Discovering the most cost-efficient gun safe to protect your firearms is essential. And, selecting the right gun safe for your budget and needs can certainly be a daunting task, given the abundance of options on offer. 

So, you’re probably here because you want to know, “what’s the best gun safe for the money?” Well, in this comprehensive guide, we will delve into various aspects that you need to consider when selecting a great safe for your valuable possessions.

• Gun Safe Reviews: We’ll start by reviewing seven high-quality safes that provide great value for money. Then, we will identify key factors in determining the best gun safe for your budget and requirements. 
• Ratings: Next, we’ll explore different gun safe ratings and their significance in ensuring optimal security. Fire protection ratings are another critical aspect that cannot be overlooked; we’ll evaluate these as well.
• Lock Types: Additionally, lock types play a vital role in safeguarding your guns from unauthorized access – our guide will examine popular locking mechanisms as well as their pros and cons. 
• Warranties: Finally, warranty options are essential when investing in a heavy-duty safe; we’ll investigate what to look out for when choosing one with confidence.

7 Best Gun Safes For The Money

Let’s take a look at 7 of the best gun safes you can get for the money…

Fort Knox PB1 Handgun Safe

The Fort Knox PB1 Handgun Safe is constructed from solid steel and features a 10-gauge door. It offers reliable protection for your handguns with its heavy-duty construction and tamper-proof locking mechanism. The safe is also fireproof for up to 60 minutes, ensuring the safety of your firearms in case of a fire.

Features:

• Material: Made from 10-gauge steel with a wrap-around lid for ultimate strength and security.
• Locking mechanism: Features a Simplex mechanical lock that provides high reliability and ease of use without the worry of battery failure.
• Fireproof: Withstands up to 60 minutes of fire, safeguarding your guns and valuables.
• Interior: Comes with foam lining interior to protect your firearms from scratches.
• Portability: Compact design, allowing for easy storage and transportation.
• Warranty: Offers a lifetime warranty, ensuring the longevity of the safe.

Fort Knox Original Pistol Box (PB1), Security for pistols, handgun, California DOJ Certified, Quick-Access Mechanical Lock, Heavy-Duty Steel

$298.99

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01/20/2025 03:29 am GMT

Liberty Safe Centurion 24-Gun Safe

The Liberty Safe Centurion 24-Gun Safe provides ample space for gun storage, accommodating up to 24 firearms. It features a durable steel body with a pry-resistant door, providing robust protection against unauthorized access. It also offers fire protection for up to 30 minutes, giving you peace of mind in fire emergencies.

Features:

• Capacity: Able to securely store up to 24 firearms, providing ample space.
• Construction: Made from robust steel with a pry-resistant door to enhance security.
• Fire protection: Offers 30 minutes of fire protection, which can be crucial during emergencies.
• Lock: Equipped with a secure electronic lock for easy access.
• Interior: Comes with adjustable shelving, allowing you to customize the storage space as per your needs.

Winchester Ranger Deluxe 19-7-E Gun Safe

The Winchester Ranger Deluxe 19-7-E Gun Safe offers enhanced security with its drill-resistant hard plate and solid steel construction. It features an electronic lock with a keypad for quick and convenient access. The safe is also fire-rated for up to 60 minutes, providing superior fire protection.

Winchester Ranger Deluxe 19-7-E Gun Safe; 24 Gun Capacity (Black) (Electronic Lock)

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Features:

• Security: The safe’s solid steel construction and drill-resistant hard plate enhance security.
• Access: Electronic lock with keypad allows for quick and convenient access.
• Fire protection: Fire-rated for up to 60 minutes, offering superior protection against fire.
• Capacity: With its adjustable shelves, it provides space for up to 24 long guns and other valuables.
• Warranty: Offers a limited lifetime warranty that covers damage from break-in attempts and fire damage.

Browning Sporter Series Gun Safe

The Browning Sporter Series Gun Safe combines security and elegance. It features a strong steel body, pry-resistant door, and multiple locking bolts for enhanced protection. It offers an electronic lock and a deluxe interior with adjustable shelves. It also provides fire protection for up to 90 minutes.

Features:

• Design: Combines strength and elegance with its steel body and sleek finish.
• Security: Pry-resistant door and multiple locking bolts provide robust protection.
• Fire protection: Offers 90 minutes of fire protection, outperforming many in its category.
• Lock: Comes with a programmable electronic lock for easy access.
• Interior: Deluxe interior with adjustable shelves allows for customization.

Grimtron Biometric Gun Safe, Clock Smart Safe with 2-in-1 Wireless Charging Gun Safe for Handgun - Nightstand Handgun Safe Pistol Safe with Quick Access and Auto Open

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Cannon Safe Scout Series Gun Safe

The Cannon Safe Scout Series Gun Safe offers excellent value for money. It features a durable steel body, a reinforced door, and a triple hard plate for added security. The safe includes an electronic lock and an interior door panel for organizing your firearms and accessories. It provides fire protection for up to 45 minutes.

Features:

• Security: Features a durable steel body, reinforced door, and triple hard plate for ultimate security.
• Interior: Includes an interior door panel for organizing firearms and accessories.
• Fire protection: Provides fire protection for up to 45 minutes.
• Lock: Comes with a programmable electronic lock for easy access.
• Warranty: Offers a lifetime warranty, providing assurance of its quality.

NEW and IMPROVED E.M.P Proof Steelwater Extreme Duty 39 Long Gun Fire Protection for 120 Minutes AMHD593924-EMP

$2,695.00

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01/20/2025 03:03 am GMT

Stack-On Elite Junior Executive Fire Safe

The Stack-On Elite Junior Executive Fire Safe is a compact and affordable option. It features a solid steel construction, pry-resistant door, and a 3-point locking system. The safe offers an electronic lock and adjustable shelves for customization. It provides fire protection for up to 30 minutes.

Features:

• Design: Compact and affordable, perfect for small spaces or beginners.
• Security: Made from solid steel with a pry-resistant door and a 3-point locking system.
• Customization: Adjustable shelves allow for customization as per individual needs.
• Fire protection: Provides fire protection for up to 30 minutes.
• Lock: Comes with a programmable electronic lock for easy access.

Benchmaster - Weapon Rack - Single Stack 1911 Magazine Rack - 12 Unit - Gun Safe Storage Accessories - Pistol Mag Storage

$24.49

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01/20/2025 03:04 am GMT

Steelwater Heavy Duty 39-Gun Safe

The Steelwater Heavy Duty 39-Gun Safe is a robust option for gun enthusiasts. It features a thick steel body, reinforced door, and drill-resistant hard plate. The safe offers a digital keypad and an interior with adjustable shelves. It provides fire protection for up to 60 minutes.

Features:

• Capacity: Able to securely store up to 39 firearms, making it suitable for avid gun enthusiasts.
• Construction: Features a thick steel body, reinforced door, and a drill-resistant hard plate.
• Fire protection: Offers fire protection for up to 60 minutes, adding to its high-security features.
• Lock: Comes with a digital keypad for quick and easy access.
• Interior: Adjustable shelves and a door organizer provide ample space for firearm and accessory storage.

NEW and Improved E.M.P Proof Steelwater Heavy Duty 39 Long Gun Fire Protection for 60 Minutes AMLD593924-blk

$2,195.00

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01/20/2025 03:03 am GMT

Things To Consider When Buying A Gun Safe

While you may be looking for a gun safe, you might not have a safe full of money! So, let’s explore how to get the most bang for your buck…

Finding a gun safe that fits your budget and needs can be a challenging task, but with some research and consideration of reputable safe vendors, you can do it! 

Here are some steps to guide you through the process:

Evaluate Your Needs:

1. Number, Size, and Weight of Firearms: Assess the number of guns you need to store, their sizes, and their weights. This will help determine the size and capacity of the gun safe you should look for. For example, if you are storing shotguns, the size of the safe would need to be much larger than one for storing only handguns.
2. Storage Space and Security Level: Consider the available space in your home or desired location for the safe. Also, think about the level of security you require for your firearms. Determine if you need additional space for storing accessories or valuables alongside your guns.
3. Fire Protection: Evaluate the level of fire protection you desire for your firearms. Consider the fire rating of the safe, including factors such as steel thickness, insulation materials, and fire seal.

Compare Features and Prices:

1. High-Quality Materials: Look for gun safes made from durable materials, particularly steel construction. A safe with reinforced doors provides added security.
2. Security Features: Consider the security features offered by different models. Biometric locks, which use fingerprint recognition, can provide quick and convenient access. Multiple locking bolts enhance the safe’s resistance to tampering and forced entry.
3. Fire Protection Rating: Compare the fire protection ratings of various safes. Pay attention to the thickness of the steel used, the type of insulation materials employed, and the quality of the fire seal.

Read Customer Reviews:

1. Online Platforms: Take the time to read customer reviews on credible online platforms. These reviews can offer valuable insights into the performance, durability, and overall satisfaction of different gun safe models.

By following these steps, you can make an informed decision and find a gun safe that not only meets your requirements but also provides excellent value for your money.

Understanding Gun Safe Ratings

Comparing gun safe ratings is crucial to ensure you select the most secure product possible. Ratings provide valuable information about a safe’s resistance to burglary attempts and its ability to withstand fire. 

Let’s explore the different types of gun safe ratings…

UL Burglary Ratings

The Underwriters Laboratories (UL) established burglary ratings to assess the strength and resistance of safes against forced entry attempts. These ratings are based on factors such as construction materials and locking mechanisms. Here are some common UL burglary ratings:

1. RSC (Residential Security Container): This rating indicates that the safe offers basic protection against common hand tools typically used by opportunistic burglars.
2. B-Rate: Safes with a B-Rate provide moderate protection with thicker steel walls and doors. They offer enhanced resistance against burglary attempts compared to RSC-rated safes.
3. C-Rate: C-Rate safes feature even more robust construction than B-Rate safes, making them harder to breach. They offer a higher level of security against unauthorized access.
4. TL-15/TL-30/TL-60: These ratings indicate the number of minutes a professional burglar would need to break into the safe using sophisticated tools. TL-15, TL-30, and TL-60 safes provide increasingly higher levels of protection against attacks.

Fire Protection Ratings

Many gun safes come with fire protection ratings that indicate their ability to withstand extreme temperatures during a fire event.

• ETL Verified Fire Resistance: Ensures that the contents inside remain unharmed at specific temperatures for a set period of time.
• NFPA 72: Outlines fire alarm and signaling system requirements.

California DOJ Approval

The California Department of Justice (DOJ) has established standards for gun safes to ensure they provide adequate protection against unauthorized access.

Comprehending the DOJ’s ratings will help you pick a gun safe that fits your individual needs and economic restrictions wisely.

Evaluating Fire Protection Ratings

Gun safes often come with fire protection ratings that indicate their ability to withstand extreme temperatures during a fire event. 

Here are a couple of common fire protection ratings:

UL 72 Standard: A Reliable Benchmark

The UL 72 Standard is a widely recognized benchmark used by manufacturers to test their safes’ fire resistance capabilities.

Temperature Endurance Rating

A critical aspect of any gun safe’s fire protection rating is its ability to endure high temperatures without compromising the safety of its contents.

Impact Testing Rating

• Fall Test: Simulates a safe falling from a height equivalent to one floor onto concrete rubble below while maintaining structural integrity and protecting internal contents.
• Penetration Test: Measures how resistant the exterior surface of the safe is when subjected to intense heat exposure using specialized tools like cutting torches or drills.

Fire Seal

A fire seal’s presence should be considered when evaluating a safe’s fire protection rating, as it expands under high temperatures to form an air-tight barrier that blocks smoke and heat.

Comparing Safes with Different Ratings

When comparing different safes, weigh their respective fire protection ratings against your specific needs and budget constraints, considering factors such as local climate conditions, potential risks associated with fires, and your collection’s value.

Sources: NFPA, UL

Examining Safe Lock Types

Choosing the right lock type is crucial when investing in a gun safe to protect guns and prevent unauthorized access.

• Mechanical Dial Locks

Mechanical dial locks are reliable and durable, but slower to access than other options like biometric safes

• Electronic Keypad Locks

Electronic keypad locks offer quick access, but rely on batteries or power sources that may need periodic maintenance or replacement.

• Biometric Locks

Biometric safes use fingerprint recognition technology for rapid accessibility, but can be more expensive and require occasional recalibration.

Grimtron Biometric Gun Safe (2.03 cu. ft.) - Include Gun Rack & Gun Organizer Quick Access, Fingerprint Sensor, Backlit Keyboard, Silent Mode and Detachable Crossbar for Gun Safe for Handgun 5...

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• Key Locks

For an economical security solution, key locks are a viable option; however, it is important to store the keys in a secure location.

Consider which of the above lock types aligns with your preferences and needs when selecting the best gun safe for your money.

Investigating Warranty Options

Don’t be caught off guard when investing in a gun safe; make sure to consider warranty options to protect your investment!

Manufacturer Warranties

Reputable gun safe manufacturers offer warranties covering material defects, workmanship issues, and damage due to fire or burglary attempts.

Extended Warranties

Retailers may offer extended warranties for additional cost, covering parts replacement or full product replacement if necessary.

Tips for Evaluating Warranty Options:

1. Determine Coverage Length: Check how long the warranty lasts and what is covered during that time frame.
2. Analyze Coverage Scope: Identify which components and situations are covered under the warranty.
3. Evaluate Customer Support: Research customer reviews about their experiences with claims handling.
4. Weigh Costs vs Benefits: Consider whether paying extra for an extended warranty is worth it based on potential risks and the value of your investment.

Remember, choose a reputable manufacturer or retailer with a history of honoring their warranties and providing excellent customer service. Consumer Reports suggests that extended warranties may not always be worth the extra cost, so weigh your options carefully.

Final Thoughts On Best Gun Safes For The Money

Secure Your Firearms with the Best Gun Safe for the Money: As a responsible gun owner, it’s crucial to invest in a high-quality gun safe that meets your needs and budget.

Consider factors such as gun safe ratings, fire protection ratings, lock types, and warranty options to make an informed decision.

Don’t settle for a cheap gun safe that won’t provide adequate protection for your valuable possessions.

Investing in a reliable gun safe will give you peace of mind knowing that your firearms are secure and protected from theft or damage.

Check out credible sources to learn more about gun safe options and make an informed decision that meets your needs.

And above all… safety first!

Owning a gun of any type has its fair share of responsibilities. One of these important responsibilities is designating a storage spot to protect it from unauthorized access.

Proper storage helps prevent accidents and injuries. And, given that not everyone knows how to properly and safely handle guns, appropriate storage should be staple for every homeowner.   

The responsibility of your gun safely lies with you. Be sure that you not only know how to properly handle your firearm, but how to safely store it as well.

Remember, the law holds you responsible for your firearm. If someone steals it and uses it to commit a crime, you may be charged with inadequate preventative measures to safeguard the weapon.  

Types Of Shotgun Storage Solutions

The good news is that there are several storage solutions.

Notably, you can embark on a do-it-yourself (D-I-Y) project and create one. Alternatively, you can buy sophisticated storage solutions that involve technological features such as biometrics sensors.

On that note, let’s take a look at some shotgun storage solutions you’d want to consider: 

Wall Mounts

Wall mounts are a safe way to store your gun and easily access them. They’re perfect for gun owners who want to display their collections.

The beauty of a wall mount is the numerous design options available. You can create a vertical or horizontal rack and then anchor your mount. (Note that the wall mounts work best on concrete walls.) They also work best when you need to save on floor space. You can use any room for a wall mount installation without interfering with its primary purpose. 

Since a gun on a wall mount is still visible, choosing a secure location for a wall mount is best. You may want to place it behind the door. This way, one can only access the gun if they’re inside the room.

Before securely attaching the wall mount, you’d want to test whether the space is ideal depending on your gun’s length. This way, you won’t do all the work of installing the mount, only to realize you have insufficient space. 

Smart Safes

One of the safest ways to secure your gun from everyone else is by keeping it in a lockable safe. There are numerous smart safes whose features vary significantly.

Some advanced smart safes feature biometric locks that can only be opened with your fingerprints, while others comprise electric locks or passcodes that guarantee no one else can get in the safe unless they know the access details.  

[2023 NEW] 7-8 Fireproof Biometric Gun Safes for Home Rifle and Pistols, Heavy Duty Anti-Theft Long Gun Safes for Rifles and Shotguns with 3 Handgun Pocket, Removable Shelf, Silent Mode

$329.00

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01/20/2025 01:53 am GMT

Safes vary in size. The larger safes can contain more than one compartment, to allow you to store more guns. So, choose a safe with as many compartments as the number of shotguns you have. Also, consider preserving other compartments for ammo or gun-cleaning supplies.  

Some smart safes have notification systems that alert you when someone tries to tamper with them. Typically, you’ll get notified on your smartphone about an attempted break-in. You can quickly go and check what the matter is before more damage is done. 

Lockable Gun Drawers 

Like the safes, shotgun drawers are lockable, hence limiting access. The drawers can be created in not-so-obvious places so that no one can know that they are in fact for gun storage.

Some excellent locations to attach the gun drawers include the following:  

• Inside other drawers 
• Bedside drawers  
• Beneath your dining table  
• End table drawer  

Hornady Rapid Safe AR Gun Locker with RFID Touch Free Entry - Tamper Proof Gun Safe Perfect for Storing Gun Accessories, Rifles and Shotguns - Heavy Duty Rifle Gun Safe for Home and Vehicle - 98190

$459.99

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01/20/2025 03:23 am GMT

The drawers act as hidden spaces to store your guns. Unless someone is very observant, it’s not easy to predict that the drawers are gun storage. Always ensure that the drawers have locks and keep the keys far from reach. 

Gun Storage Cabinets 

If you have enough space, it’s best to have standalone storage cabinets to keep your guns in.

Additionally, ensure the cabinets are fitted with security features such as locks and heavy gauged doors.

The beauty of storage cabinets is that they can be modified using the correct measurements so that the gun fits perfectly (photo credit: American Concealed Furniture).

And, you can have high cabinets to ensure they’re not easily accessible, especially by children.  

You can modify the cabinets by installing alarm systems to notify you if someone tries to tamper with the locks. These features make it hard for thieves or unauthorized personnel to get to the guns. 

Rented Gun Safes 

A rented gun safe offers an offsite storage location if you’re not comfortable storing the shotgun in your house.

Rented gun safes are excellent for hunters because you can take the shotgun to storage when the hunting season is over.

Concealment Shelves 

With a concealment shelf, you can place the firearm inside the shelf and arrange several books on it for a disguise. This storage idea facilitates a quick reach for the gun in case of a home invasion (photo credit: American Concealment Furniture). 

Another way you can store your gun in the house is by using shelves. Luckily, these can be homemade. However, it’s not ideal to keep the firearm in visible areas.

Concealment shelves, on the other hand, are discrete, so it takes work to notice the weapon. You can do a better job at hiding the guns by using bookcases or dummies.

Hidden Storage Step 

Another discrete way to store your gun is in a hidden step.

The hidden step functions normally, except that it can open and close. This can be an excellent place to hide your firearm in the house. However, you should ensure the step doesn’t open accidentally or appear odd, as someone could be tempted to check. You should also be sure that doesn’t make a squeaking sound when opening, as it could catch someone’s attention.  

Hidden storage built into stairs can be an effective place to secretly store your shotguns or firearms (photo credit mymydiy.com).

Alternatively, you can make drawers under the stairway to avoid the opening being directly on the stairs.

Note that the storage step design only works with wide-enough steps. It’s the only way your shotgun can fit perfectly without any adjustments on the steps. 

Final Thoughts On Shotgun Storage Solutions

Storing your shotgun securely is an essential precautionary measure against accidents. As such, it’s vital to have a reliable storage solution for your rifle.

Without proper shotgun storage, you put everyone at risk by leaving the gun where anyone can access it.

It’s always safe practice to unload the firearm before storage to prevent accidental discharge. Also, consider fitting the gun with a trigger lock to ensure no one can intentionally, or accidentally, pull the trigger.

Innovative solutions like sensors and smartphone notification systems are also helpful in remotely monitoring your stored shotgun. You’ll know whenever someone tries to tamper with the locks in your absence and quickly spring into action.

So, hopefully these shotgun storage solutions provide you some helpful information on how to safely and securely store your guns!