The Stack-On Total Defense 28 gun safe is a popular choice for firearm owners seeking a balance between security, capacity, and affordability. This review dives deep into its features, pros, cons, and answers frequently asked questions to help you determine if it's the right safe for your needs.
What are the key features of the Stack-On Total Defense 28 Gun Safe?
The Stack-On Total Defense 28 boasts several key features that contribute to its appeal:
- Capacity: As the name suggests, it can hold approximately 28 firearms, depending on their size and configuration. This makes it suitable for a moderate-sized collection.
- Security: It features a combination lock, typically a 3-number dial. While not as secure as electronic locks or biometric systems, it provides a decent level of protection against casual theft. The thick steel construction also adds to its security.
- Fire Resistance: While not explicitly marketed as a fireproof safe, the steel construction offers a degree of fire resistance, although the duration of protection would be limited in a significant fire. It's crucial to understand that the level of fire protection is significantly less than dedicated fire safes.
- Size and Weight: The safe's dimensions and weight (around 200 lbs) offer a reasonable deterrent to theft, though it's important to bolt it down for optimal security.
- Price Point: The Stack-On Total Defense 28 is generally more affordable than higher-end gun safes, making it accessible to a broader range of users.
How secure is the Stack-On Total Defense 28 Gun Safe?
The security of the Stack-On Total Defense 28 is relative. Its combination lock provides a level of protection against opportunistic thieves, but it's not impenetrable. A determined thief with tools could potentially breach it. Bolting the safe to the floor is absolutely essential to enhance its security. The steel construction is sturdy, but it doesn't compare to the thicker steel and advanced locking mechanisms found in higher-priced safes. Think of it as a deterrent, rather than an impenetrable fortress. For superior security, consider safes with electronic locks, biometric access, or reinforced doors and locking mechanisms.
Does the Stack-On Total Defense 28 Gun Safe have fire protection?
The Stack-On Total Defense 28 offers limited fire protection. Its steel construction provides some degree of insulation against heat, but it's not designed to withstand prolonged exposure to high temperatures. It's not a fire-resistant safe in the same sense as those specifically rated for fire protection, which use special materials and construction to withstand intense heat for extended periods. Do not rely on this safe to protect your firearms from a significant fire. If fire protection is a primary concern, invest in a dedicated fire-rated gun safe.
What are the dimensions of the Stack-On Total Defense 28 Gun Safe?
The exact dimensions may vary slightly depending on the retailer and model year, but you can find this information easily on the retailer's website or the product manual. Always check the specific dimensions before purchasing to ensure it will fit your intended location.
How much does the Stack-On Total Defense 28 Gun Safe weigh?
Similar to the dimensions, the weight might vary slightly, but you can expect it to be around 200 pounds. This weight contributes to the safe's security by making it more difficult to move.
Is the Stack-On Total Defense 28 Gun Safe worth buying?
The Stack-On Total Defense 28 is a good value for its price, offering a reasonable level of security and capacity for the cost. However, it's essential to manage expectations. It's not a top-of-the-line, high-security safe. If you're on a budget and need a reasonably secure way to store a moderate number of firearms, it's a viable option. But if maximum security or fire protection is paramount, you should consider investing in a more robust and expensive safe. Remember always to properly bolt it down to the floor.
Conclusion
The Stack-On Total Defense 28 Gun Safe presents a balance between affordability and functionality. Its suitability depends entirely on your specific needs and security expectations. By carefully considering its strengths and limitations, you can make an informed decision about whether this safe is the right choice for your firearm storage needs. Remember to always prioritize responsible firearm ownership and storage practices.