What makes a handgun safe the best? Three features: Body material, lock type, and size. Most individual gun safes come in a compact size, providing either one or two-gun storage. The locking mechanisms can be mechanical or electronic and even biometrics. Material thicknesses are subjective, but from an objective point of view, the thicker the better. The finish, factoring in welded hinges, hidden hinges and bolting options are all part of the price to function ratio.
What's On This Page?
Top-Rated Handgun Safe List:
I present here the top 15 best handgun safes, these safes come in compact size, and I include a variety of weights, thicknesses and lock styles for you to consider before buying. Ultimately, this list brings you the best of each model type.
Best Handgun Safe Reviews:
1. SentrySafe Pistol Safe, Quick Access Gun Safe, Digital Lock, One Pistol Capacity, QAP1E
- Gun safe provides secure storage for one standard handgun
- Gun safe features a gas strut to instantly and quietly open...
- Gun safe is constructed with solid steel and a pry resistant...
- Exterior: 12.1 in. W x 9.9 in. D x 3.2 in. H; Interior: 9.7...
- For optimal performance, SentrySafe recommends the use of...
Specifications
- Exterior 2” x 12.1” x 9.9”
- Interior 2” x 9.7” x 6.7”
- Weight: 11.900 lbs.
- Capacity: 0.08 cubic ft
- Lock Type: Digital
- Material: Steel
Overview
The QAP1E Quick Access Digital Pistol Safe is simple gun safe with a great configuration. This all steel safe comes with a padded interior and can hold a single pistol. The digital backlit lock is battery powered 1 to 8-digit code system, and the lid has a gas strut to make opening fast and quiet. It comes with bolt down hardware making it placeable anywhere you want to secure a weapon.
Q&A
Is this an easy safe to access?
Yes, it is a Single-Handed Access safe that opens using a compression gas strut making this a hands free, quiet access unit.
What is this safe made of?
This is a steel constructed safe that cannot be pried or tampered with.
Will it protect delicate valuables too?
Yes, the interior of this safe is lined with thick foam to protect your gun and other objects from being scratched.
Is this California DOJ Certified for firearm storage and protection?
Yes
Conclusions
This is a compact yet simple safe, easy to hide, easy to secure in just about any location. The gas strut makes the opening the lid a quiet and fast action that will save lives when handling home intrusions.
2. GunVault SV500 - SpeedVault Handgun Safe
- For handguns
- Exterior dimensions: 6.5 inch high x 3.5 inch wide x 13 inch...
- Interior dimensions: 2.75 inch high x 5.75 inch wide x 8.5...
- Mountable, protective foam liner, audio/LED low battery...
- California DOJ approved/requires 1 9V battery
Specifications
- Exterior: 13" x 3.5" x 6.5"
- Interior: 8.5" x 2.6" x 5.75"
- Weight 6.61 lbs.
- Material 18-gauge steel
- Battery Usage 1 x 9V
- Interior Light Yes
Overview
The Gunvault SV500 is perhaps one of the most versatile single pistol/revolver safes on the market. It has a unique mounting and lock mechanism that combines stealth and fast action. However, it does have one issue when opening the lock, and that’s a thunk sound when the spring-loaded door opens to release the weapon. This can be problematic when you want to get your gun without the intruders hearing you. It is a vertically mounted gun, so it can only be mounted with the stock up and the barrel down. The upside is its unique lock, that is a pattern-based code, in their patented No-Eyes® keypad by pressing four buttons in a pre-defined sequence. Ingenious.
Q&A
How many guns can I store?
Only 1
Can I mount this horizontally?
Yes, but the spring-loaded door will not open fluidly, you will need to open it with your finger to release the weapon.
Does this safe have a LED warning light for low battery?
Yes, as well as an anti-tamper warning light too.
Conclusions
The SafeVault500 is one of the most useful modern, safe vaults in the world and is perhaps the fastest of them all. If you want to secure your guns around the house in a single or multiple locations, then using this option will speed up access exponentially.
3. Fort Knox Personal Pistol Safe
- 5"' H x 9-1/2" W x 12.5'' D
- 10 gauge body 3/16'' thick door
- Spring assisted hinges
- Simplex mechanical lock - user friendly with 1081 user...
- Lifetime warranty.
Specifications
- External: 5" x 9" x 12"
- Internal: 3-3/4" x 8" x 8-1/2"
- Door Opening: 7-1/4" x 3-3/4"
- Weight: 20 lbs.
- Material: 10 gauge steel
- Door: 3/16″ plate
- Lock: Simplex® Mechanical Lock
Overview
This Fort Knox safe is a very thick 10-Gauge steel safe that provides excellent anti-tamper and anti-pry features. What makes this an excellent choice is its extra thick door and hidden hinges, so you are totally sure your weapons are secure at all times.
The simplex lock is standard issue, comes with 1,081 different combinations, and the finish is not the standard matt black, but a quite antique silver powder, just to make it look different. This unit is built with a bit more size in mind, so you can store 1 large pistol or two compact handguns.
Q&A
Can I mount this safe in any location?
Yes, it is small enough to fit into most recesses, including your car.
Do I need batteries?
No, this is a mechanical safe using a simplex push button lock mechanism
Conclusions
While this safe is compact and is simple, it is secure. The 10-gauge steel is thicker than most competitors, and this is a very good value for money option.
4. Hornady 98150 Security Rapid Gun Safe, Black
- Fast, Touch-Free Entry
- Child-Resistant Design
- Multiple access options
- Handgun is always Safe and Ready
- 16-gauge steel construction and a heavy-duty 1/4" steel...
Specifications
- Exterior: 15½"x9"x3½"
- Interior: 11"x8"x3"
- Weight: 15.65 lbs.
- Material: 16-gauge steel
- Lock: RFID
- Lock Bolt: ¼" steel dual-lug locking system
Overview
Hornady is an ammunition manufacturer and has the inside knowledge if understanding the importance of weapons safes.
The RAPID® Safe Lock Box is one of their best models and includes Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) that gives you instant access. This concept is quite unique, you don the RFID bracelet, and whenever you need to access your safe, just place the bracelet over the sensor and the door will open. This model operates on AC power with a battery backup, so you get around the clock protection. You also get a 39” security cable that is rated at 1,500Lbs. The door opens presenting the weapon at a 40-degree angle, providing maximum draw speed.
Q&A
Does this safe have anchor bolts?
No, it uses a security cable.
How fast is accessing the gun?
Very fast, the door opens with a gas spring, and the weapon is angled for maximum draw speed.
Conclusions
The Hornady RFID safe is one of the most interesting safes on the market. If you don’t mind wearing a bracelet when you go to sleep, this will give you fast and quiet access to your weapon. The security cable is a great idea for single gun safes that you might want to move around to different locations.
5. STEALTH Handgun Hanger Safe Quick Access Electronic Pistol Security Box
Specifications
- External: 9" x 9" x 12"
- Internal: 7-3/4" x 8-1/2" x 11"
- Weight: 14.65 lbs.
- Material: Steel
- Door: 3/8” Plate
- Battery: 1 x 9v
- Interior Shelf: 5 ¼”
Overview
The Stealth Tactical Handgun Hanger Safe is an excellent choice when you have more than one gun. This safe uses barrel hangers to place the weapons (3 gun capacity) in a quick to access draw position. They are hung on special racks vertically, so you can withdraw each gun in a single motion, and can arm three people in seconds.
The keypad uses a 6-digit combination code and has a blue LED background for nighttime visibility. The interior comes with a small red led light. The door is gas spring loaded, which opens fast but reduces speed at the last ½” which eliminates sound completely.
The safe comes with two installation security features, four bolt holes, and a security cable, so you get extra protection from whole safe theft. The interior is large enough to hold extra ammo clips.
Q&A
How many guns can I store in this safe?
3 vertically or up to 5 stacked.
Can I store ammunition?
Yes, it has a shelf rack for holding ammo or cartridges.
Can I see the lock in the dark?
Yes, the locking mechanism has a blue backlight
Conclusions
If you need a larger but still compact safe for more handguns, this is safe for you. It is compact but still large enough to hold up to five guns and is very silent when opening. The locking mechanism is simplex style, and very easy to operate.
6. V-Line Brute Heavy Duty Safe with Quick Access Lock, Black
- Includes Heavy Duty Lock Cover
- 10 Ga All Steel Construction
- Simplex Pushbutton Lock
Specifications
- Exterior: 12.5” x 9.5” x 3.6″
- Interior: 12” x 9” x 3.25″
- Material: 10-gauge Steel
- Weight: 22 lbs.
- Lock: Simplex
Overview
The V-Line “BRUTE” super duty quick access pistol box is made of 100-gauge steel, making this one of the thickest and strongest boxes of its category. This is a clamshell design, so its harder to pry and force open, in fact, due to its design trying to pry it open will require more than prying tools, making this one of the safest gun safes around. The lid is opened with a gas-assisted strut, and the unit comes with four anchor holes to secure the safe on site. The lock is simplex and provides the usual 1,081 combinations and comes with a break free 360-degree rotation clutch knob.
Q&A
How many guns can I secure in this safe?
This safe can store 2 handguns.
Does it have a protective layer inside?
Yes, it has a thick foam lining to make sure your guns are scratch free.
Conclusions
When it comes to solid, this is safe for you. When it comes to simple, and easy to use, then this is safe that will provide you with what you seek. This is a solid, anchored safe box that will outperform all others for single to two gun storage solutions.
7. BARSKA Biometric Safe
- Advanced Biometric Security - Biometric home safes provide...
- Built to Withstand - These safes are meticulously crafted...
- Ample User Capacity - Biometric fingerprint module with the...
- Discreet Operation - Equipped with a silent mode, this safe...
- Emergency Access - Included backup keys offer a fail-safe...
Specifications
- Exterior: 16.5” x 14.63” x 8”
- Interior: 16.38” x 12.25” x 6.88”
- Weight: 26.55 Lbs.
- Lock Type Biometric
- Speed of Biometric Module (sec) 2.46 to 2.56
- Locking System 2 Solid Steel Deadbolts
- Deadbolt Thickness 4/5”
- Lock Mechanism Motorized Deadbolts
- Access Method Front
- DOJ Approved Yes
- Memory 30 Fingerprints
- Material 2mm Steel
- Door 5mm steel
- Power Source 4 AA Batteries
- Battery Life 1 Year (10,000 Biometric Scans)
- Storage Space (ft³) 8
Overview
Where would we be without the fingerprint lock? I dunno, it’s one of those daft questions I use to open an article. This is the Barska biometric safe that is both secure with its steel outer shell and even more secure with its biometric locking mechanism. You can store up to 30 individual fingerprints, and this will let all your family members have access to this amazing little unit.
The biometric identification system scans a fingerprint in 2.5 sec and comes with an automatic open-door alarm system to notify you when the safe has been opened, as well as a silent mode for operating it when facing intruder situations.
Q&A
How do I secure the safe?
You can use the complete mounting hardware and pre-drilled mounting holes
How many batteries does this system use?
4 x AA batteries that last up to a year.
Can I open it when there is no power?
Yes, there is a hidden keyhole for the emergency mechanical opening.
Conclusions
If you like the wonders of modern science and want to incorporate a tamper-proof system, then go biometric. You don’t need keys, buttons or memorize codes. Just place your finger on the screen and wait for the lock to open.
8. VAULTEK VT20i Biometric Handgun Safe
- ALL NEW BLUETOOTH 2.0 A highly interactive experience from...
- QUICK SECURE ACCESS to your valuables, documents, and...
- AUTO OPEN LID and RESPONSIVE LED LIGHTING VIEWS safe...
- TOUGH AND RUGGED HEAVY-duty 16-gauge carbon steel...
- COMPACT DESIGN CAN securely hold 1 handgun (or 2 compacts),...
Specifications
- Exterior: 14.5" X 10.6" X 3.3"
- Interior: 13.7" X 6.5" X 2.75"
- Weight: 16 Lbs.
- Material: 14-gauge steel
- Biometric Memory 20 fingerprints
- Biometric Imaging Speed 40 FPS
- Biometric sensor area 9.mm X 9.mm
- Biometric Sensor Pixels 176 x 176 @ 580 dpi
- California DOJ Certified: Yes
- Bluetooth 4.2 with BLE PHY
- Battery: Lithium Ion #18650, 3.7V 2200mA
Overview
Vaultek® biometric safe integrates a state-of-the-art fingerprint scanner that can store up to 20 individual fingerprints. It comes with a very sensitive sensor that requires little repositioning of the finger for an accurate read. The safe has a smart app that provides tracking of the safes usage, as well as controlling the sensor alarms and LED lights.
There is also a 5-button keypad, so you can store up to 40,000 combinations of code together with the fingerprint. This is, perhaps, one of the most comprehensive small gun safes on the market. It comes with a corrosion resistant powder coating and can hold a gun and ammo clip with plenty of room. The sensors include a proximity alarm that will turn the LED backlights on for quick navigation.
Q&A
How do I secure is this safe?
You store a fingerprint and create a five-digit code, which makes this the most secure safe on the market.
Can I track the safes usage?
Yes, and more, you have a smartphone app that will let you control the safe from a remote location.
Conclusions
When it comes to super security, it is hard to beat this model. It provides ample storage for two guns or a gun with ammo clips. It is secured with anchor holes and bolts and comes with the most comprehensive locking system around. What is really surprising is the price, it's extremely low for such a versatile and modern safe.
9. GunVault MV500 Microvault Pistol Gun Safe
- Dimensions: 11 inches by 8 1/2 inches by 2 1/4 inches...
- Weighs 4 lbs, 20 gauge steel exterior construction
- Learn buttons make it easy to program more than 12 million...
- Foam lining inside to protect the firearm or other...
- Does not include 9v battery user must unlock via key first
Specifications
- Exterior: 2¼” x 8½” x 11”
- Interior: 2” x 6½” x 10¾”
- Weight: 4 Lbs.
- Material: 20 Gauge steel
- Battery: 1 x 9V
- CA DOJ Certified: Yes
Overview
When it comes to simple, yet complex, nothing beats the Gunvault MV500. When it comes to misdirection and understatements, this is the model to consider. The patented No-Eyes touchpad is unique. You just place your fingers over the pad and press the code you set, and the unit will open. There is a backup key in case you forgot the pattern of tapping. The code combinations can reach up to 12 million combinations.
This is a thin safe compared to other models, it is made of 20-gauge steel and comes with a security cable for extra protection. The interior comes with a foam lining to protect your weapons finish as well as make drawing a silent operation. It can also be muted so the system does not beep when you operate it, and it is portable, so you can carry this safe around anywhere.
Q&A
Is this a strong safe?
Yes, it is capable of storing your weapons and meets California DOJ requirements.
Is it portable too?
Yes, it only weighs 4Lbs and comes with a security cable, so you can secure it in your car as well.
Conclusions
This is a tight little model, and while it is light, it is very useful for mobility, and as such, is one of the best car gun safes around.
10. First Alert 5200DF Portable Handgun or Pistol Safe
- Quick entry with three to eight digit number keypad
- Constructed of heavy 18 gauge steel
- Foam padded interior protects contents from scratches or...
- Durable locking mechanism with spring loaded open closure...
- Includes steel cable to secure in car trunk and mounting...
Specifications
- Exterior: 10” x 12“x 3 “
- Weight: 4 lbs.
- Battery Backup Two AA
- Lock Type Digital
- Material: 18 Gauge steel
Overview
The First Alert 5200DF Portable Handgun is the only contender against the Gunvault MV500, but where it does overtake the Gunvault MV500 is in its construction. This safe is made of 18-gauge steel, making it a stronger model in terms of structural strength. It also comes with anchor holes for bolting it down to surfaces, so it can be used as a standing model or a portable version using the security cable.
The code is a 3 to 8 digit no-see code, identical in design to the MV500, and you place your hand on the safe and comes with an interior foam lining for silence and protection of contents.
Q&A
- How many codes can I use?
Only one, but it has over 40,000 combination options.
- What happens if the battery is dead?
The safe comes with a backup key for mechanical release.
Conclusions
This is a great and secure safe, it is light, and small enough to be portable, but comes with anchor bolts for permanent installation options. What really stands out is its price, which is exceptionally low.
11. GunVault GV1000C-STD Mini Vault Standard Gun Safe
- Unique no eyes; Keypad for quick access
- Heavy gauge steel housing with tamper proof spring loaded...
- Fingerprint recognition with a high performance algorithm to...
- Accepts up to 20 fingerprints and updates slight changes...
- Foam lining inside to protect the firearm or other valuables
Specifications
- Exterior: 5.25" x 8.125" x 12"
- Interior: 3" x 7" x 11"
- Weight: 9 lbs.
- Material: 16-gauge steel
- Battery: 1 x 9V
- CA DOJ Certified: Yes
Overview
The GV 1000S (Standard) mini vault is a compact No-Eyes® patented lock that has a fast-open front lid that makes quick access to your weapon. This is a single gun unit and is great for hiding in small locations as well as in your vehicle.
This model is a standout leader in many key indicators, the body is made of thick 16-gauge steel, has a programmable access code system for 40,000 combinations, and the spring-loaded door has a tamper-resistant design. This unit will mount anywhere you want and in any direction. It operates with one alkaline battery and has a backup key for mechanical release.
Q&A
Can I secure it anywhere?
Yes, you can place it in any location, under a car seat, in a small recess at home or stuck under an office table or in a drawer.
How secure is it from tampering?
This unit includes tamper-free hidden hinges and is virtually impossible to open with hand-held tools.
Conclusions
If you want compact and strong, then this model will give you both these features. It is also versatile, and you can locate it just about anywhere. The unique lid location and opening mechanism make this a great fast gun reaching a solution for vehicles as well as in homes.
12. STEALTH Original Handgun Safe Steel Pistol Box
Specifications
- Exterior: 4-1/4" x 12-9/16" x 10-1/4"
- Internal: 3" H x 10-1/2" W x 9" D
- Weight: 24 lbs.
- Lock: Simplex
- Material: 10 Gauge steel
- Door 3/16” plate steel
Overview
Let’s talk simple. This little box of wonders is a very secure gun safe that is designed for complete simplicity. It has a basic rectangular design including a simplex lock, two solid steel dead bars that secure the lid and a 10-gauge body, which is so thick for such a small safe, making this a solid block of steel that just happens to have a hollow interior compartment.
This body comes with four anchor holes that will let you bolt it into any location, and once it is secured will be impervious to all attempts for prying, punching, and hammering it open. It also comes with an extra security cable feature.
The door is made of 3/16" wrap around steel plate and a welded continuous hinge. The door hinge uses a gas piston for fast and silent access, and the mechanical lock is punch resistant.
Q&A
Is this model portable?
Yes, although it weighs 24 lbs. which makes this too heavy to carry around comfortably.
Why does it have a chrome plated handle?
This carry handle is for when you do need to transport it from place to place.
Can I mount this anywhere?
Yes, the model comes with both anchor holes as well as a security cable.
Conclusions
Strength, versatility and strength. This is one solid, secure lock box and should be considered as the best option for super safe storage with the simple accessing mechanism. The price you pay is for no-nonsense security features.
13. V-Line 2912-S Top Draw Security Case (Black)
- MADE IN THE USA
- Genuine KABA Simplex Lock
- CA DOJ Approved
- No Batteries Required
- Foam Lined Top and Bottom
Specifications
- External: 00” X 9” X 2 3/4”
- Internal: 11 3/4” X 8 3/4” 2 1/2”
- Material: 16 Gauge Steel 1/16” thickness
- Weight: 5 lbs.
- Lock: Simplex
- CA DOJ Certified: Yes
Overview
The V-Line top drawer clam shell gun safe is a simple design safe using the most secure features combined into one package. This is a lighter model, used for transporting guns securely, and comes with 16-gauge steel construction, a simplex lock with 1,081 combinations and an ample interior for holding up to two guns, or one gun with ammo.
This is a no battery mechanical unit, so you just need to remember the simplex code. Its 5lbs weight makes this a perfect gun carrying safe for on the road applications. There are also mounting holes for a permanent mounting solution.
Locking System: Simplex Type mechanical combination lock
Capacity: Large enough to store 2 medium handguns depending on size
Mounting: Mounting holes are punched into the base of the case
Soft foam interior protects handguns and valuables from being scratched
No batteries needed
Four Pre-punched holes for permanent mounting
Durable powder coat finish and silkscreen logo
Optional mounting bracket available for easy portability
Q&A
How many guns can this safe hold?
It is designed to hold up to 2 pistols.
Does it have a foam interior?
Yes, the interior is covered with thick foam to protect the gun from scratching and also provide a silent application.
Conclusions
What a nice light safe, strong enough with 16-gauge steel, yet light enough to be fully transportable with comfort.
14. First Alert 5400DF Portable Pistol Safe
- Quick entry with three to eight digit "no see" keypad
- Constructed of heavy 16-gauge steel
- Includes removable shelf for expanded storage and foam...
- Durable locking mechanism with spring loaded open/closure...
Specifications
- Exterior: 10" x 14" x 8"
- Interior: 9.8" x 13.8" x 7.8"
- Weight: 16 Lbs.
- Batteries: 2 x AA
- Material: 16-Gauge Steel
Overview
This is a classic box type no-see code gun safe. The body is made from lightweight 18-gauge steel, and the spring-loaded door opens with exceptional speed. The keypad is electronic with a 3 to eight finger pressed code, and you just place your hand over the lock and press your combination to open it. This model comes with a shelf, and that can be removed if you want a larger storage space. The shelf unit lets you separate two guns or a gun with ammo for more articulate access.
Q&A
How fast can I get my gun?
It all depends on how fast you key in your code. The lid opens in microseconds.
Is this a portable model?
Yes, it comes with two options; four anchor holes for a permanent solution, or a security cable. It also has four rubber stops to protect any surface you place it on.
Conclusions
When it comes to a combination of price and features, this safe deliver on both. It provides both compact yet ample space, speedy and easy accessibility and comes at a great affordable price.
15. BARSKA Top Opening Drawer Safe with Fingerprint Lock
- Sold as 1 Each.
- 0.23 cubic feet capacity. Inner floor mat ensures that items...
- Solid steel construction. Hidden hinges for protection...
- Perfect fit for your dresser drawer in the home and or...
- Included Accessories- set of emergency back-up keys,...
Specifications
- Exterior 81” x 11.5” x 5”
- Interior 56” x 11.19” x 3”
- Material 1.5 mm Steel
- Door: 5 mm Steel plate
- Weight: 21.35 Lbs.
- Batteries 4 x AA
- Lock Type Biometric
- Storage Space (ft³) 23
- Speed of Biometric Module (sec) 2.46 to 2.56
- Locking System 2 Solid Steel Deadbolts
- Deadbolt Thickness 4/5”
- Lock Mechanism Motorized Deadbolts
- Access Method Top
- Memory 30 Fingerprints
Overview
It’s time to conclude this review, and what could be better than finishing off with a Barska top opening biometric locked safe. Combining both the amazing features of a mechanically engineered safe with a software-driven locking mechanism you get the best of both worlds.
The fingerprint scanner is highly sensitive and can store up to 30 individual fingerprints. The scanner works in under 2.5 seconds, and the top opening door uses a hydraulic piston. There is also a hidden mechanical key backup option when the scanner has no power or was damaged in a forced entry attempt.
With a set of 4 x AA batteries, you have a year’s supply of power, and the system can be set to silent or alarm mode. The model comes with a tamper-resistant inner edge and includes predrilled anchor holes.
Q&A
What happens if my fingerprint cannot be recognized?
You can either rescan it in or use another finger for the print. I suggest scanning in more than one finger for the extra versatility of choice.
What happens when there is no power or someone damaged the scanner?
Conclusions
This is an amazing leading-edge security system. Actually, its a safe with a fingerprint scanner attached instead of another locking mechanism. The advantage of a biometric lock is that it is 100% individualized. There is no code to crack. That’s why this safe is exceptionally “safe.”
How to fireproof a gun safe
If you didn’t buy a fireproof safe, then fireproofing your safe will be a major endeavor. Th reason is that fireproof safes are not just insulated, they have special construction features that include in between plate insulation, hinge and door insulation as well as having a special fire-resistant coating as well as a thicker steel frame.
OK, so you decided to insulate your safe by yourself, a DIY fireproof insulation safe process looks like this:
Location
Where do you need to locate your safe? Is the room fully carpeted in a wood environment? If so, you are in a fire trap and insulating it will not be possible. Non-insulated safes can only be protected from fire in a fire-free zone. This means finding a location that is all ceramic and has little or no flammable materials surrounding it.
Underground solid stone basements, Solid brick walls, and floors, these are the kinds of locations you want for fireproofing.
If you cannot locate a secure place, then the next option is insulation.
Insulation
Can you cover your safe in a fire insulating material? Or possibly create a specific fireproof location, such as a lining the side of your cupboard, under your bed or bedside gun storage in a drawer or even a recess with fireproof insulating materials and surround the safe in a fireproof environment. The best option is to create a “fireproof zone” surrounding the safe, which is basically taking the dimensions of your safe, the location of the lid and lock, and building a secure fireproofed material container that your safe will be affixed into.
Note: You cannot provide interior insulation since most small gun safes are too small for extra padding. However, if you wrap your weapon with a fire insulation material in the safe, this will add extra protection. Also, consider wrapping ammo as well.
How to secure a gun safe in an apartment
Apartments are like houses but with one major difference, some walls are not safe to secure a safe, and the floor can be reached by the neighbor in the lower apartment. This means that securing a safe is an issue. Finding the most secure location which will provide maximum security requires you consider the following steps.
Wall Bolting
Some apartments come with plasterboard or wood walls. These are not secure for safes. You need to find a stone or brick wall, which is usually an external wall or bathroom wall. Using these walls as anchor bases, you can secure the safe to these using the safe anchor holes.
Try to consider a corner; these are better than just any flat surface. Positioning a safe in a corner reduces the access to more sides. If you can find a four-sided recess option that would be the best, where only the lock and lid are free to reach. This reduces the chance of prying or using force to open the safe.
Bolt to a Steel Slab
Some security advisors suggest buying a ¼” thick plate of steel; it should be bigger than the surface of the safe you want to attach it to, and heavy enough to make it too heavy to carry. Then secure this plate to either a stone, brick or wood wall or floorboard. You then secure the safe via the anchor holes onto the steel plate. This makes the safe totally secured, and if you weld it onto the plate, essentially converts the plate into a safety feature of the safe.
Using steel plates enables you to secure the safe into a cupboard, wardrobe or any other solid furniture item. If you buy a large steel plate, that is at least 3 feet by 2 feet; it will also be large enough to be a problem for transportation if the plate has been freed from its moorings.
Safety Cables
These are great for additional security, but don’t rely on them for total security options unless you consider the “hole in the wall” situation. This is where the cable goes through a hole in the all and is secured on the opposite side. Using a steel plate for the safe and the security cable is a great option for added security.
Hiding Places
Ultimately, its how good you hide your safe that counts. No matter where you hide it, thieves will find it. The condition of hiding is for keeping it out of eyes way and out of children reach. Handgun safes should also be placed in locations where it is easy to reach, and when invaded, in locations that are usually close to your bedroom or bathroom, these are the two locations that are best suited for hidden handgun safes for times of emergency.
Number of Safes
If you are insecure with only one handgun, buy more than one safe, and distribute all your handguns around the house in different locations. Consider every room, and where it would be hidden, secured and easy to reach in times of an emergency.
How to pick a stack on safe
A Stack-On gun safe is a brand of gun safes. Stack-on safes are not safes that stack onto each other, it is a company name, and that is what confuses everyone.
The Stack-On company has been making Stack-On gun safes since 1972 and provides stack-on solutions for all kinds of storage products. The company employs mechanical and structural engineers that work together with material scientists in developing new options using all the available materials that deliver load bearing mechanically tested products.
The company is an Illinois based company, and all their products are designed in the US but are being manufactured in China. The only way you can pick a stack on safe is to consider what your application will be. Stack on safes produce a number of models and are a versatile company well worth considering for the larger safes models.
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