In the safe world terms like “gauge” are commonplace, but what does “# gauge steel” really mean? You may wonder when you’re shopping for a safe for home, is 12 or 11-gauge good enough, or should I invest in a 4-gauge steel liner? These are great questions you should ask and we hope our infographic to the left will help you have a bit more insight into what gauge represents. As the gauge # decreases, the thickness of the steel increases. Seems like it should be opposite, but that’s how it works. It’s as simple as that!

As far as what’s the right gauge of steel for your home safe, we’re sure you’ve heard the phrase: You get what you pay for. Well, it’s true! Safes at big-box stores can be alluring with their deep discounted prices. While some deep discounted items are the same wherever you buy them, safes are not. To the naked eye, they may look the same, but are you really purchasing a safe for its looks? Most likely the answer is no. When you look deeper at the specifications of these safes, take time to notice the gauge of steel and if there is none listed, that means something too, it’s worth the investigation. Also note what part of the safe the gauge of steel is referring to…is it the entire body of the safe? Or is it just the door? A safe door will often have thicker steel than the body of the safe, but the body is important too!

When shopping for a safe for home, know what kind of security you are investing in so you make the right choice. At Maximum Security our safe experts will take the time to help you be an educated buyer. We have quality home safes at all price points and steel thicknesses. Whether it’s 14-gauge, 4-gauge or something in between, we have a safe for you. As you can see from the graphic, it makes quite a difference!