pistols with optics and extended mags can fit — but barely.
For example, a CZ P-09 with a Surefire light didn’t fit due to limited vertical and length clearance. However, there’s a potential workaround: trimming the internal foam could create the extra space needed for weapon lights. That said, this solution may not appeal to everyone.
6. Pros & Cons
Pros:
(1) Rugged all-steel construction.
(2) Multiple access methods. (fingerprint, keypad, key, and app)
(3) Real-time alerts via smartphone.
(4) Quick and reliable biometric scanner.
(5) Great fit for full-sized pistols. (without lights)
(6) Soft LED lighting for nighttime use.
Cons:
(1) No batteries included.
(2) Limited clearance for pistols with mounted lights or large optics.
(3) Foam customization might be needed for some setups.
Verdict: Tech Meets Toughness
The Blacksmith biometric nightstand safe strikes a great balance between accessibility and security. It’s ideal for gun owners who want quick, quiet access at night while keeping firearms safely out of unauthorized hands — especially kids or nosy guests.
👉Click to Buy: SF0203 Pro Pistol Safe
