You don’t buy a gun safe every day. And when you do, it’s not the kind of purchase you want to mess up. It’s got to protect your firearms, keep them out of the wrong hands, and hold up if anything goes wrong, whether that’s a break-in, a fire, or something you didn’t plan for.
So before you hand over your money, take a pause. Ask the right questions now, and you won’t be stuck with a safe that doesn’t actually feel… safe.
Table of Contents
What’s The Safe Actually Made Of?
Not all gun safes are built the same. Some are heavy-duty steel, others are more style than substance.
Look for the gauge of steel; lower numbers mean thicker, tougher material. A 10-gauge or 12-gauge body offers much better protection than anything higher.
Pay attention to the door construction too. Is it solid plate steel or just sheet metal wrapped around some filler? A solid plate gives real resistance if someone tries to pry it open.
And don’t forget about the weight. If it’s under 150kg and doesn’t bolt down, it’s not much of a deterrent for a thief with a trolley.
Is It Actually Secure, Or Just Looks The Part?
It’s easy to be swayed by a big dial, a glossy finish, or a fancy keypad. But security comes down to more than just how it looks.
Check:
- Locking bolts – How many are there? Are they on multiple sides of the door? More bolts = harder to force open.
- Hinges – Internal hinges are harder to attack than external ones.
- Lock type – Mechanical or electronic, it should be from a reliable manufacturer, and tested for durability.
Also, ask about certifications. Some safes are tested against burglary attempts and rated accordingly. If it has a security rating from a recognised authority, that’s a good sign.
How Does It Hold Up Against Fire?
It’s not a pleasant thought, but fire is a real threat. And if it happens, you want to know your safe will do more than just melt into a puddle.
Are gun safes fireproof? Not exactly. No safe is completely fireproof, but some are fire-resistant to a point. What matters is how long they can protect their contents at a given temperature.
Look for:
- A minimum of 30 minutes fire rating – that means it can withstand exposure to high heat (usually around 1,200°F) for that long
- Higher ratings, like 60 or 90 minutes, are better for rural properties or areas with slower fire response
- The fire seal around the door – a good one expands when heated and helps block smoke and flames
If the safe is rated and tested by a recognised lab (like UL or ETL), that’s a stronger assurancethat it’s not just a marketing claim.
How Much Space Do You Actually Need?
Sounds obvious, but lots of people get this wrong. You think you’re buying for your current collection. But if there’s even a small chance you’ll add another rifle or two down the line, factor that in now.
Also, think about accessories, such as ammo, scopes, and documents. Some safes have shelving that helps organise everything. Others are just an open box.
Go one size up from what you think you need. It’s surprisingly easy to outgrow your safe within a year or two.
What’s The Access Like In Real Life?
It’s one thing for a safe to look tough. It’s another thing to actually use it every day.
So before you decide, find out:
How fast can you get it open?
What happens if the battery dies (for digital locks)?
Is there a backup key or override method?
Can you open it one-handed if needed?
You don’t want to fumble through a confusing interface or deal with a jammed bolt when you need quick access. A good safe balances security and usability.
Where Are You Planning To Put It?
Your safe only works if it’s in the right spot. If it’s going in a garage or shed, make sure it can handle temperature shifts and humidity. If it’s inside the house, check the floor rating and weight; some second floors won’t love a 300kg unit.
And don’t forget to measure. Some safes are deceptively deep and won’t fit through standard door frames or down tight hallways.
It’s worth thinking through the install before you buy. Will you need help getting it in place? Will it bolt down where you want it? These practicalities matter just as much as the safe itself.
Is It Legally Compliant?
Depending on where you live, there may be specific requirements for gun storage. That could include:
- Minimum locking standards
- Bolting to the floor or wall
- Ammo stored separately
Don’t assume any safe on the market meets legal standards. Always double-check the fine print against your state’s storage laws.
Not meeting the rules could lead to a fine, or worse, losing your firearms licence.
Will It Stand The Test Of Time?
Gun safes aren’t a throwaway item. You want something built to last. Ask about the warranty. Ask about internal components; are they plastic or metal? Will the locking mechanism still work ten years from now?
If something breaks, how easy is it to get it repaired? A safe that’s built properly should last decades. One that isn’t might not make it through the next move.
Protect What Matters Without Regret
A gun safe isn’t just storage. It’s peace of mind. It’s protection for your firearms, your family, and your rights. So slow it down. Don’t just go for the cheapest or the flashiest. Think through where it’s going, what it needs to handle, and how it’s going to fit into your life long term.
A few extra questions now can save you a lot of frustration down the track and maybe even save what matters most.
