Securing firearms in an apartment

[Guest SMZRU275]

I want to secure my ammo, AR, etc in my apartment. I am on a 2nd story so a large safe is really out of the question.

Really I am considering a gun *METAL solid cabinet with a good lock for now,and an anchoring system since we live in pretty good apartment complex, and the room with my stuff is in the back and you have pass up A LOT of other expensive goodies before you even reach it.

When I graduate and move it should be into a house, then I'll drop the large $$$ for a nice bolted down safe. So don't want to drop a huge amount now, just a good place to lock them up.

Any other suggestions for security?

Also in the Memphis area or not too far off any suggestions on places for metal cabinet shopping? I know Bass Pro has them, but they always seem higher on everything then most retailers. Especially since Sportsman's Warehouse left the area.

Edited September 30, 2009 by SMZRU275

[Guest canynracer]

I would start with something like this, then upgrade...Home depot also has similar ones...

Centurion by Liberty Safe at Lowe's: 12 Cu. Ft. Executive Safe

[JeffL]

The small safe will make a good bedroom safe after you get moved into a house. I need to get one of those pretty soon, I just don't want to pay anyone to move it later.

[Guest SMZRU275]

The small safe will make a good bedroom safe after you get moved into a house. I need to get one of those pretty soon, I just don't want to pay anyone to move it later.

Yea moving it is one concern, we live on 2nd floor with a U turn in the staircase, another reason I was at lightweight options.

[Guest Caveman]

I would get on Craigslist if you are looking for a gun cabinet. There are several on there for very cheap prices. Of course it isnt hard to break into a wood gun cabinet, but it will do until you get your house and a safe.

[Capbyrd]

Stephen,

The steel cabinets that I have seen at Bass Pro seem to run about the same price as the ones that I have seen at Sam's, Dick's, Tommy Bronson's, etc. I am thinking about running up to Gander Mountain this weekend and will let you know if I see something cheap up there.

[Guest SMZRU275]

I would get on Craigslist if you are looking for a gun cabinet. There are several on there for very cheap prices. Of course it isnt hard to break into a wood gun cabinet, but it will do until you get your house and a safe.

I meant the metal cabinets.

Was thinking something like this:

Stack-On | Gun Cabinets

[Guest JHatmaker]

I've got a single door metal gun cabinet, and it works great (though I'm saving for an actual fire-proof gun safe). Got mine at Academy Sports, set it up by myself, bolts to wall and floor. Great for what it does, and only cost $160. Pics of mine:

Bought some cheap lights at Wal-Mart and stuck them inside to give it some light, as well as a Rubbermaid shelf system to fit inside. It comes with foam rifle mounts as well.

Edited September 30, 2009 by JHatmaker

[56FordGuy]

What's your budget, and are you willing to wait a bit?

Zanotti Armor makes a line of multi- piece safes. The safe is shipped in separate pieces, then assembled where you want it. It can be disassembled and moved.

I looked into them about a year ago, and at that time they told me there was a 6 month wait between the time you ordered to the expected delivery date. I can't speak to the quality of their stuff, as I've not seen it in person, but it might be worth looking into.

[Kevo]

Get the smaller sheet metal one and prepare to get dirty. You need to stick it in the back corner of a narrow closet with the door facing towards the front. The door won't open all the way BUT it will be difficult for thieves to quickly break in because they won't have room to pry. Anchoring to the floor may not be an option but I would definitely anchor the back and one side. Even if it is just 2 thick screws solidly into studs per side that will defeat average thieves. Kudos to you for seeking a safe. I have been shocked and dismayed by the number of gun owners who don't properly secure or maintain their weapons. FWIW the few police officers I know tell me that they have never seen a gunsafe broken into. Only unlocked guns or they took the whole darn safe out just like the honest owners wheeled it in. Man I wish we had the same property protection rights that they have in Texas!

[Guest nascar22]

I meant the metal cabinets.

Was thinking something like this:

Stack-On | Gun Cabinets

I looked at this model at Gander Mountain in Knoxville tonight. They were asking $329. This would work for handguns on the left side compartments.