When it comes to gun ownership, safety should be a top priority. One meaningful way to ensure the safety of both your firearm and those around it is to invest in a gun safe. But with so many different options on the market, it can be overwhelming to figure out which is the best fit for your needs.
Here, we’ll go over the different types of gun safes available, as well as some key factors to consider when making your decision.
What Is a Gun Safe?
A gun safe is a secure storage solution specifically designed for firearms. These safes are typically made of heavy-duty materials like steel and are designed to protect your guns from theft, fire, flood, and unauthorized access.
Gun safes come in various sizes and styles to accommodate different numbers and types of firearms, as well as different budgets and space constraints. Gun safes can include various security features, including fingerprint identification and redundant locks.
Why It’s Important to Invest in a Gun Safe
There are several reasons why investing in a gun safe is essential, from keeping your children safe to preventing firearm theft.
Keep Guns Away From Children
A gun safe can help prevent accidents and injuries caused by unsecured firearms. Children and other unauthorized and untrained users, in particular, are at risk of accidental injury or death if they gain firearm access.
Children are naturally curious and may be tempted to handle guns if they come across them, which can be extremely dangerous. By keeping your firearms locked up in a gun safe, you can help to prevent children from accessing them and potentially causing harm to themselves or others.
Prevent Gun Theft
A gun safe can also protect your firearms from theft, a significant concern for gun owners. Unfortunately, gun theft is a common problem, with an estimated 300,000 guns being stolen in the United States each year. In addition to the financial cost of replacing a stolen firearm, gun theft can also have serious consequences, as stolen guns are often used in crimes.
Protect Guns From Natural Disasters and Fire
Natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes, and tornadoes can cause significant damage to your home and belongings, including your firearms and other stored valuables. By storing your guns in a gun safe, you can help ensure they are protected from the elements and remain in good condition.
House fires can also be a significant concern for gun owners. In the event of a fire, a gun safe can help protect your firearms from heat and flames, giving you peace of mind that your guns will be safe even if your home is destroyed.
Prevent Gun Corrosion
Corrosion is the process by which metal breaks down and deteriorates due to a chemical reaction with its environment. This can be a significant problem for firearms, as corrosion can weaken the metal and compromise the integrity and function of the weapon.
Guns are particularly susceptible to corrosion due to their exposure to moisture and humidity. Even small amounts of humidity can lead to rust and other types of corrosion, which can cause permanent damage to your firearms.
By investing in a gun safe, you can protect your guns from the harmful effects of corrosion by storing them in a dry, controlled environment alongside a hygrometer and dehumidifier. This can help ensure your firearms remain in good condition and are ready to use when needed.
Get Insurance Discounts and Coverage
Many insurance companies offer discounts to homeowners who have taken steps to improve the security of their homes, including the installation of a gun safe.
By installing a gun safe, you may be able to lower your homeowner’s insurance premiums, which can result in significant savings over time. Insurance companies sometimes require homeowners to invest in a gun safe to receive complete coverage.
Protect Valuable Items
In addition to protecting your firearms from theft, accidents, and natural disasters, gun safes can also be a secure storage solution for various other valuable items. Some common items stored in gun safes include vital documents such as birth certificates, passports, deeds, jewelry, medications, cash, and other financial instruments.
Types of Gun Safes
There are several different gun safes to choose from, each with its benefits and drawbacks. Some of the most common types include:
Wall-Mounted
These safes are designed to be mounted on a wall, typically in a closet or other out-of-the-way location. Wall-mounted safes are generally smaller and more compact than other types, making them a good option for those with limited space. However, they may not be as secure as other types of safes, as they can be easily removed from the wall.
Floor-Mounted
These safes are designed to be placed on the floor, typically in a basement or other secure location, or sometimes go into the home’s concrete foundation or hardwood floor.
Floor-mounted safes are generally larger and more secure than wall-mounted safes, as they are more difficult to remove. However, the installation can be more challenging if you’re going with an in-floor safe.
Portable Safes
As the name suggests, portable gun safes are designed to be easily moved from one location to another. These safes are typically smaller and lighter than other types of safes, making them a good option for those who need to take their firearms with them when they travel.
However, portable safes may not offer the same level of security as other types of safes, as they can be more easily tampered with or stolen.
Pelican Medium Pistol Vault Case, V200
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Hidden Safes
If you’re looking for a more discreet way to store your firearms, a hidden gun safe may be the right choice for you. As the name suggests, hidden gun safes are designed to be concealed within a wall, floor, furniture, or other structure, making them less visible to potential burglars or unauthorized users.
While hidden gun safes can be a convenient and practical storage solution, they have some limitations. They may be more challenging to access in the event of an emergency, and they may not offer the same level of protection as a standalone gun safe.
Additionally, they can be more expensive to install, as they require specialized installation and may require modifications to your home’s structure.
Liberty, Quick Vault Large Safe HD-300
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Liberty, Quick Vault Small Safe HD-100
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Truck Safes
If you’re a gun owner who frequently travels with your firearms, a truck gun safe may be a convenient storage solution for you. Truck gun safes are designed to be installed in the bed of a pickup truck, in the center console, or under the seat and provide a secure and portable way to store your firearms while on the go. Many states require concealed carry permit for storing guns in vehicles even when locked in a safe.
Factors to Consider
There are several key factors to consider when buying a gun safe, including size, fire resistance, and security features.
Size
One of the most important factors to consider when selecting a gun safe is size. You’ll need to consider the types of guns you own. Do you own a handgun or long gun? You’ll need to ensure your safe is big enough to fit your gun size.
You’ll want to ensure that the safe you choose is large enough to accommodate all of your firearms and any future gun purchases, as well as any other items you want to store inside, such as ammo, jewelry, or documents.
Aim to get the largest safe you can that fits within your budget. Storing too many firearms or valuables inside a small safe can scratch or damage sensitive components when taking them out.
You’ll also want to consider the size of the safe in relation to the space you have available to store it. If you have limited space, you may want to opt for a smaller, more compact safe.
Weight
A heavy gun safe is generally more difficult to move and, therefore, more secure, as burglars or other unauthorized individuals cannot easily carry it off. On the other hand, a lighter gun safe may be more convenient to move but may also be more vulnerable to tampering or theft.
When deciding on the weight of your gun safe, consider where it will be located and how it will be used. A heavier safe may be more suitable if you plan to keep your safe in a fixed location, such as a basement or closet.
However, a lighter one may be a better choice if you need to move your safe frequently. In either case, be sure to choose a safe that is sturdy and well-constructed to ensure maximum security for your firearms.
Fire Protection
Another important factor to consider is fire resistance. High-quality gun safes are typically rated in terms of how long they can withstand the heat of a fire. The higher the rating, the more protection your firearms will have in a fire. Remember that a higher rating also typically comes with a higher price tag.
There are a few different organizations that provide fire ratings for gun safes, including Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and ETL Intertek. These ratings are based on testing conducted by the organizations and can give you an idea of how well a particular gun safe will hold up in a fire.
Because there is no standard in fire rating for gun safes, there are many fire safety standards across manufacturers. A typical house fire gets to 1200º F within 10 minutes. The best fire tests heat a gun safe to this temperature throughout the test.
Watch out for manufacturers that gradually increase the temperature to 1200º F over 30-40 minutes. Look for fire-resistant gun safes that have undergone a rigorous fire test at 1200º F for 60 minutes. Go for fire-resistant safes with a minimum fire rating of 60 minutes.
Steel Thickness
When it comes to the construction of gun safes, one important factor to consider is the thickness of the steel used. The thicker the steel, the more secure the safe will be, as it will be more resistant to tampering and forced entry.
Gun safes typically use steel that is measured in gauge. The lower the gauge number, the thicker the steel. For example, a safe with a steel thickness of 10 gauge will be thicker than a steel thickness of 12 gauge.
In general, looking for a gun safe with a steel thickness of at least 10 gauge is a good idea. This will provide a good level of security and will be resistant to tampering and forced entry. However, if you’re looking for the maximum level of security, you may want to consider a gun safe with a steel thickness of 6 gauge. These safes will be more expensive but will provide the maximum level of protection for your firearms.
Security Features
Finally, you’ll want to consider the security features of the safe you’re considering. Look for safes with multiple protection layers, such as a combination lock and a keyed lock. You’ll also want to look for safes made of heavy-duty materials like steel, as these will be more difficult to break into.
Interior
The interior of a gun safe should also provide some level of protection for your guns. This may include padded liners or other protective features that help prevent your guns from being scratched or damaged.
Some gun safes have additional features that can be useful for storing and organizing your guns. These may include interior lighting, door organizers, shelving, or other features that can help protect your guns from the elements or rust and keep them organized.
Dehumidifier
Dehumidifiers are devices placed inside a gun safe to help control the humidity level and prevent moisture from building up. This can be especially important for protecting your guns from rust and maintaining optimal firearm performance.
Hygrometer
A hygrometer is a device that measures the humidity levels inside the safe. Humidity can have a major impact on the condition of your firearms, as it can lead to rust and other types of deterioration.
By ensuring that your gun safe is equipped with a hygrometer, you can monitor the humidity levels inside the safe and take steps to prevent rust and other types of damage to your firearms.
Warranty
The best gun safes come with an ironclad warranty. Be sure to read the warranty’s fine print to determine if only certain components are covered or the entire safe is covered, as well as the warranty duration. The best warranties will provide lifetime coverage of the safe of critical components.
Liberty Safe provides lifetime warranty coverage with a free replacement on gun safes sold at Wilco Farm Stores.
Types of Gun Safe Locks
When it comes to gun safe locks, there are several different options to choose from. Some of the most common locking mechanism types include the following:
Mechanical Combination Locks
These locks use a combination of numbers to open the safe. You spin the dial left and right a few tights to enter the combination code. They are typically more secure than other locks, as they do not rely on batteries or electricity and can last longer than other options.
However, they can be more challenging to operate, especially for those who are not familiar with them. Making a single mistake when entering the code forces you to start over, which is not helpful in emergencies. You may need professional locksmith services to change the combination or if the components are not working correctly.
Electronic Locks
An electronic lock uses a keypad to enter a code to open the safe. They are generally more convenient than mechanical combination locks, as they do not require the user to remember a specific combination.
However, they may be less secure, as they can be hacked or disabled if the batteries run out and are not replaced. In addition, it may lock the user out if after too many failed attempts.
Biometric Locks
These locks use fingerprint recognition to unlock the safe. They are generally very secure, as they require a specific fingerprint to open the safe.
This option can be helpful in an emergency when you’re under high stress and can’t remember the code or combination.
However, they may be less reliable than other types of locks, as they can be affected by factors such as moisture or dirt on the fingerprint sensor.
Keyed Locks
These locks use a traditional key or RFID to unlock the safe. They are generally the least secure type of lock, as keys can be lost or copied. However, they may be the most convenient option for users who aren’t as concerned about gun theft protection.
When choosing a gun safe lock, it’s important to consider the level of security you need, as well as the convenience and ease of use of the lock. By weighing these factors, you can choose the best lock for your specific needs.
Redundant Locks
Some gun safes feature a redundant lock system that uses mechanical and electronic locks, and allows you to open the gun safe using a single lock. For example, if your batteries run out, you can still unlock the gun safe using the mechanical lock.
Gun Safe vs. Gun Cabinet
A gun safe and a gun cabinet are both storage options for guns, but they differ in size, security, and intended use. Here are some critical differences between gun safes and gun cabinets:
Gun Cabinets Are Smaller
Gun safes are typically larger than gun cabinets, and they are designed to store a larger number of guns. Gun safes can range in size from small, portable models holding a few guns to large, heavy-duty safes storing dozens of guns. Gun cabinets, on the other hand, are typically smaller and are designed to hold a smaller number of guns.
Gun Cabinets Are Less Secure
Gun safes are generally more secure than gun cabinets, as they are typically made from thicker, stronger materials and have more advanced locking mechanisms. Gun safes may also have additional security features, such as reinforced doors and hinges, to help prevent tampering or break-ins. Gun cabinets, on the other hand, may be less secure and may not offer as much protection against tampering or theft.
Gun Cabinets Are For Display
Gun safes are typically designed for long-term storage and protection of guns, and they are often used to store valuable or collectible guns. Gun cabinets, on the other hand, may be more suitable for short-term storage or displaying guns for decorative purposes.
Gun Safe Location
When choosing the right location for your gun safe, there are a few key factors to consider.
You’ll want to choose a location that is easily accessible to you, but not necessarily to anyone else. This could mean installing the safe in a closet or other out-of-the-way location in your home. Just keep in mind that you’ll want to be able to access the safe quickly and easily in the event of an emergency.
You’ll also want to consider the security of the location. If you’re installing a wall-mounted safe, you’ll want to ensure that the wall is sturdy and can support the weight of the safe. If you’re installing a floor-mounted safe, you’ll want to ensure that the floor is strong enough to support the weight of the safe and that the safe is anchored securely to the floor.
You’ll also want to consider the safe’s proximity to a potential fire source. It’s generally a good idea to keep your gun safe a safe distance away from heat sources or potential fire hazards, such as stoves or space heaters.
Best Gun Safe: Liberty Safe
Liberty Gun Safes are widely regarded as some of the best on the market due to their combination of high-quality construction and advanced security features. These safes are made from thick, heavy-duty steel and are equipped with solid locking mechanisms, such as combination or electronic keypad locks, to help prevent unauthorized access.
In addition, many Liberty Gun Safes are tested and certified by third-party organizations to ensure that they meet the highest standards for security and protection.
Another factor that sets Liberty Gun Safes apart is their versatility. These safes are available in various sizes and styles, making it easy to find one that fits your needs and budget.
Whether you’re a collector with a large arsenal of firearms or a casual shooter with just a few guns, a Liberty Gun Safe is right for you.
Centurion 24
For the best value, the Centurion 24 is an accessible and secure choice for gun protection. The Centurion 24 provides 40 minutes of fire protection at 1200º F and is six times stronger than competitors’ similar safes with 10 military-style 4” locking bars.
The Centurion 24 features chrome hardware, an electric lock, and an interior door panel to keep your valuables safe and organized. It features a 14-gauge steel body for ultra-tough security and protection.
- 365 pounds
- H x W x D: 59.5” x 28.25” x 22”
Liberty, Centurion CN24 Home & Gun Safe with E-Lock 30 Minute Fire Protection
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Patriot 30
For ultimate security, the Patriot 30 features 8 ultra-strong 4-inch military-style locking bars that are resistant against prying. It also comes with three hardened steel plates for drilling protection and a drive slip-clutch locking mechanism to prevent forced entry.
The Patriot 30 also comes with a door panel, a 3-in-1 flex interior, and an internal outlet kit. This gun safe provides 75 minutes of fire protection at 1200º F.
- 606 pounds
- H x W x D: 60.5” x 30” x 22”
Liberty, Patriot 30 Gun Safe with E-Lock Gray 75 Minute Fire Protection
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Choosing the Right Gun Safe at Wilco Farm Stores
Investing in a good quality gun safe is a wise decision for any gun owner. Not only will it help protect your firearms from theft and accidents, but it will also provide added protection in the event of a natural disaster or house fire.
When selecting a gun safe, consider all of the factors discussed above, including size, fire resistance, and security features. And remember, the best gun safe is the one that fits your specific needs and budget.
Shop in-store or online for the best gun safes at Wilco Farm Stores.
