Safes: 2021 purchase guide
Buying a safe to protect your valuables (jewelry, banknotes, works of art, etc.) and important papers (insurance policies, passport, will, banking documents, etc.) from fire, theft and natural disaster is a wise decision. However, given the vast selection of models available on the market, it can be hard to know which one to choose.
But not to worry. Here are some tips to help you find the best safe for your needs.
Different types of safes
There are various criteria to consider when determining which safe to buy.
Model
- Diversion safes : deal for protecting small items of value
- Fireproof safes : to protect your important documents and valuables against high temperatures
- Combination safes : to provide maximum security
Material
You should take note of the reliability of the equipment, the sturdiness of the materials used in its construction and the level of fire resistance it offers. Look at the thickness of the door and walls, the width of the drawer, the mounting hardware, etc.
Locking mechanism
- Key : for simplicity and affordability in a classic lock
- Key and combination : for dual protection
- Electronic lock : for reliability and ease-of-use
- Biometric lock : for activation by finger print or retinal scan
Mounting mechanism
- Built in to a wall or the inside of a cabinet
- Bolted to the floor through mounting holes
Size
You should determine the storage capacity of the safe based on your needs and the nature of the items you want to store in it.
Our recommended safes for 2021
CB-2820 from Coffres-forts CB2000
Key features:
- Manufactured in Quebec
- Interior dimensions (H x W x D): 15″ x 14.75″ x 11.5″
- Class 2: high resistance to fire and theft
- Two-inch-thick doors and walls made of steel and a heavy-duty alloy
- Locking system composed of moving steel bolts 1″ in diameter
- Choice of base with two or four holes for floor mounting
- UL listed Group 2 combination lock (electronic lock also available)
- Independent locking mechanism (relocking)
- Tempered plate beneath the lock
- Available with standard or rotary drop chute
- Offered in various colors: beige, grey, charcoal grey or black
Mini vault from Coffres-forts CB2000
Key features:
- Manufactured in Quebec
- Interior dimensions (H x W x D): 54″ x 30″ x 30″
- Class 3: very high resistance to fire and theft
- Superior frame composition
- Locking system composed of moving steel bolts 1.5″ in diameter
- UL listed Group 2 combination lock (electronic lock also available)
- Tempered plate beneath the lock and glass plate connected to the anti-reverse mechanism
- Optional interior layout according to your needs
- Offered in various colors: beige, grey, charcoal grey or black
ES-031D safe from ALS
Key features:
- Fire rating: 1 hour at 927° C
- Walls 1.5″ thick and door 2.5″ thick
- Locking system composed of moving chrome-plated solid steel bolts ⅝” in diameter
- Pre-drilled mounting hole
- Pull-out tray for supplemental storage
- Electronic lock
To be sure that you’re making the right choice when purchasing your safe, consult the experts at Serruriers Amherst in Montreal or Laval. They’ll offer you the protection you need!
Sources : APA and Coffres-forts 2000
