Locked out of my Safe (Not a good day)

[smoothy8500]

My safe with an S& G dial is well over 20 years old now. Almost 10 years back I had a locksmith come out and service/lubricate the lock and it wasn't cheap. Lately, the dial has increased drag, needing lubrication and possibly replacement of the Delrin bushing(s). Seeing that S&G 3-wheel lock bodies are $60 to $75 and watching this video makes me consider just doing a replacement. Honestly, most of us have the mechanical ability to assemble reloads, bed actions, and even build rifles. Then again, some of us can't be trusted in the kitchen.

 

[BrinaZembower]

I'm not a fan of electric safes, so each problem I have is solved with a good locksmith and locker. At first, I was skeptical that I wouldn't find enough specialists available anytime I needed them. However, I saw that it is estimated that there are about 3,320 new locksmithing job openings, so I understood that are plenty; I have to trust them. It's been over three years since I got my first gun and had just mechanical lockers. Not only that, but they didn't disappoint me even once. You have to change and use them regularly; don't force them or try to break them yourself.

 

[acudaowner]

no safes for me . free range guns only .

 

[pineoak]

My safe manufacturer locally made it a point that he uses S&G dials when looking at them in his showroom/factory. I didn't get it at the time. Mine has not failed in 9+ years. I took that for granted until reading this thread.

I had assumed all mechanical were better than electronic given that I know 3 electronics that have failed but no mechanicals.

My friend's "Big Horn" electronic safe keypad died. She had me and 3 other guys just pick it up and put in back of her truck, and drove it to the locksmith. (it wasn't bolted down)

She said it was sad how fast the locksmith got through the safe and he basically told her to get a cabinet and bolt it down as it was about the same security level as her "safe".

 

[Nik H]

Not all electronic locks are the same...

The S&G electronic that came with my Liberty Presidential lasted 20 years and when it began acting up, I replaced the entire mechanism with a SecurRam model on the advice of my locksmith who sells both types.

Failures are generally not related to the keypad but due to the inner mechanism. If you ever enter the combination and the safe don't respond, it is time for a replacement. The problem will eventually lead to a lockout which is a bad ($$) situation.

 

[packratt]

If the locksmith has to break out his drill you are looking at a 1500 bill. Call a tech at the first sign of trouble.

 

[GIXXER2000]

Guess I have been lucky no issues so far I have a Superior Untouchable 65 with an S&G dial lock. I had no interest in a electronic lock. I did get the lock protection from Superior ( Champion safes) for $100 for the life. They pay for the locksmith to come out and repair or replace and if necessary break in the cover the cost of replacing whatever was destroyed getting into the safe.

 

[acudaowner]

an expensive mess up if you have to call a lock smith still cheaper than having to replace the whole safe if you cut the side it will pretty much ruined as a safe but it's still the easiest and fastest way to get in if you can get to a side . best of luck with what ever means you decide to do .

 

[Big Bo]

My dial failed after 20 years, had a S&G installed.