Gardall 1812 2-Hour Burglary & Fireproof Safe Review
The Gardall 1812 2-Hour Burglary & Fireproof Safe is designed for those who are serious about protecting their important documents and valuables from both fire and theft. This safe, manufactured by Gardall, a trusted name in security products, offers impressive protection backed by multiple UL ratings: 2 hours Fireproof and (RSC) Burglary Rating.
This review is based on our thorough analysis of the safe and extensive experience with various safes. We explore and point out key aspects of this safe: fireproof Rating, security features, lock options, and build quality with price evaluation. We want to help you make an informed decision about this critical security investment.
Safe Ratings:
Pros
- Excellent fireproof capabilities: 2 hour UL Rated
- Robust security features
- Dual U.L. ratings for fire and burglary
- Lifetime fire damage replacement guarantee
- Good value for the money
Cons
- Limited interior space
Key Specifications
The Gardall 1812 safe boasts impressive key specifications:
Specification | Details |
---|---|
Manufacturer | Gardall |
Model | 1812 2-Hour Burglary & Fireproof |
Dimensions (Outside) | 25.00" H x 17.25" W x 19.75" D |
Dimensions (Inside) | 18.00" H x 12.00" W x 11.75" D |
Interior Cubic Feet | 1.47 |
Weight | 313 lbs |
Material | Steel |
Fireproof Rating | 2 Hours |
Lock Type | UL listed Group II high security |
Fireproof Features
The fireproof capabilities of the Gardall 1812 are a cornerstone of its design, offering superior protection against intense heat and flames. This safe has earned a UL 2-hour fire rating, a testament to its robust construction and reliable protection.
In professional testing, the Gardall 1812 was exposed to extreme temperatures, reaching up to 1850°F. Impressively, throughout this two-hour furnace test, the safe maintained an internal temperature below 350°F. This level of insulation is crucial for safeguarding sensitive materials like paper documents, cash, certificates which can be damaged or destroyed at higher temperatures.
Such certification is vital for those who need to ensure the utmost protection for their valuables against fire. And combined with the fact that this model also earned U.L. Residential Security Container (RSC) Burglary Rating, this makes the SAfe even more impressive.
Security Features
The Gardall 1812 Two Hour Burglary & Fireproof Safe is a mini fortress against burglary. This safe's security features are designed to deter and resist various types of break-in attempts:
- Structure: The safe features a thick 4-1/4" door with a recessed anti-pry design, coupled with 2-1/2" thick walls. This robust construction provides a formidable barrier against unauthorized access.
- Locking Bolts: Equipped with five active 1" diameter round bolts, these extend deep into the safe's body, securing the door in three directions, adding to the overall security.
- Anti-Drill Protection: An independent re-locker and hard-plate are installed to prevent drilling attacks on the lock.
- Handle Design: The safe incorporates a solid chrome-plated handle with a shear point. In an attempted forced entry, if excessive pressure is applied, the shear pin in the handle snaps, rendering the handle inoperative.
- Bolt-Down Capability: For added security, there's a center bolt-down hole, complete with hardware, allowing the safe to be securely anchored to a floor.
Security Features Summary Table:
Locking Mechanism
The locking system of the Gardall 1812 is as sophisticated as its structural design. It features a UL listed Group II high-security lock, which can be chosen as either a traditional mechanical lock or an electronic lock, depending on the user's preference. This flexibility allows for a personalized security experience.
Key characteristics of this locking mechanism include:
- High-Security Rating: The UL Group II rating signifies a high level of resistance to tampering and expert lock manipulation.
- Options for Customization: Choice between a mechanical or electronic lock caters to different user needs and preferences.
Build Quality and Additional Features
The Gardall 1812's build quality reflects a commitment to durability and functionality. It boasts a sturdy construction with thick doors and walls, providing robust protection against various threats. In addition to its primary security and fireproof features, the safe includes several additional attributes:
- Interior Design: The safe's interior is plushly carpeted, offering protection for jewelry and valuables against scratches. It includes one adjustable shelf, allowing for flexible storage options.
- Removable Door: For ease of transportation and installation, the door of the safe can be removed.
- Paint Finish: Available in Gardall Gray or Sandstone as standard, with an option for Burgundy, Hunter Green and a Black with Gold Trim upgrade, offering a sleek appearance.
- Warranty and Guarantee: Gardall offers a limited one-year warranty, and a unique lifetime fire damage replacement guarantee, underlining the company's confidence in their product's reliability.
Warranty
Gardall underscores its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction with its warranty offerings for the 1812 model. This safe comes with a limited one-year warranty, covering potential manufacturing defects or issues arising from normal use.
In addition to this, Gardall provides a unique lifetime fire damage replacement guarantee. In the event that the safe is damaged in a fire, the manufacturer promises to replace it at no charge, although this does not include shipping costs.
These warranty terms reflect brand's confidence in their product and dedication to their customers' long-term satisfaction and security.
Price
The Gardall 1812 is priced in the mid bracket for personal safes. The retail price of $1,885.00 is a significant investment, but the safe is currently available at a discounted price of $1,422.50, a savings of $462.50 (24.5%). Be sure to check the link below to see the best price at the authorized dealer.
This price point, while not low, can be considered very reasonable given the safe's dual UL ratings for fire and burglary, high-quality construction, and additional features like a removable door and plush interior. For those prioritizing top-tier security and fire protection, this price may represent a good value for money.
Final Verdict
Is Gardall 1812 2-Hour Burglary & Fireproof safe any good?
Absolutely, Gardall 1812 safe is a robust and reliable choice for those seeking superior protection for their valuables. Its key strengths include a 2-hours of proven fireproof rating, comprehensive security features, and a versatile locking mechanisms to choose from.
The safe's solid construction, great build quality and UL certified features justify the investment, offering good value for money. We can recommend this model as a sound choice for both home and business use.
Overall Score: 8.75/10