triker

Well, I looked at all the forums and thought this was best place. I have been looking on net at gun safes. Stopped today at Bass Pro to check out their red head and browning. That brownin is a nice safe, but pretty pricey also. Stopped at the Sams to see the winchester, but they didn't have one. Anyone heard of Amsec safes? Short for American Securities. Website has some pretty good looking safes. I know a guy that waoks for a company that sells them and they had one from last year that they would give a very good deal on, but haven't heard from my source yet. Not sure what model or anything about it yet. Any other safes that people have and are happy with. Need to stay under $800. Thanks Triker

78CJ5

Most Safe sales stores have ones that are the older model or maybe have scratch or a dent. And they will cut you a deal.Safes are just like TV's you just need to take your time and shop around.

SOUTHPAW

Keep an eye on my thread, I'm looking for one in that price range as well. Stopped by Sam's Club today to look at the Winchester L21 for $644. They couldn't get it open but it looks decent from what I saw...

WTB: Gun Safe ?????

...

triker

Yes, Southpaw, been watching, even posted on it as I remember. Thought I might start a fresh one. Just got price on the amsec, but was to much for me. It weighed 782 lbs. Not sure I could get that down my stairs with safe weight and guys weight. May end up with Bass Pro Red Head brand. I want to see it before I but it, so has to be somewhat local. No internet one for me. Triker

pastortlc

If you have a Tractor Supply in your neck of the woods, they sell Cannon Safes. They have a nice 24 gun safe rated at 30 minutes for fire for $699.00. I have been looking at one of those for myself.

SOUTHPAW

Oops, didn't notice. . Well, two threads are better than one! . I'm torn right now because, I might be moving in the next few years and I don't want a monster safe just yet. I just need a size that will fit up to 4 or 5 long guns w/o touching and a half dozen pistols, boxes, ammo, etc. So the Sam's Winchester size looks good. At around 500 lbs, its gonna take a good 3-4 guys and a hand truck to get it up the 8 or so stairs in my raised ranch. I'm also planning on lag-bolting it to the floor (hardwood, can always patch the holes). I'm open to brand at this point but wanna stay at the <$800 OTD range...

pastortlc, I noticed Sam's also carries Cannon, but I've only been able to find it on there website...

edlmann

I've heard bad things about the safes with the new number pad in lieu of a dial. If the bad guy boogers up the number pad, the safe must be destroyed to get it open again.

BuckeyeBlast

Yeah, that's not true, at least not w/ mine. Behind the number bad there's a key hole. The safe came with 2 very unique, very long keys. If the number pad is boogered up, it can be removed and opened w/ the key that is kept in an undisclosed location...

...just as long as you don't keep the keys in the safe itself.

SOUTHPAW

Same thing if he boogers up the dial mechanism.

SOUTHPAW

Exactly. Most amatures will smash off the combo lock on a traditional safe and start poking an prodding. If they mash up the internals bad enough, then you're up sh!ts creek anyway.

triker

I am quickly finding that there are no safes local in size 59 x 30 x 20+ that are less than $1000. This approx size is what I have decided I need or will need. I really hate to buy without actual seeing and talking about the features, so guess order from net are out. Probably good safes and buys, but thats just me I guess. Got to see it and feel it. Pretty much down to Bass Pro Red Head brand. Some probably had trouble with one, but that can go with any brand. Nothing is perfect. Looked at Cannon and the models there did not impress me. I want outside hinges for one thing. Will keep looking for while I guess. Triker

SOUTHPAW

What about the Winchester at Sams Club? It's 59x28x22 for $644...

Sam's Club - Winchester 592822 Gun Safe

...having the same problem as you this will likely be the one I go with.

TenTec

Experienced the same thing at a Wally World back before Christmas. It was also a Winchester. I wouldn't have one with a electronic touch pad.

BuckeyeBlast

The problem w/ them in stores is that most have an electronic lockout after the wrong code is entered three times. After that, it won't open for 10 mins. Kids like to push the buttons in stores. Then of course, you have to find someone at WalMart able to enter the correct combo... then it can get real challenging.

ibboatin28

I have 2 of the safe's from Sams with the digital locks. I've never had a problem with them.

triker

Anyone set them on a basement concrete floor? Did you put a rubber barrier or something to keep bottom from rusting from moisture in concrete? Mine will be on a concrete basement floor and was thinking about putting it on a truck mudflap or something like that for a moisture barrier. Triker

PS: Our local Sams have none in stock, and not sure when will receive one to look at.

Walkalong

To answer the OP, the AMSEC BF series is a great gun safe. Pricey to match. The Ft Knox Defender with steel upgrades is a good way to go, but pricey. The Champion Crown series is pretty good, and more reasonable. The Crown has 3/16" body, while the others have 1/8", still not too bad though. Sturdy safes is about the best bang for the buck as far as buying steel goes. They have a great rep as well.

There are just too many dang choices, and the real info on how they are made and what thickness steel they are, especially the doors, is hard to drag out of many of the makers.

For the OP, a Sentry from Wally world is a good way to go for a temporary solution until you buy a really good, heavy safe to last you many years. They have a good rep among the inexpensive gun safes (RSC's). By my measurements they have a 5 or 6 Gauge door (.204) and a 9 or 10 Gauge body. (.144) That is pretty good when you start looking at other RSC's. It will stop most smash and grab thieves. It will need to be bolted down.

My old Liberty with a 1/4" door and 1/8" body weighs around 800 Lbs, and it can be moved around easily by two people and a hand truck. Once you get it on the hand truck, one person can haul it around. I really like my 25 year old Liberty, but they do NOT make them like this anymore. It is time for me to get a bigger, and a bit better, one. This next one I expect to last me until I am gone. Always buy a bigger safe than you think you need as well.

Summit is another option worth looking at.

Buying a safe is like buying good glass on a scope. Buy until it hurts.

Sheet Metal Thickness Gauges

AMSEC Safes BF Series Gun Safes

Champion Safe - Welcome

Thick Gauge | Sturdy Gun Safe

Fort Knox:

Summit Safes - Product Line



6MM BR - Gun Safe Buyers' Guide

Southern Security Safes - How to choose a safe

Randy at Southern Security was very helpful to me, and was fairly close to me if I decided to buy from there. Shipping is costly, so that can matter. Buying out of state will save tax, possibly enough to offset shipping from further away. I had done a bunch of research on the web first, so I had an idea of what I was talking about when I called Randy.


I am by no means an authority on safes or RCS's, but I have been doing a lot of looking lately and thought I would share some info.

SOUTHPAW

triker, I would recommend a simple piece of heavy duty carpet slightly larger than the base of the safe. I've seen this done with motorcycles in garages and it seems to be the most effective moisture protection. The problem with rubber is that it may trap moisture under the safe, where as the fibers of carpet will allow for better evaporation. Also, I would definitely recommend a dehumidifier if this is in a basement or on a concrete slab. I believe they are relatively cheap.

These are all factors that I too have been considering regarding my purchase. I live in a raised ranch, and although the lower level is completely finished (inc tile flooring) it gets rather humid in the summer with visable moisture accumulating on the tile. The garage would be a good spot, but being on the same level it likely accumulates the same moisture levels. So, my safest option would probably be a bedroom upstairs. Unfortunately the safe would have to go up 2 steps on the way into the house, and 6 stairs up to the hallway. On top of that, it would have to be lag-bolted to the nice hardwood floor (which can eventually be filled with wood putty I suppose). Ahh the lower level would be so much easier with a straight shot thru the garage but I don't think I want to risk the moisture issue...

Btw, my local Sam's has 5 in stock, so this is the one I'm leaning towards. Is there any other clubs in your area you can try? Their website has an inventory locator as well...

BuckeyeBlast

FWIW - the safest place for your safe against theft is the basement. I've investigated hundreds of thefts, the place entered the least by theives is the basement since it can be a 'trap' if the homeowner gets home and you can't observe outside activities while you're up to no good. On the flip side, especially in cities w/ poor infrastucture, sewer/water backups into basements really wouldn't be too pleasant on your gunsafe. For those of you who have never experienced it, rainwaters accumulate at such a fast and heavy rate that they overload the sewer system and it can back up into people's homes. Yeah, disgusting.
No matter what safer in a safe than under a bed.

SOUTHPAW

I totally agree, if you should have an unfinished basement. In many finished basements such as mine, are home theaters, computers, game rooms, and master bedrooms. Tons of goodies for the bad guys.

What about attics? Only trouble is getting it up there...

Gregor

Liberty Safes Franklin 15 model gun safe. The safe has about 17 cubic feet of space and the dimensions are 59.25" x 24" x 22". The safe weighs about 500 pounds, has 2-side bolt coverage and has 8 bolts. It has a 17 to 20 gun capacity and is fire rated to about 30 minutes @ 1200-1400°F. Triple case hardened steel plates protect lock from drill attack.

I saw one on Craigslist for $700. I own a Liberty and it is bolted to the concrete floor and wall in my basement. My alarm system will be blarring as they try to smash and grab. My four dogs are the best alarm systems I've ever owned.

triker

Decisions, decisions, I am trying to negotiate a better price on the Amsec safe. It appears to be about what I am looking for. Just a little over my budget, but will try. I haven't seen it in person, but some good friends son-in-law works for them and trying to get a good price for me. Triker

SOUTHPAW

2-for deal?!?!?

triker

Sorry Southpaw, ur out of luck. This is the last of last year model and only one they have left. Had it at couple gun shows, so sort of a demo. List on it is $1910 and I offered $1000. Don't think they will sell it for that. So probably back to Red Head. Its a big safe at 60x36x26 and 782 lbs. Triker

SOUTHPAW

Ah well, the search continues!

Just some info:
Redhead Gun "Safe" problem [Archive] - THR

Damn why cant I just be fine with spending $2500-$3500...? It would make this so much easier!

SOUTHPAW

Scary!!!

SOUTHPAW

A personal write-up on the Sam's Club safe...

Product Review: Winchester GunSafe from Sam's Club - Glock Talk


Im considering this one, but it's only available in green... ugh.

http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/pr...ductId=3378974

mpettit

I have a browning medallion that a got from Dicks'. It was a stratch and dent model for 1399.00. It was tough paying that kind of money but the ones at bass pro are around 22 or 2300 now. I love the safe and don't regret the purchase. I put a goldenrod dehumidifier in mine and don't have any problems with moisture, and mine sits in the garage. I used heavy plastic and a rubber mat on the bottom and don't have any problems with rust or moisture. The better safes just cost more, if you don't really need it now, maybe save some more and upgrade, you won't be sorry. Also, if you bolt it to the floor, I think a thief would look for an easier target. Good luck with your search, that's half the fun.

triker

It's just unbelievable how many brands of safes there are. That "You Tube" clip was kind of an eye opener to quality. Probably just about any safe can be opened that way, just the better ones might take 3 minutes. Being bolted down solid would make it much harder though for any safe. They can't tip it to get the leverage. triker

whitedogone

+1 on the TSC Cannon!

whitedogone

Warranty

http://www.tractorsupply.com/cannon-...n-safe-3809071

Jazzman

Bolting the safe to the floor is a good idea as it can't be tipped over. I would also locate it next to a wall where bad guys with pry bars could not get the leveage they need to pry it open.

Jazzman

triker

Well, I made the plunge today and bought a safe. A locksmith company carries Liberty brand. Went in to look at the lower end, less costly one and went out with mid range more expensive one. Bought the Franklin series 60.5x30x27.5, 700 lbs. Has the built in plug for the dehumidifier, door cover to store handguns and other misc stuff, electronic opener (not sure if like that or not).Has the thicker pins and 1 hour fire rating. Beautiful safe and about $500 more than wanted to pay, but I think worth it. Triker

TLJack

If you want a good laugh, read on.

Bought a new safe today with electronic keypad and a pair of extra long keys for use if the keypad fails. Unloaded and uncrated it. Got it opened up and read the manual. Checked out the contents to make sure every thing was included that is supposed to be. Got the appliance hand cart in position and then to make sure I did not misplace anything, put everything inside, then shut the door...........................................!!!

A very humbling experience to say the least

Big Mike

In addition to some other good posts here, I will add my take. As a police officer I have seen a lot of safes removed from the home entirely so they can be opened elsewhere without the threat of being surprised by a homeowner, neighbor or law enforcement. It takes a little preparation and planning, but the thief who will take your entire safe is not one that decides to burglarize your house at the spur of the moment or chooses the location out of sheer convenience of opportunity. To combat this approach, I built a closet around my exterior safe dimensions to hide the safe and to make it extremely difficult to remove it with a heavy duty dolly. Then I bolted it to the concrete slab with 5/8 lag bolts. The closet does not provide room to rock the safe enough to uproot the bolts, tip it forward on a dolly or give enough clearance for a pry bar. It has to be rolled out of the closet on pipes or dowels. Obviously if thieves were motivated enough, they could get it out given enough time to do so. Hope this helps.

texagun

OUCH! What's the "rest of the story?" How did you get it opened?

And Big Mike: That's a great tip and a well thought-out plan. Thanks.

TLJack

Tomorrow morning (Tues 17 Feb) the manufacture is supposed to e-mail me the combo. I had to write a letter stating I owned the safe and have it notorized. Included the bill of sale. Shall see. I will be much slower to comment on others 'stupid" acts in the future. =) Will keep you posted.

TLJack

Big Mike certainly makes some very good points. Of course the professional crook is very difficult to totally defend against if he/she wants what I have. I am mostg concerned about the Meth addicit looking for an easy heist, or the neighborhood kids being stupid. My really valuable guns are separately insured. I also have detailed records on each firearm and pictures all stored in a separate place. I also keep my ammo locked up in a completely different part of the house. Our local
PD has given us some great ideas how to keep the bad guys completely out of the house in the first place and make it difficult for those determined to try.

If any of you cop types have some good suggestions I'd love to hear them. This might even make a great thread subject. Your thoughts?

Old retired firefighter

BuckeyeBlast

Aaah, it's probably just the default combo. I wonder if it's the same as what mine was.

Edit: Here, this lists a default combo if your lock looks like this: http://www.directsafes.com/HelpFAQ.cfm
If the mfgr doesn't get back to you as promised, a little internet searching will probably get you in, which brings up another point - make sure to change and personalize your combo.

Bagheera

You could try this,

Most companies use a default code of 1,2,3,4,5,6 Seriously. They recommend you change this immediately upon installing the safe. Try it, it may very well work for you.