Viking Security VS-48DS Drop Safe
Pros
- Motorized Locking Mechanism
- 5 MM Steel Door
- Double-Bitted Key Override
- Internal LED Light with Spring Assisted Door
- Reliable Company for Service and Warranty
Cons
- Non UL-Rated Lock
- Made in China
Viking is a relatively unknown company in the safe industry. They only sell on Amazon and direct with no in-store presence. They make innovative drop safes that are designed to destroy their competitors. Overall, their safes security is actually quite good and I do recommend them. In this review, I will explain why the Viking VS-48DS Drop Safe is one of the best compact drop safes available.
Lock – Viking Security VS-48DS Drop Safe
First and always most important is the lock used on the safe. Viking opted for an electronic touchpad that operates a motorized locking system. This lock does not have any UL certifications and has not been tested for long term reliability. So far, nearly every single review on Amazon has been overwhelmingly positive. However, the safe has only been out for a few years.
UL rated locks from NL, S&G and Securam have certifications and have been tested tens of thousands of cycles. This lock lacks all of that but has good reviews. In the event that the lock fails, a double-bitted backup key is included so that you can still access the contents of the safe.
Security – Viking Security VS-48DS Drop Safe
Viking also chose to increase the steel thickness from its main Barska competitor and uses a 5 mm door with 25 mm steel locking bolts that again are motorized. There is no handle on the safe, once you punch the code in, the bolts will automatically retract. The body is a thin 2 mm steel but this is pretty standard for a drop safe of this size.
This safe is definitely not meant to keep a skilled burglar out and I would not recommend storing cash in it overnight. However, for a simple drop safe that keeps employees hands out of the cash drops, it will definitely do its job. On the backside of the drop are anti-fish, jagged teeth that prevent fishing attacks as well.
Style and Function
Style and function is where Viking Security really excels in their products. They included an internal LED light that operates on the same batteries that control the motorized locking mechanism. A carpeted bottom is included to prevent scratches to your items and the door springs open after the motorized bolts retract. The keypad panel has an open status indicator and overall it has a very nice, clean finish. Bolt down holes are included on both the back and the bottom of the safe for secure mounting.
The Bottom Line
The Viking Security VS-48DS Drop Safe is one of the top two options in its price range. The only safe I would consider better is the Stealth DS1614 drop safe and only because it has the UL Rated NL electronic lock installed.
Viking Security has been making high quality, reliable products and assists their customers when it comes time for support or warranty. I definitely would recommend this product if you need a drop size of this size and quality.
