Can’t Go Wrong with These Safes & Vault Doors
From the Best Value and Top Entry Level Safe to the top value for a high-security safe and favorite vault door, these are our founder’s picks.
David & Patty Ballestrasse bootstrapped Northwest Safe back in the late 80’s and built what you now known as one of the premier safe companies in the U.S. Although brands and models have changed over the years, David Sr. still has a keen eye for what makes a quality safe for a solid value.
Here are his top safe picks:
Best Value: Fort Knox Protector Series
The 3/16-inch body is thicker than any quality safe in its price range, the mechanism is buttery smooth and you have the options available to customize to your exact needs. This safe is the minimum that most people need, but fail to buy because it's a few dollars more than lesser safes.
Top Entry Level Safe: Liberty Centurion 24
Entry level to me means something to protect a small amount of value and keep the guns out of kids and grandchildren’s hands. The Liberty Centurion 24 (fondly known as the CN-24) is the only American made safe in this price range and is backed by Liberty Safes’s legendary warranty and customer service.
Best Home Safe: Liberty Premium Home Safe
Heavier construction and premium features make this handsome safe my pick for the average homeowner. For those securing value in excess of $10,000 look at the Fort Knox Defender, but expect to pay more than twice as much.
High Security Safe: AMSEC CFX Series Safes
The AMSEC AmVault TL-30X6 Safes offer a mix of high security, quality build and premium fit and finish in an America made product. It’s not cheap. But, it is a great value for those needing real security. (AMSEC also stands for American Security, the leading American manufacturer of TL-rated safes.)
Vault Door: Fort Knox Vault Door
If you're expending the effort and money to build a vault room it is foolish to skimp on the door. Fort Knox vault doors come in many sizes, even custom sizes and options for any need. An upgraded door with thicker hardened steel is a must for any vault room.
Find the Right Safe for You
David Sr.’s selection is a great place to start, but we know that each person’s security needs are different. Your safe recommendation should be too. That’s why we’ve built a quick quiz to help you find the best safe to meet your needs.
It takes less than two minutes to answer a few questions and get a carefully curated Good+Better+Best recommendation from our knowledgeable staff.