If you are considering purchasing a Pangolin Car Handgun Safe and you have a question not answered in the
Pangolin H180 Handgun Safes Technical Specifications (PDF)
we address common questions in the Handgun Safes FAQ's below. If not covered, please chat to us:
Where can I purchase a Pangolin safe?
Pangolin handgun safes are available directly from Pangolin via our Online Shop or nationally from approved resellers.
What is the warranty period on a Pangolin handgun safe?
The warranty on the Pangolin handgun safes is two years on the Model 180F/ 180B / 180D safes,
and one year on the Model 180G, from date of purchase
by original purchaser and covers any defect in materials or workmanship affecting your Pangolin handgun safe, subject to the
usual T&C's (e.g. does not cover abuse). This is also detailed in the manual.
Why should I register the handgun safe and keys with Pangolin?
Should you lose both keys to your Pangolin vehicle firearm safe, Pangolin Security Products will have to verify the legitimate owner of the safe before
supplying replacement keys. The registration is purely for authentication purposes to maintain the security of your safe.
What if I lose both my handgun safe keys?
If you have registered your Pangolin handgun safe with Pangolin Security Products we can supply you with a replacement key after authenticating the request.
If it has not been registered and we cannot authenticate the legitimate owner, the safe will have to be destroyed to gain access to the contents.
What if I sell my vehicle containing a handgun safe?
Fixed units: The safe is readily un-installed once it is unlocked. Docked units: The dock is readily un-installed once the safe is detached.
The exposed mounting holes will be blanked off by the installer to prevent possible water and dust ingress and to maintain aesthetics.
You can also choose to leave the dock in your old car and install a new dock in your new vehicle.
The handgun safe could also be sold with the vehicle to the new owner. In this case a new Installation Certificate will need to be prepared in the name of the
new owner and Pangolin Security Products notified by the original owner of the change of ownership.
What about a biometric or keypad or other electronic locking system?
These options were considered for Pangolin firearm safes but discarded in favour of the superior reliability and security offered by the Abloy® Sentry lock
for professional end users such as government, municipal, law enforcement, defence and critical industries. This high quality mechanical lock and key with
>800 000 differs that cannot be duplicated or picked will always work when needed, whereas electronics can fail, batteries run flat, fingerprints not be recognised
when wet, images replicated, codes be forgotten under duress or be forced to divulge under threat.
Electronic systems are however an option in combination with the Abloy® Sentry lock as a dual locking system requiring simultaneous operation to unlock the safe.
Can I store my handgun in a Pangolin L series laptop safe?
Pangolin L series laptop safes are not compliant with either the FIREARMS CONTROL ACT or SANS 953-1 and cannot legally be used for storing firearms.
Can I have my current tracking device fitted in the Pangolin Handgun Safe?
Yes you can, but bear in mind that the safe acts like a Faraday cage which highly attenuates radio frequency signals. This will cause the detection range
to be greatly reduced and may be too little to be of any real value for tracking purposes, so it should be tested beforehand.
NB: An option with a purpose designed solution that overcomes this problem for a track and trace service is available from Quicktrack.
Please also see our Pangolin Installation web page for more information.
How do I find an installer for my Pangolin handgun safe?
You can find a list of certified and authorised Pangolin safe installers on the Pangolin website.
If you cannot find one convenient to you please contact us for assistance.
What do I do with my Installation Certificate?
Keep the original in a safe place (but not in the Pangolin) and supply copies to those in need of it (e.g. insurance company, employer, etc).
It would also be wise to keep a copy on your mobile phone.
Does the installation or certificate need to be certified by SAPS/SABS?
No, there is no need to inspect or register your vehicle handgun safe or installation certificate with SAPS or SABS. In fact it would only cause confusion if you
made such a request since there is no basis or mandate in the FCA or FCR or SANS standard for doing so.
What if I can't access the steel bodywork for mounting the Pangolin handgun safe?
In order to be compliant with regulations and maintain integrity of the installation it is essential that the Pangolin handgun safe is secured to the steel body
or floor of your vehicle. There is no other option allowed. Consult with Pangolin Security Products if difficulty is being experienced in finding a suitable location.
What if I can't access the underside of the bodywork for mounting the Pangolin handgun safe?
There is a solution available from Pangolin Security Products or your installer in the form of a special fastener that can attach securely to the bodywork from one side only. NB:
What if I can't fit bolts in all required positions for mounting the Pangolin handgun safe?
In order to be compliant with regulations as well as maintain integrity of the installation it is essential that the Pangolin is secured with all of the high tensile
or stainless steel bolts supplied (or equivalent no smaller in diameter than those supplied) and in the designated positions.
What about my vehicle warranty?
If any aftermarket product is fitted intrusively to your vehicle (i.e. involving physical alteration in any way) then you can expect that your vehicle warranty
could be affected in respect of the affected part/s. The way in which it is regarded will depend on the vehicle manufacturer, but as a minimum you can expect to lose
the warranty on corrosion protection at the Pangolin installation site unless the installation is undertaken by an OEM approved aftermarket fitment centre.
We recommend that you consult with your vehicle manufacturer if this is a concern.
What size gun fits into the Pangolin H series safe?
Model 180F and 180D safes accommodate one self-defence size pistol and clip (e.g. a Glock 17). The 180B and 180G safe will take two handguns. If you are still unsure
visit your local reseller to check physically with a demo unit. Alternatively contact us with your query.
Is the Pangolin H Series wall mountable for home use?
Yes, provided that:
The Model 180D safe has an optional wall dock specifically designed to meet the requirements of SANS 953-1 for Type B1 (wall mount) safes.
With the Pangolin safe mounted vertically a gun magnet has been found useful to hold the firearm and clip
in place during opening and closing the safe. Note: Installation requirements for type B1 and B2 safes are not the same as B3 safes.
Where in my vehicle can I install a Pangolin H Series safe?
The requirements of the FIREARMS CONTROL REGULATIONS and SANS 953-1:2018 are that the mounting location must:
As the manufacturer we further require that the Pangolin H be installed with all four bolts in order to assure security. The Pangolin H is easy to render inconspicuous since it does not look like a safe and with its compact form can either be located completely out of sight or hidden simply with a floor mat placed over it. Additional practical requirements are ready access to the interior of the safe and not obstructing or interfering with any of the vehicle's controls. It is a matter of choice between the owner and installer. These are examples that have been found to work:
The safe can also be installed upside down, in which case the gas strut can be removed if the owner feels it is not needed. With the Pangolin safe
mounted vertically or sideways a magnet is useful to hold the firearm and clip in position during opening
and closing the safe.
Can I store my handgun in a Pangolin H Series safe in my home or office?
Yes, provided that:
The Model 180D safe has an optional wall dock specifically designed to meet the requirements of SANS 953-1 for Type B1 (wall mounted) safes.
With the Pangolin safe mounted vertically a gun magnet is useful to hold the firearm and clip in place
during opening and closing the safe. Note: Installation requirements for type B1 and B2 safes are not the same as B3 safes.
Please also see our comparison with applicable South African firearm statutes (PDF).
Can I leave my handgun in my vehicle?
While driving it is always best to carry, but South African law does make provision for circumstances where you prefer not to carry when you reach your destination. In these situations temporary storage in your vehicle may be preferable if there is no satisfactory facility for safekeeping at your destination in compliance with the Firearms Control Regulations. So in brief the answer is “Yes” – but only if:
SANS 953-1:2018 also states that vehicle firearm safes are only intended for the temporary storage of firearms. They are not a substitute for the
wall or floor mounted safe that must be inspected by SAPS at your home. More information is available from Pangolin Security Products directly.
What if my car is stolen (with the handgun in it, locked in a Pangolin safe)?
The safe complies with the Firearms Control Act, the Firearm Control Regulations and the SABS standard referred to in the Regulations. Provided the safe is also installed in compliance with the SABS standard and you have a properly completed Installation Certificate and record of installation, then you cannot be found negligent if your vehicle is stolen with your handgun locked in it since you did everything that the law requires. Assuming of course that the vehicle was locked with a fully functional immobiliser and reasonable care was taken to avoid making it obvious that a firearm was left in the vehicle and the vehicle itself was not subject to undue risk.
It is important to always bear in mind the "reasonable person" test. i.e. If something should go wrong, would your choices and actions be seen in the eyes of a judge
to be those of a "reasonable person", i.e. a responsible, aware and thinking handgun owner. For example, if your vehicle is known to be vulnerable to theft,
then a reasonable person would not rely on a factory fitted immobiliser as the only anti-theft measure even if the law says this is all that is required.
Can I install the Pangolin handgun safe myself?
To comply with firearms control regulations, all vehicle firearm safes must be affixed by an installer who must provide you with an installation certificate that complies with the requirements of SANS 953-1:2018. The standard does not specifically define "installer" but Pangolin Security Products interprets this to mean a fitment centre or professional installer who is independent and familiar with vehicle installations and the requirements of SANS 953-1:2018, so that integrity is assured and risk of compromising the vehicle and safe is minimised. Certified installers are also trained in the legal requirements for greatest assurance of compliance. For more information see installation information on the Pangolin website.
If compliance with the Firearms Control Regulations is not a requirement for you (e.g. the safe is used for valuables, or you are not resident in South Africa,
or certification is impossible because of your location) then from a practical standpoint you can install the safe yourself. It is within the capabilities of any
competent DIY person and comprehensive installation instructions can be made available, although on more sophisticated vehicles specialist knowledge of
vehicle construction may be required. Note that the vehicle must be equipped with an immobiliser in order to comply with the requirements of SANS 953-1:2018.
Can my son/father/brother-in-law/mechanic/technician etc. install the handgun safe?
If strict compliance with the Firearms Control Regulations is not a requirement for you (e.g. the safe is used for valuables, or you are not resident in South Africa, or certification is impossible because of your location) then from a practical standpoint you can have the handgun safe installed by a related party. Installation is within the capabilities of any competent DIY person and comprehensive instructions can be made available, although on more sophisticated vehicles specialist knowledge of vehicle construction becomes important.
However, bear in mind that if something goes wrong (e.g. the vehicle is stolen in South Africa with a handgun in the safe), then you will be out on limb and your
competency will be at risk. This is because the installer is not truly independent (i.e. having an "arm's length relationship"). Your related party would have to testify
in court and you would have an additional burden of proof of compliance which a competent prosecutor can use to advantage against you. Careful weighing up of the
risks vs benefit is strongly advised.
Do the Pangolin H Series safes comply with SABS/SANS?
Pangolin handgun safes (H series safes) have been assessed, tested and verified by an independent test authority to comply with the requirements of SANS 953-1:2018
for type B3 safes for motor vehicles and caravans. The assessment includes checks and tests as necessary for materials, design, construction, attachment and durability.
Why do you claim that Pangolin handgun safes exceed SABS/SANS?
Many reasons but here are two examples: SANS 953-1:2018 for type B3 safes does not require re-locking devices, nor does it require being subject to the resistance
to attack test (these requirements are only specified for higher security safes). All Pangolin H Series safes are fitted with two active re-locking devices and have also
passed the very stringent resistance to attack test.
Are the Pangolin H Series of handgun safes SABS approved?
As required in the FIREARMS CONTROL ACT, 2000 and Firearms Control Regulations, 2004 the Pangolin H Series handgun safes supplied for the South African market
conform to the prescripts of SABS Standard 953-1 for type B3 safes. SANS 953-1 states that the safe must be permanently fixed into the vehicle.
How does "permanently fixed" apply to docked Pangolin safes?
SANS 953-1 states "permanently fixed", the meaning of which is immediately clarified in the same clause by the statement
"Safes shall never be left standing loose." The means of securing a type B3 safe is further clarified as "there shall be an arrangement for bolting the safe to the
body or to the floor of a vehicle". The dock is bolted to the body or floor of the vehicle and the safe is bolted to the dock so that, once locked, the safe acts
as one unit that is effectively bolted to the body or floor of the vehicle and is not left standing loose. Proof of efficacy lies in having passed the very stringent
Resistance to Attack test in SANS 953-1 even though this is not required for a type B3 safe.
What if the police stop me and they are not aware of the allowance for a Type B3 safe?
This certainly can happen as no-one can be expected to know and memorise all elements of the law. Also most people are not well informed about this.
In this case it will be necessary to refer the officer to the applicable legislation. One way to do this is to keep a copy of the relevant pages from the
Firearms Control, Act, the Regulations and SANS 953-1:2018 handy inside the safe. The applicable extracts are
conveniently summarised by Pangolin (PDF).
How can the Pangolin movable (docked) handgun safe meet SABS requirements for bolting to the vehicle?
There are three sets of bolts in a Pangolin docked safe:
The dock is bolted to the bodywork of the vehicle with four bolts and the safe in turn is bolted onto the dock with four bolts. In this way the requirement is met
for an arrangement for bolting the safe to the body or to the floor of a vehicle so that it is not removable from its mounted position. Nothing in the standard
precludes a safe from having two bases. Bear in mind that all type B1 (wall mount) safes are also removable by unbolting once they are unlocked and opened.
The Pangolin docked handgun safe simply has additional boltwork that permits it to be moved easily by quick unbolting from the dock once it is opened.
Why can't I just fit a regular handgun safe in my vehicle?
You can do that so long as you can show conformity with the requirements for a type B3 safe and installation per SANS 953-1 as required in the FCA and Regulations,
along with the certificate of installation and installation record. You may be legally covered, but have a far less secure solution and that may be OK for you.
How can the Pangolin H Series firearm safes comply with SANS 953-1 if the door does not open 90°?
The Pangolin H Series safes employ a clamshell construction (as contemplated in the FIREARMS CONTROL REGULATIONS) so there is no door and
therefore the requirement is not applicable. The intent of the door opening angle is to assure a minimum level of access to a safe with conventional construction.
The Pangolin clamshell solution opening to well over 85° affords significantly better access than a conventional safe at 90°. In any event the opening angle is restricted
by choice by the gas strut. It can easily be increased if this should matter to anyone.
How can the Pangolin H Series firearm safes comply with SANS 953-1 if the door is not 6 mm thick?
The Pangolin H Series safes employ a clamshell construction (as contemplated in the FIREARMS CONTROL REGULATIONS) so there is no door and therefore the requirement
is not applicable. However, it is still necessary to comply with both the FIREARMS CONTROL REGULATIONS and the intent of this requirement, which is to protect the lock
and associated components. The FCR requires a cover or lid of minimum 2 mm thickness. The Pangolin H bare metal thickness is 3 mm throughout, not only the lid.
The Pangolin H protects the locking parts with high hardness (armour plate) steel reinforcing in all potentially vulnerable points with an effective equivalent
mild steel thickness in excess of 12 mm. In addition to this, all Pangolin H Series safes are fitted with active re-locking devices, an additional security feature
only found on high security vaults and required on type A1 safes intended for the storage of up to 20 firearms and their ammunition.
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