What Size Gun Safe Do I Need?

What size gun safe you need depends on how many firearms you own now, how many you expect to own, and how bulky they are once scopes, bipods and slings are fitted. The simple rule: choose a safe whose stated capacity is comfortably above your current collection, because stated capacities assume slim, unscoped firearms and real-world fit is usually lower.

Below we explain how to read capacity claims, how to measure your firearms, and which safes in our range suit different collection sizes. Size also interacts with the law, since weight decides whether a safe must be bolted down in several states and your licence category decides the construction standard. Our gun safe requirements guide for each state covers that side in full.

Stated capacity versus real capacity

A gun safe’s capacity is the number of firearms the manufacturer says will fit in the rack. That figure is a useful comparison between models, but it rarely matches what you will fit in practice. The Guardall G4E rifle cabinet is a good example of an honest listing: it is described as holding between 8 and 16 rifles, depending on their size and configuration.

Several things reduce real capacity:

• Scopes. A scoped bolt-action rifle takes far more width than a slim shotgun, and scopes on neighbouring rifles can clash.
• Bolt handles, magazines and bipods. Anything that sticks out sideways eats into rack spacing.
• Barrel length and overall height. Long barrels may not clear the shelf or ammunition compartment above the rack.
• Mixed collections. A mix of shotguns, rimfires and scoped centrefires rarely packs as tightly as identical rifles.

Alternating firearms barrel-up and stock-up can help, but do not count on it to bridge a big gap.

How to measure your collection

Before you shop, take five minutes to measure:

1. The overall length of your longest firearm, with any fitted muzzle device.
2. The height of your tallest scope from the bore line, which affects how closely rifles can sit.
3. The number of firearms you own today, split into scoped rifles, unscoped rifles and shotguns, and handguns.
4. What else must go in the safe: ammunition (in a separately locked space), magazines, cleaning kit and documents.

Then compare those figures with the internal dimensions on the product page, not just the external size. Our product listings also note that you should allow for the handle projection when measuring depth, which matters if the safe is going into a robe or cupboard.

What size gun safe suits your collection

The table uses capacities as listed on our product pages and approximate prices from our current range. Prices change, so check the product page before you buy.

Two models worth seeing in person are the CMI SS5 five-rifle safe, a popular first safe with a built-in ammo locker, and the Guardall G4E large rifle cabinet for growing collections. The full line-up is in our gun safe and rifle cabinet range.

Plan for the collection you will have

The most common regret we hear is buying a safe that fits today’s collection exactly. A year later there is a new rifle, a second shotgun or a handgun, and the safe is full. Replacing it means paying for a second safe and unbolting the first.

As a guide, size up to cover the firearms you realistically expect to add over the next few years. The price step between neighbouring sizes is usually smaller than the cost of replacing a safe and having it moved and re-installed.

Internal layout matters as much as size

Two safes with the same external size can be very different inside. Look at:

• The ammunition compartment. Most states require ammunition to be locked away separately. A built-in locker such as the 240 mm compartment listed on CMI’s SS range saves buying a second safe, provided it meets your state’s rules. Our guide to ammunition storage rules in each state explains the options.
• Shelving. An upper shelf for accessories, scopes and documents keeps the rack clear.
• Rack spacing and padding. Check the slots suit your stocks and that padding protects finishes.
• Door clearance. Make sure scoped rifles can come out without catching on the door frame.

Height, weight and bolting

Bigger safes are heavier, and weight affects both installation and the law. In Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania, a firearm safe under 150 kg empty must be fixed to the building. In NSW, Category C, D and H safes must be bolted down whatever they weigh, as must Queensland containers for Category D, H and R. WA requires compliant containers under 500 kg to be anchored. In practice, plan to bolt down almost any gun safe.

Tall safes should usually be fixed to both the floor and the wall. Our guide on bolting a gun safe to concrete or framing covers fixing methods, and our professional delivery and installation team can handle delivery, positioning and fixing for heavier models or upstairs rooms.

Your licence category affects the safe you need

Size is only half the decision. The safe must also meet the construction standard for the highest category you hold. In South Australia, for example, SAPOL guidance says that if you hold any Category C, D or H firearm, all of your firearms must be in a Level 2 safe, as our SA gun storage rules article explains. In Victoria, steel must be at least 1.6 mm thick for Categories A to D and general category handguns, according to Victoria Police.

If you own or plan to own handguns, check whether a separate pistol safe or a compartment in your rifle safe suits your state. Our article on pistol and handgun safe requirements covers this. If you are new to firearms, our introduction to gun safes is a good starting point.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many rifles will a 10-gun safe really hold?

Usually fewer than 10 if your rifles are scoped. Stated capacities assume slim, unscoped firearms, and scopes, bolt handles and bipods all take up rack space. Some manufacturers give a range instead, such as the Guardall G4E, listed as holding 8 to 16 rifles depending on size. Measure your firearms and compare them with the internal dimensions.

Should I buy a bigger gun safe than I need?

In most cases, yes. Choose a safe that covers the firearms you realistically expect to add over the next few years, not just your current collection. Replacing a safe later means buying a second one and paying to have the first unbolted and moved, which usually costs more than stepping up one size at the start.

Can I store handguns in my rifle safe?

Sometimes, provided the safe meets your state’s standard for Category H, which is often stricter than for longarms, and any ammunition is separately locked. Some rifle safes, such as the Stronghold RS10, are described as suitable for Category A to H firearms. Check the construction requirements with your state registry before storing handguns in a rifle safe.

Does a larger gun safe still need to be bolted down?

Often, yes. Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania require safes under 150 kg empty to be fixed, and NSW requires Category C, D and H safes to be bolted down regardless of weight. WA requires compliant containers under 500 kg to be anchored. Even where it is not required, bolting a large safe adds security and stability.

Compare gun safe sizes in our showroom

Capacity is easiest to judge in person. Bring the measurements of your longest firearm and tallest scope to our showroom at 38 Barrie Rd, Tullamarine, where over 350 new and used safes are on display. Call 0409 860 011 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm) or ask our team for sizing advice.