How to Choose a Gun Safe
A gun save is one of the most important investments you should make as a gun owner. But because there are many types of gun safes out there, it can be difficult to choose one. Well, probably not that difficult if you're aware of the features you should look for.
Size
Size is always an issue when it comes to gun safes. To know what size to pick, consider how many guns you currently have, and how many you might be adding in the foreseeable future. Also look into your intended location for the safe. If you might buy getting a large one, it would be good to store it in the garage. If you have doubts, choose bigger.
Price
The price of a gun safe will vary widely, depending on obvious factors like features and size. You'll probably spend about $50 or less for a handgun safe. For a long gun, you could be looking at a minimum of $100 up to many thousand dollars. More of this are defined at http://www.ehow.com/how_6504153_make-gun-safe-fireproof.html. Note that more expensive isn't necessarily higher quality, but pricier safes do tend to be more reliable in terms of safety.
Locks
There's no denying that biometric locks are the most advanced locks available these days. Other digital locks may be effective too, unless the electronics bungle up, of course. Key locks are basic, but you need to keep them well hidden yet still readily accessible to you if you must use it. Combination locks won't give you that kind of problem, you just might forget the combination. That's the reason many people prefer the key-lock combination combo. That means you get fast access to your safe without fumbling for a key, and you also have a backup option just in case you forget the combination.
Doors
You have many things to consider when checking the doors on a safe. First off, where are the hinges attached? If they're found outside the safe, they're quite easy to compromise. Safes portland oregon with internal hinges are always better. The doors must have at least four bolts each side, and one bolt at the top and at the bottom. Each bolt should be no thinner than 9/16 of an inch, and the door should be made of steel that is at least of 1/4 inch thick. You should also seeif the doorframe is a continuous weld instead of a spot weld which is easier to break into. Finally, stay away from composite doors which are thicker but have less steel thickness.
Water and Fire Resistance
A good gun safe will protect your guns from fire as well as water. An average house fire can reach up to 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning your safe must be able to stand that temperature for at least a half hour. Similarly, find a safe that resists water during a flood.
Accessories
Finally, while you shop around for safes for sale, you will find that there are so many accessories available. Some safes are equipped with gun racks and built-in lights, some have hygrometers for taking humidity measurements, and others even have built-in dehumidifiers. If you want to keep low on costs, it will be cheaper for you to buy accessories individually and then install them yourself.