In the world of firearm storage, not all citadels are fortresses. Enter large gun cabinets, a more versatile and practical solution for storing your firearms, ammo, or accessories without overwhelming your living space or your wallet.
Unlike the fireproof vaults, aka “high-security safes”, gun cabinets offer ample room for your rifles, handguns, and more.
Consider this article a time-saving buyer’s guide that also includes our most highly recommended gun storage solutions with security, capacity, and value as our top priorities.
To learn all of the criteria we use to rank gun safes, see: How We Test Gun Safes
Top 8 Gun Cabinet Options
Let us lend you our expertise with years of industry experience through rigorous testing, reviewing, and vetting a myriad of firearm security products.
*If you want more info about the best gun cabinet for you before making your final decision, keep scrolling to read our complete guide on gun cabinets.
Without further ado, here’s our list of the best gun cabinet options to maximize storage for every budget:
#1 Surelock Security 14-Rifle Gun Cabinet
Introducing the highly efficient and reliable Surelock Security Combat Gun Cabinet Series 14 Gun + Ammo Safe; the ultimate solution for safeguarding your firearms and ammunition.
Highest-Capacity
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Pros:
- Provides fairly quick access compared to safes with combination locks
- The door opens 180 degrees for maximum accessibility
- Dual top and bottom steel locking bars
- Rugged steel construction
- More storage than a rifle safe of equivalent size
- Top shelf for storing ammo boxes, spare magazines, and accessories
Cons:
- Availability (is on back-order a lot)
- Heavier than most gun cabinets (both a plus and a minus)
- Expensive compared to most (you get what you pay for though)
- Not fireproof (a fireproof safe of this size would cost substantially more)
- Not as secure as a true safe (but is more secure than most cabinets)
Helpful Review:
“Best bang for your buck. Excellent gun cabinet. Especially for the price you can’t go wrong. Plenty of room inside. Comes with hardware to secure to wall. Would definitely recommend.”
With its excellent construction and advanced locking mechanism, the Surelock Security Combat Gun Cabinet Series 14 Gun + Ammo Safe guarantees peace of mind for gun owners, providing a secure sanctuary for your firearms and accompanying ammunition.
#2 Surelock Constitutional 14-Rifle Gun Cabinet
The Double Constitutional Cabinet by SureLock Security effectively safeguards your most treasured possessions with its innovative design.
Sliding Drawers
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It can accommodate up to 14 long guns and features a cutting-edge EasyAccess organization system that eliminates the hassle of removing all belongings to access items stored in the back or bottom sections.
Pros:
- Unique dual sliding door design that glides open with ease
- Has a very sturdy build for a gun cabinet
- The 180-degree door makes access a breeze
- Secure top and bottom locking bars
- Simple keyed entry
- Can be bolted down to the floor for added protection and stability
Cons:
- Relatively expensive compared to most cabinets (you get what you pay for)
- Not as secure as a true safe (it fulfills its particular role well)
- Heavier than most gun cabinets (both a plus and a minus)
- Availability (may be hard to find in stock)
Helpful Review:
“Keeps guns organized and easy to access. Can be moved by a couple of people if needed.”
The cabinet also boasts 2 large pull-out storage drawers for long guns, each capable of holding up to 150 pounds and designed for seamless maneuverability with smooth glide support rollers.
#3 Surelock Constitutional 7-Rifle Gun Cabinet
All of the great features mentioned about the Surelock Security Constitutional 14-gun cabinet apply to this model, except this is the more compact 7-rifle version.
Easy Access Sliding Door
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Pros:
- Space-saving compact design with sliding door
- The door swings open 180 degrees for ease of access
- Sturdy metal construction
- Lightweight and easy to move
- Dual locking bars secure the door when locked
Cons:
- A bit pricey
- Availability is spotty at times
- Not as secure as a real safe (no gun cabinet is)
- Not fireproof (no gun cabinet is)
Helpful Review:
“Was what I was expecting, not a “thick” metal safe, more of a “lock-box” to discourage and prevent access by unauthorized users.”
If you’re looking for a smaller solution to storing your rifles, this is another great option to consider with its unique sliding rifle rack design.
#4 American Classics Wood 8-Rifle Gun Cabinet
For those needing wife approval, the American Furniture Classics 8-Gun cabinet is the perfect example of a classic design that fits in well with most home decor.
Classic Design
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Pros:
- Classic wood furniture piece that serves as the centerpiece of any room
- Great for showing off your rifle collection
- Has great storage capacity
- Has a lockable bottom storage space for storing ammo, mags, or accessories
- Has a glass door with a keyed locking latch
- Reasonably-priced
Cons:
- Some assembly is required
- Might be too heavy to move alone
- Some buyers reported shipping damage (not uncommon for gun cabinets in general)
- Not very secure (these are mainly for displaying your rifles)
Helpful Review:
“Really good quality, instructions were pretty easy. You will need another set of hands in a few spots. Fit all 8 of my rifles/shotguns. Even fit all my ammo on the lower drawer part. Nice beveled glass. Overall really glad with this purchase.”
This is also the most ideal option for those who want to display their firearms and show them off. This may not be the best option tactically, or security-wise, but it’ll do the job of keeping curious kids out!
#5 Atripark Biometric 10-12 Rifle Gun Cabinet
Introducing the Atripark 10-12 Rifle Gun Safe with LED Light Fingerprint – the ultimate budget solution for firearm enthusiasts seeking a touch of security and a lot of convenience.
Assemble & Save $
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With its spacious design, it’s capable of accommodating up to 10 rifles, this gun safe is perfect for those looking to safeguard their valuable firearm collection.
Pros:
- Large rifle, handgun, and ammo storage capacity
- Economical storage solution for large collections
- Not very heavy and can be bolted down for more stability
- Has 2 locking bolts that secure the front door
- Lots of built-in optimization is included
- Biometric, keypad, and backup key entry for quick access
- Modular rack system for maximum customization
- Ships in a flat box that minimizes shipping damage
Cons:
- Assembly is required (fully-assembled cabinets add cost)
- Uses a thin gauge of steel (common for metal gun cabinets)
- Some buyers had issues with shipping damage- others found it difficult to put together
Helpful Review:
“The cabinet is pretty solid. It arrived ahead of schedule and was very well-packed. I was able to put it together by myself in under an hour. The instructions aren’t that great, but I was able to figure it out pretty quickly.”
This gun safe offers some advanced technology over non-electronic gun cabinets, including an advanced LED light system and a fingerprint scanner, giving you quick and easy access to your firearms while ensuring that they are securely stored at all times.
#6 KAER 2-Door 8-12 Rifle Gun Cabinet
The KAER 10-12 rifle cabinet needs assembly but can be an educational weekend project for the family (you might even have fun putting it together!).
This all-metal gun cabinet offers a reliable and convenient quick-access storage solution for gun owners seeking affordable protection for their firearms.
Easy To Assemble
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Pros:
- 4 locking bolts secure the top, bottom, and front side of the door
- Electronic keypad entry for quick access to your guns
- Top storage compartment with locking latch
- A good amount of capacity for smaller collections
- Can be bolted down to provide more stability
- Priced right
Cons:
- A lot of assembly is required
- Might need help moving
- Not as secure as a true safe (not its purpose)
- Some buyers had issues during assembly (some expected a true gun safe at this price)
Helpful Review:
“Looks great, got delivered really fast way ahead of the estimated arrival (5 days earlier). Everything was packed really good there were no dents anywhere. Very easy to assemble. It took me less than 30 minutes to put it together without reading any instructions.”
With its innovative design and DIY assembly process, this gun safe ensures easy and quick access while maintaining adequate levels of security. It also features electronic keypad access for a low price.
#7 KAER Electronic 3-5 Rifle Gun Cabinet
Welcome to the world of quick-access storage with this fully assembled KAER 3-5 firearm cabinet!
Designed to provide a basic, yet effective, level of protection for your firearms, this budget-minded gun cabinet combines durability and efficiency.
Organization Built-In
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With customizable storage options, advanced locking systems, and sturdy construction for the price, the KAER 3-5 Gun Rifle & Handgun Safe is a good entry-level gun cabinet for those requiring a safe storage solution that won’t break the bank.
Pros:
- Comes fully assembled
- Lots of built-in organization solutions are included
- Quick access keypad entry
- Decent capacity for smaller collections
- 2 solid steel bolts secure the door when locked
- Not too heavy to move around
- Can be bolted down to stabilize
- Compact design that will easily fit in a walk-in closet
Cons:
- Needs to be bolted down to stabilize it (common with heavy doors)
- Not super secure (good enough to keep kids out)
- Some buyers complained about shipping damage (it happens)
Helpful Review:
“This safe is really good quality and the right size to fit in a small corner without taking up too much space. Even at that size, it will easily hold several long rifles/ shotguns. The two built-in pistol-holding sheaths on the door are convenient. It allows you to use the shelf for ammo/ valuables / additional handguns. I appreciate the included inserts to help organize the long guns in the safe and the included lag bolts to mount the safe to the wall/ floor for theft prevention.”
#8 RPNB Electronic 5-Rifle Gun Cabinet
A personal favorite of ours, and most recommended to friends and family, the RPNB Rifle Safe Electronic
Gun Security Cabinet is a cutting-edge solution designed to provide secure storage and easy access to firearms.
Holds 5 Long Guns
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Pros:
- The most “safe-like” gun cabinet on this list
- Good capacity for average collections
- Has a lockable compartment up top for ammo, mags, or documents
- 5 steel locking bolts secure the front door of this gun cabinet
- Rugged and attractive paint finish
- Heavy door and solid construction
- Electronic access for quick entry (backup key included)
- Great price
Cons:
- Has a heavy door and needs to be bolted down for stability
- Not as secure as a true safe (but keeps good people honest)
- Not fireproof (to be expected at this price point)
- Some buyers noticed shipping damage (it’s always a risk with heavy packages)
Helpful Review:
“Quick Delivery!!! The product arrived well-packaged. Not a scratch!!! the quality is perfect… exactly what I was looking for. I have 3 shotguns, a Savage rifle, a Ruger AR556, and my two S&W handguns in the smaller internal safe! I also added a couple of motion sensor lights. Perfect!”
Overall, this RPNB 5-rifle gun cabinet is our top budget pick, providing the best security in its class by preventing unauthorized access while also allowing quick retrieval of your firearms.
Quick Guide To Gun Cabinets
While high-security safes are undoubtedly the epitome of fortress-like protection for your cherished firearms, their robust features come with an equally robust price tag. They’re also extremely heavy and will require much assistance to move.
They’re the armored tanks of the gun storage realm, often equipped with advanced biometric scanning, fireproofing capabilities, and heavy-duty steel construction that can withstand even the most persistent attempts at unauthorized access.
In stark contrast, the best gun cabinet options pivot toward the other end of the spectrum, focusing on practicality and accessibility without compromising on basic security measures (enough to keep the kids out, but not much else).
They’re the sleek sports cars in the grand showroom of firearm storage solutions—efficient in design, visually appealing, and incredibly user-friendly.
Unlike their high-security counterparts, budget-friendly gun cabinets don’t require you to dig deep into your pockets.
Their pared-down features are purposefully designed to offer a balance of essential security and quick access, making them a perfect fit for the everyday gun owner who needs reliable storage without all those extravagant bells and whistles.
Steel Versus Wood
From the sleek and modern industrial chic of steel to the timeless and sophisticated classic elegance of wood, the material you ultimately decide to pick will play a pivotal role in determining the look and feel of your cabinets.
With its superior durability and robust nature, steel exudes an inherent strength that can withstand the test of time.
On the other hand, wood possesses the remarkable ability to seamlessly merge with your existing home décor, effortlessly blending in and adding a touch of warmth and charm.
When making the crucial decision of choosing between these materials, it is crucial that you carefully consider both your specific needs and your unique aesthetic preferences.
Security Versus Accessibility
Unlike their high-security counterparts, distinguished by their sophisticated and intricate combination locks that require memorization, basic gun cabinets purposefully opt for a simpler, yet effective approach to safeguard your firearms.
By utilizing simple locking mechanisms, such as simple keyed locking levers in wooden gun cabinets (and some very basic steel gun cabinets) to more advanced gun cabinets that incorporate electronic keypads or biometric locks with minimal use of deadbolts.
Gun cabinets strike a good balance between fortifying firearms away from children while avoiding the inconvenience that arises when grappling with inefficient mechanical combinations during moments that demand swift action.
Placement
When deciding where to place your gun cabinet, there are several factors to consider for safety and accessibility.
Here are some suggestions:
- Secure and hidden location: Choose a spot that is secure and hidden from plain sight (unless, of course, it’s of the wooden cabinet variety). This helps prevent unauthorized access and reduces the risk of theft.
- Lockable room or closet: Consider placing the gun cabinet in a room or closet that can be locked, providing an extra layer of security.
- Ground floor or basement: Placing the gun cabinet on the ground floor or basement can make it harder for criminals to access and carry the cabinet away easily.
- Away from children: This goes without saying, but if you have children in your home, it is crucial to position the gun cabinet in an area that is not easily accessible to them. This could be a room or closet with a childproof lock.
- Temperature and humidity control: Ensure that the selected location has stable temperature and humidity levels to prevent any damage to the firearms.
- Quick and easy access: While security is a priority, it is also important to have quick and easy access to your firearms in case of emergencies. Find a balance between secure storage and accessibility.
- Legal requirements: Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations regarding gun storage. Some jurisdictions might have specific requirements on how gun cabinets should be secured or stored.
Capacity
Whether you’re an occasional shooter who enjoys dabbling in firearms or a passionate and devoted collector eager to showcase an extensive collection, there’s undoubtedly a gun cabinet well suited to meet your needs.
Pro Tip: Just make sure to consider the potential growth of your gun collection over time and look for the best gun cabinet you can afford with more storage capacity than you currently need.
The available options for storage are plentiful and varied, with a range that includes a sleek and sturdy 5-gun steel case, perfect for those in need of a compact and secure solution.
The more aesthetically appealing 20-gun wood cabinets combine classic looks with maximum storage capacity.
The array of choices will undoubtedly excite any discerning enthusiast, offering an abundance of possibilities, though we’ve narrowed it down to 8 great options in this article.
High-End Versus Budget-Friendly
Your wallet doesn’t have to bleed for your guns to be secure. While there are premium options, budget-friendly models can also offer respectable security (some better than others).
Choosing between a high-end and budget-friendly gun cabinet depends on several factors, including your budget, the number and value of your firearms, the level of security required, and personal preferences.
Here are some considerations to help you make an informed decision:
- Budget: Determine how much you are willing to spend on a gun cabinet. High-end options can cost several thousand dollars, while budget-friendly options may start at a few hundred dollars.
- Size and capacity: Consider the number of firearms you own or plan to acquire in the future. Ensure the model you choose has sufficient storage capacity and adjustable shelving to accommodate your collection. High-end options often offer more room and additional features like dedicated handgun storage, accessory racks, or barrel rests.
- Build quality and materials: Higher-quality gun cabinets often feature premium materials like solid steel, reinforced doors, and advanced locking mechanisms. Budget-friendly options may use thinner steel or alternative materials, which could impact durability and security. Consider your security needs and the value of your firearms when assessing build quality.
- Security features: Evaluate the security features offered by both high-end and budget-friendly offerings. Look for sturdy locking mechanisms like digital or combination locks, reinforced hinges, and pry-resistant doors. Fire-resistant properties are also important to protect your firearms in case of a fire.
- Aesthetics and customization: There is often a wide range of styles, finishes, and customization options to match your preferences and home decor. Budget-friendly options may have limited choices in terms of appearance and finish.
- Accessibility: Consider how easily you need to access your firearms. More advanced options may offer electronic locks or biometric scanners for quick and convenient access and can be found on high-end as well as more affordable options. High-end cabinets usually have traditional combination locks but you can choose electronic models if you want quicker access.
- Manufacturer reputation and warranty: Research the reputation of the manufacturer and read customer reviews to ensure the quality and reliability of the gun cabinet you choose. Consider the warranty offered on the product, as high-end cabinets often provide longer warranty periods.
Ultimately, the choice between a high-end and budget-friendly gun cabinet depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget limitations.
Q&A Section
From ‘Can I store ammo?’ to ‘How to anchor my gun cabinet?’, we’ve got all your burning questions answered right here.
Are gun cabinets worth it?
Whether or not they are worth it depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Here are some factors to consider:
- Safety and Security: Most are designed to securely store firearms, keeping them out of reach from unauthorized individuals such as children or potential burglars. If you have firearms that need proper storage to ensure safety, then a gun cabinet can be a worthwhile investment.
- Legal Requirements: Some jurisdictions require gun owners to store their firearms securely. If this is the case in your area, investing in a secure cabinet to store your guns is necessary to comply with legal regulations.
- Protection from Accidental Damage: Most cabinets can help protect firearms from accidental damage, such as scratches, dents, or dust. If you own valuable or collectible firearms, a cabinet can help preserve their condition and maintain their value.
- Organization and Convenience: These cabinets typically have compartments and shelves for organizing firearms and accessories. This can make it easier to find and retrieve your guns when needed. If you own multiple firearms or frequently access your guns, a well-designed cabinet can provide added convenience.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Many models are designed to be visually appealing and can enhance the overall look of a room. If you prioritize the aesthetics of your living space, investing in a good one can be a worthwhile addition.
- Alternative Options: If you are on a tight budget or have limited space, alternative storage options like lockable cases, trigger locks, or gun safes may be considered instead of a cabinet. These options also provide varying levels of safety and security.
Can I store ammo in a gun cabinet?
Yes, it is common and acceptable to store ammunition in a gun cabinet. Many cabinets have separate compartments or shelves specifically designed for the storage of ammunition.
It is important to ensure that the ammunition is stored securely and separately from firearms to prevent any accidental discharge or unauthorized access.
Are gun cabinets easy to break into?
The security of a gun cabinet depends on various factors, such as the quality and construction of the cabinet, the locking mechanism used, and additional security measures in place.
Higher-quality models are typically designed and built to resist unauthorized access. They often feature sturdy construction with reinforced, plate-steel doors and multi-layered steel walls (many, however, are made of thin gauge steel).
Some employ secure locking mechanisms, such as combination locks, electronic keypads, or biometric scanners, to prevent unauthorized individuals from opening them.
Some cabinets also come with additional features, like anti-pry bars, drill-resistant plates, or anchor points to secure the cabinet to the floor or wall.
While they can provide a reasonable level of protection, it’s important to note that no security measure is completely foolproof.
Determined burglars or those with specialized tools and knowledge may be able to bypass some of them or break into them, especially if they lack additional security measures.
Therefore, it’s recommended to choose a high-quality option, install it properly, and consider additional security measures like alarm systems or hiding it someplace discreet.
What kind of wood are gun cabinets made of?
With furniture-style gun cabinets, various types of wood can be used depending on the desired aesthetic and quality.
Some common types of wood used for gun cabinets include:
- Oak: Oak is a popular choice due to its durability and attractive grain patterns. It is a hardwood known for its strength and resistance to wear and tear.
- Cherry: Cherry wood is highly valued for its rich, warm reddish-brown color and natural luster. It is a medium-density hardwood that adds elegance and sophistication.
- Walnut: Walnut is a dark hardwood that offers a luxurious and classic appearance. It is known for its fine grains, strength, and ability to withstand moisture, making it an excellent choice.
- Mahogany: Mahogany is a dense, reddish-brown hardwood known for its durability and beauty. It has a unique grain pattern and a smooth finish, adding a touch of elegance.
- Pine: While not as common in high-end models, pine is a popular choice for more affordable and rustic-style gun cabinets. It is a softwood that has a light color and distinctive knots.
Will my firearms rust in a gun cabinet?
The risk of corrosion depends on various factors, including the environment and the conditions inside the cabinet.
However, there are steps you can take to minimize the chances of rust formation:
- Maintain a controlled environment: Ensure your gun cabinet is placed in a dry area with limited humidity. Moisture is a major contributor to rust formation, so controlling the humidity levels using dehumidifiers or moisture-absorbing products can help prevent rust.
- Apply rust-preventive substances: Regularly clean and oil your guns to create a protective barrier against moisture. Applying a thin coat of rust-preventive substances such as gun oil or silicone cloth can help inhibit rust formation on the metal surfaces.
- Use desiccants or moisture-absorbing products: Placing desiccant packets or moisture-absorbing products inside the cabinet can help absorb excess moisture and reduce humidity levels.
- Properly store your firearms: Ensure they are unloaded and cleaned before placing them in the cabinet. Use gun sleeves or silicone-treated gun socks to provide an additional layer of protection against moisture.
Where is the best place to put a gun cabinet?
When deciding where to place a gun cabinet, there are a few factors to consider to ensure safety and accessibility.
Here are some of our recommendations for the best location from security experts:
- Secure Room: It is advisable to place it in a secure room that restricts access to authorized individuals only. This could be a dedicated gun room, a basement, or a room with a reinforced door and limited access points.
- Concealment: Maintaining discretion is crucial to prevent unauthorized access or theft. Consider placing the cabinet in a less visible area or behind inconspicuous doors, such as inside a closet, hidden behind furniture, or in a room with limited foot traffic.
- Accessibility: While security is of utmost importance, it is also essential to have quick access to your firearms when needed. Ensure it is situated in an easily accessible area, preferably on the ground floor, close to the main living areas, in case of emergencies.
- Structural Integrity: It is crucial to find a location that can handle the weight and size of the gun cabinet securely. Make sure the floor or wall can support the weight and then properly anchor it for added stability.
- Adequate Lighting: If possible, choose a location with ample lighting or install additional lighting to enhance visibility. This will make it easier to locate and handle firearms safely when needed.
- Compliance with Local Laws: Always ensure that you follow local laws, regulations, and requirements related to firearm storage and accessibility.
Do gun cabinets have to be hidden?
No, they do not necessarily have to be hidden. The decision to hide your gun cabinet to make it more discreet is a personal choice.
While some gun owners may prefer to have their firearms stored in hidden or inconspicuous cabinets for added security, others may opt for more visible and stylish gun cabinets that can complement their home décor.
What’s The Best Way To Mount A Gun Cabinet?
When mounting a gun cabinet, it is crucial to prioritize safety and security.
Here is a step-by-step guide for mounting a gun cabinet in a normal style:
- Choose a suitable location: It should be somewhere easily accessible yet inconspicuous, preferably in a room that is less frequently frequented.
- Find the studs: Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall or the floor where you plan to mount your gun cabinet. This will ensure that it is securely attached.
- Mark the stud locations: Mark the locations of the studs using a pencil or a piece of tape. These markings will serve as your guide during installation.
- Attach mounting brackets: Locate the wall where you want it to be mounted, making sure the cabinet is level. Using the designated mounting holes located on the back of the cabinet, attach the mounting brackets directly onto the studs you marked earlier. Use screws appropriate for the type of wall material you have (e.g., drywall anchors for drywall, wood screws for wooden studs, or masonry screws for concrete floors). If mounting into a concrete floor, drill the holes using special masonry drill bits and a hammer drill to avoid ruining standard drill bits and drills.
- Ensure stability: Double-check that the cabinet is securely attached to the mounting brackets. Give it a gentle shake to make sure it is stable and not wobbly. If needed, tighten the screws further until it is securely fixed in place.
- Test the lock: After mounting, check the functionality of the lock mechanisms. Ensure that the cabinet can be properly secured and that the lock functions as intended.
- Consider an additional security measure: For added security, you may want to consider installing a security system or an alarm nearby. This can help deter any potential break-ins or unauthorized access.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right gun cabinet doesn’t have to be an ordeal. By now, you should be well-equipped to make an informed decision that suits your needs, your style, and your budget.
