Absolutely, my gun safes are airtight, which ensures no harmful or damaging humidity can infiltrate. However, this also works against me as a gun owner. The moment I open my safe, its contents are exposed to the local conditions, no matter how humid they may be. As soon as I shut the door, that humidity gets locked inside, right along with my precious gun collection.
I’ve discovered that humidity control is not only vital in where I store my gun safe but also within the safe itself. This way, when I close the door, my guns have a fighting chance against humidity. One fantastic method I’ve found to ward off humidity damage and corrosion during storage is the use of a high-quality gun safe dehumidifier. However, choosing one from the seemingly countless options can be stressful and even frustrating.
Having spent years researching and testing, I’ve compiled a list of the best gun safe dehumidifiers to assist other enthusiasts like myself. There’s no single correct answer, but I’ve done the hard work and evaluated the top five gun safe dehumidifiers to help you make an informed decision for your gun safe and personal dehumidification needs.
The 5 Best Gun Safe Dehumidifiers
1. Eva-dry E-333 Mini Dehumidifier
From my personal experience with various dehumidifiers, the Eva-dry E-333 Mini has undoubtedly set itself apart as one of the best options for gun safe use. Designed with a nearly perfect blend of rechargeable silica dehumidifier media and electronic dehumidification, it comes with several noteworthy attributes.
Main Features and Performance
The Eva-dry E-333 Mini is an epitome of understated efficiency with its low-profile design. After a single recharge, it can function optimally for up to 30 days in safes encompassing more than 330 cubic feet, which far outstrips many products in its category.
I tested the Eva-dry E-333 Mini in various scenarios, including a high-humidity environment and a smaller, frequently accessed pistol safe. The device maintained optimal humidity levels in both scenarios, although I observed a slight increase in recharge frequency in the high-humidity environment.
To give you a sense of the Eva-dry E-333 Mini’s longevity, I charged it once and installed it in my smaller gun cabinet. For a month, I was pleasantly surprised to find the humidity levels consistently under control, without needing another recharge.
This device boasts an exceptional cordless design while matching the continual performance of corded units. It outlives the standard lifespan of normal silica-based pouches thanks to its internal rechargeable battery. This feature was particularly beneficial in my large gun cabinet, where replacing small silica packets would have been tedious. This aspect lets the Eva-dry E-333 Mini operate with absolute ease in any gun safe or cabinet that you may need it for, negating the need for individual packets and continual replacement.
One of the more impressive features of the Eva-dry E-333 Mini is its silica media. It can be conveniently stored with dry goods on a shelf alongside ammo and similar items without the risk of damage or contamination.
However, during my long-term testing, I noticed the exterior casing of the unit could feel slightly warm to the touch, especially after extensive use. This was not a major concern, but it’s something to be aware of when handling the device post-recharge.
A notable advantage of the Eva-dry E-333 Mini is its compact size. It can be conveniently positioned in small pistol safes or hung in larger rifle cabinets. The ergonomic design made it easy to install and remove from different safes, which is a significant advantage for users with multiple storage solutions. A clear advantage of the silica media that it uses is the visual indication of its saturation level, giving a user-friendly experience. I was impressed to find that it could remove up to 6 ounces of moisture from the inside of my safe before necessitating a recharge period.
Further sweetening the deal, the Eva-dry E-333 Mini comes with a warranty for 5 years from purchase, ensuring peace of mind for the buyer.
Pros
- Easy-to-view indication window
- Safe for children and pets
- Noise-free operation
- Compact, low-profile design fitting virtually anywhere
- Extended run-time of 20-30 days per charge
Cons
- Tends to get too hot for smaller spaces, according to some users
- May be overly powerful for small safes that aren’t accessed frequently
- Continuous operation in high-humidity environments may lead to faster battery drainage
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Eva-dry E-333 Mini is an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile gun safe dehumidifier that might need to function on rotation in a few different safes. Its robust performance and adaptability to various safe sizes and environments make it a standout product. It’s equally effective for those who own a portable safe with frequent access.
The rechargeable design substantially reduces both battery use and consumable silica media. This makes the Eva-dry E-333 Mini a highly practical model, considering its efficient moisture removal, longevity, and reduced operational costs. Its user-friendly design and extended warranty are added bonuses, making it a worthwhile investment.
Click on the following article if you want to know how to install a dehumidifier in a gun safe.
2. Hornady Reusable Canister Dehumidifier – Portable, for Gun Safes & Cabinet
In my search for an efficient, compact, and power-independent solution, I came across the Hornady Reusable Canister Dehumidifier.
Features and Performance
The Hornady Reusable Canister Dehumidifier employs a super-absorbent silica gel media that exhibits impressive moisture-absorption capabilities. From my experience, during extensive tests in both small handgun safes and larger rifle cabinets, the dehumidifier remarkably draws out substantial moisture from its surroundings, effectively safeguarding your guns and ammunition from potential moisture damage.
The device’s locking mechanism, while simple, is secure and ensures that the silica gel remains safely contained. This feature was particularly reassuring when used in environments where the safe is accessed frequently or by multiple users.
What distinguishes this model is its self-sustaining nature. Despite utilizing a consumable but rechargeable silicon crystal media, it functions independently of batteries or any external power source, ensuring your collection remains protected irrespective of power availability.
In terms of build quality, the Hornady Canister is robust, constructed from durable materials that withstand regular handling. Its compact size also optimizes space utilization within the safe, leaving ample room for firearms and other valuables.
While these small devices pack a punch in removing a significant amount of water from your gun case, they do require a fair bit of maintenance. For instance, when I was testing the Hornady Reusable Canister Dehumidifier, I noticed that its color-coded performance indicators transition from blue to pink when they have absorbed the maximum amount of humidity. However, the indicator’s visibility could be enhanced for a more user-friendly experience. At that stage, the dehumidifier needs to spend roughly 4 hours in a 300-degree oven to effectively eliminate the absorbed moisture.
During my testing, I found that the device didn’t fare well in fire or water exposure scenarios. This lack of resistance could be a downside for those needing higher levels of protection.
User Experience and Maintenance
This recharge process is straightforward and incredibly reliable. Despite the relatively significant time investment, compared to some other models, I found the procedure to be quite manageable.
However, I did face the practical challenge of remembering to recharge the unit, especially when using it in a seldom-accessed safe. To resolve this, I started using a rotation system with multiple units, ensuring continuous protection.
In addition, the absence of heat generation makes the Hornady Reusable Canister Dehumidifier one of the most suitable options for small gun safes and ammunition shelves. The length of protection is largely dependent on the humidity level in the air, but given its clear fullness indicator and easy recharge process, it can be reused multiple times, even under highly humid conditions.
Ergonomically, the design is user-friendly, and its lightweight nature makes it easy to handle and move between different storage locations.
Pros
- Reusable design minimizes waste
- Lack of power requirements makes it suitable for portable storage
- Aesthetically pleasing design
- Uncomplicated maintenance process
- Effective in reducing moisture levels in larger safes and cabinets
- Compact size allows it to fit nearly anywhere
- Availability of two color options to suit individual preferences
Cons
- The moisture capacity indication could be brighter or more evident
- The 4-hour recharge time might be inconvenient, hence the suggestion to keep multiple units for rotation
- Not fire or water-resistant, which might be a concern for some users
Final Thoughts
In summary, the Hornady Reusable Canister Dehumidifier stands as a strong contender in the realm of zero-power gun safe dehumidification solutions. Despite its slightly prolonged recharge duration, the lengthy operation time mitigates this issue to a large extent.
If you’re in search of a highly portable, power-independent, and completely reusable dehumidifier, the Hornady Reusable Canister Dehumidifier is an excellent choice for your safe, as it offers a long-lasting solution to moisture control.
3. PEET, SafeKeeping Dryer and Dehumidifier for Gun Safes and Cabinets
The PEET SafeKeeping Dryer and Dehumidifier is one of the most effective electric gun safe dehumidifiers that I have used.
Product Overview
The PEET SafeKeeping Dryer and Dehumidifier stands out not only among electric dehumidifiers but is also a top pick if you’re seeking the best dehumidifier for a gun safe located in a garage. It is a premium electric dehumidifier that provides an option for direct hardwiring into your gun safe.
Having used it in my own gun safe, I can confidently assert that it is one of the most potent ways to maintain a dry, corrosion-free environment for a gun safe or cabinet of up to 300 cubic feet.
During my testing, I observed that the locking mechanism and security features of my gun safe remained unaffected by the presence of the dehumidifier. This reassured me that integrating this device wouldn’t compromise the safe’s security.
Power Efficiency and Air Circulation
The PEET SafeKeeping Dryer and Dehumidifier impressed me with its power efficiency. Despite its robust performance, it consumes power equivalent to a small light bulb, hardly making a dent in your electric bill. However, it’s important to note that in scenarios where the power went out, the dehumidifier obviously ceased to function, posing a challenge in maintaining consistent humidity control.
Another notable feature is its ability to keep air circulating, a crucial aspect for a gun safe situated in a garage, to prevent the settlement and growth of mildew or mold. As a collector who appreciates wood furniture on guns, I found this mold prevention capability invaluable.
The build quality of the PEET Dryer is solid, and the materials used seem durable. However, during my extended use, I did notice that the air circulation can be somewhat noisy, which might be a consideration for those who prefer a quieter environment.
In terms of space utilization, this dehumidifier didn’t take up much room, leaving ample space for firearms and accessories. However, its need for a power source could limit placement options within the safe.
The dehumidifier’s durability is ensured with a 5-year warranty, giving you peace of mind regarding potential issues and providing a recourse for replacement or repairs.
While the PEET Dryer doesn’t have specific fire or water resistance features, its sturdy design does provide a degree of protection against general wear and tear.
Pros
- Budget-friendly without compromising performance
- High-performance level for the specified safe size
- Exceptional energy efficiency for a corded and powered dehumidifier
- Easy installation process, typically taking just a few minutes
Cons
- Absence of electrical support in your gun safe model may complicate installation
- A plug-in connector may be required for some safes
- Certain safes might necessitate an entire power source and outlet installation before using the PEET SafeKeeping Dryer and Dehumidifier
Final Thoughts
If you aim to keep your 300 cubic foot gun safe dry and mold-free, regardless of its location in a garage or basement, the PEET SafeKeeping Dryer and Dehumidifier could be your cost-effective solution for corrosion prevention that lasts for years.
While it requires a continuous power supply, it’s well worth it for safes in humid locations that are accessed regularly. From my experience, the PEET SafeKeeping Dryer and Dehumidifier stands among the best dehumidifiers available in the market.
4. LOCKDOWN GoldenRod Dehumidifier Rod with Low Profile Design
The LOCKDOWN GoldenRod Dehumidifier Rod is easily one of the top contenders when it comes to electric gun safe dehumidifiers. Available in four sizes, it caters to the varied needs of modern gun safe owners, ensuring maximum operational efficiency.
Features and Functionality
The LOCKDOWN GoldenRod Dehumidifier Rod’s standout feature is its size adaptability. It’s perfect for larger safes with dehumidification needs that a single unit might struggle to meet. In my gun safe, I installed the rod at the bottom and simply plugged it in. The device worked effectively, heating the humid air, preventing moisture from settling on my guns, and curbing potential corrosion.
During my usage, I found that the locking mechanism of my safe was in no way impeded by the rod’s presence. This was essential for me as security is a top priority.
Another added advantage is the compactness of the LOCKDOWN GoldenRod Dehumidifier Rod. Given its small size, I could easily fit it into any corner of the safe that might otherwise have gone unused.
However, I did notice that while the rod is compact, its placement needs careful consideration due to the heat it generates. In my smaller handgun safe, I had to ensure it was positioned away from sensitive items.
Designed and constructed in the United States, the LOCKDOWN GoldenRod Dehumidifier Rod guarantees top-tier quality and performance. I was confident about entrusting the wellbeing of my guns to this device. The build quality is robust, and the materials used feel durable, although the external finish could be improved to enhance its aesthetic appeal.
The rod is calibrated to maintain the ideal temperature and humidity within the safe, ensuring that guns and ammo are consistently in optimal condition.
In terms of user interface and ease of access, the GoldenRod is straightforward. There are no complicated settings or controls, making it ideal for users who prefer simplicity.
Despite not being explicitly designed for fire or water resistance, the GoldenRod’s construction seemed to offer a basic level of durability against such elements.
Pros
- Made in the USA, ensuring premium quality
- Availability in multiple sizes with various mounting options
- Simple installation procedure
- Compact rod profile
- Effective in preventing condensation and reducing humidity
- Capable of covering up to 300 cubic feet per rod, enabling multiple rods in a single safe
- High versatility
Cons
- The rod can get extremely hot, to the point where it is untouchable
- Potential hazard if care is not taken while reaching into the safe
- Limited functionality in smaller safes due to heat generation
Final Thoughts
The LOCKDOWN GoldenRod Dehumidifier Rod is an excellent solution for those with larger or multiple safes, offering a versatile and scalable option. Installing multiple rods in a single safe can effectively prevent condensation, corrosion, and mold growth. However, caution must be exercised due to the unit’s high operating temperature. That said, this high heat does facilitate faster humidity removal compared to other units. In my personal experience, the benefits of the LOCKDOWN GoldenRod Dehumidifier Rod clearly outweigh its drawbacks.
If you want to learn more about gun safe dehumidifiers have a look at my article on maintaining and cleaning a gun safe.
5. BARSKA Safe Moisture Absorber Dehumidifier for Home – Closets and Safes
This petite powerhouse holds its own against the competition, particularly with its quick recharge time, marking it as a top-tier desiccant style dehumidifier.
Unparalleled Ease-of-Use and Performance
I found the BARSKA dehumidifier perfect for maintaining a dry atmosphere inside my infrequently accessed portable gun safe. The compact size is a bonus as it conveniently fits in the safe without occupying much space. Its efficiency became evident when it changed colors, switching from blue to pink, signaling that it had absorbed its maximum moisture capacity.
The locking mechanism of my gun safe remained fully functional with the addition of the BARSKA dehumidifier, confirming no interference with security features. Additionally, the small size did not hinder access to firearms or other contents, maintaining ease of use.
The BARSKA Safe Moisture Absorber Dehumidifier is a user-friendly product. As soon as I noticed the color change, recharging the device was as simple as popping it into my 600-watt microwave for around four to five minutes. It’s a hassle-free process that makes moisture maintenance a breeze.
However, I did observe that during the microwave recharging process, the unit can become quite hot to the touch, so caution is advised when handling it immediately after.
Reliable Desiccant Mechanism
This dehumidifier employs silica-based desiccant crystals, akin to many other dehumidifier pouches on the market, which testifies to its reliability. During the course of my trial, I found this mechanism particularly effective at protecting my firearms from potential damage due to moisture intrusion, thereby eliminating threats like corrosion and mold.
The build quality of the BARSKA is robust, though the outer material felt a bit thin, raising some concerns about its long-term durability, especially with frequent recharging.
Careful Considerations
The product’s versatility does come with a caveat. It’s imperative to keep the BARSKA dehumidifier away from oil or other chemicals. In my testing, I was careful to ensure it didn’t come into contact with any such substances, as they can cause severe damage not just to the dehumidifier itself, but also to the microwave when recharging.
Additionally, while the BARSKA is not designed to be fire or water-resistant, its small size allows for easy relocation in case of an emergency.
Pros
- High safety levels
- Versatility and portability, making it suitable for various applications
- Greater renewability compared to other rechargeables
- Convenient color-coded moisture indicator
- Attractively priced, facilitating multiple backups
Cons
- Projecting performance can be challenging
- Similar to silica crystals available at home improvement stores
- Can become hot during recharging
Final Thoughts
The BARSKA Safe Moisture Absorber Dehumidifier proves to be an excellent choice for those seeking extra dehumidifiers or an additional line of defense when storing seldom-used firearms. They are particularly useful for portable applications where other rechargeable options may not deliver the same reliability. However, care must be taken to keep it clear of oil and other chemicals to prevent damage to the pouch and the microwave. My overall experience with the BARSKA Safe Moisture Absorber Dehumidifier was positive, making it easy to recommend for its intended uses.
How To Choose The Best Gun Safe Dehumidifier For You
Navigating through the sheer volume of gun safe dehumidifier options can be intimidating. But with some time and effort put into understanding their differences and their overall performance impact, I’ve managed to narrow down the options considerably. Think about your safe’s specific needs. Sometimes, a larger dehumidifier is better, but this isn’t true for everyone. The same goes with corded or cordless, and so on. Think about what you need, and what is going to be the best for your storage.
Size
In my experience, gun safes come in a myriad of sizes, ranging from tiny to gigantic, and the dehumidifier needs to be capable of handling a space that size. This also determines the shape of the dehumidifier. Often, gun safe dehumidifiers designed for smaller spaces are considerably smaller than those meant for a large cabinet. A low-profile dehumidifier is beneficial when necessary, but it might limit capacity to some extent.
For more information about gun safe sized have a look at my article on building a gun safe room.
Capacity
The dehumidifier’s capacity refers to the size of the safe’s internal cubic feet volume that it can dehumidify. To figure out your safe’s internal cubic feet, you’ll need to multiply the internal length, width, and height measurements.
I’ve noticed that this is often a hard limit in absorbency for rechargeable units, or those that need to be dried or refilled. Electric units typically function based on the volume of dehumidification per unit of time.
When a rechargeable dehumidifier reaches capacity, it must be dried out or recharged following the manufacturer’s instructions. If you have a corded model like I do, it will continue to function and lower humidity as long as the door remains closed for a while.
Cordless vs. Corded
This is a major consideration, especially if you have a larger gun safe like me. While many people prefer cordless models for their convenience, their continuous functioning ability is significantly limited. The fact that they don’t need installation, other than placement within the safe, is a definite advantage.
In contrast, corded models, which I personally prefer, are generally more powerful and require less frequent maintenance. They’re slightly more complex to install and will need either existing electrical provisions in the safe or a small hole drilled for cord access.
Maintenance Needs
With proper care, a gun safe dehumidifier can last many years. However, they do require routine maintenance to ensure the moisture-absorbing substrate remains effective.
Some models need to be heated in a microwave or an oven to evaporate the water and return to peak performance. Others may need to be consistently or periodically plugged in to evaporate their stored water.
Recharge Indicator
If you choose a dehumidifier that requires maintenance and recharging like I did, ensure it has a clear indication when a recharge is necessary. A common issue I’ve noticed with rechargeable dehumidifiers in small spaces is their poor indication.
While they’re great at absorbing moisture, it’s often hard to tell when they stop working, potentially causing damage. The best dehumidifiers for small gun safes have a clear indication of their status, such as a noticeable color change, signaling when they need to be refreshed.
Consistency In Reviews
The vast digital marketplaces can be daunting even for someone like me with years of online shopping experience. While skepticism towards online reviews is natural, it shouldn’t deter you from finding the best product for your gun safe.
Ensure there are ample positive reviews, but also check for some negative ones. I’ve found that if a product doesn’t have any bad reviews at all, it may be too good to be true.
Reliable Overall Performance
Consider where you’ll be using the dehumidifier, how often the storage space may be accessed, and whether the unit will need to be powered or portable.
For a safe accessed regularly, a rechargeable dehumidifier might not be the best choice. You’ll need to keep it charged and ready, and if it fills quicker than anticipated, it can lead to a lapse in protection for your safe. I learned this the hard way!
Conversely, for a rechargeable unit required for portability and power-free protection, getting a similar corded electric unit can be a massive mistake. Small safes are often unable to be powered, defeating the purpose of a compact, portable gun safe.
If you are interested in some of my other articles have a look at how to keep moisture out of your gun safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does dehumidification work in a gun safe?
This will depend on what type of dehumidifier is being used, and frequently the size of the gun safe will also be a large factor. In smaller gun safes, the dehumidifier is frequently an absorbent material such as silica, that attracts atmospheric moisture and sequesters it until recharged. These substrate materials will then need to be heated in another location, such as an oven or microwave so that the moisture can be released.
The second type of dehumidifier removes moisture by heating the air inside the gun safe by a small amount. Warm air is able to keep more moisture off of surrounding surfaces, such as your guns, and by gently warming the air inside the safe the powered dehumidifiers keep your guns dry and corrosion-free.
Do I really need a dehumidifier for my gun safe?
The short answer is yes. The long answer is yes because even with proper cleaning and maintenance, storing guns for any length of time in a safe can begin to damage them. You effectively lock them in there with whatever humidity was present when you opened it last. This means that anyone with a gun safe can immediately benefit from a dehumidifier.
If humidity begins to settle on the surfaces and components of your shooting hardware, it can be extensive and expensive maintenance and repairs down the road. The reason is that the effects of moisture infiltration aren’t always glaringly obvious, and even though the humidity problem may be under control now, you may have had problems that started long before.
How often will I need to recharge my dehumidifier?
This is going to depend heavily on what type and model of dehumidifier you are using. Disposable dehumidifiers, such as single-use silica desiccant packets, will often only be good until the next time you open your safe. These are not only a waste of money, but they are wasteful.
Rechargeable units will likely give you a few more opens and close before you need to heat the water out. Most will simply need a few minutes in the microwave to reset them, and they’ll be good for several more uses. Electric models will generally not require any recharge periods since they will operate continuously to keep the air in the safe heated and keep the moisture off of the guns, they do, however, need a continual source of power.
Can I keep my gun safe in my basement or garage?
With the right preparations and precautions, anyone can put a gun safe just about anywhere. One of the first things you should consider is the security, you don’t want your safe to be in a place that’s easy for someone to remove it from, and sometimes the big roll-up door on a garage just won’t cut it.
However, if your basement or garage will provide sufficient protection and security for your gun safe, the next thing you should consider is the environmental conditions where you intend to put the safe. If possible, you want to make the conditions of the room in which you keep your safe, as close as possible to those you’d like to see inside the safe itself.
This means a relatively warm room with low humidity or active dehumidification. Not only will this prolong the life of your safe, but it will ensure that your gun safe dehumidification remains effective by not getting overloaded. Making a more ideal climate for your safe, means an easier time maintaining the climate inside the safe.
My safe is relatively big, where should I put my dehumidifier?
In nearly any scenario you will want your dehumidifier placed at or near the bottom of the gun safe. Moist air is heavier than dry air and will settle near the bottom of the safe. By placing your dehumidifier pouch or rod dehumidifier at the bottom, it will be at the point of highest humidity and best able to absorb or heat that humid air.
If your safe is separated by compartments or has other similar, non-removable, or sealed shelving then you may need to consider a blend of dehumidifier solutions. A bar humidifier may work for the largest compartment, however, smaller sealed compartments may need their own rechargeable dehumidifier.
Conclusion
No matter what kind of gun safe you have, where it’s located, or how often you’re in it, there is an effective gun safe dehumidifier for you.
If you have a small safe that you keep in storage for an emergency, you should definitely consider the BARSKA moisture absorption pouch. Not only is it great for small spaces and rechargeable, but it lets you know when it needs to be recharged, so you can always be sure it’s still working.
For larger spaces, take the burden of maintenance of your shoulders and check out the continuous protection offered by a bar dehumidifier like the LOCKDOWN GoldenRod. If you need a versatile solution that will work just about anywhere, the Eva-dry E-333 is perfect.
Jerry Miculek is an experienced firearms and optics expert. Guns are not just a hobby for him, they are his passion and life. You can learn more about Jerry on our About us page.