Hornady just released their new VEXIS technology, where your palm is the key! I tested this new biometric security solution for myself and was very impressed. Watch the video to see it in action!
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About VEXIS
Hornady has long offered a variety of security solutions with mechanical and RAPiD RFID access. New VEXIS technology changes the game, utilizing palm vein patterns rather than fingerprints.

Vein patterns remain stable for life and, unlike fingerprints, cannot be left behind. VEXIS captures over 2.5 million data points in less than half a second and securely stores the data locally on the device. VEXIS reads vein patterns 3-6” away through dirt, dryness, and lotion using harmless IR light. This technology will read vein patterns in any hand position, but not through gloves.
From Hornady:

VEXIS™ is next‑generation, patent pending, palm vein recognition technology, delivering unmatched security, speed, and reliability for identity verification. Using advanced near‑infrared imaging and deep learning algorithms, VEXIS™ captures millions of unique venous data points beneath the skin, creating a highly secure, encrypted biometric ID.
Q&A: VEXIS™ Palm Vein Technology
HOW FAST CAN I OPEN MY SAFE?
VEXIS™ delivers access in about half a second. Simply present your palm and the safe unlocks instantly, giving you quick access when seconds matter most.
IS IT MORE SECURE THAN FINGERPRINT OR FACIAL RECOGNITION?
Palm vein patterns are located beneath the skin and can’t be photographed, copied, or lifted like fingerprints. The system reads live tissue only, and even identical twins have different vein patterns, making VEXIS™ one of the most secure biometric options available.
IS PALM VEIN SCANNING SAFE?
Yes. VEXIS™ uses harmless near‑infrared light, similar to the technology in a TV remote. There’s no radiation, no X‑rays, and nothing invasive.
WILL IT WORK RELIABLY OVER TIME?
Yes. Unlike fingerprints that can be affected by dirt, dryness, or wear, vein patterns remain stable throughout adulthood and aren’t impacted by lighting or surface conditions.
HOW MANY USERS PER SAFE?
Each VEXIS™ keypad can store up to 10 unique vein patterns. Access data is stored locally on one device, is never shared, uploaded or connected elsewhere.
About VEXIS Night Guard
The previous generation Hornady Security Night Guard safe could be opened with a code or through RFID technology.

The VEXIS Night Guard utilizes new palm vein recognition for quick access only by authorized users. It also includes a USB-C port for convenient charging. This safe easily masquerades as a clock with its slim profile and time display, blending into a home environment.

From Hornady:

Hornady® introduces the perfect bedside companion. The Hornady® VEXIS™ Night Guard® keeps your handgun as close as your nightstand. VEXIS™ technology offers the quickest, most dependable access to your firearm while providing unmatched security from unauthorized users. Plus, the Night Guard® offers the additional functionality of a clock and USB charging ports.
Patent‑pending VEXIS™ vein‑scanning technology reads the unique palm vein pattern beneath your skin for secure, sub‑second entry. Multi factor authentication adds protection, and the system is built to perform reliably in real‑world conditions. Features keypad and mechanical key backup.
Product Features:
QUIET, SPRING ASSIST DRAWER
Opens instantly with patent‑pending VEXIS™ vein‑scanning technology to reveal a padded interior for your handgun and valuables.
HEAVY‑DUTY TAMPER PROOF CONSTRUCTION
Robust 14‑gauge steel exterior housing and hardened interior locking lugs resist tampering.
DISCREET CLOCK DISPLAY
Clean, modern display can be dimmed or turned off and blends seamlessly into your home environment.
USB CHARGING PORT
Integrated USB‑C port powers phones and other devices right from your nightstand. Powered by two 9V batteries and/or included 12V power supply.
BACKUP ENTRY BUILT IN
Includes keypad and physical key access for added peace of mind.
Specifications:
-
- Exterior Dimensions: 3″ x 12″ x 10.5″
- Interior Dimensions: 2.2″ x 9.2″ x 6.9″
- Weight: 18 lbs
- Power: 12V 2.0A or two 12V batteries (not included)
What’s in the Box

The Hornady VEXIS Night Guard comes with a removable rubber mat, printed instructions, backup keys with a zippered pouch, four rubber feet, security cable, power supply, and warranty registration card.

Some of these items come stored inside the safe, so you need to use the manual keys to access them. (Be sure to store the manual keys in a secure location away from the safe!)

Set-Up and Test
Once I opened the Night Guard manually, I removed the interior rubber tray to access the battery compartment and reset button on the rear wall of the safe drawer.

The Night Guard is powered via power cable and/or two 12V batteries.

I decided to use the wired power supply and removed the film over the display. To open the drawer, I started with the default keypad code: 123456. The keypad numbers become visible once you touch the display.

The menu button allows you to personalize this code—be sure to do this! The menu button also gives you options to adjust the clock and add or delete palm vein patterns. I was grateful for the clear voice instructions the Night Guard gave as I navigated the process.

One VEXIS Night Guard stores up to 10 palm patterns (both palms equal one pattern), assigning each a user ID. This makes it easy to give multiple family members access.

I confirmed Hornady’s claim that VEXIS reads patterns from up to 6” away, once on purpose and a second time while adjusting the display brightness. The display will automatically dim and enter battery-saving mode when on battery power only.

The drawer easily fits a standard-size pistol. I utilized Tyler’s Polymer 80 handgun as a test.

Conclusion
Very seldom is something truly revolutionary, but VEXIS meets that mark. I was extremely surprised and impressed by the VEXIS technology and the speed, accuracy, and consistency with which it functioned in the Night Guard.

I held my hands at many different angles and, when within the specified distance (3-6”), the drawer quietly opened each time. It was easy to set up and use and I greatly appreciate that no personal data is shared or uploaded to any cloud service. Also take a look at VEXIS technology for Hornady and third-party safes!
Get the Gear

Order the VEXIS Night Guard directly from Hornady!
Also check out other VEXIS options to upgrade and expand upon your existing set-up.
VEXIS Premium Vault Door 32” Dark Gray
VEXIS Premium Vault Door 36” Dark Gray
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Thanks,
Kyle Shields



































































