Secure gun safe for topless Bronco

raqball
Apr 22, 2024

Rank III

Apr 22, 2024

No politics please. (also, no laughing at my .380 either😉)

I am on the hunt for a small gun safe for the Bronco. My needs are a bit different as I roll with the hard top off for several months at a time.. Being topless, I think I need a little extra security..

In my old JK I had an under the seat safe that bolted into the seat to body bolts. It was very heavy duty and very secure. No such option for the Bronco that I can find.

I thought about getting something made for a JK then just drill holes into the body to secure it down but the underside of the Bronco seat area looks to be riddled with bumps and humps that would prevent a flush fit...

I've considered the console safe but honestly that thing looks way to easy to pry open. I have not tested it, so maybe it's better than I think. I've also considered the rear cargo area safe which might be better as it's hidden under the rear cargo lift up mat area but this also looks like it would be very easy to pry open... There is also a headrest safe that looks okay.

These are the only options that I am aware of so feedback on those options, or if there are other options, would be great.

I don't need a quick draw / fast access option and am only looking for a very secure storage option. I have a CC permit so really the only time the firearm will be left in the Bronco is when going to areas where a firearm is not permitted.

The firearm is a Glock 42 .380 which is pretty small..

Thoughts for a topless Bronco?
gypsystarr, Kenneth

Rank V

Apr 25, 2024

#20
Thanks! Found the website and saved it to investigate further..

I think their small one will fit in-between the Bronco seats and is large enough to hold the little .380. The issue is it's top open. For $40 I might order it and see what can be done with it..

https://www.snapsafe.com/lock-boxes/lock-box-lg/

Will definitely fit a .380, I have one for my Springfield XDM 40...holds it and the 2 mags just fine.
22 BB 4dr SAS 2.7 Mid Pkg Hot Pepper Red, Delivered 8/25
Previous 2019 F150 Ruby Red SCrew 3.5 Eco, XLT Sport/FX4 302A
raqball

Rank III

Apr 25, 2024

#21
Will definitely fit a .380, I have one for my Springfield XDM 40...holds it and the 2 mags just fine.

I ordered it.. It's only $40 so even if it does not work, I could still find some use for it.. My plan is to try and find a way to mount it under the seat.. After it arrives, I'll probably bring it to a few shops and see what they suggest or they can do to mod it for an under the seat and secure fit..
frdfan, Sven

Will Flyfish for food.

Apr 25, 2024

#22
Will a Wildey fit?

Rank V

Apr 25, 2024

#23
Will a Wildey fit?

Not sure, interior dimensions on mine are 6"x9"x1.5"
22 BB 4dr SAS 2.7 Mid Pkg Hot Pepper Red, Delivered 8/25
Previous 2019 F150 Ruby Red SCrew 3.5 Eco, XLT Sport/FX4 302A

Rank III

Apr 25, 2024

#24
Will a Wildey fit?

Click the link in my post a few up. They have different sizes for the safe.

I ordered the small one (lg size) but they have a XXL version that says it's dimensions are 11.5” x 8.5” x 2.5”

KCsBronco

Apr 25, 2024

#25
I have the console safe in my pickup, I like it. And while I understand your concern with it being topless, anything is a deterrent. And their pea brain may not go any farther than a locked glove box or console.
The rear cargo one would be a good idea, because if the crook isn't familiar with a bronco, they probably wouldn't look there and as you said, you can also lock the gate.

I always like a way that others could not see me securing it. That's the crook I worry about.
while I haven't tried with my Glock, I wonder about the top/back of the glove box.

Agree with Lots of Ford's point that practically, you can only get a deterrent. Sure, a more bomb-proof safe is practical in a home or other structural facility, but perhaps not really in a Bronco.

Understand your interest to store your firearm securely. No-one wants their weapons to end up in the wrong hands - Today, we seem to have a quickly growing cast of bad actors!!

I use a couple sizes of the Stack-On/SnapSafe type lockable steel boxes for air travel. A smaller size is plenty for my SIG 9mm summer carry, and slightly larger for a SIG 45acp winter carry. These boxes lockup securely and meet TSA/Airlines' flight rules for traveling with a firearm, but IMO neither would withstand only a minute or 2 against a steel tool in strong hands.

Ford's accessory safes are 'bout the same. They're clearly a deterrent against the typical 'smash 'n grab' vehicle break-ins, and they're practical solutions that should meet any statuary requirement to secure your firearm in your topless Bronco.

Cheers
UserError

Mud,Sweat and Gears

Apr 25, 2024

#26
Click the link in my post a few up. They have different sizes for the safe.

I ordered the small one (lg size) but they have a XXL version that says it's dimensions are 11.5” x 8.5” x 2.5”

Thanks.
Joined May 29, 2020 Member 546

O-===-O BRONCO, Trail Rated is standard

Apr 25, 2024

#27
Agree with Lots of Ford's point that practically, you can only get a deterrent. Sure, a more bomb-proof safe is practical in a home or other structural facility, but perhaps not really in a Bronco.

Understand your interest to store your firearm securely. No-one wants their weapons to end up in the wrong hands - Today, we seem to have a quickly growing cast of bad actors!!

I use a couple sizes of the Stack-On/SnapSafe type lockable steel boxes for air travel. A smaller size is plenty for my SIG 9mm summer carry, and slightly larger for a SIG 45acp winter carry. These boxes lockup securely and meet TSA/Airlines' flight rules for traveling with a firearm, but IMO neither would withstand only a minute or 2 against a steel tool in strong hands.

Ford's accessory safes are 'bout the same. They're clearly a deterrent against the typical 'smash 'n grab' vehicle break-ins, and they're practical solutions that should meet any statuary requirement to secure your firearm in your topless Bronco.

Cheers
Like anything else you can only do what you can but the more steps the better. Enclosure,safe,no rounds in the chamber, trigger lock and no clips in the firearm. Safety and responsibility rule the day.

Gypsy

Apr 25, 2024

#28
No politics please. (also, no laughing at my .380 either😉)

I am on the hunt for a small gun safe for the Bronco. My needs are a bit different as I roll with the hard top off for several months at a time.. Being topless, I think I need a little extra security..

In my old JK I had an under the seat safe that bolted into the seat to body bolts. It was very heavy duty and very secure. No such option for the Bronco that I can find.

I thought about getting something made for a JK then just drill holes into the body to secure it down but the underside of the Bronco seat area looks to be riddled with bumps and humps that would prevent a flush fit...

I've considered the console safe but honestly that thing looks way to easy to pry open. I have not tested it, so maybe it's better than I think. I've also considered the rear cargo area safe which might be better as it's hidden under the rear cargo lift up mat area but this also looks like it would be very easy to pry open... There is also a headrest safe that looks okay.

These are the only options that I am aware of so feedback on those options, or if there are other options, would be great.

I don't need a quick draw / fast access option and am only looking for a very secure storage option. I have a CC permit so really the only time the firearm will be left in the Bronco is when going to areas where a firearm is not permitted.

The firearm is a Glock 42 .380 which is pretty small..

Thoughts for a topless Bronco?

We have a underseat, console, and tailgate safe by Tuffy for our Jeep which is a soft top. The only con of the tailgate safe is it takes up room. Other then that we can put quite a few things in that. The console one isn't bad, but we like the underseat and tailgate the best. We are also currently looking for safe for our Bronco which is a soft top also. Preferably under the seat.
TALON
2023 Badlands 4dr Oxford White Canvas Top Sasquatch High Package Stock
raqball

KCsBronco

Apr 25, 2024

#29
... no clips in the firearm...

😃 😁 😄
frdfan, UserError

Rank III

Apr 26, 2024

#30
We have a underseat, console, and tailgate safe by Tuffy for our Jeep which is a soft top. The only con of the tailgate safe is it takes up room. Other then that we can put quite a few things in that. The console one isn't bad, but we like the underseat and tailgate the best. We are also currently looking for safe for our Bronco which is a soft top also. Preferably under the seat.

I def update this thread once I get the small safe I ordered and figure out an under the seat mounting solution for it. I am sure a fabrication shop will be able to come up with something for it and the Bronco...
gypsystarr, Kenneth

O-===-O BRONCO, Trail Rated is standard

Apr 26, 2024

#31
My particular issue for the rear area is a) I have a 2dr, b) I have a power tank system back there and c) I need as much cargo space as I can get for camping trips.. The Ford rear cargo safe is hidden but I'd think a small pry bar and they'd be in w/o even breaking a sweat..

Also an issue for me is that I roll with the hard top off. The front area is protected by bikini top but the rear cargo area is exposed to rain.. I'd prefer something in the front or rear forward seat area for that reason.

The Ford console safe is a 100% no go from me... When a criminal is getting into vehicle they are gonna pop open that center console to see what goodies are in there. Oh, lookie here, a safe! Might be able to pry that thing open with a screwdriver. It just does not look secure to me..

I am actually very surprised that there are no under seat safe options.. The floorboard area under the seats of the Bronco is full of humps and bumps so maybe that's the issue / reason?

For normal locking up of stuff I think any of them would do the trick but the harder it is for a fleabag to get into it, the better when a stored firearm is at issue.
A few things to possibly consider
-The rear safe doesn't reduce used storage space. In goes bellow and you can still store stuff in it if needed.
-It is more durable and better installed for a prybar. It would take a determined person quite a while to even try
-You can get the rear enclosure as I did exactly for top off peace of mind. It essentially turns the back into a true secured trunk.
raqball

TN Patriot

Apr 26, 2024

#32
No politics please. (also, no laughing at my .380 either😉)

I am on the hunt for a small gun safe for the Bronco. My needs are a bit different as I roll with the hard top off for several months at a time.. Being topless, I think I need a little extra security..

In my old JK I had an under the seat safe that bolted into the seat to body bolts. It was very heavy duty and very secure. No such option for the Bronco that I can find.

I thought about getting something made for a JK then just drill holes into the body to secure it down but the underside of the Bronco seat area looks to be riddled with bumps and humps that would prevent a flush fit...

I've considered the console safe but honestly that thing looks way to easy to pry open. I have not tested it, so maybe it's better than I think. I've also considered the rear cargo area safe which might be better as it's hidden under the rear cargo lift up mat area but this also looks like it would be very easy to pry open... There is also a headrest safe that looks okay.

These are the only options that I am aware of so feedback on those options, or if there are other options, would be great.

I don't need a quick draw / fast access option and am only looking for a very secure storage option. I have a CC permit so really the only time the firearm will be left in the Bronco is when going to areas where a firearm is not permitted.

The firearm is a Glock 42 .380 which is pretty small..

Thoughts for a topless Bronco?

Have you looked at the various Vaultek models? They have many different portable safes which use cables to secure the safe. Some are waterproof, which would help when going topless and rain is possible (though I imagine you avoid such situations).
raqball

Rank III

Apr 26, 2024

#33
Have you looked at the various Vaultek models? They have many different portable safes which use cables to secure the safe. Some are waterproof, which would help when going topless and rain is possible (though I imagine you avoid such situations).

The issue with the Bronco, for under seat mounting, is that there are brackets that protrude quite a bit out from the seat rails. If my quick measurements were correct, you only have about 6 1/2 inches of width between them. That's problematic if you want to mount something flat on the floorboard in-between them.

I have not removed the seat(s) to see if those can be removed but my quick investigation revealed that under the plastic covers is just a hunk of metal and that metal is thick/tall which would prevent anything from getting mounted on the tops of them..

I assume this is part of the reason why nobody has made an under the seat safe for the Bronco thus far.. It's very problematic under there, from what I can tell at least..

The one I ordered is right at 6 1/2" wide so I am hopeful that it fits. Anything wider would be a no-go I am thinking..

Rank III

Apr 26, 2024

#34
-You can get the rear enclosure as I did exactly for top off peace of mind. It essentially turns the back into a true secured trunk.

I can't really do the rear enclosure as I have a power tank in the rear that sticks up above the body line. I am going to try the small safe I ordered and see if I can get a modification shop to fabricate something for it. If not, then the Ford rear cargo safe it shall be..
OrangecrushBronco

Rank 0

Apr 26, 2024

#35
I have a Vaultek that tucks pretty discretely under either front seat. It's not accessible if you're sitting in a front seat, but that's okay for my needs. It's not mounted, though.

Since you're carrying a .380 you could probably get away with a sub-compact or compact model and do an under seat mount.

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gypsystarr, Sven

Rank III

Apr 26, 2024

#36
I have a Vaultek that tucks pretty discretely under either front seat. It's not accessible if you're sitting in a front seat, but that's okay for my needs. It's not mounted, though.

Since you're carrying a .380 you could probably get away with a sub-compact or compact model and do an under seat mount.

Nice! I don't need easy access but I would prefer a mounted solution.

The under seat area in your photos looks to be a lot wider than mine. I only measured at the front of mine and it was like 6 1/2". Maybe the rear area is wider? Hummmmm.. Off to measure again.
cdils

O-===-O BRONCO, Trail Rated is standard

Apr 27, 2024

#37
I can't really do the rear enclosure as I have a power tank in the rear that sticks up above the body line. I am going to try the small safe I ordered and see if I can get a modification shop to fabricate something for it. If not, then the Ford rear cargo safe it shall be..
Yeah, that would be problematic.

Rank IV

Apr 27, 2024

#38
I have a Vaultek that tucks pretty discretely under either front seat. It's not accessible if you're sitting in a front seat, but that's okay for my needs. It's not mounted, though.

Since you're carrying a .380 you could probably get away with a sub-compact or compact model and do an under seat mount.

Thanks for posting this safe brand. I looked at them for home use. But several look like they could be bolted to the rear cargo hold side panel through to the sheet metal of the inner fender. Several models use a nice quick-detaching mounting plate.
cdils

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