How to Choose a Gun Safe
Fire rating, capacity, quick-access vs. full-size, and where to bolt it down — what to know before buying a safe.
The Quick Take
A gun safe does two jobs: keep firearms away from kids and thieves, and (for better safes) protect against fire. Match the safe to the job — a quick-access pistol safe by the bed for defensive readiness, and a larger fire-rated safe for the collection. Buy bigger than you think you need; everyone outgrows their first safe.
Key things to weigh: fire rating (and for how long), steel gauge and lock type (quality mechanical or a reputable electronic lock), and — critically — bolting it to the floor, because a safe that two people can carry out isn't secure. The questions below cover quick-access vs. full-size, fire ratings, and installation tips from owners.
