Gun Safe Ideas

[Darqhelmet]

Last night when I began looking I realized my tastes in security and budget do not coincide. I also realized there is no early reason to have a safe that costs less than some of my guns, that is foolish. I did go look at some today, Champion brand specifically. In this case the locking mechanism on the higher end safes was far more appealing. It may be locking cabinet for now and keep the majority of goodies in my Dads safe.

Thank you all for your replies.

If it’s cheap think of it as a lockbox, secure storage and just get one of the stack on gun cabinets. If you can swing it get a real safe understanding that you are making it a target and consolidating your valuables in one spot. Those Chinese safes can be opened with a fire axe.

 

[Charlie]

If it’s cheap think of it as a lockbox, secure storage and just get one of the stack on gun cabinets. If you can swing it get a real safe understanding that you are making it a target and consolidating your valuables in one spot. Those Chinese safes can be opened with a fire axe.

I'd like to see a video of that.

 

[Darqhelmet]

I'd like to see a video of that.

https://gunsafereviewsguy.com/articles/myths-about-gun-safe-theft-protection/2/

 

[Charlie]

Thanks!

 

[Southpaw]

Which ever one decides, don't rely on any safe, RSC or any hidey hole scheme alone, one needs to invest in a reliable security system to notify you way before the thief is in front of your choice of container. Spending all your money on a real safe and not on any other layers of security is foolish.

 

[Darqhelmet]

Security in depth. No single points of failure.

 

[lightflyer1]

Don't forget Craigslist either. I have found some good safes and gun storage containers there at times for a lot less than new prices. Also know the difference between a real safe and a Residential Security Container (RSC). I picked up a very nice 6'x4'x4' very well made 1/2" steel all around, gun storage box that was very well made from an estate sale for $250. Tough to move it though. Insurance shouldn't be neglected either if needed. Also a list with pictures, descriptions, and serial numbers. If you are robbed once expect a second occurrence at some point in the future. They like to return sometimes after you collect insurance and replace things. Or they rob you but don't get in the safe and come back later better prepared. I keep all guns, ammo and loading supplies locked up but rely on insurance to replace things. Let the insurance company and police worry about the items after the fact. I own no collectibles or antiques or firearms with any sentimental value though.

 

[pronstar]

Don't forget Craigslist either. I have found some good safes and gun storage containers there at times for a lot less than new prices. Also know the difference between a real safe and a Residential Security Container (RSC). I picked up a very nice 6'x4'x4' very well made 1/2" steel all around, gun storage box that was very well made from an estate sale for $250. Tough to move it though. Insurance shouldn't be neglected either if needed. Also a list with pictures, descriptions, and serial numbers. If you are robbed once expect a second occurrence at some point in the future. They like to return sometimes after you collect insurance and replace things. Or they rob you but don't get in the safe and come back later better prepared. I keep all guns, ammo and loading supplies locked up but rely on insurance to replace things. Let the insurance company and police worry about the items after the fact. I own no collectibles or antiques or firearms with any sentimental value though.

Real safes can be pretty pricey and unbelievably heavy. I’ve come across a few in CL but they were bigger than what I was looking for.

Now that I’m building a hidden storage room speakeasy-style, I’m debating the need for a safe at all. I’m thinking lining the walls with steel plate might be sufficient.


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[ZX9RCAM]

Also be aware that firearms normally are not covered by homeowners insurance, they require a separate rider.
Of course there are exceptions...

 

[Darqhelmet]

Real safes can be pretty pricey and unbelievably heavy. I’ve come across a few in CL but they were bigger than what I was looking for.

Now that I’m building a hidden storage room speakeasy-style, I’m debating the need for a safe at all. I’m thinking lining the walls with steel plate might be sufficient.


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You lining the ceiling too? Because ninjas are real and a clear threat.

 

[Dad_Roman]

Also be aware that firearms normally are not covered by homeowners insurance, they require a separate rider.
Of course there are exceptions...

Good point....

Guns...
Excessive cash & coin...
Collectibles...
Jewelry...
etc...

 

[lightflyer1]

$117 a year for Collectibles Insurance Services for $15k coverage. No serial numbers for anything valued under $25k IIRC. Don't really want my homeowners insurance involved for several reasons.

https://collectinsure.com/

 

[RobertTheTexan]

After researching a little more and I clearly need to increase my budget....

Have you considered places that sell “scratch & dent” safes? They are well known brands that have been dinged during shipping. Fully functional just cheaper. May be a way for you to get a better quality safe for less than you normally would. I think there’s a place in DFW area that deals on those. Or you can already ask the store if they hang any. Or mY e floor models they are looking for get rid of.

Just an idea.


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[pronstar]

Have you considered places that sell “scratch & dent” safes? They are well known brands that have been dinged during shipping. Fully functional just cheaper. May be a way for you to get a better quality safe for less than you normally would. I think there’s a place in DFW area that deals on those. Or you can already ask the store if they hang any. Or mY e floor models they are looking for get rid of.

Just an idea.


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What place is that in DFW?


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[RobertTheTexan]

What place is that in DFW?


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Let me dig through some emails. I had exchanged a few emails but it was last year. I should be able to dig it up though.


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[RobertTheTexan]

What place is that in DFW?


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I haven’t checked current inventory, but I called and spoke with the owners wife or something like that. They may or may not have any, but with a call will confirm either way. I’m pretty sure the first site is the Ir I called but I included a couple more that sell scratch and dent or used safes.

https://dfwsafes.com
‭(817) 716-9660‬
‭(817) 715-1068‬


Safe & Vault Store
Scratch and Dent
877-556-0773

A Gun Safe
972-272-9788
http://www.agunsafe.com/UsedSafes.html


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[johnbeaver]

I am currently dealing with a problem safe.
10 +|- year old Cannon with electronic lock.
My stepson tries to open it using the old code. Safe went in timeout mode and will not come out. After talking with the Cannon customer service, they are sending a new lock. No charge.
Deciding whether to call a locksmith. I think I will to see if I can get in and see about changing to a dial lock. I’ve read that some safes can’t be changed without major work. We will see. Also read that most electronic locks are only good for about three years. IDK.
I’ll let you know.



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[TX0303]

Seriously consider Sturdy Safe. I bought one last year and it is a high quality product, worth the price. If you go that route, call them direct, don't order off the web site. I asked if they have any discounts on the model I wanted and they gave me one because they had one ready to ship. Also discounted the shipping cost since it was only going to Texas. The "ships free" price on the web site is probably cost based to the east coast.

 

[avvidclif]

I am currently dealing with a problem safe.
10 +|- year old Cannon with electronic lock.
My stepson tries to open it using the old code. Safe went in timeout mode and will not come out. After talking with the Cannon customer service, they are sending a new lock. No charge.
Deciding whether to call a locksmith. I think I will to see if I can get in and see about changing to a dial lock. I’ve read that some safes can’t be changed without major work. We will see. Also read that most electronic locks are only good for about three years. IDK.
I’ll let you know.



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If it won't open? From what I understand you will have to get a locksmith to open it so you COULD install the new lock, electronic or manual. The part that is locked up is on the inside. That's why I passed on Cannon Safes, no emergency key.

 

[lightflyer1]

I have a Cannon but it has a manual dial Sargent and Greenleaf lock. Been working for over 20 years now.