Best Gun Safe UK: Police & Insurance Approved Buyer’s Guide (2026)

Choosing the best gun safe in the UK requires more than selecting a heavy cabinet. Firearm storage must comply with police guidance, insurance requirements and secure installation standards. Selecting the wrong safe can lead to licensing complications or invalid insurance cover.

This 2026 buyer’s guide explains how to choose a police approved gun safe UK firearm holders can rely on, and how to match safe certification to your specific needs.

For full regulatory context, see our UK Secure Storage Compliance Guide 2026.

What Makes a Gun Safe “Police Approved” in the UK?

What Makes a Gun Safe “Police Approved”?

Under the Firearms Act 1968, firearms must be stored securely to prevent unauthorised access. Police forces assess storage during licence applications and renewals.

• Secure steel construction
• Robust locking mechanism
• Secure wall fixing into solid masonry
• Discreet installation location
• Separate ammunition storage

Cabinet vs Safe: Understanding the Difference

Gun Cabinet vs Gun Safe: What’s the Difference?

In UK terminology, “gun cabinet” often refers to entry-level compliant storage. A “gun safe” may indicate higher insurance or burglary resistance ratings.

• Basic gun cabinets: Suitable for most shotgun storage
• Insurance rated safes: Required for higher value collections
• Fire rated gun safes: Protect documents and certificates

Insurance Approved Gun Safe Ratings

Insurance Approved Gun Safe Ratings

For higher value firearms, insurers may require certified burglary resistance such as:

• EN 14450 (S1 / S2)
• EN 1143-1 (Grade 0 and above)

Higher grades increase cash and valuables cover limits.

Installation Requirements

Proper Gun Safe Installation Requirements

• Secure bolting into solid brick or concrete
• Positioned out of obvious sightlines
• Avoid thin internal partition walls
• Professional installation recommended

Size & Capacity Considerations

Choosing the Right Size Gun Safe

• Number of firearms
• Rifles vs shotguns
• Optics & attachments
• Future expansion

Where Should a Gun Safe Be Installed?

Best Locations for Gun Safe Installation

• Discreet internal rooms
• Solid structural walls
• Outbuildings only if secure
• Avoid visible entry points

Common Mistakes When Buying a Gun Safe

Common Gun Safe Buying Mistakes

• Choosing insufficient size
• Ignoring insurance requirements
• Improper installation
• Buying uncertified imports
• Failing to confirm police acceptance

Recommended Police Approved Gun Safes

Police Approved Gun Safes UK

Explore our range of compliant Gun Safes & Cabinets suitable for shotgun and rifle storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Are gun safes legally required in the UK?
Yes. Firearms must be stored securely under the Firearms Act 1968.

Do gun safes need to be bolted down?
Yes. Secure fixing to a solid wall is typically required.