Allen Three Gun Locking Gun Rack Review

The Truth About Using the Allen Three Gun Locking Gun Rack

Keeping firearms secure is a fundamental concern for any responsible gun owner, and finding a reliable storage solution that balances accessibility with safety is paramount. It was with this goal in mind that I came across the Allen Three Gun Locking Gun Rack. This particular rack promised a straightforward, steel-constructed solution for holding up to three firearms, with the added benefit of adjustability and a locking mechanism. My need arose from a desire for a more organized and secure temporary storage option within my vehicle, rather than the usual clutter or less-than-ideal methods.

My initial impression upon unboxing was a mixed one. The Allen Three Gun Locking Gun Rack presents itself as a robust, steel-based product, which is a good starting point. The promise of high-quality steel construction felt reassuring, and the idea of a plastisol coating to protect firearms was a thoughtful touch. However, the overall feel of the unit, even before installation, hinted at potential compromises. I had briefly considered more elaborate, custom-fit vehicle mounts, but the simplicity and advertised adjustability of this rack made it an appealing alternative for its price point. My first reaction was one of cautious optimism, hoping that its practical application would overcome any minor aesthetic or perceived build quality concerns.

Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Three Gun Locking Gun Rack to the Test

First Use Experience

My primary testing environment for this gun rack was within the cabin of my pickup truck, specifically mounted over the rear window frame. This location offered a relatively discreet yet accessible spot for temporary firearm storage during hunts or range days where leaving firearms unattended in the vehicle was unavoidable for short periods. I tested its performance with a variety of long guns, including a standard AR-15 style rifle, a pump-action shotgun, and a bolt-action hunting rifle. The adjustability was initially helpful in finding a snug fit, but the steel clips felt a bit too rigid to accommodate different stock and barrel thicknesses without some forcing.

The conditions were fairly standard for my region: mild temperatures with occasional exposure to dust from unpaved roads. While the plastisol coating did seem to prevent immediate scratching, the inherent design of the clips didn’t inspire absolute confidence in their ability to securely hold a firearm during sudden stops or maneuvers. The unit was intuitive enough to install by understanding the basic concept of its adjustable arms and clamping mechanism, but the actual process of securely attaching it and then safely placing firearms within it revealed some design limitations that weren’t immediately apparent. There were definitely some surprises, primarily concerning the limited flexibility of the clips and the rather basic nature of the included cable for securing the guns.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of intermittent use, the Allen Three Gun Locking Gun Rack began to show its limitations more clearly. While it held the guns, the sense of security was never truly solid. The constant slight jostling, even with careful driving, meant I often found myself checking on the rack and its contents more frequently than I would have liked. The steel clips, which are meant to flex for a secure hold, felt more like they were resisting the guns, creating pressure points rather than providing a gentle, firm grip. This rigidity also meant that loading and unloading could be a fumbling affair, especially when trying to do so quickly or with gloved hands.

Durability-wise, the rack itself seemed to hold up physically; there were no visible cracks or significant signs of wear on the steel or its coating. However, the functionality began to degrade subtly. The clips seemed to lose some of their initial springiness, and the cable, which is a plastic-coated steel cable, felt a bit flimsy. Maintenance was straightforward – a quick wipe down to remove dust was all that was needed. Compared to more purpose-built, padded, or custom-fit gun racks I’ve used in workshop or hunting lodge settings, this unit felt like a compromise. It served a basic purpose but lacked the refined security and ease of use of higher-end or more specialized storage solutions.

Breaking Down the Features of Allen Three Gun Locking Gun Rack

Specifications

The Allen Three Gun Locking Gun Rack is constructed from high-quality steel, providing a solid foundation for its intended purpose. It boasts an impressive adjustability range, extending from 18 inches to 26 inches, which is a key feature for fitting various vehicle or wall spaces. This rack is designed to hold up to three firearms, making it a relatively compact solution for multiple long guns. The plastisol coating on the rack’s contact points is a thoughtful addition, aimed at preventing scratches on both firearms and the surfaces it attaches to. A plastic-coated steel cable is included for securing the guns, though crucially, no actual lock is provided with the unit itself, leaving the “locking” aspect somewhat ambiguous without the user supplying their own padlock.

These specifications mean that the rack offers a degree of versatility for different users and mounting locations. The adjustable length is practical, allowing it to fit in spaces where fixed-length racks might not. The capacity for three guns is ample for many common scenarios. However, the lack of an integrated locking mechanism means that true security against theft relies entirely on the user adding their own external lock, which is a significant point to consider for anyone prioritizing maximum security.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its core function – holding firearms securely – the Allen Three Gun Locking Gun Rack performs with significant caveats. While it can physically hold three long guns, the steel clips lack the nuanced flexibility needed for a truly secure and non-damaging grip. They tend to exert pressure in concentrated areas rather than distributing it evenly, which could be a long-term concern for firearm finishes. The included plastic-coated steel cable serves as a basic tether, but its effectiveness as a true security measure is questionable without a robust locking system.

The primary strength here is its ability to organize and keep firearms upright and somewhat separated. Its major weakness lies in the lack of true locking security and the rigid nature of the securing clips. For a hunter or shooter who needs to keep guns organized and upright for transport but isn’t overly concerned about opportunistic theft, it might suffice. However, for anyone prioritizing robust security, especially in environments where the vehicle might be left unattended for extended periods, this rack falls short of expectations. It meets the basic need of “holding” but struggles significantly with “locking” and “securing” in a meaningful way.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Allen Three Gun Locking Gun Rack is functional but utilitarian. The high-quality steel construction gives it a durable feel, and the black finish is unobtrusive. The plastisol coating is a good practical detail, showing an understanding of protecting valuable items. The adjustable arms are operated by a simple tension mechanism, allowing for easy widening or narrowing of the rack’s span.

Ergonomically, the rack is straightforward to install. However, the interaction with firearms is where it falters. The steel clips feel unyielding, and while they are designed to flex, they do so with a degree of force that can make loading and unloading slightly awkward. There’s a definite learning curve to getting the guns placed just right without excessive force. The plastic-coated steel cable is also a bit cumbersome to loop and secure effectively, especially in low light or when you’re in a hurry. It’s a design that prioritizes basic functionality over refined usability or firearm protection.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on its construction, the Allen Three Gun Locking Gun Rack appears to be built for longevity. The steel construction is inherently robust and should withstand considerable wear and tear. The plastisol coating, while a good idea, could potentially chip or wear down over time with repeated friction, though I didn’t observe this during my testing period. The adjustable mechanism relies on tension, which is typically quite durable.

Maintenance is blessedly simple; a quick wipe-down with a dry cloth is usually sufficient to keep dust and debris at bay. There aren’t really any complex parts to clean or lubricate, which is a definite plus for a product intended for use in less-than-pristine environments like a vehicle. The main concern for long-term reliability isn’t likely to be the rack itself, but rather how the steel clips might wear on firearm finishes over extended periods due to their rigidity, and whether the cable’s coating will remain intact.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Allen Three Gun Locking Gun Rack comes with a plastic-coated steel cable for securing the firearms. It’s important to note that the product description and my experience confirm that no actual lock is included with this cable. This means that for any genuine locking security, the user must supply their own padlock.

Beyond the included cable, there are no other significant customization options inherent to the rack itself. Its adjustability allows it to fit various spaces, but the rack’s core functionality and holding mechanism are fixed. While you could potentially add aftermarket padding or modify the clips, these would be user-made alterations rather than standard features or intended customizations. The rack is designed to be a self-contained unit with the addition of an external lock.

Pros and Cons of Allen Three Gun Locking Gun Rack

Who Should Buy Allen Three Gun Locking Gun Rack?

The Allen Three Gun Locking Gun Rack is best suited for individuals who need a simple, organizational solution for temporarily storing long guns. This includes hunters who want to keep their firearms upright and separated during transport to and from the field, or recreational shooters who need a basic rack in their vehicle for range days. It’s a good option if your primary goal is organization and keeping guns from rolling around, rather than robust security against theft.

However, those who require a high level of security for their firearms, such as individuals storing firearms in vehicles that are left unattended for significant periods, should probably look elsewhere. This rack is not designed for high-security applications. Anyone with particularly valuable or delicate firearm finishes might also want to reconsider due to the rigid nature of the steel clips. For enhanced security, it would be advisable to purchase a separate, high-quality padlock to use with the included cable, though this still doesn’t address the potential pressure points on the firearms themselves.

Conclusion on Allen Three Gun Locking Gun Rack

The Allen Three Gun Locking Gun Rack offers a basic level of organization for transporting multiple long guns. Its high-quality steel construction and adjustable length are definite selling points, providing a sturdy and adaptable solution for many vehicle or wall-mounting scenarios. The plastisol coating is a sensible inclusion to protect firearm finishes.

However, the product’s core functionality is significantly hampered by the rigidity of its steel clips, which can create pressure points and make firearm loading/unloading cumbersome. More importantly, the “locking” aspect is misleading as it requires the user to supply their own lock, and the included cable offers minimal actual security against theft. For its price point, it delivers on organization but falls short on secure, protective storage. I would recommend this rack only to those prioritizing simple organization over advanced security, and even then, with the strong caveat to invest in a good quality padlock.