Best Fireproof Gun Safe Review [Complete 2022 Guide]

So, you bought guns to protect your family from thieves and other bad guys that may break into your home. But the reality is, guns are expensive and need another level of security to ensure that they are protected from burglars and fire! 

Some gun safes offer good burglary ratings and ignore fire protection, leaving your valuables vulnerable from flood or fire. Since you’ve spent hard-earned money on them, why not invest in a gun safe with a high burglary rating and a high fire rating? In this post, we’ve got everything you need to know about fireproof gun safes as well as our picks of the best fireproof gun safe for your budget and lifestyle.

Not all gun safes are created equal - some safes are good for concealment or to prevent forceful entry. But, it doesn’t mean that your valuables are safe from fire. 

The ways to build a safe that protects against fire can be very different than protecting against burglary!

Fire accidents are often unexpected and can consume everything you have at home. And, there are over 1 million fires in the US every year! So before you invest in a gun safe, make sure you look for fire-resistance as a feature.

A fireproof gun safe is not only good for storing and protecting your weapons but also other valuable items like pieces of jewelry, pictures, documents, or storage devices that contain sensitive data or media. To properly protect your documents, guns, and other valuable items, a gun safe must maintain an internal temperature below 350 °F.

If you’re concerned about how to protect your valuables from fire, chances are you’ve already done your research online and found many gun safes that offer fire protection. The truth is, not everything you read about fireproof gun safes is true. Some manufacturers simply claim their safes are fireproof based on unregulated fire ratings or without testing. That’s why it’s very important to consider a gun safe that has been thoroughly analyzed and tested against fire vulnerability. 

UL (Underwriters Laboratories) certifications are the most reliable when it comes to assessing fireproof gun safes. You can see some of the certifications listed below for fireproof gun safes:

• Class 125

This class means that a safe can sustain 80% humidity and an internal temperature of 125 °F (52 °C). It is also sufficient to protect paper documents as well as floppy disks (but UL didn’t specify clearly if it can also protect DVDs, CDs, and Blu-ray disks). The safe’s door also has a water-resistant seal which expands when exposed to heat (water may seep in if not exposed to heat prior to being submerged into the water).

• Class 150

This class allows a safe to sustain 85% humidity and 150 °F (66 °C) internal temperature, making it sufficient to protect paper articles and storage devices such as compact disks. However, not all safes with this class is waterproof (due to a gasket on its door).

• Class 350

This class means that a safe can sustain 350 °F (177 °C) and humidity of 85%. The safe is ideal for storing important paper documents (paper’s autoignition temperature is around 450 °F  or 232 °C).

Some gun safes can simply protect your valuables from the direct flames but not from the internal heat. Extreme internal temperatures can destroy some of your temperature-sensitive possessions such as storage devices, ammunition, or documents.

Fireproof gun safes are usually more expensive than an ordinary gun safe because of the hard material it is made of. If you truly want to protect your valuables, then you have to consider how much you are willing to invest. Make sure to consider the construction quality, wall thickness, and the material it is made of so that you can get the best value of your money. Remember, a lower gauge number means a thicker steel (which is better) and a larger gauge number means a thinner steel. A high-quality gun safe must have at least 11 gauge steel in its body and should be 10 to 7 gauge steel.

Gun safes should not only protect your valuables from fire and other calamities but from thieves as well! Whether we like it or not, burglars will often consider a safe as a big catch because they know it contains valuables like jewelry and guns. So when they see one, they will focus all their efforts to break it open (or carry with them) to get their hands on whatever is inside. 

The most common thing that burglars do is to pry the door of the safe open. When it is protected with locking bolts and thick steel, it’s very difficult for any thieves to pry it open.  If they can tip it over and get at the back, that’s another favorite attack method, which is why it’s so important to attach it to the floor!

Are you a gun collector? Bought guns every time you see a deal online?

Do you need more space to place not just your weapons but also other valuables such as jewelry, cash, and important documents? Then it’s very important to consider the size of the gun safe.  You probably don’t want two safes later, so buy some spare capacity to account for future purchase. 

The level of fire protection that a gun safe offers differs based on the amount of time and the temperature it can sustain to protect your weapons at a given fire temperature. 

Unfortunately, as we mentioned earlier, most manufacturers come up with their own testing methods and certifications.  The higher the fire protection level is, the better. A lot of high-quality fireproof gun safes can offer at least 30 minutes of protection from temperatures around 1,200 to 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit.

We’ve summarized the different levels of fire protection you can choose, depending on the class and materials.

• Phoenix™ Class I: 45 minute fire rating
  Safeguard: Standard Series
• Phoenix™ Class II: One hour fire rating
  Champion: Medalist, Model T, & Super Short Series
  Superior: Ironside & Super Short Series
  Safeguard: Deluxe Series
• Phoenix™ Class III: 75 minute fire rating
  Champion: Trophy Series
  Superior: Regal Series
• Phoenix™ Class IV: 90 minute fire rating
  Champion: Triumph Series
  Superior: Master Series
• Phoenix™ Class V: 110 minute fire rating
  Superior: Untouchable & Supreme Series
• Phoenix™ Class VI: Two hour fire rating Champion: Crown Series

Price: $ 256.41
Rating: 3.5/5
Fireproof: 60 minutes for up to 1800 degree F

Pros:

• The keypad comes with backlights so you can easily access your safe even at night or in complete darkness
• Comes with easy-to-mount hardware to prevent thieves from moving it
• Comes with a power supply as backup when the battery goes down
• Equipped with an alarm for added protection

Cons:

• Keypad doesn’t come with silent mode
• The safe is too heavy for its size
• The safe is not waterproof
• The safe’s door can wobble a little bit when closed

If you’re looking for a fireproof gun safe that won’t consume too much space in your home (let’s say, you’re only renting an apartment), then this small safe could be ideal for you. Even though it has a small size, you can easily mount it anywhere in your home so that it can’t be easily moved or snatched away by thieves (the hardware for mounting comes free with the safe). It is ideal for storing smaller weapons such as handguns as well as other valuables and important documents. The fireproof safe is protected with an electronic keypad and thumb throw lock for easy access. You can safely program a master code as well as a user code for more flexible options to access the safe. However, you do need to change the code every few months for more security (you can push the button inside the safe to reset the codes). And what happens if you forget the codes? You can use the backup keys to gain access!

Price: $494.33
Rating: 4.2/5
Fireproof: 120 minutes for up to 1830 degree F

Pros:

• Designed with six locking points as well as deadbolts for more protection from prying
• Electronic keypads come with a silent mode
• Adjustable shelves to suit different storage needs
• Offers large storage capacity (17.6 x 55.1 x 26.8 inches) at 247 pounds weight

Cons:

• The carpets inside can easily come off over time. You may need to glue the carpet on the shelves when it starts coming off.
• The safe can produce a loud sound when it is locked/ unlocked. You need to hit the silence mode first before opening the safe.

The numerous protection features are just some of the reasons why you would want to consider this fireproof gun safe on your list. First, the gun safe is secured with six locking points as well as hidden hinges and deadbolts made of steel to ensure that any burglars cannot easily pry it open. It also offers two ways to access your valuables inside - an electronic lock with keypads or the two backup keys. Since it has an electronic lock, it needs batteries to operate. 

But what if the batteries die? 

Then you can choose the backup keys. But the chances of that happening is quite low since you will be alerted if the batteries are low (so you’ll probably know when you need to change the batteries before it goes dead). And lastly, the large storage capacity with adjustable shelves will help you keep more guns and organize them inside easily. You can store up to 22 guns for maximum capacity, or up to 11 firearms if you intend to keep other valuables inside.

Price: $ 246.63
Rating: 4.3/5
Fireproof: 60 minutes for up to 1700 degrees F

Pros:

• Constructed with thick materials for longer protection from fire
• Comes with free bolts to secure your gun safe at any parts of your home
• Comes with adjustable shelves
• Has large storage capacity
• Manufacturer offers insurance when your valuables inside are damaged during a fire

Cons:

• The fireproof insulation produces some moisture. Valuables damaged by this moisture are not covered by the insurance
• No quick access - you need to use both the key and code combination to open the safe
• You cannot change the combination of the safe
• The handle of the safe can be easily damaged when not lifted appropriately

The Sentrysafe fireproof safe protects your valuables from fire and heat. Aside from protecting your weapons, it can also protect your other valuables that are sensitive to temperature (such as CDs and DVDs which can melt from excessive heat). Aside from being fireproof, the safe is also waterproof. You don’t need to worry about the fire department ruining your valuables trying to save your house. 

In fact, it guarantees 24-hour protection when the safe is submerged in the water at least 8 inches deep. And when it comes to security, Sentrysafe ensures that it won’t be easy for any thieves to pry it open. The gun safe is designed with a hinge bar and four large bolts for stronger security. The safe can be accessed using a combination lock and keys - so it’s not great for quick access during an emergency. 

Price: $ 609.40
Rating: 3.7/5
Fireproof: 30 minutes for up to 1400 degrees F

Pros:

• Offers four removable shelves to better organize your stuff inside
• Weights more than 500 pounds, making it too heavy for any thief to carry
• Contains door stripping that expands when exposed to extreme heat, protecting the contents of the safe from internal heat
• Doesn’t need batteries

Cons:

• The locking lugs go behind the safe’s wall instead of into a solid base 
• Not waterproof

Looking for a fireproof safe with large storage capacity? This Stack-On gun safe could suit your needs.  It can hold up to 24 firearms or 12 guns with more space for other possessions. The fireproof safe is equipped with adjustable shelves so you can easily organize anything you put inside and an interior carpet to protect your guns from scratches. 

You can access the safe using a three combination lock which is constructed with a hardened steel behind (any thief will have difficulty in drilling the combination lock). It is also equipped with five locking points to ensure that your possessions inside cannot be easily accessed by prying open the door.

Price: $ 329.53
Rating: 3.7/ 5
Fireproof: 60 minutes for up to 1700 degrees F

Pros:

• Entering incorrect codes a few times will automatically make the safe inaccessible. You need to open it with an override key.
• Comes with two removable/ adjustable shelves
• You need both the key and combination code to access the safe, increasing its security

Cons:

• The shelf inside is not ideal for holding heavier items
• The safe can accumulate moisture when exposed to heat
• The safe doesn’t offer quick access (for emergencies) because you need both the key and combination code to open it

One of the neat features of this safe is its water resistant ability (on top of being fire resistant) so you can protect your valuable. Your guns and other possessions remain safe inside as it effectively blocks any moisture from entering when submerged into the water. And in case of fire, the safe can maintain its internal temperature below 350 degrees fahrenheit to protect your valuables inside. 

The keypads have backlights so you can still access your safe during night time. And if you forget your combination codes, you can always use the override keys to unlock the safe.

Price: $ 849
Rating: 4.7/ 5
Fireproof: 60 minutes for up ro 1875 degrees F

Pros:

• Superior security against burglary
• Large storage capacity for shotguns and rifles
• Excellent fire proof capacity

Cons:

• Too expensive
• Freight companies often prefer to deliver it to your garage or driveway due to the extreme weight

This heavy duty fireproof gun safe garners the top customer reviews in the market due to its solid and robust construction. The solid gun safe can protect up to twenty shotguns or rifles, or 14 to 16 for scoped long guns. The safe is accessible using an EMP-proof keypad or an override key. The safe’s interior is covered with carpet to protect your weapons and equipped with bright LED lights to illuminate the inside when you need to access your guns during the night. A predrilled hole is also present for a safe dehumidifier so that your weapons are always in top shape.

Price: $ 399.99
Rating: 4.7/ 5
Fireproof: 30 minutes for up to 1200 degrees F

Pros:

• Value option given its specs/ features
• Excellent protection from fire and burglary
• Shelves are removable / adjustable
• Can be accessed using a keypad or mechanical lock

Cons:

• Limited storage capacity for long guns when shelves are used
• The door can have more play, it seems like there’s more manufacturing variation

This versatile, multi-shelf fireproof safe is the ideal safe for anyone who wants good security, protection, and robust construction at an affordable price. If you love collecting long guns, then this fireproof safe has one of the highest capacities. 

It has multiple shelves which you can arrange in any way you want. Overall, the safe has great reviews due to its versatility, storage capacity, and excellent security features.

Price: $340
Rating: 4.3/5
Fireproof: 60 minutes for up to 1700 degrees F

Pros:

• Offers waterproof protection when submerged up to 24 hours
• Can survive a drop up to 15 feet
• Provides interior drawers for other valuables
• Comes with lockout key to prevent access via the keypad

Cons:

• The interior space is too small

If you want a smaller gun safe that is fireproof, waterproof, and thief-proof, then the SentrySafe SFW123GDC may be worth considering. It is the ideal safe for handguns, documents, CDs, flash drives, jewelry, and other valuables due to its compact size. If you rent an apartment and don’t want the hassle of owning a bigger fireproof gun safe, then this one could fit your lifestyle. Aside from excellent security features and a low price, the safe also has robust construction that can survive when dropped up to 15 feet without breaking open.

Price: $ 2,695
Rating: 3.6/5
Fireproof: 120 minutes for up to 1875 degrees F

Pros:

• Longer protection from fire (up to 2 hours)
• Excellent protection from burglary
• Interior is fully carpeted
• Comes with 8 adjustable shelves
• Electronic keypad is EMP-proof
• Comes with two USB ports and three 110 V outlets for connecting electronics such as lights and dehumidifiers

Cons:

• Very expensive
• Limited delivery options due to its heavy weight

If you have the extra cash to spare for an expensive and high quality fireproof gun safe, then you should consider the Steelwater Extreme Duty gun safe. What makes it set apart from other competitor brands is its unmatched 2 hours protection from fire. It’s also constructed with high quality materials that make it resistant from any forms of drilling, prying, ballistic assaults, sawing, and any other forms of burglary attacks. 

The interior is completely covered with grey carpet to protect your weapons and other valuables from scratches and other forms of damages. It can hold up to 45 long guns and the adjustable shelves allow you to organize your possessions accordingly.

Price: $ 699.99
Rating: 4.5/ 5
Fireproof: 75 minutes for up to 1400 degrees F

Pros:

• Comes with bright LEDs to light up the interior
• Excellent protection from fire and burglary
• Comes with removable shelves
• Offers up to 24 guns storage capacity

Cons:

• Somes customers report a malfunctioning keypad

The Heritage Fireproof Safe comes with a solid build and elegant style. It doesn’t only offer protection from fire but also from water. And, the safe is built with strong materials so that it can sustain any prolonged burglary attacks so your valuables stay safe inside. However, some customers report malfunctioning keypads and poor customer support, which can be a little disappointing when you pay this much. Hopefully, Heritage can fix these issues.

It all depends on the size and weight of the safe, and if you would want to anchor it (to protect it from thieves) or not. Some renters won’t be able anchor their safe permanently, but that drastically decreases the security of your guns.

Most smaller safes come with predrilled holes and bolts so you can attach it to the floor or a wall. Make sure to check the specs from the manufacturer as well as the manual before making a purchase.

To ensure your valuables are safe, it’s recommended that you store your guns unloaded and store your ammo separately from your guns. It may sound inconvenient and a little counterintuitive, but practicing this will prevent the ammo and stored gun powder from igniting in case the internal temperature get very high (due to fire). 

It’s very important to clean your safe from dirt and dust. Most manufacturers say at least once a month, but you could probably get away with wiping it down a couple of times a year to make sure the door and locks continue to operate smoothly. 

Also, make sure that the screws and bolts are lubricated once a year. And finally, make sure that the interior of your safe is free from any moisture. Otherwise, your weapons may rust or corrode more easily. It’s recommended that you use a dehumidifier to maintain a good environment for all your valuables.

Along with protection from burglary, it’s equally important to protect your guns and other valuables from fire and water damage. Choosing the best fireproof gun safes can be overwhelming but like I’ve said, not all gun safes manufacturers are true to their promises. In this post, we’ve summarized everything you need to know about fireproof gun safes as well as our highly recommended safes.

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