Best Fireproof Gun Safe Under $500
Guarding the Guardians: Top-Quality Fireproof Gun Safes on a Budget
In today's world, with uncertainties lurking around every corner, the security of our prized possessions has become paramount. And when it comes to firearms, the stakes are even higher.
Not only do you want to ensure unauthorized access is prevented, but you also want protection from unexpected calamities like fires. If you're in the market for a fireproof gun safe and don't want to break the bank, you're in the right place.
Our comprehensive guide dives deep into the world of fireproof gun safes, presenting a curated selection of top picks that won't cost you a fortune.
With a combination of essential buying tips, detailed product recommendations, and in-depth reviews, you'll be armed with the knowledge to find the perfect safe for your needs, all while staying under $500.
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Fireproof Handgun Safes:
Best Budget
Fortress Personal Safe
• Capacity: 4 Handguns
• Fire Rating: 45min @1400°F
• Water Rating: 72hrs @2.8” Deep
• Weight: 60 lbs
Best Value
AmazonBasics Safe
• Capacity: 12 Handguns
• Fire Rating: 20min @1200°F
• Water Rating: Not Waterproof
• Weight: 94 lbs
Best Overall
Barska Fireproof Safe
• Capacity: 4 Handguns
• Fire Rating: 60min @1700°F
• Water Rating: Not Waterproof
• Weight: 66 lbs
Fireproof Rifle Safes:
Best Budget
TOLEBLID Biometric Safe
• Capacity: 7 Long Guns
• Fire Rating: 60min @1700°F
• Weight: 112 lbs
Best Value
Lifetime Warranty
Sports Afield Home Defense
• Capacity: 4 Long Guns
• Fire Rating: 20min @1200°F
• Weight: 106 lbs
Quick Links:
Below are our top-6 recommendations for the best fireproof gun safes under $500.
Fireproof Handgun Safes:
Best Budget: Fortress Personal Handgun Safe: A compact and affordable safe tailored for personal items and handguns, offering 45 minutes of fire protection at 1400°F and is waterproof for up to 72 hours.
Best Value: Amazon Basics Fireproof Safe: A 2.1-cubic-foot safe that protects documents and valuables from fire, offering a 20-minute fire resistance at 1200 degrees Fahrenheit, with a heavy-duty steel construction.
Great Value: Barska Fireproof Safe: Designed for optimum fire protection, this safe withstands up to 1,700°F for an hour, boasting a digital keypad and tamper-proof internal hinges for enhanced security.
Fireproof Rifle Safes:
Best Budget: TOLEBILD Fireproof Gun Safe: A modern and heavyweight safe capable of holding 7-9 rifles, complete with an advanced biometric locking system, multiple unlocking methods, and a unique anti-theft alarm system.
Best Value: Winchester 20 Gun Fireproof Safe: A robust and spacious safe designed to house up to 20 long guns, providing 30 minutes of fire protection at 1,400°F and complemented with an electronic keypad for easy access.
Best for Small Collections: Sports Afield Home Defense 4-Gun Fireproof Safe: Tailored for smaller gun collections, this biometric-lock safe offers 20 minutes of fire protection at 1,200°F and stands out with its comprehensive lifetime warranty.
Important Features to Consider
Whether you're a seasoned firearm enthusiast or a first-time gun owner, ensuring the safe storage of your firearms is paramount.
Not only do you want to keep your guns out of the wrong hands, but you also want to protect them from potential disasters such as fires.
Enter the fireproof gun safe—a vital tool in safeguarding both your firearms and peace of mind.
In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to pick the best fireproof gun safe for your needs.
Why Invest in a Fireproof Gun Safe?
Protection from Fires: The primary reason is, of course, to protect your guns and valuables from fires. Standard gun safes might protect against theft, but a fireproof safe ensures your firearms are secure even in high-temperature situations.
Insurance Requirements: Many insurance policies require gun owners to store their firearms in a certified safe to be eligible for coverage or to receive better rates.
Peace of Mind: Knowing your valuables are secure from both theft and fire can offer immeasurable peace of mind.
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What Makes a Fireproof Safe the "Best"?
Fire Rating:
The fire rating indicates how long the safe can withstand specific temperatures. The best safes can endure temperatures exceeding 1,300°F for over an hour.
Quality of Build:
Superior fireproof safes are made with thick steel walls and doors. The thicker the steel, the more resistant it is to break-ins and heat.
Seals and Insulation:
The best safes feature expandable heat seals and multiple layers of fireboard or other insulating materials to ensure maximum fire resistance.
Advanced Locking Mechanisms:
High-end safes offer advanced locking mechanisms, including biometric scanners and electronic keypads, which enhance security and user convenience.
Key Features to Look For:
1. Fire Rating: The fire rating of a safe indicates how long it can withstand certain temperatures. Typically, a safe that can endure 1,300°F for at least 30 minutes is considered good. However, the longer and hotter a safe can handle, the better.
2. Size and Capacity: Consider how many firearms you need to store, including potential future purchases. Factor in space for ammunition, accessories, and other valuables.
3. Lock Mechanism: There are different types of locks, from traditional dial combinations to electronic keypads to biometric scanners. Choose one that offers a balance of security and convenience for you.
4. Steel Thickness: The thicker the steel, the harder it will be for burglars to breach. Look for safes with at least 10-gauge steel walls.
5. Weight: A heavier safe can be a deterrent against theft, as it's harder to move.
6. Anchoring Options: Ensure the safe can be anchored to the floor or wall to prevent thieves from simply carting it away.
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1. Fire Rating:
The most critical feature of any fireproof safe is its fire rating.
Duration: The longer the safe can withstand high temperatures, the better. Ideally, look for a rating of at least 1 hour at 1,700°F. Some safes even boast a 2-hour rating.
Independent Testing: Ensure that the safe's fire rating comes from a reputable, independent laboratory. Underwriters Laboratories (UL) is a recognized leader in this field.
2. Material and Build Quality:
The construction of the safe determines its overall durability and effectiveness.
Steel Thickness: Safes with thicker walls (e.g., 10-gauge steel) offer better protection against both fire and forced entry.
Seals: Quality safes have expanding door seals activated by heat. These seals prevent smoke and water from entering the safe during a fire.
3. Locking Mechanism:
The type of lock is essential for overall security.
Biometric Locks: These use unique features like fingerprints for access, offering quick access and high security.
Electronic Keypads: Allow for personalized combination codes.
Traditional Dial Locks: These don’t require batteries and are proven over time, but may be slower to operate.
Redundant Locks: Some safes come with multiple locking mechanisms for added security.
4. Size and Internal Layout:
Capacity: Factor in current and potential future storage needs. A slightly larger safe than you currently need might be prudent.
Adjustable Shelves: These are invaluable for maximizing space and organizing contents effectively.
Internal Locking Boxes: For added security, some safes feature internal boxes with separate locks.
5. Water Resistance:
Many times, fires are accompanied by water (from firefighting efforts). A quality safe should also provide protection against water damage.
Waterproof Seals: These prevent water intrusion in case of floods or hose water during firefighting.
6. Mounting and Anchoring Options:
A safe is most effective when it's anchored to the floor or wall, making it harder for thieves to just carry it away.
7. Additional Protective Layers:
Tamper Alerts: Some high-end safes have alarms that sound if someone tries to move or tamper with the safe.
Impact Resistance: This feature means the safe can withstand falls (e.g., through burning floors) without bursting open.
8. Climate Control:
For storing delicate items like documents or electronics:
Dehumidifiers: These prevent moisture buildup, which can damage stored items.
Interior Lighting: Useful for seeing your valuables in low-light situations.
9. Warranty and Customer Support:
Warranty Duration: Longer warranties indicate manufacturer confidence in the product.
Customer Support: Ensure the brand provides timely and effective support if any issues arise.
Additional Tips:
Location: Choose a location in your home that's both discreet and away from potential fire hazards. Basements, away from furnaces or fireplaces, can be a good choice.
Maintenance: Just like any other equipment, safes require maintenance. Regularly check the locking mechanism and consider lubricating moving parts.
Backup: While a fireproof safe is an excellent first line of defense, consider also having a backup plan, like storing important documents in a safety deposit box.
Insurance: Even with the best safe, it's wise to insure your firearms and valuables. Ensure your insurance policy covers the full value.
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Placement and Positioning:
Avoid Obvious Spots: While you may want easy access to your safe, it's essential to strike a balance. Avoid placing your safe in obvious spots where intruders would look first.
Consider the Floor: A ground floor location is usually best since safes are heavy, and upper floors might not support the weight, especially of larger models.
Fire Considerations: Position your safe away from potential fire sources like kitchens and fireplaces. Basements, although often damp, can be an ideal location for temperature stability and fire safety.
Regular Maintenance:
Clean the Exterior: Wipe the exterior of your safe with a damp cloth to avoid dust accumulation.
Inspect Seals: Periodically check the door seals to ensure they remain tight and undamaged.
Lubricate Locks: Depending on the lock type, it might need lubrication. Consult the manufacturer's guidelines.
Safe Organization:
Use Silica Packs: These can absorb moisture and prevent rust or mold. They're especially useful if your safe isn't in a climate-controlled environment.
Avoid Overstuffing: While it might be tempting to maximize space, overstuffed safes can put pressure on the door, making it less effective against fire and theft.
Regularly Rotate Contents: Ensure that what you store in your safe remains relevant. Periodically rotate out documents or valuables that no longer need such high-level protection.
Insurance and Documentation:
Insure Your Valuables: Even the best safes can't prevent all potential damage. It's wise to insure your possessions to ensure you're covered if the worst happens.
Document Safe Contents: Take photos of the safe's contents and keep an inventory. Store this information elsewhere, so you have a record in case of theft or disaster.
Upgrading and Re-evaluation:
Regularly Review Your Needs: As life changes, so might your security needs. Periodically re-evaluate to determine if your current safe still meets your requirements.
Consider Upgrades: Technology and design are always advancing. Stay updated about newer models or features that could enhance your security.
Best Fireproof Gun Safe Under $500
Below are our top-6 recommendations for fireproof gun safes under $500, sorted by safe-type and price from low to high.
Fireproof Handgun Safes:
Best Budget: Fortress Personal Handgun Safe: A compact and affordable safe tailored for personal items and handguns, offering 45 minutes of fire protection at 1400°F and is waterproof for up to 72 hours.
Best Value: Amazon Basics Fireproof Safe: A 2.1-cubic-foot safe that protects documents and valuables from fire, offering a 20-minute fire resistance at 1200 degrees Fahrenheit, with a heavy-duty steel construction.
Great Value: Barska Fireproof Safe: Designed for optimum fire protection, this safe withstands up to 1,700°F for an hour, boasting a digital keypad and tamper-proof internal hinges for enhanced security.
Fireproof Rifle Safes:
Best Budget: TOLEBILD Fireproof Gun Safe: A modern and heavyweight safe capable of holding 7-9 rifles, complete with an advanced biometric locking system, multiple unlocking methods, and a unique anti-theft alarm system.
Best Value: Winchester 20 Gun Fireproof Safe: A robust and spacious safe designed to house up to 20 long guns, providing 30 minutes of fire protection at 1,400°F and complemented with an electronic keypad for easy access.
Best for Small Collections: Sports Afield Home Defense 4-Gun Fireproof Safe: Tailored for smaller gun collections, this biometric-lock safe offers 20 minutes of fire protection at 1,200°F and stands out with its comprehensive lifetime warranty.
Fortress Personal Safe
Product Highlight:
The Fortress Personal Handgun Safe is a fireproof and waterproof personal safe, designed to ensure the security of essential documents, jewelry, handguns, and other valuables at home or in the office.
Its robust features are complemented by its affordability, making it a reliable option for those seeking a balance of quality and cost.
Key Features:
Gun Capacity: 4 handguns
Fireproof Rating: 45 minutes at 1400°F
Weight: 48 lbs
Locking Mechanism: Easy programmable digital lock with 3-8 digit combination. Features 2-4 solid steel active locking bolts and an additional 2 fixed bolts.
Additional Features:
Waterproof for up to 72 hours in 2.8 inches of water.
Constructed with solid steel for durability.
Sturdy easy-grip lever handle ensures smooth operations.
Mute-U™ Audible beeps for a discreet entry option.
Fully carpeted interior for added protection of contents.
Predrilled mounting holes with hardware included.
External hinges provide a full 180-degree opening for easy access.
Review:
The Fortress Personal Handgun Safe offers an impressive combination of fire and water protection. Its fireproof rating is commendable, ensuring protection against high temperatures for up to 45 minutes. The additional waterproof feature, ensuring safekeeping in up to 2.8 inches of water for 72 hours, is an added advantage not commonly found in many personal safes.
One standout feature is the Mute-U™ technology, allowing for silent entry, which can be beneficial in particular situations. The solid steel construction and locking mechanisms provide a level of security that surpasses the California Department of Justice standards for firearm security, further boosting its credibility.
However, potential users might miss a biometric access feature, which many modern safes offer. Nonetheless, the digital lock with a combination option is simple yet effective.
The inclusion of a carpeted interior ensures that the valuables, especially firearms, don't get scratched or damaged over time.
Plus, the external hinges, which provide a full 180-degree opening, simplify the process of placing or retrieving items from the safe. The predesignated mounting holes are a thoughtful addition, making the installation process straightforward.
Who It's For:
The Fortress Personal Handgun Safe is ideal for individuals seeking a dependable safe for their handguns and other small valuables. It is especially suitable for those who prioritize fire and water protection.
Its ease of use, combined with its security features, makes it an excellent choice for both home and office settings. The safe is also a fit for users who prefer silent access and appreciate the full 180-degree opening for effortless content management.
AmazonBasics Safe
Product Highlight:
The Amazon Basics Fireproof Safe offers a solid 2.1-cubic-foot storage capacity designed to safeguard essential documents, valuables, and more against both theft and fire hazards.
Key Features:
Gun Capacity: 12 handguns
Fireproof Rating: 20 minutes at 1200°F
Weight: 94 lbs
Locking Mechanism: Programmable electronic keypad with a backup key for emergencies.
Additional Features:
Made from durable 14-gauge heavy-duty steel.
Contains 5 large 0.75-inch bolts (including 2 external active bolts and 2 internal dead bolts) ensuring enhanced security.
Features an adjustable shelf to maximize storage space.
Interior carpeting protects contents from scratches.
Requires a 9V battery (not included) to operate the electronic keypad.
Review:
The Amazon Basics Fireproof Safe stands out for its substantial 2.1-cubic-foot capacity, making it versatile for various storage needs, from important documents to valuables like jewelry and cash. Its fire resistance, certified by the modified UL 72 Standard and tested by Intertek, provides a reasonable assurance against fire threats for a duration of 20 minutes.
Constructed from 14-gauge heavy-duty steel and fortified with five large bolts, the safe offers commendable protection against unauthorized access. The inclusion of both active and dead bolts enhances the security features of this product.
One of the appealing aspects of this safe is its programmable electronic keypad, ensuring quick and straightforward access. For scenarios where electronic access might fail or in emergencies, the backup key provides a reliable alternative.
On the interior, the adjustable shelf feature allows users to customize the storage space based on their needs, while the carpeting ensures that stored items remain scratch-free.
Though it covers the basics quite well, the requirement of a 9V battery, which isn't included, might be a minor inconvenience for some users.
Who It's For:
The Amazon Basics Fireproof Safe is ideal for homeowners looking for a spacious yet compact solution to protect their handguns from fire and theft. This safe offers a huge capacity but offers no mounting solutions. For added security, you’ll have to drill your own mounting holes.
Barska Fireproof Safe
Product Highlight:
The Barska® Fireproof Safe stands as a robust protector against fire hazards, ensuring safety for contents for an extended 1 hour at an impressive 1,700°F.
Key Features:
Gun Capacity: 4 handguns
Fireproof Rating: 1 hour at 1,700°F.
Weight: 66 lbs.
Locking Mechanism: Digital keypad entry that can retain 2 distinct digital pin codes, and an emergency override key feature for backup access.
Additional Features:
Designed with inside tamper-proof hinges for added security.
Easy-to-program and operate digital keypad.
Bright LED display ensures clarity even in low-light conditions.
Comes with 2 back-up keys and 4xAA batteries for immediate setup.
Door thickness stands at a solid 8.2mm.
Covered by a Manufacturer’s 1-Year Limited Warranty.
Review:
Barska’s Fireproof Safe stands out primarily due to its impressive fireproof rating, capable of safeguarding its contents for an hour at a scorching 1,700°F. Such a feature makes it a formidable choice for those particularly concerned about fire hazards.
The digital keypad entry is a modern touch, offering ease of access without compromising security. The capacity to retain two separate digital pin codes allows for shared access if necessary, making it a versatile choice for either personal or shared use. Its bright LED display ensures visibility even in dim environments, a subtle but practical feature.
Built with inside tamper-proof hinges, the Barska Safe offers an extra layer of protection against potential break-ins. This design, coupled with its 8.2mm door thickness, showcases Barska’s commitment to not only fire safety but also to theft deterrence.
While its weight and size make it a more stationary choice, its spacious interior ensures ample storage capacity. The provided batteries and backup keys simplify the setup process, making it user-friendly right out of the box.
Who It's For:
The Barska Fireproof Safe is best suited for individuals who prioritize extended fire protection in their security measures. Its capacity and design make it apt for homeowners looking to safeguard a few handguns. The safe's ability to retain multiple pin codes makes it a fitting choice where multiple members might require access.
TOLEBILD Fireproof Gun Safe
Product Highlight:
The TOLEBILD Fireproof Gun Safe, designed with a state-of-the-art security system, not only offers storage for an impressive 7-8 rifles but ensures robust protection against theft and unauthorized access. A mix of advanced biometric technology and durable construction makes it a frontrunner in the market of fireproof safes.
Key Features:
Gun Capacity: 7 long guns
Fireproof Rating: 60 minutes at 1700°F
Weight: 112 lbs.
Locking Mechanism: Advanced semiconductor fingerprint reader, which is touted to be more accurate and faster than traditional optical fingerprint readers. It also offers a digital keypad and emergency key access.
Additional Features:
Soft foam barrel rest and a carpeted floor protect the guns from potential damage.
Pry-resistant concealed hinges enhance security.
Offers multiple unlocking methods including biometric, keypad, emergency key, and an external battery box for power emergencies.
Capacity to store and recognize up to 100 fingerprints.
Anti-theft alarm system activates if the wrong password is entered 3 times or wrong fingerprint 5 times. Movement while locked can also trigger the alarm.
Silent mode can be activated to mute the alarm.
78mm thick steel door ensures further durability and security.
Review:
TOLEBILD's Fireproof Gun Safe brings forward a unique blend of spacious storage and innovative security features. Its interior dimensions allow for the storage of 7 rifles, even those with scopes, making it an excellent option for gun enthusiasts.
The soft foam barrel rest and carpeted floor provide an added layer of protection for the firearms, ensuring they remain in pristine condition.
Its advanced semiconductor fingerprint reader sets it apart. Boasting better accuracy and speed than its optical counterparts, it promises a swift and secure access system.
The 112-pound weight and its construction — with a 78mm ultra-thick alloy pry-resistant door and x5 30mm solid core lock bolts — mean it isn't just about biometric tech; physical robustness is equally prioritized.
The alarm system, which activates upon multiple incorrect entries or if the safe is moved while locked, offers an additional layer of security.
Who It's For:
The TOLEBILD Fireproof Gun Safe is designed for gun enthusiasts and owners who need a spacious, secure, and technologically advanced safe to protect their firearms. Those who appreciate the convenience of biometric access alongside traditional key access will find this product particularly appealing.
Winchester 20 Gun Fireproof Safe
Product Highlight:
The Winchester TS20 Gun Safe is a classic amalgamation of Winchester's commitment to security, fire protection, and spacious design, tailored to fit into a myriad of settings.
Key Features:
Gun Capacity: 20 long guns
Fireproof Rating: 30 minutes at 1,400°F
Weight: 328 lb
Locking Mechanism: Electronic lock with an additional back-up key provision.
Additional Features:
10.48 cu. ft. of interior capacity.
Robust construction with six 1-inch solid steel locking bolts.
The door construction utilizes composite materials and is 4.25 inches thick.
The lock system comes with a 1-year warranty from the date of purchase, with two backup keys included.
Additional warranties cover materials, workmanship, handle, spokes, bolt work mechanism, and locking bolts.
Review:
With a reputation that precedes its name, Winchester's TS20 Gun Safe does not disappoint. A fire rating of 30 minutes at 1,400°F, combined with an electronic lock system backed by solid steel locking bolts, assures users of top-tier security.
The 328 lb. weight and solid construction offer both stability and resistance against theft. The design accommodates up to 20 long guns, making it a choice selection for firearm enthusiasts.
Composite door construction adds an extra layer of security while the black, powder-coated finish gives it a modern appeal.
Who It's For:
The Winchester 20 Gun Fireproof Safe is perfect for firearm collectors and owners who require both spacious storage and top-tier security. Those who prioritize established brand reliability and a combination of electronic and key lock systems will appreciate this model.
Given its size and capacity, it's tailored for individuals with a sizeable gun collection and those who trust in Winchester's longstanding reputation for quality and security.
Sports Afield Home Defense Fireproof Gun Safe
Product Highlight:
The Sports Afield Home Defense Fire Safe stands out with its biometric locking system, ensuring both swift and secure access, while providing protection from fire and unwarranted intrusions.
Tailored for compact gun collections, its Lifetime Warranty is an unmatched assurance of lasting quality.
Key Features:
Gun Capacity: 4 long guns
Fireproof Rating: 20 minutes at 1,200°F
Weight: 106 lbs
Locking Mechanism: Fully programmable biometric lock.
Additional Features:
Three 1.0-inch active steel bolts and two 1.0-inch deadbolts for reinforced protection.
The biometric lock can be programmed for up to 100 fingerprints, ensuring precision and allowing multiple users.
Fail Safe override keys ensure access to the safe under any circumstance.
The interior is fully carpeted, featuring soft-touch overmolded barrel rests and a movable scoped rifle standoff.
Lifetime Warranty - comprehensively covers the entire safe against theft, fire, natural flood, defective locks, parts, and paint, positioning it as one of the best long-term investments.
Review:
The Sports Afield Home Defense Fire Safe is a meticulously crafted product, aligning security, accessibility, and durability. Its 20-minute fireproof rating at 1,200°F offers adequate protection against unforeseen fires.
The biometric locking system sets it apart. Capable of storing up to 100 fingerprints, it not only ensures multiple angles of a single user's fingerprint are recognized but also accommodates several users.
Its commitment to security is further cemented with three active steel bolts, two deadbolts, and the added assurance of override keys.
Internally, the design thoughtfully accommodates firearms with soft-touch barrel rests and provisions for rifles with optics.
The crown jewel of this safe is its Lifetime Warranty. This expansive warranty, covering everything from theft and fire damage to defective components and paint, positions the Sports Afield safe as not just a purchase, but a lasting investment.
Who It's For:
This safe is tailored for those with a small collection of long guns, prioritizing swift, biometric access and the assurance of a lifetime warranty.
Homeowners seeking a blend of robust security, modern access technology, and a commitment to lasting quality will find the Sports Afield Home Defense 4-Gun Fireproof Safe an ideal choice.
Conclusion
Investing in a quality fireproof gun safe is not just about protecting your firearms—it's about peace of mind.
Knowing that your valuables, including your guns, are safe from both intruders and natural disasters can be priceless.
Thankfully, a tight budget doesn't mean you have to compromise on quality. As we've shown, there are numerous top-tier options available under $500.
Whether you're looking for a compact option for a few handguns or a larger safe for an expanding collection, there's something on our list for every gun owner.
Armed with the information from our buyer's guide and reviews, you're now equipped to make an informed decision and ensure that your valuables remain safe and sound, no matter what.
