Liberty Revere Gun Safe Review

Revere R30

The Liberty Revere Series was introduced in 2012. It is Liberty’s entry level series, although they still have some Centurion models (which are not as good) available. Reviewing entry level gun safes is always difficult. On the one hand, I understand that price is the primary driving force. On the other hand, most entry level safes are severely lacking.

So, how do I reconcile these two competing issues? Basically, I like to view these safes in a somewhat different context than the $5,000+ top of the line models. First, you want a gun safe that kids and casual houseguests (e.g., housekeeper, your weird cousin Larry, etc.) cannot get into.

Second, you want something that will put up a bit of a fight to casual burglars. Meaning, the thief who is on a quick smash and grab in your home. He is not prepared or knowledgeable enough to deal with a safe that is properly bolted down, even an entry level model.

Third, it would be nice to have some decent fire protection, since this is a more common threat for most people.

The Revere R30 is one of three models in the new Liberty Revere gun safe Series. As the largest model, it can carry up to 30 long guns. As detailed below, I am not entirely sold on the R30. For an entry level option, there are probably better choices. This is a bit disappointing given that I typically am very complementary of Liberty Safe offerings.

For an explanation of key terms and concepts discussed in this review, please take a look at my Gun Safe Buying Guide.

Key Advantages

1. Capacity: The safe can hold up to 30 long guns. For approximately $1,250, this is pretty good.
2. UL Rated: The safe has a UL RSC rating. The lock is also UL Rated. Most gun safes have these ratings, but sometimes the entry level models, particularly the ones you find in big box retailers may not.
3. Overall Value: This gun safe can be purchased for approximately $1,250. This is not a bad value for the size of the safe. It is certainly better than some of the Sentry Safe or Stack-On models you see.
4. Interior: The R30 comes with the Flex 3-in-1 interior, which allows you to customize the interior configuration.

Key Disadvantages

1. Steel: The Liberty Revere gun safe series uses 12 gauge steel. Most gun safe entry level models also use 12 gauge steel and this one is no different.
2. Fire Rating: The R30 has a 30 minute fire rating. This is effectively the lowest you can get, without just buying a steel gun cabinet. It is better than nothing, but not great.
3. Locking Bolts: There are locking bolts only on two sides. As discussed below, you may have some better options.

Bottom Line

Before buying the Liberty Revere gun safe series I would take a look at other entry level options, such as the Browning Sporter Series. The Sporter SP23 is smaller than the Revere R30 (25 vs. 30 guns), but it has better fire protection (45 min. vs. 30 min.), and three sides of the door are covered by bolts, not just two. They retail for about the same price. If you need the extra size, then see about saving an extra $400 and getting the Sporter SP30.

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Liberty Revere Gun Safe – By the Numbers