Best Ammo Safes | Best, Cheap, Large Ammo Cabinets All Budgets

By Maria Paiz October 23, 2023

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Best Ammo Safes | Best, Cheap, Large Ammo Cabinets All Budgets

As a gun owner, I've come to realize the significance of not just owning firearms, but also storing them responsibly – and that includes ammunition. Sure, a gun safe is essential, but when your collection grows, finding space for ammo becomes a challenge. This is where ammo safes step in, not just as storage options, but as guardians of your valuable ammunition. Unlike basic ammo cans, ammo safes offer robust steel construction, shielding your rounds from moisture, dirt, and unauthorized access. They're a step up in ensuring the longevity and readiness of your ammunition, making them a must-have for every responsible gun enthusiast. In this guide, I'll walk you through the best ammo safes available, catering to all budgets and needs, to help you make a well-informed decision for your ammo storage solution.

How to choose the best ammo safe

Construction

The quality of materials used to construct 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	https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Q9J4F83?tag=safesvaults-20
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 Fire Rating 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

Easy ordering, low prices, and free shipping at Amazon. Click To Buy.

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 of them have fire ratings while others do not. In case you are searching for a fireproof ammo safe, Mesa Safes MGL14E-AS Burglary and Fire Gun Safe will be the best choice!

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

Wrapping up and choosing the right ammo safe is an integral part of responsible gun ownership. Whether it's the fireproof Mesa Safe for maximum protection, the versatile TIGERKING for budget-conscious owners, or any other option from our carefully curated list, each safe brings something unique to the table. As someone who appreciates the importance of every item in my collection, I understand that a reliable ammo safe does more than just store; it preserves and protects. Remember, the right ammo safe not only organizes your rounds but also ensures they are in prime condition when you need them, offering peace of mind and enhanced security.

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.