Last Updated on September 13, 2025
When it comes to protecting firearms and valuables, choosing the right gun safe is more than just a precaution—it is a responsibility. Responsible gun owners know that a reliable safe not only keeps weapons out of unauthorized hands but also ensures compliance with state and federal safety regulations. In this Stack on Gun Safe Review, we focus on one of the most established names in the security industry: Stack-On.
Founded in 1972, Stack-On quickly earned a reputation for producing affordable yet durable storage solutions. While the brand manufactures tool chests, cabinets, and storage boxes, its gun safes have become the most recognizable part of its catalog. For over five decades, Stack-On has combined affordability with dependable craftsmanship, giving gun owners peace of mind that their collections and valuables are protected.
What makes this review different is its depth. Rather than simply listing features, this Stack on Gun Safe Review highlights the history, build quality, fire resistance, and real-world usability of Stack-On products. With Stack-On’s wide range of models—from compact pistol safes to multi-gun cabinets—this guide will help you identify which option best suits your needs.
As we move through the following sections, we will examine why Stack-On remains one of the most trusted names in the gun safe industry, what features set its safes apart, and which models deliver the best value in 2025. Whether you are a first-time buyer or a seasoned collector, this review will provide the insights you need to make a confident decision.
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Reputation, Experience, and Brand Trust
In any secure purchase, the brand behind the product matters as much as the product itself. This is especially true when selecting a gun safe. In this Stack on Gun Safe Review, we begin by examining why Stack-On has been trusted for decades, how it maintains credibility, and what it means for prospective buyers in 2025.
The History That Builds Trust
Stack-On began its journey in 1972, originally focusing on steel tool storage. In the years that followed, the brand expanded into firearm safes as part of its broader range of storage solutions. Over time, Stack-On’s expertise in steel fabrication—and its commitment to affordability—helped it become a household name among responsible gun owners. The company’s headquarters in Wauconda, Illinois, remains a central hub for design, manufacturing oversight, and customer service.
This history matters. Buyers are not just investing in a piece of steel; they are relying on a product backed by 50+ years of refinements, feedback loops, and evolving security standards. The Stack on Gun Safe Review appreciates this legacy because it means buyers are choosing a product with a proven track record.
Compliance and Certifications
One of the most significant trust signals in firearm storage is certification by recognized regulatory bodies. Stack-On offers several models that meet or exceed standards set by the California Department of Justice (DOJ). These safes undergo rigorous testing to verify their resistance to forced entry, lock degradation, and tampering. A safe that achieves DOJ approval gives peace of mind, both from a security standpoint and a legal one.
Even outside California, buyers in other jurisdictions benefit from these certifications. States with restrictive gun storage laws often look to DOJ-approved safes as benchmarks for compliance. In this Stack on Gun Safe Review, we find that Stack-On strikes a balance—offering certified models at price points far below luxury competitors.
A Mid-Range Champion in a Polarized Market
Today’s market is polarized. On one end are ultra-premium safes that feature biometric access, thick composite walls, and thermal insulation rated for 60 minutes or more of fire resistance. On the other are budget lockboxes, sometimes built from lightweight materials, offering only minimal protection. Stack-On positions itself in the middle, offering solid steel construction, three-point locking, and moderate fire resistance—all at a mid-range price.
This position matters: for many gun owners, especially first-time buyers or moderate collectors, Stack-On delivers crucial security without introducing prohibitively high costs. The Stack on Gun Safe Review underscores that for the majority of day-to-day needs, Stack-On offers better value than both stripped-down budget options and over-engineered premium units.
Evolving Under New Management
In 2018, Stack-On underwent a major shift when it was acquired by Alpha Guardian, a firm that specializes in gun safe manufacturing and marketing. Since then, Stack-On has benefited from updated design inputs, refined production standards, and expanded distribution networks. Consumers can now expect broader product availability, newer models featuring modern locking technologies, and streamlined customer support services.
Under this new ownership, the brand has remained committed to its core values—durability, affordability, and regulatory compliance—while modernizing its product line. This evolution reinforces the trust that readers of this Stack on Gun Safe Review look for when comparing options.
Construction, Security Features, Fire Resistance, and Updated Safety Alerts
In this section of our Stack on Gun Safe Review, we shift attention from the brand’s reputation to the tangible aspects that matter most when selecting a safe: build quality, locking mechanisms, fire protections, and recent safety developments. These elements determine how well a safe performs in real-world scenarios—from attempted break-ins to emergencies like fires or structural damage.
A. Steel Construction & Structural Design
Stack-On safes are fundamentally built with heavy-gauge steel. Entry-level models typically use thinner steel (e.g., 18-gauge), while premium and annex models deploy thicker steel up to 12-gauge or better. This gradient ensures that buyers on a budget still receive core security, while those needing more robust protection can pay for it.
Several models feature external hinges or trulock internal hinges, enhancing the strength of the door assembly. For example, the TS5936 42-gun safe employs external hinges along with four live-action locking bolts and two deadbolts, making forced entry via prying far more difficult. Tractor Supply Co.
Additionally, many Stack-On safes include anti-drill hardened steel plates behind the lock area to resist drilling attempts—a common forced-entry technique. Tractor Supply Co.
B. Locking Mechanisms
Stack-On offers a variety of locking systems across its lineup. While the traditional three-point locking system remains standard in smaller or more budget-conscious models—securing the door at the top, bottom, and side—higher-end models go further:
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The TS5936, for instance, boasts an electronic lock with backup key access, supported by multiple locking points (some models even deploy 7 live-action bolts and 3 deadbolts, as in the Sovereign S-60-DGP-E-S model).
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Models such as the Elite E18-30-MB-E-S also offer a four-way locking door system, combined with an electronic keypad, balancing entry convenience and security.
C. Fire Resistance Ratings & Thermal Protection
Fire resistance is a crucial attribute for gun safes. Stack-On has improved its fire protection in several newer models:
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The TS5936 42-gun safe is rated fireproof for 30 minutes at 1,200°F and includes a Triple Fin intumescent Fire/Smoke seal, which expands under heat to protect contents.
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The Elite E18-30-MB-E-S is also designated as fireproof for 30 minutes, though the exact temperature isn’t always clearly published.
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For serious collectors, the Sovereign S-60-DGP-E-S stands out with a 75-minute fire rating at around 1,400°F, while still maintaining interior temperatures below 350°F during a fire. It also claims waterproof protection for up to 72 hours in 2 feet of standing water.
These advances in fireproofing place Stack-On more in line with premium-grade safes—especially significant given their relatively moderate prices.
D. Smoke and Water Seals
Improved protection against smoke and moisture is increasingly expected. Stack-On increasingly integrates door seals engineered to block smoke and water. The TS5936’s Triple Fin door seal exemplifies this: it helps maintain interior integrity even when exposed to smoke or moderate moisture.
In the Sovereign S-60-DGP-E-S, the waterproofing claim (2 ft water submersion for 72 hours) suggests comprehensive sealing across the safe seams, though independent certification (like UL water ratings) isn’t cited.
E. Updated Safety Alerts: Biometric Feature Recall & Warnings
A very important development in 2025 concerns the biometric features on some Stack-On safes. In January 2025, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a warning to consumers—asking them to immediately stop using the biometric feature on certain Stack-On models due to risk of severe injury or death.
According to the CPSC:
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Approximately 183,000 units using biometric access (including pistol vaults, drawer safes, etc.) have been affected.
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The biometric system can fail without warning, potentially allowing unauthorized access—even by children.
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There have been at least three incidents reported; in one, a 5-year-old gained access and caused serious injury.
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The CPSC recommends that owners remove the batteries, disable the biometric reader (e.g., by puncturing it), and use only the physical key to lock and unlock the safe.
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Stack-On has reportedly refused to agree to a voluntary recall.
This safety concern is a serious red flag. In your Stack on Gun Safe Review, this issue highlights that while the brand has improved in many technical respects, certain features may carry unanticipated risks. Those concerned about biometric reliability or placing firearms within children’s reach may wish to avoid or disable these models entirely.
Detailed Stack on Gun Safe Review of Popular Models
One of the strengths of Stack-On is the diversity of its product line. Whether you need a small personal safe for handguns or a large cabinet capable of storing multiple rifles, Stack-On has developed models that fit different needs and budgets. In this section of our Stack on Gun Safe Review, we’ll examine several standout models and explain what makes each one unique.
(Our top pick)
1. Stack-On GCB-900 Pistol Safe
Compact and efficient, the Stack-On GCB-900 remains one of the brand’s most popular handgun storage options. Built from solid steel, it provides a balance between portability and strength. Its removable foam-lined shelves protect firearms and valuables from scratches, and the pre-drilled mounting holes allow for secure installation in a closet, drawer, or even inside larger cabinets.
California DOJ approval makes this safe particularly attractive to owners in regulated states. In practical terms, this means the locking system and build have been tested to resist tampering. For new gun owners looking for a reliable and space-conscious solution, the GCB-900 is a strong entry-level choice.
2. Stack-On GCB-5300RTA-DS Security Cabinet
For those who need more than a pistol safe, the GCB-5300RTA-DS stands out as a versatile mid-sized cabinet. Measuring 53 inches tall, it is ideal for small rifle collections or households with mixed storage needs. Its adjustable shelving system allows users to store ammunition, documents, and gear alongside firearms.
The black epoxy finish with silver accents gives it a polished look, making it suitable for spaces where aesthetics matter. Like other Stack-On products, it uses the three-point locking system, providing solid protection without overcomplicating access. For budget-conscious buyers seeking flexibility, this model is one of the most practical options in our Stack on Gun Safe Review.
3. Stack-On PS-1520 Personal Safe
Not every buyer needs a tall rifle cabinet, which is why Stack-On also produces compact personal safes like the PS-1520. Designed for documents, jewelry, handguns, and cash, this safe focuses on simplicity and reliability. Its solid steel walls and tamper-resistant door reinforce its security, while the foam-padded interior ensures delicate items remain undamaged.
One of its advantages is its dual-access system: the key-coded cylinder lock provides primary access, while a backup key system ensures peace of mind if the primary lock is misplaced. For apartment dwellers, families, or anyone needing quick access to personal valuables, the PS-1520 is a practical solution.
4. Stack-On GCDB-924 Double-Door Security Cabinet
Organization is often overlooked when selecting a safe, but the GCDB-924 solves this problem with a clever double-door design. One side accommodates rifles and shotguns, while the other side includes shelving for ammunition, gear, and valuables. This separation not only improves accessibility but also ensures firearms and supplies remain neatly stored.
With space for up to 10 rifles under 54 inches, this cabinet appeals to gun owners with growing collections. The heavy-duty steel construction and three-point lock enhance security, while the interior shelves make it equally valuable as a general-purpose storage cabinet. In this Stack on Gun Safe Review, the GCDB-924 represents the best of Stack-On’s focus on functionality.
5. Stack-On GCDG-9216 16-Gun Cabinet
For larger collections, the GCDG-9216 is a natural step up. Designed to hold up to 16 rifles or shotguns, this cabinet emphasizes capacity without sacrificing durability. Its reinforced double doors, three-point locking system, and foam-padded interior deliver both protection and organization.
Collectors appreciate the generous interior, which leaves room not just for firearms but also for ammunition, scopes, and additional accessories. While it does not offer the extended fire resistance of premium models, its affordability and storage space make it a staple among Stack-On’s most trusted cabinets.
Honorable Mentions: Fireproof and Premium Models
While the above models represent Stack-On’s core lineup, it’s worth mentioning their newer fireproof safes such as the TS5936, which offers 30-minute fire resistance at 1,200°F, and the Sovereign S-60-DGP-E-S, which extends fire protection up to 75 minutes with added water resistance. These models demonstrate Stack-On’s progress in meeting higher consumer expectations for emergency protection.
Advantages That Define Stack-On
Stack-On’s primary strength lies in its ability to deliver dependable security at a price point that remains accessible to most households. Their safes are consistently constructed from solid steel, even in entry-level models, which means they provide a genuine layer of protection against tampering and theft. Unlike lightweight lockboxes or generic storage cabinets, Stack-On designs specifically for firearms, ensuring compliance with California DOJ standards on many models.
Another major advantage is variety. From compact bedside pistol safes to expansive 16-gun cabinets and even fireproof Sovereign models, Stack-On has a safe to suit nearly every type of firearm owner. This adaptability makes it easy for buyers to find a product that aligns with their collection size, storage space, and budget.
Affordability is perhaps the most notable strength. While premium brands often charge two or three times the price, Stack-On strikes a balance, offering many of the same essential features—reinforced steel, three-point locks, and fire resistance—without inflating costs. This is one of the reasons Stack-On has become a household name for practical gun owners, and it is a point frequently highlighted in any Stack on Gun Safe Review.
Limitations and Considerations
Although Stack-On delivers impressive value, it does have limitations compared to premium safes. Fire protection is one such area. While several models offer 30 minutes of resistance at 1,200°F, this may not satisfy gun owners in high-risk regions where longer protection is essential. Competitors like Liberty or Browning often provide one-hour or even two-hour fire ratings, setting a higher benchmark.
Another limitation is technology. Stack-On relies heavily on mechanical and electronic keypad locks, but it has not fully embraced biometric systems at the same level as competitors. While this might seem like a disadvantage, recent safety concerns with biometric models in 2025—where CPSC issued warnings about failures in certain Stack-On safes—highlight that avoiding over-reliance on this technology may also be a cautious strength.
Finally, some of the entry-level cabinets use thinner steel gauges. While still effective for preventing child access and opportunistic theft, determined intruders with tools may be able to compromise these models faster than premium safes with thicker walls and more locking bolts. Buyers should carefully consider their security needs before deciding.
Competitor Comparisons
In comparing Stack-On to other major brands, its market position becomes clear.
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Liberty Safe is one of the most trusted names in premium safes, often offering heavier construction, higher fire ratings, and American-made craftsmanship. However, the price of Liberty models can be two to three times higher than a comparable Stack-On cabinet. For budget-conscious buyers, Stack-On remains a more realistic option.
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Browning combines luxury with innovation. Their safes often feature advanced biometric systems, customizable interiors, and fire ratings up to 90 minutes. These are excellent for serious collectors, but they come at a premium price tag, often well over $2,000. Stack-On, by contrast, provides “good enough” security at a fraction of the cost.
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SentrySafe offers an interesting comparison. Like Stack-On, it is known for affordability, but many Sentry products focus more on documents, electronics, and valuables rather than firearms. Stack-On has a clear advantage for gun owners because its cabinets are designed specifically with firearms in mind, often meeting DOJ approval standards.
Balanced Perspective
What emerges from this analysis is a picture of a brand that understands its role. Stack-On is not trying to compete with luxury vaults but instead focuses on providing reliable, regulation-compliant, and affordable safes for everyday households. This makes it an excellent entry-to-midrange choice for new gun owners, families, or anyone seeking solid protection without unnecessary extras.
When viewed objectively, the Stack on Gun Safe Review suggests that Stack-On’s combination of value, versatility, and accessibility outweighs its shortcomings, especially for the majority of buyers who do not require premium fire resistance or luxury finishes.
Final Verdict – Is Stack-On the Right Choice?
After examining Stack-On’s long history, construction methods, product range, and competitive standing, this Stack on Gun Safe Review confirms why the brand continues to hold a respected place in the firearm storage market. For more than five decades, Stack-On has struck a careful balance between affordability and reliability, producing safes that deliver genuine protection without overwhelming the average buyer’s budget.
While premium brands like Liberty or Browning may offer longer fire ratings, thicker steel, and advanced biometric options, they also come with premium price tags. Stack-On, on the other hand, fills the crucial middle ground—strong enough for most household security needs, compliant with California DOJ standards on many models, and diverse enough to meet the needs of pistol owners, hunters, and seasoned collectors alike.
One cautionary note is the 2025 safety alert regarding biometric access on certain Stack-On models. Buyers should approach those specific models with care, disable the biometric feature when advised, and rely on traditional locking mechanisms. However, for the vast majority of Stack-On safes—particularly their mechanical lock, keypad, and steel-door cabinets—the track record remains solid.
In short, this Stack on Gun Safe Review concludes that Stack-On remains an excellent option for homeowners seeking dependable, affordable, and regulation-compliant storage solutions. Whether you are buying your first pistol safe or looking for a spacious rifle cabinet, Stack-On deserves a place on your shortlist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Are Stack-On gun safes reliable?
Yes, Stack-On gun safes are well-regarded for their durable steel construction, three-point locking systems, and compliance with firearm safety standards. They provide solid protection for firearms and valuables, especially at their price range.
Q2: Do Stack-On safes offer fire protection?
Several Stack-On models offer fire resistance, typically rated for 30 minutes at around 1,200°F. Premium lines like the Sovereign series extend fire resistance up to 75 minutes at higher temperatures, with additional smoke and water protection.
Q3: How secure are Stack-On locking systems?
Most Stack-On safes use the proven three-point locking system, reinforced with multiple steel bolts. Some safes include electronic keypads with backup key access. While not as advanced as biometric or dual-combination locks, they are effective for home defense and firearm storage.
Q4: Can Stack-On safes be mounted?
Yes. Most Stack-On safes include pre-drilled holes, making it easy to anchor them to floors or walls. Anchoring enhances overall security by preventing theft through removal.
Q5: What capacity should I choose?
Capacity depends on your firearm collection and future plans. Compact safes like the GCB-900 are perfect for pistols, while models such as the GCDG-9216 accommodate up to 16 rifles or shotguns. If you anticipate expanding your collection, choose a larger model to avoid outgrowing your safe too quickly.
Q6: Are Stack-On safes California DOJ approved?
Yes, many models meet DOJ approval standards, ensuring that they comply with strict firearm safety regulations. Always check the model specifications to confirm certification if you live in a state with strict compliance requirements.
Q7: Should I avoid biometric models after the 2025 safety alert?
Yes. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has warned against using biometric features in certain Stack-On safes due to malfunction risks. It is recommended that buyers disable biometric systems on those models and rely on key or keypad access instead.
Closing Thoughts
Gun ownership comes with a responsibility to protect not only your collection but also your family and community. A safe is more than a storage box—it is a safeguard against accidents, theft, and emergencies. This Stack on Gun Safe Review makes it clear that Stack-On continues to offer practical, affordable, and reliable solutions. For buyers who value security without overspending, Stack-On remains a dependable partner in 2025 and beyond.
