Are Key Lock Safes Any Good?

When it comes to protecting your valuables, it doesn’t get much better than a safe, does it?

These lockable steel boxes come in an assortment of shapes, sizes and types, and allow you to protect your valuables against theft, fire and water damage. To make matters even harder, there are a wide variety of locking mechanisms available – including key locks, combination locks and fingerprint locks.

Here, eSafes outline what key lock safes are and how they differ from other types of safe locks. We’ll also weigh up the pros and cons of key lock safes, so you can make an informed decision as to whether or not you should buy one.

What is a key lock safe?

Exactly as its name suggests, a key lock safe is locked and unlocked using a key. It might be one of the oldest types of locking mechanisms found in safes, but it remains one of the most popular today.

With a key-locking safe, you usually get two keys – meaning you can have one for yourself and either keep the other one as a spare or allocate it to someone you trust. This way, you needn’t worry about unauthorised people gaining access to the contents held within your safe.

The advantages of key lock safes

When compared to other types of safe locks, those that come with a key (or two) usually cost less – making them an affordable solution for securing your prized possessions.

As the key holder, you can control who opens up your safe. This is ideal if you don’t want everyone in the house or office to be able to access the items stowed inside, keeping them as secure as possible.

Most key lock safes are equipped with a cylinder or double-bit key lock. Double-bit key locks meet stringent security requirements and are equally as secure as their electronic counterparts.

They’re also more weather resistant than electronic locks, making them a reliable choice.

The disadvantages of key lock safes

One of the most important things to remember about key lock safes is that you need to be extremely careful with the key(s). Not only could these break or snap inside the lock – calling upon the need for a locksmith to pick or drill the lock for you to regain access – but they’re also losable.

Keys are one of the most commonly misplaced items in the world, with almost everyone losing at least one in their lifetime. And if an opportunist gets their hands on the key to your safe, you’re in serious trouble!

With that in mind, if you’re a forgetful person, a key lock safe is probably not the best option for you – especially as it could leave your safe and its contents vulnerable to theft.

Plus, if multiple people require access to the safe, you’ll need to pay to have keys cut.

It’s also worth pointing out that cylinder locks are more prone to tampering than double-bit locks, which means they aren’t necessarily the best option for burglar-resistant safes.

Is a key lock safe right for you?

After assessing the benefits and drawbacks of key-locking safes, you should have a better idea of whether or not you should invest in one.

If the positives outweigh the negatives, and you could benefit from securing your items in a key lock safe, check out our extensive collection online here at eSafes.

Whilst we’re confident you’ll find something suitable for your needs and budget, our team is always on hand to guide and advise you. So, why not get in touch? Either call us on 0800 783 2328 or email info@esafes.co.uk, and we’ll get back to you.