Sub 1k RSC vs. beefed up closet

[Michael_2112]

I just recently purchased a new home and am in the market for a new RSC/storage area for my firearms. I’m looking to stay in the sub 1k range and fully understand the limitations and strengths of models available in this price range. I started thinking about maybe fortifying (to a degree) the small closet in my home office instead.

I’m not really concerned about fire protection, but more concerned about keeping the “smash and grab” thief out. The home has thick plaster walls and the closet is 78”high x 18”wide x 36”deep. I’m not all that concerned with someone trying to break through the walls as it would be difficult to with the position/location of the closet. I was thinking about adding a steel door frame and solid metal core door with a keypad access deadbolt, maybe installing steel sheets (similar to that of your average stack-on gun cabinet) to the interior walls and outfitting the interior with racks and shelves to fit my current storage needs. I’d like to also make the interior somewhat modular so I can adapt it as my needs change.

So here are my questions:

How much protection would I realistically be losing over an RSC in that price range?

Has anyone done something similar that can provide some tips and/or suggestions?

Would the additional reinforcement of the interior walls be worthwhile?

Thanks,

Mike

 

[bigfug]

Shouldnt be necessary to reinforce the walls, not much for a theif to smash through, you would be better off adding some off that fire retardent drywall. Solid door and frame and you should be good, metal may not be necesary as I imagine the door opens outwards, and its gonna be next to impossible to kick in an outward opening door. I would make sure the hinge pins are captive, and a hard material, so the door isnt just taken off its hinges though.

 

[TexasBill]

Get a good door and frame and have a keyed deadbolt on both sides of the door. Even if the thief pops the hinge pins, the door won't come off easily because it is held in place by the deadbolts. It's not perfect, but it's a lot less expensive than some of the other solutions out there.