Coastal 101 - Gun Safe Basics

A look at our top safes and their unique differences

A good gun safe is a must in today’s world. Not only does it keep weapons out of the wrong hands, the right safe can help preserve prized possessions for future generations.

Liberty is one of the best Made in the USA safe makers out there, offering lifetime warranties against manufacturer defects, and options to fit every lifestyle, budget, and need.

Take a look at the three top sellers and see for yourself why gun owners across America choose Liberty.

Liberty Centurion Series

This model comes in three compact sizes, including the 12, 18, and 24. What makes the Centurion one of the best safes out there is its 3-layers of fireboard, including the ceiling and the 1-inch composite fire door. All of that layering means each one is certified for up to 30-minutes in a fire. As for security, the Centurion offers 2-way military locking bars, and pry resistance with added steel gussets. Even if someone gets a hold of your safe, they’ll have a very hard time prying it open. You also get a proven e-lock. The Centurion 24 weighs just 375 pounds, making it ideal for reinforced, upstairs locations. This compact safe measures in at 59.5 x 29.25 x 22 inches, with a capacity to safely hold 24 long guns.

As for security, this one is military grade, offering 4-inch wide locking bars, and pry resistance with added steel gussets. That means even if someone gets a hold of your safe, they’ll have a very hard time prying it open. You also have your choice of either a dial or electronic lock. The Centurion 24 weighs just 370 pounds, making it ideal for reinforced, upstairs locations. This compact safe measures in at 60 x 29 x 22 inches, with a capacity to safely hold 24 guns.

Liberty USA Series

The Liberty U.S.A. series of safes range from a 30-rifle capacity all the way up to 48. It’s not only great looking, but it’s also tough, offering up to 40 minutes of fire protection. The 12-gauge, steel body, as well as larger and longer 2-way military locking bars will keep your weapons safe. And at 610 pounds and measuring 60.5 x 42 x 25 inches for the U.S.A. 48, this one isn’t going anywhere without some serious equipment. Bolt one in place on your main floor or basement and never worry about it again. Even the smallest U.S.A. model weighs in at nearly 500 pounds.

Selecting the Right Safe

There are a lot of good reasons to own a gun safe. At the top of the list should be your family’s safety – you want to keep kids away from your guns while still having access when you need it. Plus, a good gun safe will protect your weapons from fire and theft.

Here are some of the basics to help you pick the one that’s right for you.

Fireproof/Waterproof

When shopping for a safe, ask questions about its resistance to fire and water damage. Most of today’s safes offer exceptional protection from fire. In fact, manufactures make it easy to compare protection by telling you how long a safe will stand up to incredible heat – anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes or more. But water resistance is a bit harder to come by. A fire resistant safe will keep out water up to a certain depth for a few hours, but eventually water will seep through the cracks of a non-waterproof safe.

Choosing the Lock

Gun safes come with one of two types of locks: digital or dial. Overall, digital locks are easier to open (quicker retrieval time) and easier to reprogram. One of the few disadvantages is the battery. With dial locks, you never need to worry about batteries, but it will take a bit longer opening the safe in an emergency. If you like technology, go with digital. If you prefer old school, go dial.

Sizing the Situation

How many guns do you need to lock up? How big of a location do you have in your home? These are important questions to answer before you buy a gun safe. Be sure to calculate room for ammunition.

Putting on some Weight

Gun safes weigh a lot – typically well over 500 pounds. That weight makes them more durable as well as fire and theft resistant. But with that weight come some disadvantages, such as moving the safe into your home and where to bolt it into place. The heavier the safe, the less likely you will be able to put it on an upper floor of your home.

Experts suggest installing your safe on the strongest subfloor of your home. Typically, that is the main floor or basement. If you must install a safe into an upper area of your home, reinforce the floor to support the weight.

Locations and Bolts

If your safe includes lights and a dehumidifier, place it near an outlet. Additionally, consider the path to the safe from other areas of your home. You want to be able to reach it quickly in an emergency. Finally, once you have the perfect location, bolt your safe down. The manufacturer will include the proper bolts.

When you start shopping for your gun safe, stop by Coastal. We’ve got all the answers and plenty of models in stock at a store near you.