Swapping out your gun safe lock may seem like a tall order for your average person. But it’s doable. Below, you’ll find some step-by-step instructions for how to remove your mechanical lock and install a new electronic lock on your gun safe. If you want to mitigate risk or if DIY seems difficult, you can always call the experts. 

But, in the meantime, here are some general guidelines to follow for how to change your gun safe lock.

For those that prefer video format, you can watch A-1’s very own Robert cover the steps on how to change your gun safe lock below:

Step 1: Get Your Tools

First, you’ll need a screwdriver, some pliers and, preferably, a cordless drill. Be sure to have them on hand so you can avoid the frustration and inconvenience of starting the process, only to halt it so you get the right equipment. 

Step 2: Remove the Back Panel of the Door

Open the safe and on the back, using a screwdriver, take the caps of the screws off the door. If it’s a Liberty Safe, for example, it will generally have four tapper screws located on the corners. Using the drill (or a screwdriver, if you really want), remove the screws on a low speed, nice and gentle. Once the screws are out, the panel will slide off easily. Put it to the side.

Step 3: Remove the Backplate 

First, put the bolts in the locked position, as it’s recommended to ensure all lock components are out of the way as you change it. On the “mouse trap,” it’s also recommended to pull the springed element up and propped to the side so it doesn’t go off and make the process more difficult (which is why it’s often called a “booby trap”). Then you can remove that mouse trap by unscrewing a few screws. Just make sure you put the springed element back when you’re done!

Step 4: Remove the Spline

Using pliers, remove the spline key. It’s a small component that will be visible after you remove the backplate. Don’t mess with it too much with your pliers, as you can damage it. You’ll know you did it correctly if your dial on the front is locked into place. 

Step 5: Remove Lock Body and Dial

Using the drill again, remove the four screws holding the lock body from the door. Then unthread the dial on the front to completely remove the lock. (Watch our video for more details about any of these steps, by the way.) Lastly, just remove the front trim and you’ll be done removing the old lock.

Step 6: Add the New Lock

Using the same holes that held the old lock parts, add the new components using the lock manufacturer’s instructions. This will include mounting the front screws, feeding the keypad through and installing it, adding the lock body and backplate and then plugging in the cable and adding the battery. Don’t forget to put the springed element in the mouse trap back to its original position.

Step 7: Test It! 

Keeping the door open, test the code on the front and make sure it unlocks the safe properly before you add the back panel of the door back. 

Step 8: Replace the Back Panel

Once you confirm everything has been changed properly and that your new gun safe lock is working, you can put the safe back together like it was initially. The main part of this will be adding the back panel to the back of the front door, followed by the screw caps. 

There you have it! You now know how to change your gun safe lock. If you need additional help, don’t hesitate to contact A-1 Locksmith today—either to ask questions or hire us to change your gun safe lock for you.

Fortunately, adding power to the inside of your existing gun safe is much easier than adding horsepower to your vehicle. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install a gun safe power outlet yourself so your accessories have access to power.

Step 1: Remove the Plug Head

Many outlet holes in the backs of safes are small, so you might need to remove the existing plug head on your standard outlet surge protector (or whatever cord you’re using) so it will fit through it and fit the replacement plug head.

Step 2: Feed the Wire

Keeping the surge protector inside the safe (so accessories can be plugged into it), feed the wire through the hole in the back of the safe, ensuring it doesn’t get twisted or anything. Also, make sure your accessories can reach the surge protector. 

Step 3: Connect the Replacement Plug Head

Match all the wires correctly (green to green, etc.) to your replacement plug head and attach it to the cord. You should only need a screwdriver for this, but you may be uncomfortable handling wiring. If that’s the case, a professional locksmith or electrician should be able to handle the gun safe power outlet install without a problem.

Step 4: Plug Everything In

Plug the new replacement plug into the wall outside the safe and connect your accessories to the surge protector inside it. (Make sure the surge protector is turned on.) Test all of your accessories to make sure they operate properly and that you don’t have any issues.  

Step 5: Enjoy!

There you have it. Of course, a professional locksmith or safe installer can install a gun safe power outlet in a jiffy, so don’t hesitate to contact one if you run into any issues or don’t want to handle electric wiring. It’s best to have this set up before your safe is installed and bolted down, but it’s still possible to add it afterwards. 

If you’re interested in additional security tips or want to shop our selection of gun safes and accessories, visit one of our A-1 Locksmith locations in Dallas-Fort Worth today.

Looking for your next gun safe or home safe? Look no further than A-1 Locksmith. Here are some reasons why we’re the best place to buy a gun safe or home safe in Dallas-Fort Worth.

Local History

When a company is locally owned and operated, you can tell. A-1 Locksmith has been a family-owned company serving DFW since 1949, growing into one of the nation’s leading family-owned and operated locksmith companies. We call Dallas-Fort Worth home and treat our customers like family and the local community members that they are. We’ll help you select the gun or home safe that’s best for you—not just a model we want to sell.

Expert Guidance

We have more than 65 years of experience in the industry and are the area’s experts in locksmithing and security. We only hire licensed locksmiths and ensure all our staff has expertise with gun and home safes. Additionally, we partner with the Safe & Vault Technicians Association (SAVTA), the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA) and Texas Locksmiths Association. We are also proud of our A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Extensive Selection

We have an extensive online and in-store selection of safes, alarms, accessories and more—from trusted brands like Browning and Liberty. Whether you’re looking for a rifle safe or handgun safe, large vault or small safe, accessories or parts, we can help you out. Our dedicated staff members are all full time, meaning you won’t experience the pushy salespeople you will from other businesses. We will be happy to answer your questions and show you the features and specifications of your desired safe models.

Professional Installation

A-1 Locksmith is unmatched when it comes to safe delivery and installation services in Dallas-Fort Worth. We move and deliver safes, even if you didn’t buy it from us! Furthermore, we won’t just drop them in your garage; we install them inside and offer bolt-down service on every install. Our professional safe delivery teams will also provide in-home training before we leave and guarantee your satisfaction before we leave.
Your search for the best place to buy a gun or home safe in Dallas-Fort Worth ends now. Visit any of our North Texas locations today, or start browsing our selection of safes online.

The good news is that if you choose the right professional gun safe installation company, it’s not impossible. While there are conditions for feasibility and factors that impact cost, A-1 Locksmith would be happy to help you determine if you can install a gun safe on the second floor.

Conditions for Second-Floor Gun Safe Installs

It’s important to note that not all safes can be installed on higher floors, as conditions must be right for both the safe and environment. If a company guarantees a second-floor gun safe install, be wary of them overpromising, as each situation is unique. That being said, here are some conditions for second-floor gun safe installs:

• Safe weight: The staircase and floor must be able to withstand the weight of the safe, which can be hundreds (or even thousands) of pounds.
• Ability to get the safe upstairs: There must be a clear path that the safe fits through, including the stairway. 
• Weight capacity: The floors on the second floor (and the surface where you install the safe) must also be able to support the weight of the safe.
• Equipment and experience: Whoever is installing the safe must have the proper expertise and equipment to do the job properly. Otherwise, you are putting your home and the safe installers at risk.

If a second-floor gun safe install isn’t feasible for you, there are alternative solutions like reinforcing the floor, choosing a smaller safe or utilizing different storage methods.

Factors That Impact Delivery and Installation Costs

If a gun safe can be delivered on the second floor of your home, there are still cost considerations before you decide to go through with it. A-1 Locksmith provides no-obligation quotes with upfront pricing, so everything is clear before we start. Here are some of the factors that impact your safe install cost:

• Safe size/weight: Safes under 50 pounds are usually no problem, but the higher in weight and size you go, the more difficult the safe can be to install. Expect a higher fee if your safe is hundreds of pounds.
• Install location: How difficult it is to reach the desired install location in your home is also a factor? Things like the number of steps on the staircase and whether any safe components need to be removed before transport will increase fees.
• Distance from installer: Safe installation companies like A-1 Locksmith don’t charge a fee if your home is within a certain distance, such as 30 miles or less. But if your location is further than that, expect a fuel surcharge per mile.
• Other installation requirements: There may be other details that make the safe install more complex, like anchoring requirements, coding compliance and electrical wiring. A reputable safe installer like A-1 Locksmith will go over these costs first, of course.

If you are interested in installing a gun safe on the second floor of your Dallas-Fort Worth home or business, give A-1 Locksmith a call and we’ll be happy to consult with you and potentially schedule an inspection to determine the feasibility of your request. We’re also happy to provide a no-obligation quote.