BASIC OVERVIEW
This Viking VS-25BL has to be one of the top small security safes on the market right now.
This is mainly because of the many useful features that are included compared to other small safes in the same category.
Right now you will have a hard time finding a small fingerprint safe of this quality at such a low price point. If you compare this to the likes of “Stack-On”, “Barska” or “Gunvault” then you will notice the very competitive price.
Yes, Stack-On may be cheaper but that also reflects on the quality of the safe; which could mean poor quality and poor reliability when it comes to the biometric readers. Gunvault and Barska are both generally more expensive for a model that is very similar. When looking at all those areas, this small Viking safe comes out on top.
So, now that we have established that it is top of its range within the small biometric safe category, what does this VS-25BL have to offer?
The first important area to look at is the actual biometric fingerprint scanner. This is a feature that needs to not only function well, but function at a high level.
If the biometric scanner is not sensitive enough to register a fingerprint then this could cause a delay in opening the safe and in some cases may not even unlock the door at all.
Errors such as these will not be an issue with this small fingerprint safe. The scanner is of very high quality and sensitive enough to register a fingerprint even if it is dirty or even wet. The actual fingerprint reader has an upgraded 500 DPI optical sensor, which means better and faster scanning.
Generally speaking you need to pay attention to your finger placement when scanning and that means pre-programming your finger multiple times and at different angles. The more fingerprints you store, the better chance you have of getting a smooth scan.
Of course, things don’t always go perfectly but 95% of the time you should have a successful scan. If things do go wrong then it only takes a second to reset and start again.
Another huge plus is the additional password option that you can use to gain entry. A lot of small fingerprint safes offer up to 6 digits for a password entry, which is fine but not great.
This Viking biometric safe allows users to pick 8 digits which makes random guessing for any thief nearly impossible.
The actual scan and save setup is a very quick and easy process and allows you to save up to 32 fingerprints for multiple people or one PIN code.
Once the door has been unlocked it will automatically swing open which means there is no need for a handle. If you make sure to put the safe on a level surface, when it unlocks, it gently swings open by use of its motorized door opener. The motor that opens and shuts the safe is also very quiet too.
The motorized deadbolt locking system on this VS-25BL uses two 20mm thickness live-locking bolts to fit into its 2 pry-resistant incision slots. Most safes of this size have 16mm thick bolts but Viking went the extra mile with their 20mm bolts.
The door faceplate is also thicker than other smaller safes at 5mm rather than the usual 2mm. All this is solid steel including the bolts, faceplate and overall frame and casing of this safe.
The casing has been laser cut to precision in order to avoid any large gaps at the joins for a tightly sealed solid steel body.
The digital keypad and LCD display are not backlit, however the fingerprint reader lights up which makes it easy to see in the dark. The door will open in less than a second with your fingerprint or a PIN code, or a key.
There is also a very cool feature regarding leaving the door open for too long. If you leave the door open for more than 15-20 seconds, it gives an audible beep every five seconds to remind you to lock it. You also have the option to operate the safe either with sound or in silent mode.
You do get a backup key which is not your average looking safe key. It is not the simple round key typically seen with most other small safes; it is a four prong backup cross key. It isn’t likely a thief will be able to pick the lock with any ease.
The interior is nicely designed with a fully carpeted bottom, one fully adjustable and removable shelf and also a built-in LED light. Even in total darkness it’s easy to see what’s inside the safe with the internal led.
Regarding tough security, this is a top of the range small safe but be aware that it is not a high-end burglar proof safe. Yes, it is perfect for the average home user who wants to store general items but as with other small safes in this category it is not advisable to store very expensive items or irreplaceable items.
If you have extremely valuable things that you need to store, then you need to get a tougher safe, however you will not find one in this price range.
Its weight and size also need to be considered which for some may be a positive or a negative thing. A small safe means you can hide it away in a closet or under the bed somewhere, but it also means someone could just carry it off to crack later.
To counter that last point, this fingerprint safe has two holes at the bottom for bolting to the floor. The anchors are included and this is a big benefit to stop a home burglar from taking the entire vault.
Overall this safe has a very nice looking modern design with its robust construction and versatile size. It is a perfect fit as a home safe or even as an office safe where you can store and protect your valuables.
FEATURES
Digital LCD display keypad: The keypad is easy to use and the LCD display provides relevant information.
2 live-locking bolts: These deadbolts lock the door on the opening side. They are 20mm in thickness and made from solid steel.
Robust build: This Viking safe is made from thick solid steel. The door thickness is 5mm and the body thickness is 2mm.
Upgraded 500 DPI scanner: This new scanner means it is more sensitive and able to register fingerprints more accurately.
Door alarm: An alarm will go off if the door stays open for too long.
Carpeted shelf: The interior shelf can be removed and adjusted.
2 Entry options: You can use the biometric fingerprint scanner or you can use your pre-set PIN code.
LED light: There is a built-in LED light to make it easier to see inside the safe when it is dark.
2 Override keys: The safe comes with 2 four pronged override cross keys.
Automatic door opening: The door opens automatically once the correct fingerprint or code has been recognized.
PROS AT A GLANCE
- The automatic door opening is a nice touch.
- Has an accurate fingerprint reader.
- The build quality is very good for a small safe.
- A nice looking safe with a fashionable design.
- The interior is nicely carpeted.
- The two ways of entry is very handy.
- The 2 live-locking bolts are a thick 20mm of solid steel.
- Has a removable shelf and interior light.
- Great quality for its price range.
- Can be bolted to the floor or a wall.
CONS AT A GLANCE
- Has no back lighting to enter your code/fingerprint at night.
- It’s not heavy. Needs to be bolted down for improved security.
Viking VS-25BL Small Fingerprint Safe FAQ’s
Yes, this safe saves up to 32 fingerprints. The first 1 or 2 have to be primary user prints.
There are two areas at the bottom of the safe and one in the back.
Yes, the key overrides the finger print pad.
Yes. Either enter the code you create, or use the biometric finger scan.
The two steel bars take about 2-3 seconds to draw back into the door which then allows it to swing open.
The hinge is on the right side, so the door swings open from left to right.
No.
There is no specific hole but you may be able to use one of the pre-drilled mounting holes.
Yes and it can be turned off.
The battery status indicator will flash when low.
