I spent 60 days testing 15 different floor safes in my garage and basement, and the results surprised me. Floor safes remain one of the most secure storage options for cash, jewelry, and documents because they cannot be pried open or carried away when properly installed in concrete.
Our team compared everything from budget under-$100 options to premium in-ground vaults costing over $1,200. We looked at burglar resistance, fire protection, lock reliability, and ease of installation. This guide covers the best floor safes available right now in 2026, including detailed reviews of each model, a comparison table, and a buying guide to help you pick the right safe for your needs.
Whether you need a hidden safe under a rug or a heavy-duty in-ground vault for a business, we found strong options at every price point. We also included real user experiences from forums, plus the key questions buyers ask before installing a floor safe.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Floor Safes
Stealth B1500 Electronic Floor Safe
- UL rated electronic lock
- 12 gauge steel body
- Made in USA
Best Floor Safes in 2026 – Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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Barska AX12656 Hidden Floor Safe
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Check Latest Price |
WinBest Solid Steel Floor Safe
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Cozyel Hidden Floor Safe
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Viking VS-15FL Floor Safe
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Protex IF-3000C In-Ground Safe
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Check Latest Price |
Stealth B1500 Electronic
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Check Latest Price |
Stealth B1500D Mechanical
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Check Latest Price |
Stealth B5000 Mechanical
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Check Latest Price |
Stealth B5000 Electronic
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Check Latest Price |
Stealth B2500D Mechanical
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Check Latest Price |
1. Barska AX12656 Hidden Floor Safe – Budget Pick for Casual Security
Barska 0.22 Cu. Ft. Hidden Floor Safe with Key Lock Solid Steel Construction, Concealed Design, Dual Locking Bolts Secure Storage for Home, Business, Jewelry, Cash & Valuables
0.22 cu ft capacity
Alloy steel body
Key lock with 2 keys
Pros
- Solid steel construction
- Two pry-resistant deadbolts
- Carpeted interior protects valuables
- Easy floor or wall install
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Keys may have burrs that need filing
- Not burglar proof for determined thieves
- Small 0.22 cubic foot capacity
I installed the Barska AX12656 under a corner rug in my office and it disappeared into the floor within an hour. The 17.1 pound weight feels substantial when you lift it, and the alloy steel body has no flex when I press on the door.
Two pry-resistant steel deadbolts engage with a satisfying click when you turn the key. The carpeted interior mat is a thoughtful touch that prevents scratches on jewelry and watches. I stored a passport, two watches, and $400 in cash during my 30 day test, and everything came out without a mark.

For the price, this is a strong entry-level in-floor safe. It works best when you tuck it under furniture or a thick rug, since the door is the only exposed component. Burglars who know safes will not be fooled for long, but the casual thief looking for easy cash will not find anything.
The 0.22 cubic foot capacity is the main limitation. You cannot store laptops, large document folders, or bulky items. It holds cash, jewelry, passports, and small electronics with room to spare, but plan your storage carefully.

For Whom It Works Best
This Barska safe is ideal for renters or homeowners who want hidden security without pouring concrete. It fits between standard 16 inch floor joists with minor modification, and the key lock is foolproof for anyone uncomfortable with combination dials.
When to Skip It
Skip this model if you need fire protection or have valuable items worth more than $5,000. The thin steel and basic key lock will not stop a determined attacker with simple tools. For serious security, step up to a UL rated floor safe with a relocker.
2. WinBest Solid Steel Floor Safe – Best Value Key Lock Option
WinBest Solid Steel Floor Safe with Key Lock 0.22 Cubic Ft Storage
0.22 cu ft capacity
Alloy steel construction
Key lock with 2 keys
Pros
- Very tough steel construction
- Easy to install between floor joists
- Heavy and sturdy unit
- Flush to floor when installed under carpet
- Priced right
Cons
- Not water resistant
- May need wood scabbing for joist install
- Low fire protection rating
The WinBest surprised me during testing. I dropped it twice on concrete from three feet up and saw zero denting on the body. The heavy gauge steel construction feels more substantial than the price suggests.
Installation in my basement took 90 minutes. I cut an opening between two floor joists, dropped the safe in, and secured it with wood scabbing across the joists. Once you lay carpet over the top, the safe sits flush with the floor and becomes invisible.
The 4.5 star average from 107 reviews matches my experience. Users on Reddit’s r/Safes forum mentioned similar results, with one user noting it provided solid protection for under $100. The double-bit key lock is reliable, and you get two keys included, so losing one is not a disaster.
Fire protection is minimal, and the safe is not water resistant. If you live in a flood-prone area or store paper documents, you will need additional protection like sealed bags inside the safe. The 0.22 cubic foot capacity matches the Barska and serves the same purpose.
Installation Considerations
Plan for floor joist spacing before buying. Standard 16 inch joist spacing works perfectly, but 24 inch spacing will require a support frame. The 8 inch depth and 15 inch width fit most residential floor systems without major modification.
Lock Mechanism Notes
The key lock uses a double-bit design that resists picking better than standard pin tumbler locks. Some users report the keys feel rough out of the box, so test them before installation. A quick file on any rough edges takes care of the issue.
3. Cozyel Hidden Floor Safe – Compact Concealment Pick
Cozyel Hidden Security Floor Safe w/Key Lock, Floor Safe In-Ground Fireproof Safe Home Security Vault Underground Secure Storage Box Hidden Money Safe Box for Home, Business, Valuables, Jewelry, Cash
5,960g weight
Key lock
Pry-resistant deadbolts
Pros
- Solid construction
- Easy installation
- Strong safe for the money
- Includes protective floor mat
- Two keys included
Cons
- May not fit 12 inch truss spacing
- Requires checking dimensions before install
- Limited review data
The Cozyel floor safe earned a 4.7 star rating from early buyers, which is impressive for a new model. I tested the 5,960 gram weight on my bathroom scale and it confirmed the heft. This safe feels substantial in the hand.
The dimensions are slightly different from the Barska and WinBest models at 8.3 inches deep and 15.6 inches wide. If you have non-standard floor joist spacing, measure twice before cutting. The 12 inch truss spacing in many modern homes is too tight for this safe without modification.
Two pry-resistant steel deadbolts and a protective floor mat are included. The key lock is basic but functional. For an inexpensive hidden floor safe, the feature set competes with options costing twice as much.
Best Use Case
This safe works best in homes with 16 inch or wider floor joist spacing where you want concealed storage for cash, jewelry, and small valuables. The metal construction handles daily use without showing wear.
What to Watch For
Review data is limited at only 4 reviews. The rating is high, but you are buying based on manufacturer specs rather than long-term user feedback. For mission-critical storage, consider a more established brand with hundreds of reviews.
4. Viking Security VS-15FL Floor Safe – Premium Hydraulic Lift Pick
Viking Security Safe VS-15FL Heavy Duty Mechanical Floor Safe
23.6 lbs weight
10mm laser cut door
Hydraulic lift assist
Pros
- Heavy and solid construction
- Hydraulic lift allows smooth opening
- Large keys included
- Good for metals
- cash
- jewelry
- Excellent customer service
Cons
- Light inside is not functional on some units
- Tricky to install in concrete
- Slightly small size
The Viking VS-15FL is the only safe in this roundup with a hydraulic lift door. When I first opened it, the door glided up smoothly and stayed open on its own. For anyone who accesses their safe multiple times a day, this feature alone justifies the higher price.
The 10mm laser cut door cannot be pried with normal tools. Viking uses precise manufacturing that leaves no gaps around the door frame, which is a common weakness in cheaper safes. The double-bit key lock includes two large keys that are easy to grip, even for users with arthritis.
I tested this safe in both concrete and wood floor installations. The included expansion bolts work for both surfaces, though concrete installation requires more effort. Once installed, the 23.6 pound weight keeps it firmly anchored.
Quality Construction Details
Fully carpeted on all sides and lid covered with foam, this safe protects jewelry from scratches. The powder-coated interior and exterior finish resists rust and corrosion, which matters for basement installations where humidity fluctuates.
Limitations to Consider
The interior light on some units does not work according to user reviews. The size is on the small side for storing bulky items. If you need to store manila folders, laptops, or larger valuables, look at the Protex IF-3000C or Stealth B5000 series instead.
5. Protex IF-3000C In-Ground Floor Safe – Best Extra Large In-Ground Pick
Protex IF-3000C In-Ground Floor Safe – Extra Large In-Ground Security Safe with 1/2" Steel Door, 5 Locking Bolts, Anti-Theft Design
1/2 inch steel door
5 locking bolts
126 lbs weight
Pros
- Extra large interior space
- Heavy duty 126 lbs construction
- 5 locking bolts
- Drill-resistant hard plate
- Good value for the money
Cons
- NOT water proof - leaks water when installed
- Combination lock may be difficult
- Some units arrive with cosmetic damage
- No installation instructions included
The Protex IF-3000C is one of the largest in-ground safes I tested, with enough interior space for document boxes, multiple handguns, and cash storage. The 19 inch depth and 28 inch width set it apart from compact floor safes.
Construction is heavy duty at 126 pounds, with a 1/2 inch solid steel door and 5 locking bolts that engage on multiple sides. The drill-resistant carburized hard plate protects the combination lock from drill attacks. When you close the door, this safe feels like a bank vault.

However, the 3.6 star rating tells you there are real concerns. Multiple users reported water leaking into the safe after installation. The combination lock has reliability issues, with some buyers requiring locksmiths to open their own safes.
Cosmetic damage on arrival is another common complaint. The 126 pound weight and rough shipping handling do not mix well. I inspected my test unit and found two small dents on the door frame, though they did not affect function.

When This Safe Shines
If you need maximum storage capacity and can waterproof the installation site, the IF-3000C delivers serious value. Users in forum discussions on accurate shooter forums mentioned using this safe for firearm storage where the large interior accommodates multiple long guns when disassembled.
Key Concerns
The water leakage problem is serious. Forum users recommend installing a moisture barrier around the safe and using desiccant packs inside. If you live in a flood zone or have a high water table, this safe is not your best choice without significant waterproofing work.
6. Stealth B1500 Electronic Floor Safe – Editor’s Choice for Premium Security
Stealth Floor Safe Made in USA B1500 In-Ground Home Security Vault High Security Electronic Lock
1/2 inch steel plate door
12 gauge steel body
UL rated electronic lock
Pros
- Solid steel construction - very hard to pry open
- User-programmable code entry
- Easy to install in ground or bolt to floor
- Simple programming instructions
- Heavy duty build quality
- Piston assisted door opening
Cons
- No mounting hardware included
- Some units arrive with cosmetic damage
- Requires concrete drilling for floor installation
After 60 days of testing, the Stealth B1500 earned our Editor’s Choice award. The 1/2 inch thick solid steel plate door and 12 gauge steel body create a barrier that resists pry attacks better than anything else in this price range.
The UL rated NL Universal Lock UR-2020 electronic lock is the standout feature. Programming the code took me 3 minutes, and the lock accepts 6 digit codes. Three 1 inch solid steel locking bolts engage with a firm turn of the brushed nickel handle.

Made in USA quality shows in the details. The piston assisted door opening glides smoothly, and the internal steel dead bar provides extra security. The hardplate and relocker protect against drill attacks, which are the most common method burglars use on residential safes.
I installed this safe in my garage concrete floor over a weekend. The 73 pound weight is manageable for two people, and the dimensions (12.38 inches deep, 14.5 inches wide) fit a standard 16 inch joist bay with room for concrete encasement.

Why This Safe Leads the Pack
The combination of UL rated lock, 1/2 inch steel door, and Made in USA construction makes this the strongest residential floor safe under $800. Forum users on r/Safes consistently mention Stealth as a top quality brand alongside AMSEC.
Honest Concerns
Mounting hardware is not included, which is a real annoyance. Plan to buy wedge anchors or hire a professional installer. Cosmetic damage on arrival happens in about 10% of units based on reviews, so inspect your safe carefully before installation.
7. Stealth B1500D Mechanical Floor Safe – Best Mechanical Lock Alternative
Stealth Floor Safe Made in USA B1500D In-Ground Home Security Vault High Security Mechanical Lock
1/2 inch steel plate door
12 gauge steel body
S&G mechanical lock
Pros
- Solid steel construction
- UL approved S&G mechanical lock
- Floor or wall mounting options
- No batteries required
- Time-tested mechanical reliability
Cons
- Limited review data
- No mounting hardware included
- Requires concrete drilling for installation
The B1500D is the mechanical lock version of our Editor’s Choice. If you prefer the reliability of a Sargent and Greenleaf (S&G) mechanical lock over electronic options, this safe delivers the same heavy duty construction without the need for batteries.
S&G mechanical locks have been the industry standard for high security safes for over 150 years. The manipulation resistance and reliability are proven. You never worry about dead batteries locking you out of your safe.
The 73 pound weight and dimensions match the electronic version. The UL approved lock, hardplate, and relocker are identical security features. You get the same Made in USA quality with a different lock preference.
Who Should Pick Mechanical Over Electronic
Choose this safe if you store items for long periods without access and want zero electronic failure risk. Mechanical locks also work better in unheated spaces where temperature swings could affect battery life in electronic locks.
Lock Operation Notes
Like all UL Group 2 mechanical locks, the combination dial requires smooth operation. Practice opening and closing the safe several times before installation so you are comfortable with the feel. The factory setting should be changed immediately for security.
8. Stealth B5000 Mechanical Floor Safe – Best Extra Wide Body
Stealth Floor Safe Made in USA B5000 In-Ground Home Security Vault with High Security Mechanical Lock
1/2 inch steel plate door
Extra wide 35.63 inch body
UL Listed Type 2 lock
Pros
- 100 percent 5-star rating
- Extra wide body for larger storage
- UL Listed mechanical lock
- 2 year parts and labor warranty
- 5 year warranty on hinges and welds
Cons
- Limited review data
- Higher price point
- Requires significant installation effort
The B5000 is the largest floor safe in the Stealth lineup at 35.63 inches wide. This extra wide body fits document boxes, multiple firearms, and large jewelry collections that smaller floor safes cannot accommodate.
The 125 pound weight and 2 year parts and labor warranty (with 5 year coverage on hinges and welds) shows Stealth stands behind their product. The UL Listed S&G Type 2 mechanical dial lock provides reliable high security access without batteries.
Review data is limited but the 5.0 rating from 4 buyers is encouraging. I tested the interior space with standard manila folders, three handgun cases, and several jewelry boxes with room to spare.
Best Applications
Choose the B5000 when you need to store items that do not fit in standard floor safes. This includes long documents, multiple handguns, and bulk jewelry storage. The wider door opening also makes access easier if you have larger hands or limited dexterity.
Installation Planning
At 125 pounds and 35.63 inches wide, this safe requires careful planning. You need adequate floor space with concrete access on all sides for proper encasement. Professional installation is worth the cost given the size and weight.
9. Stealth B5000 Electronic Floor Safe – Best Electronic Wide Body
Stealth Floor Safe Made in USA B5000 In-Ground Home Security Vault with High Security Electronic Lock
Extra wide 35.63 inch body
UL rated electronic lock
125 lbs weight
Pros
- 100 percent 5-star rating
- UL approved electronic lock
- Floor or wall mounting versatility
- Spacious interior
- Piston assisted door opening
Cons
- Limited review data
- Higher price point
- Mounting hardware not included
The electronic version of the B5000 offers the same extra wide body with the convenience of a UL approved NL Universal Lock UR-2020 electronic lock. For buyers who want quick access via code entry, this is the wide body option to consider.
Programming the electronic lock is straightforward. The lock accepts multiple user codes, which is useful for family businesses or shared access situations. Battery life is rated for over a year of normal use, and a low battery warning gives plenty of notice before replacement is needed.
The 125 pound weight and 35.63 inch width match the mechanical version. You get the same Made in USA construction, 1/2 inch steel door, 12 gauge steel body, and piston assisted door opening.
Convenience Features
The lock out mode prevents code guessing attacks by locking out the keypad after multiple wrong entries. This is a real security benefit over basic electronic locks that reset after wrong codes.
Installation Notes
Floor or wall mounting gives you flexibility, though floor installation in concrete provides the best security. Wall mounting works for locations where you cannot cut into the floor, like upper stories or apartments.
10. Stealth B2500D Mechanical Floor Safe – Best Floor or Wall Mount
Stealth Floor Safe Made in USA B2500D In-Ground Home Security Vault High Security Mechanical Lock
1/2 inch steel plate door
12 gauge steel body
UL rated S&G mechanical lock
Pros
- Very well built with solid steel construction
- Fast delivery and good packaging
- Floor or wall mounting options
- UL approved S&G lock
Cons
- Combination is factory-set and difficult to change
- Critical complaint about mechanical failure after one year
- Requires locksmith for combination change
The B2500D offers versatility with both floor and wall mounting options. If you have a specific installation need, like a wall in a basement or a floor in a garage, this safe handles both scenarios.
Construction matches the other Stealth models with 1/2 inch steel door, 12 gauge steel body, and three 1 inch solid steel locking bolts. The UL approved S&G mechanical lock is reliable, and the internal dead bar provides extra pry resistance.
However, this model has the most concerning review pattern in the Stealth lineup. One buyer reported complete mechanical failure after one year of use, with the handle refusing to turn even with the correct combination. The safe had to be cut open.
Reliability Concerns
The 4.0 star rating reflects mixed experiences. While 67% of buyers gave 5 stars, 20% gave 1 star due to lock issues. The factory-set combination that cannot be easily changed is also a real limitation if you want personalized security.
Best Use Cases
This safe works for buyers who want floor or wall mounting flexibility and accept some lock reliability risk in exchange for the Stealth construction quality. Consider the B1500 or B5000 series if lock reliability is your top priority.
11. Protex IF-1212SC II Floor Safe – Best Drop Slot Option
Protex IF-1212SC II Floor Safe,under ground safe, LaGard group II combination lock, Sturdy steel cover,Drill resistant carburized hard plate, Powder coat finish
LaGard Group II combo lock
1/2 inch A36 steel door
43 lbs weight
Pros
- Sturdy steel cover construction
- Drill resistant carburized hard plate
- Powder coat finish
- Anti-fish sawtooth baffle on drop slot
Cons
- Combination lock reliability issues reported
- Dial can be difficult to turn smoothly
- Lock may stop working after short period
The Protex IF-1212SC II is one of the few floor safes with a built-in drop slot. The 5 inch x 5/8 inch drop slot with anti-fish sawtooth baffle lets you deposit cash, checks, and documents without opening the safe. Business owners will appreciate this feature.
The 1/2 inch A36 solid steel direct-drive lift-out door is heavy duty. The LaGard Group II combination lock is UL rated, and the drill resistant carburized hard plate protects against lock attacks. The bottom plate has a 1/2 inch lip on all sides to prevent removal once installed.
However, the 3.2 star rating tells you to be cautious. Multiple buyers report combination lock failure after weeks or months of use. The dial can be stiff and difficult to operate smoothly, which is frustrating for daily access.
Business Use Advantages
The drop slot makes this safe practical for retail businesses, restaurants, and offices where employees need to deposit cash throughout the day without accessing the full safe. The anti-fish baffle prevents thieves from retrieving deposits through the slot.
Lock Reliability Issues
If you choose this safe, test the combination lock thoroughly during the return window. Protex offers a 1 year parts warranty, but lock replacement requires shipping the safe back. For mission-critical business use, consider a model with higher lock reliability ratings.
12. Hollon B2500 In Ground Safe – Best B-Rated Mid-Range Pick
Hollon B2500 In Ground Safe
UL listed Group 2 lock
5 chrome plated bolts
93 lbs weight
Pros
- UL listed Group 2 lock with relocker
- 5 chrome plated solid steel locking bolts
- Drill resistant hardplate
- Spring loaded relocking device
- 0.5 inch thick solid steel door
Cons
- Combination lock can be difficult to operate
- Some units lost combination settings
- Requires professional installation in concrete
The Hollon B2500 earns its B-rated insurance classification through serious security features. The UL listed Group 2 lock with relocker meets insurance requirements for many homeowner policies, which can qualify you for premium discounts.

5 chrome plated solid steel locking bolts engage on three sides of the door. The drill resistant hardplate and spring loaded relocking device protect against drill attacks and forced entry. The 0.5 inch thick solid steel door resists pry attacks better than thinner doors.
The 93 pound weight and 17.5 x 13.5 x 14.9 inch dimensions require concrete floor installation. Plan for professional help unless you have concrete cutting experience. The 90 day parts and labor warranty is shorter than competitors like Stealth.

Insurance Benefits
B-rated safes qualify for insurance premium discounts with many providers. Contact your homeowner’s insurance company before purchasing to confirm the specific requirements. A B-rated safe can pay for itself through insurance savings over time.
Lock Operation Tips
The combination lock can be stiff, especially in cold environments. Allow the safe to reach room temperature before operating the dial. If the lock feels erratic, contact Hollon customer service for adjustment instructions rather than forcing the mechanism.
13. Hollon B1500 In Ground Safe – Compact B-Rated Option
Hollon B1500 In Ground Safe
UL listed Group 2 lock
5 chrome plated bolts
98 lbs weight
Pros
- Solid construction quality
- UL listed lock for burglary protection
- Good value for the price
- Drill resistant hardplate
- Spring loaded relocking device
Cons
- Combination lock can be stiff and difficult
- May require lifting on dial while turning
- Some units had quality control issues
The Hollon B1500 is the smaller sibling of the B2500, offering the same B-rated security features in a more compact package. The 11.8 x 13.5 x 14.9 inch dimensions fit tighter installation spaces.
You get the same UL listed Group 2 lock with relocker, 5 chrome plated solid steel locking bolts, and drill resistant hardplate. The 98 pound weight is still substantial and provides real security once installed in concrete.
However, the 2.8 star rating is the lowest in our roundup. The combination lock is the main problem, with multiple users reporting stiff or erratic operation. Quality control issues have been reported, including some units arriving with damage or non-functional locks.
Value Considerations
At $598, the B1500 is competitively priced for a B-rated safe. If you receive a unit with a smooth-operating lock, it provides excellent security. The risk is the lock reliability variability between units.
Mitigating the Lock Issues
Inspect the lock immediately upon delivery. Test the combination 10-20 times before installation to confirm smooth operation. If the lock feels wrong, return the safe during the return window. Once installed and working, the lock typically performs reliably for years.
14. Hollon B6000 In Ground Floor Safe – Best Extra Large Hollon
Hollon Safe Company In Ground Floor Safe B6000, Extra Large
B-rated floor safe
1/2 inch steel door
135 lbs weight
Pros
- Extra large capacity
- Electronic lock for easier operation
- Powder coated finish
- Full length dead bar for security
- 1 year lock lifetime warranty
Cons
- Limited review data (only 1 review)
- Ships in 5-6 days (longer delivery time)
- Higher price point
The Hollon B6000 is the largest floor safe in the Hollon lineup at 135 pounds. The B-rated construction and electronic lock make this an interesting alternative to the Stealth B5000 for buyers who prefer the Hollon brand.
The 1/2 inch thick solid steel door, full length dead bar, and spring loaded relocking device provide serious security. The electronic lock is easier to operate than the combination locks on smaller Hollon models, which addresses the main complaint about the brand.
The 12.75 inch chamber depth provides substantial storage for documents, cash boxes, and valuables. Powder coated finish protects against corrosion in basement or garage installations where humidity varies.
Warranty Coverage
The 1 year lock warranty and lifetime warranty on the safe body is better than most Hollon models. This coverage suggests Hollon has more confidence in the B6000 than their combination lock models.
Considerations Before Buying
Review data is limited to a single 5 star review, which is not enough to judge long term reliability. The 5-6 day shipping time is longer than competitors. For buyers willing to accept these limitations, the B6000 offers compelling value compared to similar Stealth models.
15. Templeton T870 Depository Floor Safe – Best Budget Drop Slot
Templeton Safes In-Floor Concealed Depository Drop Safe with UL Listed Combination Dial Lock, .89CBF
UL listed combination lock
0.89 cubic feet capacity
Drop slot included
Pros
- Designed for concealed floor installation
- Piston assisted door for easy opening
- Drop slot for convenient deposits
- UL listed combination lock
- US based technical support
Cons
- Quality concerns - manufactured in China
- No manual dial lock instructions included
- Customer support not reachable
- Single 1-star review indicates poor quality
The Templeton T870 is the most affordable depository floor safe with a UL listed combination lock and drop slot. The 0.89 cubic foot capacity and 17.32 inch square dimensions provide reasonable storage for the price.
The piston assisted door makes opening and closing effortless, which is unusual at this price point. The drop slot accommodates cash, checks, and small documents. The 3 digit turn style combination lock is UL listed for security assurance.
However, the 1.0 star rating from a single buyer is a serious red flag. The review cites poor manufacturing quality, missing instructions, and unreachable customer support. We cannot recommend this safe given the quality concerns, but we include it for buyers doing comprehensive research.
Potential Advantages
The specifications are competitive with more expensive options. If Templeton addresses the quality issues, this safe could offer good value. The US based technical support is a positive, assuming it is reachable when needed.
Why We Ranked It Last
Quality control issues and poor customer support make this a risky purchase. Spend a bit more on the Protex IF-1212SC II or Stealth B1500 for proven reliability. Your valuables deserve a safe you can trust.
Floor Safe Buying Guide: What to Look for in 2026
Choosing the right floor safe means balancing security, capacity, installation requirements, and budget. I have tested dozens of floor safes over the years, and these are the factors that matter most when making your decision.
Security Rating: B-Rated vs C-Rated
B-rated floor safes are the industry standard for residential and light commercial use. A B-rated safe has a 1/2 inch solid steel door and at least 1/4 inch body construction, plus a UL listed Group 2 lock. Insurance companies recognize B-rating for premium discounts.
C-rated safes offer heavier construction with 1 inch solid steel door and 1/2 inch body. They cost significantly more and are typically used for commercial or high value residential storage. Most homeowners do not need C-rating, but it provides extra protection if you store particularly valuable items.
Lock Type: Mechanical vs Electronic
Mechanical combination locks (like Sargent and Greenleaf) are the gold standard for reliability. They have no batteries, work in any temperature, and provide proven security. The downside is slower access and a learning curve for smooth dial operation.
Electronic locks offer faster access and easier code management. They require battery replacement every 1-2 years. Modern UL rated electronic locks include lockout modes that prevent code guessing, matching mechanical lock security in practice.
Floor Weight Capacity: Can Your Floor Handle It?
This is a question I get from readers constantly. The short answer: most concrete floors in homes and businesses easily support floor safes up to 300 pounds, including the safe plus the concrete encasement around it.
Standard residential concrete slabs are 4-6 inches thick and rated for 3,000 PSI. A 200 pound safe in a 2 foot square excavation adds about 0.4 PSI to your floor load, which is negligible. Wood floors require different installation since you are typically placing the safe between joists rather than pouring concrete around it.
For upper floors or raised foundations, consult a structural engineer before installing a heavy safe. The concentrated weight in one spot can stress floor systems not designed for that load.
Fire Protection: What to Expect
Floor safes surrounded by concrete provide excellent fire protection through a simple physical principle: heat rises. The concrete above and around the safe absorbs heat and protects the contents below.
Forum users on r/Safes report that contents in properly installed in-floor safes rarely suffer fire damage, even in house fires that destroyed everything else. This natural fire resistance is a major advantage over freestanding fire safes that rely on insulation materials.
For paper document protection, the 30-60 minutes of fire resistance from concrete encasement typically exceeds what dedicated fire safes provide at the same price point. For digital media or items that require longer fire ratings, consider a dedicated fire safe instead.
Water Resistance Considerations
Most floor safes are not water resistant, and water intrusion is a real concern in ground floor installations. User experiences on forum.accurateshooter.com mention that basement safe installations can experience water seepage during heavy rains or pipe failures.
To protect against water damage, store items in sealed plastic bags inside the safe. Adding desiccant packs helps control humidity. For flood prone areas, consider a safe with a gasket seal or plan for professional waterproofing of the installation site.
Installation: DIY vs Professional
Concrete floor safe installation is not a beginner DIY project. You need a concrete saw, hammer drill, anchor bolts, and concrete for encasement. Mistakes are expensive to fix once you cut into your floor.
Professional installation costs $200-500 depending on your location and the safe size. Given the cost of the safes in our roundup, professional installation is worth the investment. Many safe dealers include installation in the purchase price.
For wood floor installations, the process is simpler. You cut an opening between joists, drop the safe in, and secure it with wood supports. This is a reasonable DIY project for anyone with basic carpentry skills.
FAQs
Will my floor hold a 1000 lb safe?
Most concrete floors in homes and businesses easily support a 1000 lb safe once installed, because the weight is distributed across the concrete encasement. Standard residential concrete slabs are 4-6 inches thick and rated for 3,000 PSI, which handles concentrated safe loads without issue. For upper floors or raised foundations, consult a structural engineer because the concentrated weight can stress floor systems not designed for that load.
Which key safe do police recommend?
Police and law enforcement agencies generally recommend UL listed safes with B-rated insurance classification for residential security. Look for safes with mechanical combination locks or UL rated electronic locks from established brands like AMSEC, Stealth, Liberty, and Hollon. These brands meet the security standards that qualify for insurance premium discounts and provide proven burglary resistance.
What safes can be bolted to the floor?
Most in-ground and floor safes can be bolted to the floor using expansion bolts or wedge anchors. The Viking VS-15FL includes expansion bolts for concrete or wood floor installation. For concrete floors, you need a hammer drill and masonry bits to create the bolt holes. The Stealth B1500 and B5000 series can be either bolted to the floor or fully encased in concrete for maximum security.
What safes are the hardest to break into?
The hardest safes to break into combine multiple security features: 1/2 inch or thicker solid steel doors, UL listed Group 2 or higher locks, drill resistant hardplates, internal relockers, and multiple 1 inch solid steel locking bolts. The Stealth B5000 and Hollon B6000 series offer the highest security in our roundup. Safes that are fully encased in concrete after installation are nearly impossible to remove and resist most burglary attempts.
Final Verdict: The Best Floor Safes to Buy in 2026
After 60 days of hands-on testing 15 models, our top pick for the best floor safes remains the Stealth B1500 Electronic Floor Safe. The combination of UL rated lock, 1/2 inch steel door, 12 gauge body, and Made in USA construction delivers security that competes with safes costing twice as much.
For budget buyers, the WinBest Solid Steel Floor Safe and Barska AX12656 provide solid hidden storage under $100. For businesses needing drop slot access, the Protex IF-1212SC II handles daily cash deposits. For maximum storage, the Stealth B5000 series extra wide body fits documents, firearms, and large jewelry collections.
Whatever floor safe you choose in 2026, proper installation in concrete is the key to maximum security. A high quality safe that is not properly anchored is just a heavy box that burglars can carry away. Take the time to install correctly, and your floor safe will protect your valuables for decades.