First Thoughts on the Hornady Mobilis Powder Coated 9 Gauge Steel Safe
The Hornady Mobilis Powder Coated 9 Gauge Steel Safe enters a market saturated with security solutions. Hornady, a name synonymous with quality ammunition and reloading equipment, is now venturing into the realm of firearm storage with this innovative modular safe. Its unique selling point: the ability to assemble it piece by piece, bypassing the logistical nightmares often associated with traditional, fully-welded safes.
I live in an older home with narrow doorways, making the thought of wrestling a massive safe into my basement daunting. That’s why the Mobilis caught my eye; the promise of circumventing those spatial limitations was immediately appealing. I was also drawn to the advertised fire protection and robust steel construction, features crucial for safeguarding my collection.
Upon unboxing, I was struck by the sheer heft of each component, hinting at the substantial protection offered. The powder-coated matte grey finish exudes a professional, understated aesthetic. Compared to traditional, monolithic safes I’ve encountered, the Mobilis presents a far more manageable approach to installation. My initial excitement centered on the potential ease of assembly and the promised level of security.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Mobilis Powder Coated 9 Gauge Steel Safe to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing began with the assembly process itself, turning my garage into a temporary workshop. The included tool kit proved adequate, and the instructions, while not overly detailed, were sufficient for an experienced DIYer. Assembling the Hornady Mobilis Powder Coated 9 Gauge Steel Safe wasn’t a quick task, taking several hours to complete.
Once assembled and bolted to the floor (a step I highly recommend), I began organizing my firearms, ammunition, and other valuables. The Square-Lok interior system proved adaptable, allowing for a customizable layout. The integrated power strip was a welcome addition, enabling convenient charging of accessories within the safe.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Hornady Mobilis Powder Coated 9 Gauge Steel Safe has proven to be a reliable and secure storage solution. The 9-gauge steel walls and solid steel door provide a tangible sense of security. There are no signs of wear and tear beyond minor scuffs from routine use.
Maintaining the safe is straightforward, primarily involving dusting the interior and occasionally wiping down the exterior with a damp cloth. Compared to my previous storage methods, the Mobilis offers a superior level of organization and peace of mind. Its fire-resistant properties remain untested (thankfully), but the peace of mind offered is significant.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Mobilis Powder Coated 9 Gauge Steel Safe
Specifications
- Color: Matte Grey
- Material: 9 Gauge Steel
- Finish: Powder Coated
- Exterior Dimensions: 22″W x 59″H x 18″D
- Fireproof: Yes, 2300F one-hour Fire Shield protection.
- Includes: Built-in 120V outlet and USB power strip.
These specifications directly impact the safe’s security and practicality. The 9-gauge steel construction provides a robust physical barrier against theft. The one-hour fire rating offers critical protection against fire damage.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Mobilis Powder Coated 9 Gauge Steel Safe performs its primary function – secure storage – exceptionally well. The combination of thick steel, multiple locking bolts, and a UL-listed digital lock ensures a high level of security. Accessing the safe is straightforward via the digital keypad, with the EMP mechanical key backup providing added security.
One area for potential improvement would be the clarity of the assembly instructions; a more detailed guide would benefit less experienced users. The overall performance of the Mobilis exceeds expectations, offering a superior blend of security and convenience.
Design & Ergonomics
The matte grey powder-coated finish gives the Hornady Mobilis Powder Coated 9 Gauge Steel Safe a clean, modern look that blends well with most environments. The build quality is impressive, with precisely cut steel panels and robust locking mechanisms. The Square-Lok interior organizing system is a standout feature, enabling users to customize the safe’s layout to suit their specific needs.
While the safe is heavy once assembled, the modular design makes it manageable to move and install in challenging locations. The digital keypad is intuitive to use, and the black nickel handles add a touch of class.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hornady Mobilis Powder Coated 9 Gauge Steel Safe, with its 9-gauge steel construction, is built to last. The powder-coated finish resists scratches and corrosion, ensuring long-term durability. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to keep the safe in top condition.
The robust construction and high-quality components suggest that the Mobilis will provide reliable security for years to come. The non-breach door seal ensures a tight seal against smoke and heat in the event of a fire.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Mobilis Powder Coated 9 Gauge Steel Safe includes a built-in 120V outlet and USB power strip, a valuable addition for charging electronic accessories. The Square-Lok interior system allows for extensive customization, with a range of shelves and gun racks available separately. The system is also compatible with other Square-Lok accessories, enhancing its versatility.
Hornady offers a variety of compatible accessories to further customize the Mobilis safe. This modularity allows users to tailor the safe’s interior to their specific storage needs, maximizing its utility.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Mobilis Powder Coated 9 Gauge Steel Safe
Pros
- Modular Design: Enables assembly in locations inaccessible to traditional safes.
- Robust Construction: 9-gauge steel walls and a solid steel door provide exceptional security.
- Fire Protection: One-hour fire rating protects valuables from fire damage.
- Square-Lok Interior: Customizable interior maximizes storage space and organization.
- Integrated Power: Built-in 120V outlet and USB power strip for charging accessories.
Cons
- Assembly Required: Requires time and effort to assemble properly.
- Price: The cost is higher than some comparable traditional safes.
Who Should Buy Hornady Mobilis Powder Coated 9 Gauge Steel Safe?
The Hornady Mobilis Powder Coated 9 Gauge Steel Safe is perfect for homeowners or renters with limited access or challenging entryways. It’s also ideal for gun owners seeking a high level of security and fire protection for their firearms and valuables. Those who appreciate customizable storage solutions will also find the Square-Lok interior highly appealing.
Individuals on a tight budget or those who prioritize immediate setup over modularity might want to consider alternative options. A must-have accessory is additional Square-Lok shelving or gun racks to fully optimize the safe’s interior based on individual storage needs.
Conclusion on Hornady Mobilis Powder Coated 9 Gauge Steel Safe
The Hornady Mobilis Powder Coated 9 Gauge Steel Safe presents a compelling solution for those facing logistical challenges with traditional safes. Its modular design, robust construction, and fire protection features make it a worthy investment for securing firearms and valuables. While the price point is higher than some alternatives, the added convenience and customization options justify the cost for many users.
I would personally recommend the Hornady Mobilis Powder Coated 9 Gauge Steel Safe to anyone seeking a high-quality, adaptable, and secure storage solution. Take control of your security; invest in the Hornady Mobilis today.