Purpose Built Gun Vault

[Kkid]

If you are planning new construction of a residence, especially with a walk-out basement, an easy and relatively inexpensive way to build a walk-in gun safe is to have it included when the foundation walls are being poured. I just asked my contractor to add a couple walls, including a vault door opening and concrete over steel deck for the ceiling. I requested electrical service to the vault but asked to leave it unfinished on the inside so I could custom build it to fit my specs and needs. It's only 5' x 10' but holds over 150 long guns and handguns in racks and hangers, plus shelves for storage of thousands of rounds of ammunition and various firearm accessories. The full size fire-rated vault door was surprisingly inexpensive and provides a lot of peace of mind. Because I have a tall ceiling height in my basement I was even able to build in an attic with trap door to store gun cases, gun boxes and etcetera. Access is concealed by entering through what appears to be a closet in the room outside the vault. The vault is fully insulated and maintains a constant temp and humidity year-round. I'd be happy to share my experience and or plans if anyone is interested.

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[Old John]

My Cousin in Idaho did this. Planned for it when he built his house.He has been collecting old guns forever. 140+ the last time I was there. Lugers, Broomhandle Mausers, Civil War Muskets-you name it!

 

[Buckey]

If you are planning new construction of a residence, especially with a walk-out basement, an easy and relatively inexpensive way to build a walk-in gun safe is to have it included when the foundation walls are being poured. I just asked my contractor to add a couple walls, including a vault door opening and concrete over steel deck for the ceiling. I requested electrical service to the vault but asked to leave it unfinished on the inside so I could custom build it to fit my specs and needs. It's only 5' x 10' but holds over 150 long guns and handguns in racks and hangers, plus shelves for storage of thousands of rounds of ammunition and various firearm accessories. The full size fire-rated vault door was surprisingly inexpensive and provides a lot of peace of mind. Because I have a tall ceiling height in my basement I was even able to build in an attic with trap door to store gun cases, gun boxes and etcetera. Access is concealed by entering through what appears to be a closet in the room outside the vault. The vault is fully insulated and maintains a constant temp and humidity year-round. I'd be happy to share my experience and or plans if anyone is interested.

Howdy, been thinking about doing this for years. Where did you end up with your vault door. If I may ask what the cost of the door was. Thanks, Buckey

 

[Kkid]

My door is made by SnapSafe and I ordered it through GunSafes.com. It's 36" x 80" with hinges on the left and in-swing opening. Including shipping with curbside delivery it was $1,250 in March 2020. It's worked flawlessly since installation.

 

[trukinbear]

Our oceanfront estate in Acapulco, built in the 50's by some Hollywood type was built over an enormous dungeon, we called the keep - but then what would you expect from a place with a 5500sqft dancefloor on the roof, and glassless 'windows?' Oddly the only cool place you could find after 2pm. Our major domo thought it was hilarious that I put my office in the keep... along with everything valuable.