Gun Safe Buyers Guide: How to Choose the Right Firearm Cabinet
November 29, 2025
Gun Safe Buyers Guide. Choosing a gun safe is an important decision. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a new firearms license holder, the right cabinet keeps your weapons safe, legal, and secure. In this gun safe buyers guide, we’ll walk you through every detail you need to know.
Why a Gun Safe is Essential
Gun Safe Buyers Guide. In the UK, owning a firearm comes with strict legal responsibilities. Storing your gun in a police-approved gun cabinet is a legal requirement. But beyond that, a gun safe protects your family, secures your home, and deters theft.
Understanding UK Gun Storage Laws
British law requires firearms to be stored securely to prevent unauthorised access. Most police forces demand a safe that complies with BS 7558: the British standard for gun cabinets. You can find more details from the Home Office Firearms Security Handbook.
Key Features to Look For
- BS 7558 Certification: Ensures your cabinet meets police approval.
- Steel Thickness: 2mm or more for optimal strength.
- Internal Locking: Reinforced locking bolts and secure hinges.
- Capacity: Choose based on the number of firearms you own or plan to own.
- Anchor Points: Allow you to bolt the safe to walls or floors.
- Separate Ammo Box: Required for certain licenses.
Types of Gun Safes
There are various safes to match your firearm type, storage location, and preferences.
- Shotgun Cabinets: Tall and narrow, designed for long guns.
- Rifle Cabinets: Often deeper, sometimes with scope space.
- Combination Safes: Store both rifles and shotguns.
- Under Bed Safes: Discreet, space-saving options.
- Wall Mounted Units: Ideal for concealed storage.
Where to Install Your Gun Safe
Install your safe out of sight and secured to a solid wall or floor. Garages, basements, or wardrobes are common choices. Check with your local firearms officer for approval.
Best Practices for Firearm Storage
- Always keep firearms unloaded.
- Store ammunition separately, ideally in a lockable compartment.
- Check locking mechanisms regularly.
- Keep keys or codes out of reach of children or visitors.
Top Gun Safes on the Market
We stock a wide range of BS 7558 approved gun safes. Here are some popular options:
- Turnbull Gun Cabinets: Perfect for 1-7 guns, with sleek designs and built-in ammo boxes.
- Budget Gun Cabinets: Ideal for new license holders, affordable and compliant.
- Digital Lock Safes: Easy access with modern electronic locking systems.
Gun Safe Buyers Guide. Common Buyer Questions
Can I store ammo in the same cabinet? Yes, if the cabinet has a separate, lockable compartment.
What size safe should I get? Always go larger than you think. Future-proof your investment.
How do I know it’s approved? Look for BS 7558 certification and confirm with your firearms officer.
Our Expert Recommendation
If you’re just starting, choose a 3-gun Turnbull cabinet. It’s fully compliant, compact, and well-built. If you need digital locking, explore our advanced models with keypad or biometric access. Browse all gun safes here.
External Resources
Final Thoughts
Choosing a gun safe doesn’t have to be hard. With the right advice, it becomes a smooth process. A compliant, high-quality cabinet ensures you’re always on the right side of the law—and keeps your firearms protected.
Gun safe buyers guide. Contact Us for Advice
Still unsure? Our team at Total Locker Service is happy to help. Contact us for expert advice or browse our full range of gun cabinets and accessories.
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