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Table of Contents:
- How to choose the best ammo safe
- Our Top Picks
- Top 9 Ammo Safes/ Ammo Storage Cabinets
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict
When it comes to securing your firearms and ammunition, as you acquire more firearms, you may run out of space in your gun safe, which means that you may need to have a dedicated ammo safe.
Ammo safes provide the best storage for your ammunition. Unlike ammo cans, ammo safes have a more rugged steel construction, providing better protection for ammunition and other valuables.
Due to their rugged construction, they prevent external elements such as moisture and dirt. As a result, they extend the durability of your ammunition since these elements can degrade your ammo. They also allow you to organize your ammunition more conveniently.
With the wide variety of ammo safes available on the market, finding the perfect one that meets your needs and budget can be challenging.
Having a dedicated ammo safe provides an added layer of security and organization. Storing ammunition separately from firearms can prevent unauthorized access and accidental discharge, especially in households with children or inexperienced gun handlers.
Additionally, ammo safes are designed specifically to maintain optimal storage conditions for ammunition, ensuring its longevity and preserving its performance. By investing in a dedicated ammo safe, gun owners can have peace of mind knowing their ammunition is secure, organized, and well-maintained.
This article has compiled a list of the 9 best ammo safes and cabinets available for all budgets, ranging from affordable options to high-end, large-capacity storage solutions. It will help you navigate through each product's essential features, pros, and cons, ensuring you make an informed decision when purchasing the ideal ammo safe for your collection.
How to choose the best ammo safe
Construction
The quality of materials used in the construction of the safe matters a lot. You need to check the thickness of the steel to ensure that it is not easy to break. The gauge normally determines the thickness of the steel. When it comes to the gauge on your safe, less is more. This means you need to look for a unit with the lowest gauge. For example, 10-gauge steel is stronger and thicker than 14-gauge steel. This also means an 8-inch steel gauge is more durable than a 10-gauge steel.
Locking system
You need a safe that is difficult to access. This means you need to look for a unit with an advanced locking system (combination, electronic or biometric, depending on your preference). You also need to make sure that your lock comes with emergency keys that you can use in case you forget the combination or code.
Storage capacity
Make sure that the unit provides ample space for storing your ammunition. If you plan to store additional items besides ammo in the safe, consider a model with adjustable shelves for greater versatility and organization.
Installation
Even though most ammo safes come fully assembled, you will need to install them firmly on a wall, floor, or a long gun cabinet. Therefore, you must ensure the unit has the necessary mounting hardware and anchors.
Our Top Picks
Product Name |
Best for |
Check Price |
TIGER KING Security Home Safe Box 2.05 Cubic Feet |
Best overall |
|
BARSKA Biometric Safe AX11224 |
Best biometric ammo safe |
https://www.amazon.com/BARSKA-AX11224-Biometric-Safe/dp/B002AQ0PFW?tag=safesvaults-20 |
Mesa Safes MGL14E-AS Burglary and Fire Gun Safe |
Best fireproof and burglary ammo safe |
https://usasafeandvault.com/products/mesa-safes-mgl14e-as-burglary-and-fire-gun-safe-lite |
Stack-On GCM-9216 16-Gun Cabinet |
Best design |
https://usasafeandvault.com/products/stack-on-gcm-9216-16-gun-cabinet |
American Furniture Classics 5 Gun Starter Metal Security Cabinet 901 |
Best for bedrooms and apartments |
https://www.amazon.com/American-Furniture-Classics-Starter-Security/dp/B06WGWB76Z?tag=safesvaults-20 |
AmazonBasics Steel Home Security Safe with Programmable Keypad 1.8 Cubic Feet |
Best for budget |
https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Home-Safe-1-80-Cubic/dp/B078K2YPRW?tag=safesvaults-20 |
Stack-On GCB-500 Stackable Locking 15-Inch Steel Ammo Cabinet Safe |
Best ammo lockbox |
https://www.amazon.com/Stack-GCB-500-Steel-Pistol-Cabinet/dp/B002TOKR2G?tag=safesvaults-20 |
Stack-On GCB-1522 Steel 22-Gun Security Gun Cabinet |
Most spacious |
https://www.amazon.com/Stack-GCB-1522-22-Gun-Security-Cabinet/dp/B01DLFFGXG?tag=safesvaults-20 |
Stack-On GCB-900 Stackable Locking 18-Inch Welded Steel Pistol |
Most lightweight |
https://www.amazon.com/Stack-GCB-900-Steel-Pistol-Cabinet/dp/B002TOKR2Q?tag=safesvaults-20 |
Top 9 Ammo Safes/ Ammo Storage Cabinets
1. TIGERKING Security Home Safe Box 2.05 Cubic Feet - Best Overall
The TIGERKING Security Home Safe Box 2.05 Cubic Feet is among the top-rated ammo safes on the market!
Compared to other models, this one has a more stylish design, enabling it to match any room's decoration style. It is also equipped with better features than other similar ammo safes.
It features a very thick steel construction to enhance strength and durability. Apart from the rugged construction, the unit has 6 live-locking bolts, preventing forced entry. It also has a spacious interior, so you can use it to store your ammo, pistol, jewelry, 14-inch laptop, money, documents, and other essential items.
Inside the unit is a locking box that enhances the protection of your items, plus a soft inner layer that protects your valuables from scratches.
In terms of safety, this unit comes with an advanced digital combination lock and a dual security alarm that produces violent vibrations in case someone uses an incorrect passcode 3 times. If you forget the passcode, you can use the override key to access the safe.
Pros
- Stylish design
- Advanced digital lock
- 6 live-locking bolts
- Heavy-duty construction
- Dual alarm system
- Spacious interior
Cons
- None
Easy ordering, low prices, and free shipping at Amazon. Click To Buy.
2. BARSKA Biometric Safe AX11224 – Best biometric ammo safe
One of the most remarkable things about the BARSKA Safe AX11224 is that it uses an advanced biometric system to enhance the protection of your ammunition and other valuables. This biometric fingerprint scanner allows you to access your items within 2.5 seconds and store up to 120 fingerprints (which means that different people can use it).
This safe is spacious enough to accommodate various items such as ammo, medicines, and private documents, among other essential things.
When it comes to construction, this ammo safe contains 100% steel walls plus tamper-resistant inner edges. To enhance strength, it is equipped with 2 inbuilt pry-resistant steel deadbolts.
Another great feature you will love about this safe is the silent mode function which allows you to access your ammo silently in an emergency. It uses 4 AA batteries with a lifespan of 1 year or up to 10,000 scans. When the batteries run out, you can use the spare keys provided to access your items.
Pros
- 2.5 seconds fingerprint scanner
- Spacious to fit different items
- Easy to install
- Pry-resistant deadbolts
- Tamper-resistant inner hinges
- Protective floor mat
Cons
- None
3. Mesa Safes MGL14E-AS Burglary and Fire Gun Safe - Best Fireproof and Burglary Ammo Safe
Compared to other ammo safes on the market, the Mesa Safe MGL14E will give you unmatched value for your money. Unlike other ammo safes, this one has a 30-minute fire rating and is also resistant to burglary.
This means that it is able to withstand high heat up to 1200 degrees for 30 minutes. It is made of 12 gauge steel and is also equipped with a hard plate that is highly resistant to punch and drill attacks. It also comes with a spring-loaded re-locker plus an advanced electronic lock that makes it difficult to access.
This safe is very spacious, meaning that it can accommodate your firearms, ammunition, handguns, shotguns, and knives, among other things.
Another unique thing about it is that the interior outlet strip features 2 USB ports plus 3 electrical sockets, meaning you can use it to charge your gadgets.
In addition, it comes with a fully upholstered interior plus adjustable shelves for storing different items. Four anchor holes are also provided for securing the unit safely on the floor.
Pros
- Fireproof design
- Rugged steel hinges
- Spacious interior
- Fully upholstered interior
- Punch and drill-resistant locks
- Equipped with electrical sockets and USB ports
- Adjustable shelves
Cons
- Expensive but worth it
Easy ordering, low prices, and great customer service here! Click To Buy.
4. Stack-On GCM-9216 16-Gun Cabinet - Best design
For those who are in need of a spacious ammo cabinet, this unit is a great choice!
It has a double-door design and is equipped with removable steel shelves. This shelf provides ample storage for your ammo and other important things. It is spacious enough to fit up to 16 rifles, and the price is also decent, even for those who are on a budget. In order to protect your rifles from scratches, it has foam padded sides and a bottom. It is also equipped with reinforced full-size doors with a key-coded double-bitted lock to boost security.
Pros
- Decent price
- 16 rifles capacity
- Foam-padded bottom and sides
- Key-coded double-bitted lock
- Removable steel shelves
Cons
- None
Easy ordering, low prices, and free shipping at Amazon. Click To Buy.
5. American Furniture Classics 5 Gun Starter Metal Security Cabinet 901 – Best for apartments and bedrooms
Whether you are searching for a small ammo cabinet safe for an apartment or bedroom, the American Furniture Classics 5 Gun Starter will be an excellent choice.
The unit features a 3-point locking mechanism that guarantees the utmost security for your items. In terms of design, this ammo cabinet has a black powder coating which gives it an attractive appearance.
Apart from that, this coating protects it from rusting and corrosion. Another great thing about this ammo safe is its foam barrel rest and a carpeted floor to prevent scratches or dents. You can highly rely on it because it is approved by the California Department of Justice (DOJ. Besides that, it comes fully assembled, and 4 expansion bolts are included for securing it on the floor. It has enough space to fit up to 5 guns.
Pros
- Attractive design
- High-quality powder coating
- 3-point locking system
- Foam barrel rests
- It comes fully assembled
- DOJ approved
Cons
- None
Easy ordering, low prices, and free shipping at Amazon. Click To Buy.
6. AmazonBasics Steel Home Security Safe with Programmable Keypad 1.8 Cubic Feet- Best for budget
This Amazon Basics Steel Home Security Safe has the highest customer reviews compared to other ammo cabinets on the market. It has a capacity of 1.8 cubic feet, so it has enough space to store your ammo, jewelry, documents, and other important items.
The unit has a very sturdy construction since it features an 8-gauge steel door plus a 14-gauge steel body. It is also equipped with 2 live-door bolts to enhance security. It also has pry-resistant concealed hinges, making it difficult to break.
Using pre-drilled mounting holes, you can install it on the floor or wall. In order to enhance security for your valuables, it has an easy-to-program electronic keypad plus a backup key for emergency access.
If you are searching for an affordable and top-quality ammo safe, this safe is an excellent choice!
Pros
- Programmable electronic keypad
- Heavy-duty carbon steel construction
- 1.8 cubic feet capacity
- Mounting hardware included
- Affordable price
- Compact design
Cons
- Not fireproof or waterproof
Easy ordering, low prices, and free shipping at Amazon. Click To Buy.
7. Stack-On GCB-500 Stackable Locking 15-Inch Steel Ammo Cabinet Safe - Best Ammo Lock Box
The Stack-On GCB 500 locking ammo can has a welded steel construction, and it also features a removable foam padded floor to protect your items from scratches.
Using the pre-drilled holes provided, you can easily install it on the floor, on top of a long gun cabinet, or on a closet shelf.
The unit is also available in different sizes to suit your storage requirements. Apart from storing ammo, you can also use this unit to store pistols, supplies, or other valuables. To enhance protection, you can fully lock it using the double-bitted lock or the key code. It is also easy to mount the safe on 8 guns ready-to-assemble cabinets or 10 gun cabinets.
Pros
- Compact design
- Sturdy construction
- Reliable locking mechanism
- Removable shelf
- Easy to install
- Foam-padded floor
Cons
- Not fireproof
Easy ordering, low prices, and free shipping at Amazon. Click To Buy.
8. Stack-On GCB-1522 Steel 22-Gun Security Gun Cabinet - Most Spacious
In case you are searching for a spacious ammo safe that you can also use to store your riffles, this unit will be the ideal choice. It is spacious to accommodate up to 22 guns. It features an all-steel welded construction to enhance strength and durability.
To prevent rusting, the outer part contains a high-gloss powder finish. Another great thing about it is that it has a 3-locking system featuring a double-bitted key-coded cylindrical lock to enhance security. It is also available in different configurations and capacities to suit your storage requirements. In order to protect your guns from dents or scratches, it has a foam-padded bottom.
Pros
- Able to store up to 22 guns
- All steel welded construction
- It comes with mounting hardware
- High-gloss powder coating
- 3 locking system
- Available in different sizes
Cons
- Easy to break
Easy ordering, low prices, and free shipping at Amazon. Click To Buy.
9. Stack-On GCB-900 Stackable Locking 18-Inch Welded Steel Pistol - Most lightweight
This Stack-On GCB-900 safe features an all-steel welded construction, making it durable and strong. The unit comes with 2 removable shelves plus pre-drilled holes for easier mounting on the floor, on top of a long gun cabinet, or on a closet shelf. You can find it in different configurations and capacities.
The foam-padded interior ensures that your metallic items are free from dents or scratches. In terms of security, it has a reliable locking mechanism that passes through the steel door, which is then secured behind the frame. This unit also comes with 2 removable shelves to create additional space.
Pros
- Reliable locking mechanism
- Rugged steel construction
- 2 removable shelves
- Foam-padded bottom
- Pre-drilled holes
- Fastening hardware included
Cons
- Weak shelves
Easy ordering, low prices, and free shipping at Amazon. Click To Buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ammo safe?
Ammo safes are sturdy units for storing your ammunition. They have similar features, like gun safes, but most are more compact. Due to their design, you can easily install them on top of a long gun cabinet.
Is ammo safe the same as ammo can?
Even though ammo cans and ammo safes are used for the same purpose, ammo safes have a more heavy-duty construction as compared to ammo cans. Most ammo cans are made of sturdy plastic, while ammo safes are made of steel, just like gun safes. Ammo cans are great for those on a budget because they are very cheap but might not be very secure.
Are ammo boxes fireproof?
Ammo boxes are available in different features, meaning some are fireproof while others are not. In case you are searching for fireproof ammo safe, Mesa Safes MGL14E-AS Burglary and Fire Gun Safe will be the best.
How much weight can a gun safe shelf hold?
Shelves in gun safes can accommodate different weights according to their construction but on average, most of them can hold up to 150 pounds.
What is the best thing to store ammo in?
The best place to store your ammunition is in an ammo can or ammo safe. However, ammo cans are only suitable for those who are on a budget since they are not very sturdy like gun safes. They also have a limited capacity as compared to gun safes.
Final Verdict
If you have been searching for the best ammo safe, you can never go wrong with any of those we have reviewed. They are all equipped with amazing features to ensure they provide the best protection for your ammunition and other important items. Compared to the other ammo safes we reviewed in this article, The Mesa Safe MGL14E-AS will give you the best value for your money. Unlike others, this safe can withstand high temperatures of 1200 degrees for 30 minutes. It is also equipped with more advanced features that you can never find in other models. Some of these features include punch and drill-resistant locks, upholster interior, spacious capacity, electrical sockets, and USB ports.
If you are searching for a reliable model that is budget-friendly, The TIGERKING Security Home Safe Box 2.05 Cubic Feet will be a suitable choice.