Gun Safe Article, Your Conclusions

[dreever]

For those of you who were compelled to investigate further after reading the excellent article on gun safes, what were your conclusions?
In particular which safe would you buy and why?
What features did you find most appealing?
What locking mechanism would you pick? Mechanical or Electronic?

I'll start the ball rolling by saying I would pick from the Browning line. In particular the Medallion Series because of the 10 gauge steel and the 14 active 1 1/4 inch bolts.,Not all safes have all active bolts). Also price is a good middle of the line compromise as is weight. I'd also pick the electronic locks over the mechanical just for speed and ease of use, not to mention the easily changed combinations. I don't need to be twirling a dial losing precious seconds trying to get to my shotgun when there is a rabid raccoon,or worse!) threatening my home/loved ones/ or pets. I want in, locked and loaded, and responding RIGHT NOW! If you think that's not a big deal put yourself in a high stress situation and see how fast you can open that lock.

The down side of all the safes out there is they are too pretty. Manufactures seem to think everyone wants a pretty piece of furniture that stands out. I on the other hand would prefer something that dosen't call attention to itself so blatantly. I don't need wildlife scenes, mirror finish, brass or chrome plated hardware all of which drives the price up anyway. All I care about is fire resistance, and security. The real reasons for buying a safe in the first place. Unfortunately, marketing says this is what customers want, but is it really?

What do the rest of you think, and why?

Danny

 

[chino1969]

dreever,
If you need a weapon in a stressful situation, it should not be locked in a safe. There are many good books on home defense and finger activated gun vaults that hold a pistol that can be brought to the 'ready' staus quickly. If this is a real concern for you, I would take a course or educate yourself in the the legal use of deadly force. There are times when you are justified in using deadly force and times when you are not and it varies from state to state. A loaded weapon that can be located quickly from a deep sleep in response to a loud noise, bears planning and forethought. Mental preparation and ultimate confidence in your weapon, training, and skill go a long way in building your confidence. Hopefully, you will never need a weapon to defend yourself or your family but if you have to, your reactions should be instantaneous. I personally keep a majority of my rifles and handguns locked in a Liberty safe that is Hilti bolted to a solid concrete slab in my basement. Strategically placed in concealed positions around my house are loaded weapons that can be brought to bear immediately. I don't have any small children and I'm the only one who knows the location of the weapons. I have been trained in the use of deadly force, have used a weapon in self defense, and have the right mental attitude. I have also worked in the prison system and law enforcement in the past and know firsthand the type of predators that are running loose in our society.
Chino69

 

[dreever]

Chino,

I do have a weapon loaded and ready within reach of my bed in a secured electronic safe for the two legged predators that you mentioned.,I have a ten year old so I don't let loaded guns unsecured) My real concern was for that Copperhead crawling through the yard that I need the shotgun and some #8's for before I lose track of where he was.

Danny