Category: Blog

All You Need to Know About Gun Safes: A Complete Guide

Proper firearm security is crucial for legal compliance and personal safety. As Australia’s leading provider of security solutions, Askwith Safe Company offers a comprehensive range of gun safes to meet diverse needs. 

This guide will explore everything you need to know about firearms safes and responsible gun storage, from legal requirements to choosing the right gun cabinet to house your collection.

Why You Need a Gun Safe: Legal and Practical Considerations

Proper firearm storage is mandatory for Australian gun owners. Each state and territory enforces specific requirements which owners must follow to ensure their firearms are stored securely and responsibly.

Gun safes provide more than just legal compliance. They prevent unauthorised access and protect you from theft. They also safeguard against fire and environmental damage, and help organise your collection for easy maintenance.

Types of Gun Safes: Which One is Right for You?

Firearm safes come in various types to suit different needs:

• Long firearm safes: These tall safes accommodate rifles and shotguns and often include adjustable shelving.
• Handgun safes: Compact safes for pistols and revolvers, often with quick-access features.
• Combination safes: Versatile options that can store both long guns and handguns.
• Biometric safes: Use fingerprint recognition for rapid, secure access.
• Display safes: This allows you to showcase your collection while maintaining security.

Key Features to Look for in Firearms Safes

When selecting a gun safe, prioritise these features:

Prioritise Steel Thickness for Security

Choose a gun safe with at least 2mm steel for reliable protection against drilling and forced entry. Thick steel ensures durability and keeps firearms secure.

Choose the Right Locking Mechanism

Gun cabinets in Perth are available with mechanical, electronic, or biometric locks, so you can choose the right option for your needs. Mechanical locks are always reliable, while electronic and biometric options provide faster, personalised access.

Focus on Interior Organisation

Using adjustable shelves in gun racks is a great way to optimise storage for various firearms. Organised interiors prevent damage and keep items secure. 

Consider Mounting Options

Safes with pre-drilled holes allow for easy and secure anchoring. Anchored safes deter theft by making it nearly impossible to remove them without destroying the underlying structure.  

Verify Warranty Coverage

Prioritise manufacturers that offer warranties covering locks, construction, and fire protection. Comprehensive warranties demonstrate the brand’s confidence in its gun cabinets

Gun Safe Locking Systems: Electronic vs. Mechanical

When choosing between electronic or mechanical locks, consider your priorities for speed, reliability, and convenience.

• Electronic locks: These locks, which use keypads or biometrics, provide quick access and are ideal for emergencies. They integrate with smart systems but require power or battery changes.
• Mechanical locks: Although they are slower to open in urgent situations, mechanical locks remain popular because they provide reliable, power-free access and long-lasting durability.

Key Considerations for Choosing a Gun Safe

Here’s how to choose the right gun safe for your needs:

Measure and Plan for Storage

Measure your largest firearm to ensure a proper fit. Don’t forget to allow space for accessories, ammunition, and cleaning tools. Adjustable shelves make organising your items much simpler.

Ensure Compliance with Australian Standards

Select a safe with solid steel construction, secure locks, and proper anchoring. Ensure it meets AS/NZS 3809:1998 certification and complies with your state’s regulations.

Gun Cabinet Perth: A Smart Buying Guide

Research brands to compare security, size, and convenience. Read reviews to find reliable options and shop deals from reputable dealers.

Maintenance and Care for Your Gun Safe

Proper maintenance and the right features ensure your gun safe performs reliably:

• Control moisture: Use dehumidifiers or desiccants to prevent rust and protect both the firearms and the safe.
• Lubricate moving parts: Apply manufacturer-recommended lubricants to hinges and locks for smooth operation and long-term durability.
• Maintain interior and exterior: Keep the interior dry and clean the exterior with non-abrasive products to preserve functionality and appearance.
• Service electronic locks: Schedule regular servicing to ensure locks operate reliably and securely without unexpected failures.
• Invest in fireproofing: Fireproof safes shield firearms and documents from heat, smoke, and moisture, ensuring lasting security and value.

Latest Top Gun Safe Recommendations

Secure your firearms with Askwith Safe Company’s trusted safes, representing the best firearms safes on the market in Australia.

Best for Large Firearm Storage: CMI Sports Shooter Rifle Safes (SS14, SS5 & SS7)

CMI Sports Shooter Rifle Safes feature 6mm steel bodies and reinforced doors for long-lasting protection.

Storage Options

• SS14: Stores up to 14 rifles, ideal for larger collections.
• SS5 and SS7: Hold 5 or 7 rifles, great for compact spaces.

Reliable Security

Sliding bolts and rear door locking prevent unauthorised access. Pre-drilled bolt holes ensure secure mounting.

Safe Installation: We provide expert delivery and bolt your safe, ensuring maximum protection and ultimate convenience!

Learn more: CMI Sports Shooter Rifle Safe SS14 and CMI Sports Shooter Rifle Safes SS5 & SS7

Best for Compact Security: CMI Lock-Away Pistol Safe

CMI Lock-Away Pistol Safes feature a 6mm steel construction and heavy welded hinges, offering durability and tamper resistance.

Secure Locking Options

Choose from key, dial combination or digital locks for secure and easy access on your terms.

Compact and Practical

The CMI Lock-Away range is available in three sizes, all with pre-drilled 6 x 16mm mounting holes, making it easily adaptable to your home or office space.

Learn more: CMI Lock-Away Pistol Safes

Best for Versatile Storage: CMI Pistol Safes

CMI Pistol Safes take security up a notch, featuring 10mm steel construction that meets strict government regulations for handgun security.

Flexible Locking Options

Once again, you have the choice of key, dial combination or digital locks on the CMI Pistol Safe range to match your access preferences.

Customisable Interiors

Removable shelves and two sizes allow easy organisation of firearms and accessories, ensuring maximum practicality.

Learn more: CMI Pistol Safes

Best for Dual Use: Askwith Steelguard Pistol/Ammo Safe

The Askwith Steelguard Pistol/Ammo Safe features solid steel construction for secure, long-lasting protection.

Compact and Practical

Its compact size fits homes, offices, or small spaces, offering strength without compromising on space.

Organised Storage

The interior secures firearms and ammunition and offers neat storage. This dual-use safe combines practicality with a reliable design.

Learn more: Askwith Steelguard Pistol/Ammo Safe.

Not sure what you’re looking for? Check out our full gun safe collection.

If it matters, it belongs in Askwith. 

Investing in a quality gun safe is an essential aspect of responsible firearm ownership. It ensures compliance with Australian laws, protects your valuable collection, and provides peace of mind. 

Get in contact with us today to discuss your specific storage needs and learn more about our range of high-quality gun cabinets in Perth. 

Askwith Safe Company is committed to providing top-quality gun safes for compliance, protection, and peace of mind all in one place. 

As a homeowner in Australia, protecting your valuable possessions is a priority. Having a reliable storage solution is essential, whether it’s important documents, family heirlooms, or expensive jewellery. A fireproof home safe is one of the best options for keeping your valuables safe from harm. In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of fireproof safes and why they’re a must-have for every homeowner.

Protect against fire

Firstly, as the name indicates, fireproof safes protect against fire damage. Fires can start unexpectedly, and even a small one can quickly spread and destroy everything in its path. Having a fireproof home safe ensures that your valuable possessions are protected from a fire’s intense heat and flames. Fireproof safes are designed to withstand high temperatures for extended periods, giving you peace of mind knowing that your essential documents and other valuables are safe from harm.

Protect against theft

Fireproof safes also provide security against theft. A fireproof home safe is typically made of heavy-duty materials such as steel and is equipped with a secure locking mechanism, making it difficult for burglars to break into. Fireproof floor safes can be even more secure, as they are embedded into the floor and are difficult to move or access without the proper tools. This added layer of security ensures your valuables are protected from natural disasters and human threats.

Extra storage

Another benefit of fireproof safes is their ability to store various items. A fireproof safe is a versatile storage solution, whether it’s important documents like passports, birth certificates, insurance policies, or valuable items like jewelry and cash. You can even use it to store sentimental items like family photos and keepsakes, protecting them from damage or loss.

Fireproof safes are a must-have for every homeowner in Australia. They protect against fire damage and theft and can be used to store a wide range of valuable possessions. Be sure to invest in a quality fireproof home safe. – it’s better to be safe than sorry when protecting your valuables.

Choose quality

When investing in a fireproof safe for your home, it’s important to prioritise quality over cost. A low-quality safe may seem like a good deal, but you may need more protection in the event of a fire or theft. On the other hand, a high-quality safe is designed to withstand high temperatures, is made of durable materials, and is equipped with a secure locking mechanism. Additionally, a quality safe may come with added features like waterproofing or a backup locking system. Investing in a high-quality fireproof safe ensures your valuable possessions are well protected.

Askwith Safe Company – a preferred safe provider

As Western Australia, South Australia, and the Northern Territories’ sole distributor of Chubbsafes — and the exclusive Australian distributor of Mutual, Rhino, IronGuard, and Protectall Safes — we know people rely on our expertise.

Askwith Safe Company has provided Australia with domestic and commercial safes for a quarter of a century. Let’s talk soon about what you need and the best brand and model fireproof home safe for your budget.

When securing your valuable belongings at home, one of the most effective solutions is to invest in a high-quality safe. Home safes are available in a wide range of sizes and security levels, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your needs. However, once you’ve selected the most secure safe for your home, you’ll need to decide whether to install it yourself or seek professional services, like the team here at Askwith Safe Company.  

DIY Safe Installation

DIY home safe installation can be an appealing option for those on a tight budget and with a hands-on approach to home security. However, before diving into a DIY installation, it’s essential to consider the potential risks and drawbacks. Installing a safe requires a high level of expertise, as it involves drilling holes into walls or floors and ensuring that the safe is adequately secured to prevent theft or damage.

Poor installation = lower protection

A poorly installed safe can provide a false sense of security and might be more of a liability than a protection measure. If the safe is not installed correctly, it may be susceptible to damage from burglars, fire, or water, resulting in the loss of your valuable possessions. And if the safe isn’t secured correctly, it may be more vulnerable to theft, which could lead to financial and emotional consequences.

Professional Safe Installation

Professional services, such as Askwith Safe Company, provide peace of mind and higher security. Professional safe installation services have the necessary skills, tools, and expertise to install your safe correctly, ensuring it is secured and protected from theft and damage. Professional installers are also familiar with local regulations and building codes, ensuring that your safe installation meets all necessary safety standards.

Also, professional safe installers can advise you on the best location for your safe, considering factors such as accessibility, convenience, and security. They can also recommend additional security measures such as surveillance cameras, alarms, and other home security systems to enhance the protection of your home and valuables.

While professional safe installation services may come at an additional cost, it’s essential to consider the long-term benefits and potential cost savings. A professionally installed safe can provide you with years of protection and peace of mind and may even reduce your home insurance premiums, especially when maintained consistently.

Which method should you choose?

When installing a home safe, choose the most secure safe and consider the potential risks and benefits of DIY vs. professional services. While DIY installation may seem cost-effective, it can be risky and provide a false sense of security. Seeking professional safe installation services can provide you with peace of mind, higher security, and long-term cost savings. Investing in high-quality, safe, and professional installation services can help you protect your valuable possessions and secure your home.

Choose Askwith Safe Company to install your Perth safeonce you’ve selected the most secure safe for your home, you’ll need to decide whether to install it yourself or seek professional services, like the team here at Askwith Safe Company.  

At Askwith Safe Company, we have a wide range of high-quality safes for all your needs. Don’t trust anyone else with the safety of your valuables – contact our team at Askwith Safe Company today to browse our range of safes in Perth or find out more information.

To have a safe is like having insurance – you need to pay more if you want more protection. A high-quality safe has several benefits and provides better protection for the contents within.

Australians are often reluctant to invest in small home safes because they seem unusable and expensive. When you factor in items in your house that are valuable, such as jewellery, electronics, cash, wallets, passports, birth certificates, important legal documents etc., the costs can quickly mount up.

The protection offered by cheap hardware store safes is often inadequate, so it is crucial to avoid them. Due to the cheap internal locking mechanisms, most of these smaller, cheaper safes can be unlocked in less than a minute and do not provide any protection from fire or water.

Getting a safe for your home is like a long-term investment, and It is possible to purchase a good quality safe for as little as $500. You can add more security to your home by investing in a quality home safe. To ensure greater security, make sure your safe is bolted down. If you decide to move, the safe can be unlocked and the bolts removed to move to the new location.

Why Purchase A Small Home Safe?

There are several uses for safes in Perth and second-hand safes in Perth. Here’s how you can utilise them at home:

1. Safeguards and protects your sentimental valuables

2. Keeps important documents safe – protecting your important documents doesn’t guard you from identity theft but also from the costs of having to replace your documents.

3. Shields you from natural disasters and accidents – opting for water and fire-resistant small home safes can protect your valuables from unforeseen incidents.

4. Safes are a one-time investment in security and usually last a lifetime.

 

What To Consider When Purchasing A Safe?

Before you google “home safes for sale” and overwhelm yourself with immense information and suggestions, take a look at our small home safes buying guide.

Here’s what you need to keep in mind before purchasing a safe Perth or a second-hand safes Perth:

1. Budget:

You need to set a budget for the safe. Opting for an extremely cheap safe will not be a good idea as they have bad quality and durability.

2. Dimensions:

Depending on where you want to keep your safe, you should check the external and internal dimensions of the place. Also, check the dimensions of the safe you want to get to ensure they would fit the place and have enough space to keep your belongings.

3. Locking Type:

This is purely based on your preference, whether you want a key, digital, or a combination of key and digital locks for your safe in Perth.

4. Safe Construction:

How the safe was constructed is an important consideration because there might be a possibility that you may need to fireproof or waterproof it.

5. Cash Rating:

This rating represent the maximum amount to which an insurance company will cover the contents of a safe.

A higher rating helps reduce insurance premiums.

Conclusions

Unfortunately, accidental fires are on the rise. You can use a fire-resistant safe to protect passports, birth certificates, property deeds, banking information, and other important documents in case of an emergency. It’s better to be cautious and prepare your house for any emergency.

Protect your valuables today and get in touch with Ask With for all your safe and safe maintenance needs.

When choosing a safe, you must do your research so you can make an informed decision. Safes come in various models and make, so it’s normal to get confused. Our goal with this blog is to make it easier for you to find reliable safes in Perth.

Top 5 Features That You Would Want In Your Security Safe

1. A Secure Lock

Strongest safes usually have a robust locking system that keeps the valuables safely out of reach of home intruders. You can opt for a safe with a manual combination lock or a digital lock. Some modern and reliable safes in Perth even have biometric locks, which makes them extremely secure, as only you can open them with your fingerprints.

Sometimes even good locks fail when robbers are determined enough, which is why relockers are essential! A relocker is a fail-safe that engages if the lock is defeated. As soon as the lock is destroyed, the relocker kicks in to keep the safe locked. So, even if the thieves remove the lock, the bars or bolts won’t disengage, and your valuables will remain safe.

2. Fireproof

It’s a good idea to have layers of fireboard on the walls, flooring, doors, and ceiling of the safe to make it fireproof. If a fire starts in your home, a fireproof security safe can protect your valuables from damage.

3. Alarm Systems

Not all safes have alarms, but they are helpful to make any safe the strongest safe. Having an alarm that sounds when someone tries to access the safe can alert you about an intruder. When you receive this alert, you have the opportunity to deal with the situation by calling the police.

Newer, more reliable safes in Perth have alert systems that send notifications about intrusions to your mobile devices.

4. Organising Panels

Safes with organising panels gives you a place to put all your valuables. The quality of a safe is more than just determined by its durability. You must take usability into account.

Ensure the safe’s interior has enough space to hold all the items you intend to store inside. It is best to choose a safe with an adjustable interior, and you will be able to adjust it according to your valuables.

Some security safes have movable internal panels that you can shift around to make compartments that suit your specific needs.

5. Protective Capabilities On Multiple Fronts

In conventional safe designs, locking bolts are only on the door opposite the hinges. In newer, more sophisticated security safes, bolts are positioned at the top and bottom, protecting against pry attacks. There should also be bolts on the hinge side of the design, protecting it as well. The more sides you have with bolts or bars, the better your protection.

Conclusions

Many new safe designs include a dehumidifier, a great additional feature you can look for. Especially if you live in a particularly humid region, a dehumidifier can prevent your valuables from wilting or rusting, keeping them functional.

If you are curious about the options, you can explore reliable safes in Perth on our website. Ask With offers the best quality safes and provides personalised advice on safe purchases. Come to us for all your safe and maintenance needs.

Are expensive safes really the only option towards greater security? Is it possible to use a second-hand safe? Today’s blog at Ask With will answer all your queries about second hand safes in Perth.

It is a general perception that second-hand safes are shoddy, dated, and worn out, but in reality, there are some significant advantages to selecting second hand safes in Perth. These are

1. Older safes are often made to last for many years. An antique safe should function just as effectively as a newer one if the former owners kept it up to par and well-maintained.

2. Older or used safes in Perth provide as much security at significantly lower costs as contemporary models.

3. Safes frequently have a variety of special characteristics, several of which are unique to a particular type. Purchasing a second-hand safe in Perth might be your only way to receive the security mechanisms or design you require if the manufacturer is no longer producing that version.

4. Compared to more contemporary variants, older safes have heavier designs. Older and bulkier versions are challenging to move, so you will not be concerned about someone stealing your safe.

 

 

Tips On Selecting A Pre-Used Safe

Here is a list of considerations you need to look out for when buying an old and used safe in Perth:

1. Verify the interior and exterior dimensions of the safe.

2. Choose as per your budget – The quality of an inexpensive safe would not be trustworthy, so make sure you opt for a drug safe in Perth that fits your budget and is fully functional.

3. Go for a safe with your preferred locking type, whether it is a key lock, a combination lock, a digital lock, or even a key plus digital lock.

4. Look out for the safe’s construction. You may need fire or waterproofing if you live in an accident-prone area.

5. Remember to check the cash rating. A higher rating lowers the insurance cost.

6. Decide the space and check its measurement of the space where you want to install your safe. Safes should, if possible, be fastened to concrete using high-quality dyna-bolts.

How Can A Second-Hand Safe Be Secure If Previous Owners Have Used It?

Back in the day, manufacturers created older drug safes in Perth with some of the world’s most durable materials; thus, they often last for a very long period with very little wear over time and endure throughout the years.

Many old safes have high-quality security features and materials superior to imported modern safes.

Before you buy a used safe, you should read the documentation and understand its build and features. Ensure that the safe has never been drilled open or severely damaged and fixed improperly, which has sacrificed the quality and security of the safe.

Also Read: How to Get a Great Deal on a Refurbished Safe)

Deciding On The Right Second-Hand Safe For Your Needs

There are many options available in the market for you to choose from. Investing in a second-hand safe is an excellent way to protect your valuables and not burn a hole in your wallet. Your requirements and possessions should guide your choice of the best safe.

Here at Ask With, we refurbish various second-hand safes and make them good as new and even better. We have been in this industry since 1997 and are always happy to help you. We offer personalised advice on second-hand safes and choosing the best one for you. So get in touch with us today!

Your home or office safe is designed to do exactly what it says: keep your valuables SAFE.

However, much like your home appliances, your safe may need servicing or repairs over time to keep it functioning as intended.

A common misconception of home safes is that once you’ve made your purchase, it should last for years without any upkeep or maintenance.

While the kind of home safes in Perth you buy from Askwith Safe Company are durable, resilient and hardy, there are certain aspects of your safe that may need servicing or repairs – such as hinges and the locking mechanism.

At Askwith Safe Company, we’re here to dive into the top five signs that your home safes Perth needs to be looked at by a professional.

1. The Lock is Sticking

Just like the other locks around your home, your safe lock can begin to stick when you put in, pull out or attempt to turn the key or punch in the combination over time.

This can happen to traditional lock and key locks, as well as combination locks, and will generally require a professional and certified safe repairer to repair or replace the lock.

2. The Hinges Are Moving Less Fluidly

Hinges are an integral part of your safe, helping to keep your safe door securely shut.

If your hinges begin to malfunction and you put off getting your safe fixed, opportunistic thieves may prey on this weakness to gain access to your safe. Thieves often try to tamper with, torch, cut or bend the hinges instead of gaining access through the lock itself.

You should be able to open and close the door of your safe in Perth without any trouble, so tough hinges are a good indicator that your safe needs some maintenance.

3. You Need the Lock Changed

There are a number of reasons you might need to change the lock on your safe.

• You lost your set of keys or had them stolen, which had the safe key on it;
• Someone has learned your safe combination and you want to change it;
• A person who once had access to your safe is no longer part of your life and you want to ensure they have no further access; or
• You want to upgrade your lock from a key lock to a digital or combination lock.

Our team at Askwith consists of experienced safe locksmiths who can update your lock without damaging your safe.

4. The Safe Has Been Damaged

This actually happens more than you think! Sometimes, the damage can come from thieves trying to break into your safe, and other times, it could simply be accidental damage.

Other types of damage may occur if your safe becomes fire, smoke or water damaged.

A great way to avoid damage from Mother Nature is to purchase the right type of safe for your needs and environment. At Askwith, we stock a range of home and office safes, commercial safes, gun safes and more, which have varying design and safety features to keep your valuable items safe from fire damage. (Related Article: How to Get a Great Deal on Refurbished Safes)

5. You Can’t Get into The Safe

Sometimes your safe might be a little too good at keeping people out. At Askwith Safe Company, we help out many clients who have somehow been locked out of their home or business safe.

There are a number of common reasons that this might occur, such as dead batteries, a jammed bolt, issues with the wiring or even a time delay!

Regardless of the reason you can’t get in, you can rest easy knowing our team at Askwith CAN help.

Call Askwith Safe Company for Safe Repairs & Servicing

At Askwith Safe Company, we not only stock and sell the most reliable and durable safes on the market, we also offer our services for safe maintenance, repairs and servicing.

Keeping your safe maintained will not only keep your safe in the best condition – it will also save you from avoidable issues in the long run.

Contact our team at Askwith Safe Company today for a no-obligation quote on servicing, maintenance or repair for your safe in Perth.