When it comes to securing your firearms, a gun safe is more than just a metal box, it’s a critical layer of protection, responsibility, compliance, and peace of mind. At Harry’s Locksmith, we’ve been helping families, hunters, collectors, and businesses secure what matters most since 1949, with the expertise and care you can trust.
Safe storage isn’t just smart, it’s the law.
- In Oregon, firearms must be secured when not under your control, with a trigger lock, in a locked container, or inside a gun room. Failure to do so can lead to fines and legal liability if the firearm causes harm.
- In Washington, while specific storage methods aren’t mandated, it’s illegal to store firearms unsafely. If someone prohibited from owning a gun gains access and causes harm, the owner can face criminal charges, unless the firearm was properly secured.
We have a selection available to browse at both of our locations, and we’re happy to help you find the right fit. Need a recommendation? Give us a call or send us an email, we can order the perfect safe for you!
How Gun Safes Protect: Layers of Security
Energy Efficiency– Stop air leaks and reduce heating/cooling loss
Moisture Protection – Keep rain, snow, and excess moisture that can lead to water damage and warping.
Noise Reduction – Minimize disruptive outside noise from traffic, machinery, or foot traffic.
Pest Control – Seal up the tiny gaps that bugs and rodents love to sneak through.
Improved Door Functionality – Prevent slamming, rattling, or uneven wear on door frames and hardware, while also making it more difficult for intruders to break into.
Burglary Ratings: What Do They Mean?
Construction Ratings indicate steel thickness and build quality.
- B-Rate (Good Protection)
- C-Rate (Better Protection)
Performance Ratings (e.g., UL-rated) confirm independent testing under attack scenarios.
- U.L. RSC (Level 1 or 2 Protection)
- U.L. TL-15 (Best Protection)
- U.L. TL-30 (Superior Protection)
- U.L. TL-30 x 6 (Extreme Protection)
Fire Ratings Explained: Keeping Contents Protected in a Fire
UL Fire Ratings
A UL fire label means the safe has passed rigorous tests for fire endurance, explosion hazards, and impact, proving it can truly withstand real-world fire conditions. It’s one of the industry’s most trusted certifications.
- Rating: Class 350 – 2 HR
- The safe will maintain an interior temperature less than 350°F when exposed to fire for a period of two hours at 1850°F
- Rating: Class 350 – 1 HR
- The safe will maintain an interior temperature less than 350°F when exposed to fire for a period of one hour at 1700°F
ETL Fire Ratings
ETL, operated by Intertek since 1896, is a trusted independent lab known for its strict and reliable gun safe fire testing standards.
- ETL 30 Min. Rating – 30 minutes at 1,200°F
- ETL 45 Min. Rating – 45 minutes at 1,200°F
- ETL 60 Min. Rating – 60 minutes at 1,200°F
- ETL 90 Min. Rating – 90 minutes at 1,200°F
- ETL 120 Min. Rating – 120 minutes at 1,200°F
These times inform us the amount of time until the internal temperature reaches 350°F at which most paper will start to char.
