High Security Lock Box

How Strong Is Your Lock Box?



There are many products being advertised as lock boxes (or strong boxes, security boxes, cash boxes, etc.). Without knowing what features provide the best security in a lock box, you may think these products are all pretty much the same. Basing your purchase decision on price alone and not considering important security features could be costly.

You want to be a "smart shopper" when you invest in protection for your valuables. When you consider items taken during a burglary are not recovered approximately
80 percent of the time, it only makes sense to make the right choice when selecting a lock box (or strong box) to safeguard the items you want to protect.

What Do You Want To Protect?

Before you go shopping for any lock box, I recommend you do the following:

  • First, make a quick list of the items you want to protect. The list may include cash, jewelry, gold/silver coins, hand guns, cameras, watches, medicines or other controlled substances. By identifying the items you want to protect, you will have a good idea of what size lock box to shop for.
  • Once you have your list, estimate the total value of all of these items. This will help you determine how "strong" your lock box should be and what would be a reasonable amount to spend to protect these valuables. When it comes to lock boxes, you really do get what you pay for. Don't try to protect $2000 worth of valuables with a lock box costing $20 and feel you did what is right.

Does the value of your items deserve a "High Security" Lock Box?

If so, you will find these questions useful for 1) shopping for the "right" lock box (or strong box) for your needs, or 2) determining if your current lock box is good enough.


  1. What Is The Lock Box Made Of?

    You want your lock box to be rock solid - top, bottom and all four sides. Look for one made of steel (preferably heavy duty steel). Stay away from the tin, thin metal or non-metal lock boxes unless your items have little dollar value. If the box is made of a non-metal material, it is primarily for fire protection and will offer very little protection from burglary or theft.

  2. What Is The Locking Mechanism Of The Lock Box?

    Safe Box With Electronic LockFor keyed lock boxes, you want a high-quality 5 or 6-pin tumbler lock that is tough to pick or otherwise defeat. Most of the lesser quality lock boxes (and cash boxes) come with cheap wafer locks that are easily picked or forced open. For electronic locks, make sure you have a decent length code (four is okay, six is better) that is user changeable and a key or two for emergency opening.

  3. Are There Additional Lock Box Security Features? 

    There are additional features that can help prevent a break-in if your lock box is discovered. These include a recessed lid to prevent a pry bar or screwdriver from prying the lid open. Another desireable feature is concealed or recessed hinges which can help prevent hinge pins from being punched out thereby bypassing the locking mechanism.

  4. What Stops A Burglar From Stealing Your Lock Box?

    You have to consider what is going to LockDownPlatestop someone from walking off with your lock box if it is discovered. Look for options that allow you to fasten the lock box to something solid. The best ones, the ones we recommend and sell, attach to a steel plate (shown at right) that is fastened to a solid surface. This allows the lock box to be locked down for those times you want maximum security and released in just seconds when you need portability
If you already own a lock box and realize it is not "strong" enough for your purposes, use it as a decoy. Put a few low-value items in it and place it in a not-so-secret location (such as in the back of your bedroom closet). Then shop for the real thing.
 

When you are shopping, don't be afraid to ask questions. Try the locking mechanism, examine the lock box carefully. Imagine how you would break in to it if you didn't have the key or electronic code. Then be comfortable with your final decision and purchase.

Steel Lock BoxAre you curious about the lockbox featured in this article? This particular steel lock box is made in Germany by a long-established company. They come in three sizes ranging from approx. 8"x10"x 4" high to 11"x14"x 5" high and weigh from 10 to 20 lbs. Prices start at about $160 which includes the steel lock-down plate.


If it makes sense for you to protect your valuables with this High Security Lock Box, contact me (Roger) for current prices and availability.

Contact Information >>> or 715/566-1491



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Disclaimer: I have made every reasonable effort to produce an informative and helpful article on Lock Boxes based on my research and experiences. However, I make no representation or warranties of any kind with regard to its completeness, accuracy or suitability for any specific situation or purpose. See our Warranty Policy for more info.

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