How to Make a Metal Gun Cabinet

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A metal gun cabinet is an excellent way to securely and discreetly store firearms in your home. Constructing your own metal gun cabinet allows you to customize the size, design, and features to suit your specific needs. While building a metal gun cabinet requires some welding skills and metalworking tools, the project can be completed by an experienced DIYer. Follow this guide to learn how to make your own high-quality metal gun cabinet.

Selecting the Right Metal

The first step is choosing the right type of metal for durability, security, and fire resistance. Here are some top options:

• Steel – Sturdy and resistant to break-ins. Steel thickness should be 12 to 16 gauge for maximum security.
• Aluminum – Lighter weight yet still strong. Opt for thickness of 1/8″ or more.
• Stainless Steel – Very durable and corrosion resistant. More expensive but excellent quality.

Steel is the most secure and cost-effective choice for most DIY gun cabinet projects. Opt for galvanized steel sheeting with a 12 to 16 gauge thickness.

Designing the Cabinet

Consider how you will use the cabinet and how many firearms you need to store. This will determine the optimal dimensions. Standard widths are 3-4 feet, depths 1-2 feet, and heights 6 feet or more.

Sketch your design to scale, noting:

• Overall dimensions
• Shelf placement and spacing
• Location of doors/drawers
• Lock placement
• Any custom designs or features

Optimize the layout for easy access and efficient storage. Have materials on hand before starting construction.

Cutting the Metal Panels

Use an angle grinder with a cut-off wheel or plasma cutter to cut the steel sheets to size. Wear protective eye and face gear when cutting. Measure carefully and cut along marked lines. You will need to cut panels for:

• Top, sides, bottom, back
• Shelves and partitions
• Doors and/or drawers
• Any custom panels or designs

Deburr all cut edges smooth. Wipe away any metal dust and debris when done cutting each panel.

Welding the Cabinet Frame

With panels cut, weld together the main body of the cabinet. This includes:

• Welding sides to top and bottom
• Welding on back panel
• Adding any internal shelf dividers

Use a MIG welder with steel welding wire. Clamp pieces in place and tack weld at corners before making full seam welds. Wipe away slag and spatter when done welding each seam.

Weld seams inside and out for maximum durability. Keep the frame square as you go. The welded cabinet frame should be rigid and strong when complete.

Adding Doors/Drawers

There are several options for access panels:

• Hinged doors – Most secure. Use full length hinges.
• Sliding doors – Convenient space saver but less secure. Use ball bearing tracks.
• Drawers – Allow access to specific areas. Use full extension slides.

Measure openings precisely before cutting doors/drawers. Fit and hang doors to ensure proper alignment. Consider attaching perforated steel sheets inside doors to allow air circulation. Install drawers and slides according to manufacturer instructions.

Locks and Accessories

A variety of locks can be installed:

• Keyed padlocks – Simple and inexpensive but less secure.
• Electronic locks – Convenient access but requires power.
• Biometric locks – High security with fingerprint access.

Locate locks centrally on doors/drawers for even spacing. Install recessed flush for discreet appearance.

Other accessories like shelving, lighting, power outlets or ventilation systems can also be added now. Consider wire mesh behind vents to prevent intrusions.

Finishing the Cabinet

For protection, wipe down the cabinet with a solvent degreaser and apply a primer coat. Once dry, topcoat with an industrial enamel paint. For a decorative look, consider textures like hammered or wrinkle coat finishes.

Let paint fully cure for at least 24 hours before handling. Properly dispose of all solvents.

Once assembled, securely mount the cabinet to a wall and/or floor. Add safety labels. Inspect for sharp edges or hardware concerns. Your custom metal gun cabinet is now complete!

Safety Tips for Using Your Cabinet

To safely store firearms in your new cabinet:

• Always keep guns unloaded until ready for use.
• Store ammunition separately from firearms.
• Use gun locks or remove firing pins for added security.
• Place heaviest items on lower shelves/drawers.
• Mount cabinet securely to structural framing.
• Keep out of reach from unauthorized users.
• Check local laws on gun cabinet requirements.

With proper care and use, a sturdy metal gun cabinet provides secure long-term storage for your firearms collection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some common questions about constructing and using DIY metal gun cabinets:

How thick should the steel be?

For maximum security, use 12 to 16 gauge steel for the cabinet panels. The thicker metal resists drilling and prying attempts.

What type of welding is best?

MIG welding allows you to create strong full penetrating welds on steel gun cabinet panels. Stick and TIG welding can also work.

What about ventilation?

Adding vents with steel mesh screens can help control humidity. Use moisture-control packs too.

How do I ensure it is fire safe?

Use appropriate metal thickness and seam welding. Also bolt securely to framing to avoid tipping.

Can it be designed into existing cabinets?

Yes, metal gun cabinet interiors can be retrofitted into existing cabinets or closets.

Are drawer slides secure?

Full extension drawer slides with steel ball bearings allow smooth motion. Use high quality slides. Add locks.

Is a gun safe better for security?

Gun safes are heavier duty but more expensive. DIY cabinets offer robust security too.

How do I mount the cabinet in my home?

Securely bolt the cabinet to wall studs and/or the flooring. Have structural framing reinforced if needed.

Conclusion

Constructing your own metal gun cabinet is a straightforward project for the experienced DIYer. Follow the steps for designing the cabinet, cutting panels, welding the frame, adding doors/drawers, installing locks, and applying a protective finish. With proper materials, tools, and safety precautions, you can create a high-quality, custom metal gun cabinet tailored to your needs and specifications. Be sure to mount it securely and use it properly for safe firearm storage.