We can get second-hand clothes and furniture, but what about gun safes? Handling firearms is risky and comes with a ton of responsibility and regulations. Is getting a secondhand gun safe a smart or risky move? Find out the advantages, risks, and the answer to your question.
The Advantages
Second-hand gun safes come with their share of advantages, such as
1. Price
If you plan to get a firearm, you must consider getting secure storage as well. A second-hand gun safe is a great option if you are on a tight budget.
2. Premium Brands at Lower Costs
Second-hand markets have tons of reputable brands that guarantee quality and durability. Safes from these brands are designed to withstand years of use. Therefore, you can buy a premium-grade safe that would’ve been out of your budget if you wanted a new one.
3. Better Construction
Older gun safes, especially the high-end models, are sometimes built with sturdier materials than more modern, cost-efficient designs. Steel gauges are a good example. In older safes, the steel is usually thicker, adding an extra layer of physical security.
4. Environmental Benefits
If you are conscious about the environment and want to do something about it, a second-hand gun safe would be a great start. It will reduce waste and encourage sustainable purchasing practices.
5. No Waiting Periods
When buying a new safe, shipping delays or waiting for special orders can hold up the process. A second-hand safe is readily available and quite convenient if you urgently need secure storage.
The Disadvantages and Risks
Although pre-owned gun safes have numerous advantages, they also come with a few risks.
1. Wear and Tear
What you save in cost, you might lose in performance. Used safes may have wear and tear that compromises reliability, such as worn-out locking mechanisms, rust, or physical damage.
2. Limited Compliance
Gun safes regulations in Australia keep changing. A second-hand gun safe that previously complied with older standards might not meet current requirements in your state. If the safe isn’t up to code, you risk facing legal penalties, even if you purchased it in good faith.
3. Unknown Maintenance History
The hidden past of a second-hand safe is a risk. It’s hard to know how well it was maintained and whether or not it was tampered with. Did it experience flooding or external shocks that weakened its structure?
What You Should Consider Before Buying to Reduce the Risk
If you’re still leaning toward a second-hand gun safe, you’ll want to be thorough about the buying process. Here’s what you should look for when shopping around.
1. Physical appearance
When assessing a second-hand safe, check for signs of:
- Rust or corrosion
- Dents and warping in the door or frame.
- Test the functionality of the locking mechanism
- Loose tact seals, hinges or misaligned bolts
Inspect the safe in person rather than relying on photos.
2. Regulatory Compliance
Check if the safe meets your state’s storage standards for the types of firearms you own. Look for a compliance plate or certification marking on the safe itself. If it lacks proof of compliance, proceed cautiously or consider options from other sellers.
3. Brand Reputation
Stick to reputable brands that are known for quality. Look up any recurring issues with the safe models or recalls.
4. Fire and Theft Ratings
While references to- “X hours of fire resistance” are common, confirm if those ratings are still valid. Over time, insulation and fire-proofing materials in older safes might degrade. Look for safes with valid UL (Underwriters Laboratories) certification.
5. Size and Storage Needs
Does the pre-owned safe fit your current and future needs? Choose one with enough space for your firearms, ammunition, and any other valuables you intend to store.
6. Seller Transparency
Ask why the owner is parting with the safe. A lack of clarity in their explanation could point to hidden issues. Better yet, seek used safes sold by trusted safe retailers who offer guarantees or inspections.
Can Second-Hand Safes Fulfill Their Purpose?
Yes, a second-hand gun safe will serve the same purpose as a new one if it’s in good condition and compliant with laws. The role of a gun safe is to keep your firearms safe and most quality safes are built for long-term use. It may lack flashy features available in new designs. Nevertheless, its level of security will still match your requirements.
A New Safe Isn’t Always the Answer
Second-hand gun safes are an affordable and practical choice for anyone working within a tight budget. Carefully assess the safe to check its physical condition, certifications, and ratings. Check our list of affordable gun safes at Safes Australia and check if you can get a new one for the same price.
