The Sports Afield Preserve Keypad/Key Entry Black Textured Steel Holds 24 + 4 Made a Bold First Impression
Finding a reliable and secure gun safe is a top priority for any responsible firearm owner. I’ve spent over a decade helping people find the right tactical and outdoor gear, and secure storage is always a crucial part of the conversation. My own collection had grown, and my old safe was overflowing, so the need for a larger, more secure option became undeniable.
I was looking for a safe that offered a balance of security, fire protection, and organizational features, without breaking the bank. The Sports Afield Preserve Keypad/Key Entry Black Textured Steel Holds 24 + 4 model immediately caught my eye. Sports Afield claims this series takes protection to the next level, offering fire protection, waterproofing, and increased organization.
Unboxing the Sports Afield Preserve Keypad/Key Entry Black Textured Steel Holds 24 + 4 was a bit different than anticipated. Since it’s drop-shipped directly from the manufacturer, the delivery process requires patience and coordination with the freight company. The weight of the safe was immediately apparent, giving a sense of robust construction. Compared to Liberty or Browning safes, it lacked the finesse of the higher-end models, but it appeared to be a solid workhorse. I considered a similar size safe from Stack-On and another from Winchester, but the reported fire rating and waterproof claims of the Sports Afield model swayed my decision. My initial excitement was tempered by the delivery logistics, but the overall impression was positive. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Sports Afield Preserve Keypad/Key Entry Black Textured Steel Holds 24 + 4 to the Test
First Use Experience
My “testing” of the Sports Afield Preserve Keypad/Key Entry Black Textured Steel Holds 24 + 4 started with the laborious task of moving it into its final position. After some creative maneuvering and a well-placed hand truck, it was finally in place. The first real test was the electronic keypad. Programming the code was straightforward, and the keypad responded reliably. I loaded the safe with a variety of long guns and handguns, noting the adequacy of the gun racks and shelving.
I simulated a stressful scenario, attempting to access the safe quickly under low-light conditions. The illuminated keypad was helpful, and the override key provided a reassuring backup. After my initial setup and access drills, I discovered no immediate issues or significant surprises. The safe seemed ready for long-term use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Sports Afield Preserve Keypad/Key Entry Black Textured Steel Holds 24 + 4 has held up remarkably well. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear on the exterior or interior. The textured steel finish seems resistant to scratches and scuffs. I regularly wipe down the exterior to remove dust, and the carpeted interior still looks new.
Compared to my old safe, which had a tendency to collect moisture, the Sports Afield model has maintained a consistently dry interior. I’ve not experienced any issues with the electronic keypad or locking mechanism. The Sports Afield Preserve Keypad/Key Entry Black Textured Steel Holds 24 + 4 has outperformed my previous storage solution in terms of both security and peace of mind.
Breaking Down the Features of Sports Afield Preserve Keypad/Key Entry Black Textured Steel Holds 24 + 4
Specifications
Exterior Dimensions: The safe measures 59 inches high, 24 inches wide, and 20 inches deep. These dimensions provide ample storage space while remaining manageable for home placement.
Capacity: It’s advertised to hold 24 + 4 firearms. This capacity caters to both long guns and handguns with additional space on shelves.
Fire Rating: A 40-minute fire rating at 1200 degrees Fahrenheit is specified. This provides a decent level of protection in the event of a fire.
Waterproof Rating: The safe boasts a waterproof rating of up to 2 feet for 7 days. This is a significant selling point, particularly for those living in flood-prone areas.
Locking Bolts: The inclusion of 1.5-inch locking bolts enhances security. These robust bolts provide a formidable barrier against forced entry.
Steel Gauge: The heavy gauge steel construction contributes to the overall strength and security of the safe. It gives a reassuring sense of protection.
Lock Type: It features a programmable electronic lock with an anti-theft alert system. The inclusion of override keys provides a backup entry method.
Interior Features: A full door organizer, fully carpeted shelves, and a gun rack offer enhanced organization. The UL-rated outlet allows for convenient charging of accessories.
Anchor Holes: Four pre-cut anchor holes allow for secure mounting to the floor. This prevents the safe from being easily moved or stolen.
Performance & Functionality
The Sports Afield Preserve Keypad/Key Entry Black Textured Steel Holds 24 + 4 performs its primary job of securing firearms admirably. The electronic lock functions flawlessly, providing quick and reliable access. The anti-theft alert adds an extra layer of security, providing an audible warning if tampering is detected.
The interior organization features are well-designed, allowing for efficient storage of various firearms and accessories. One potential area for improvement is the sensitivity of the anti-theft alarm; a slight bump can trigger it. Overall, the safe meets expectations and provides excellent functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Sports Afield Preserve Keypad/Key Entry Black Textured Steel Holds 24 + 4 is solid. The textured steel exterior provides a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish. The weight of the safe contributes to its stability and deters unauthorized movement.
The electronic keypad is intuitive and easy to use. However, the safe’s size and weight may require professional assistance for installation.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its heavy-gauge steel construction, the Sports Afield Preserve Keypad/Key Entry Black Textured Steel Holds 24 + 4 is built to last. Regular dusting and occasional interior vacuuming are sufficient for maintenance. The electronic components appear to be well-protected and should provide years of reliable service.
The waterproof seal requires periodic inspection to ensure its integrity. With proper care, this safe should offer decades of reliable protection.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Sports Afield Preserve Keypad/Key Entry Black Textured Steel Holds 24 + 4 comes with a pre-installed door organizer and gun rack. The interior shelves are adjustable to accommodate different storage needs. The inclusion of a UL-rated outlet is a welcome addition for charging accessories like dehumidifiers or electronic ear protection.
While Sports Afield doesn’t offer specific customization options, the safe is compatible with aftermarket dehumidifiers, pistol racks, and additional shelving units. The standard pre-cut anchor holes facilitate secure mounting.
Pros and Cons of Sports Afield Preserve Keypad/Key Entry Black Textured Steel Holds 24 + 4
Pros
- Robust Security: Heavy-gauge steel construction and 1.5-inch locking bolts provide excellent protection against forced entry.
- Fire and Waterproof Protection: A 40-minute fire rating and waterproof seal offer peace of mind in disaster scenarios.
- Ample Storage: Capable of holding 24 + 4 firearms, with adjustable shelves for additional storage.
- Electronic Keypad with Override Key: Provides quick access and a reliable backup entry method.
- Interior Organization: Door organizer, carpeted shelves, and gun rack enhance storage efficiency.
Cons
- The freight shipping and dock plate/curb delivery can be inconvenient for some buyers.
- The sensitivity of the anti-theft alarm may lead to false triggers.
Who Should Buy Sports Afield Preserve Keypad/Key Entry Black Textured Steel Holds 24 + 4?
The Sports Afield Preserve Keypad/Key Entry Black Textured Steel Holds 24 + 4 is perfect for firearm owners who prioritize security, fire protection, and waterproofing in a mid-range safe. It’s also great for collectors with multiple long guns and handguns who require ample storage and organizational features. Homeowners in areas prone to flooding or wildfires will appreciate the added protection this safe provides.
This product might not be ideal for those seeking a lightweight, easily portable safe, or those who prefer high-end finishes and extensive customization options. A must-have modification would be a quality dehumidifier to regulate internal humidity levels, especially in damp climates.
Conclusion on Sports Afield Preserve Keypad/Key Entry Black Textured Steel Holds 24 + 4
The Sports Afield Preserve Keypad/Key Entry Black Textured Steel Holds 24 + 4 offers a compelling blend of security, fire protection, and organizational features at a reasonable price point. While the delivery process may require some patience, the solid construction and thoughtful design make it a worthwhile investment for responsible firearm owners. The price is justified by the level of protection and storage capacity it provides.
I would personally recommend the Sports Afield Preserve Keypad/Key Entry Black Textured Steel Holds 24 + 4 to anyone seeking a reliable and secure gun safe without breaking the bank. Take control of your firearm security today!