Gun Safes

1. Save money by planning ahead. Before you shop, make a list of what you intend to store in your gun safe, including ammunition. It's an ideal place to store other valuables, too, and soon you'll be putting everything in it. Include room for future purchases. Your list will help you choose the right size for you. Think big.

2. Steel thickness is your most important consideration. Anyone with a fire axe can pierce a thin-walled safe. 12-guage steel is a minimum thickness for high-traffic areas. Lower gauge numbers are thicker. If you live in a secluded area where a burglar might have more time to work, opt for 6-gauge steel or thicker. Storing jewelry or other valuables? Go for at least .25-inch or 3-guage.

3. Locks with a combination dial or keypad are generally much sturdier than simple key locks, and they require that you to be the opener. Any kid can stumble upon a key.

4. Remember lucky 7 when comparing locks. Three lock bolts on each side and one on the top will protect your safe even if the hinges are cut off. More is better, to a point. A 1-inch-thick lock bolt is nearly impossible to saw through.

5. Slow down a burglar and he or she will get discouraged and move on. Tricks include a centered gun safe door handle (it disguises which side the hinges are on), drill deflectors, recessed doors (can't be pried), hidden hinges, and positive locking systems that trigger during an attempt.

6. Your gun safe is a major investment, and it will be impressive. But resist bragging about it. The fewer people who know you collect valuable guns, the better.

7. If you have a security system, connect a smoke detector over your safe. Drilling, grinding and torch-cutting inevitably create smoke. Just seeing a hard-wired detector may deter an intruder.

8. The heavier a safe, the harder it is to steal. But remember that a one-ton safe will require professional movers. A safe in the 750-pound range is a good compromise between security and manageability.

9. If you choose a digital lock, reprogram it occasionally. Wear patterns on the keypad will betray your favorite numbers.

10. When moving a safe, ease the load on your floor by using a dolly with larger tires, and laying plywood runners to spread the load. Although you can rent industrial dollies, a safe over 700 pounds is best moved by a professional, saving money - and your back - in the long run.