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 BigHorn 7144 vs Franklin 50?
motoguy  [Team Member]
1/2/2012 12:44:17 PM
I think I'm ready to buy the BigHorn 7144. It appears to have many of the same features of the Franklin, but at a several hundred dollar savings. Any reason not to go with the BigHorn? I'd be willing to spend up to 25% more for a safe that is "significantly better", but I realize I'm stuck in "gauge" metal thicknesses and RSC boxes at this price. Really, I don't think there would be a significant improvement in security until I start getting up into "plate" metal thickness, such as a Sturdy. In my price range, with the size / volume I want (71" x 44" on the BigHorn), I just don't see that happening. That being said, the BigHorn seems to be the best value for the buck.

Input, before I just pull the trigger on the BigHorn?

http://www.gunsafes.com/Bighorn-Gun-Safe-51-Gun-safe.html?feed=Froogle

snubfan  [Member]
1/2/2012 3:39:58 PM
Costco recently has those on sale 200 or 300 less, delivered, but it is no longer on sale. I think they are very good for the money...just need a door organizer and (I think) lights....
motoguy  [Team Member]
1/2/2012 4:21:37 PM

Originally Posted By snubfan:
Costco recently has those on sale 200 or 300 less, delivered, but it is no longer on sale. I think they are very good for the money...just need a door organizer and (I think) lights....

Damn! Wish I'd know about that! Anyone have any info on getting one at a better price?

Agreed on the door organizer part. I plan on putting a Liberty door organizer on it, or an equivalent.

snubfan  [Member]
1/2/2012 8:18:38 PM
Costco will put them on sale again....if you can wait, it is worth it as a value/quality purchase.
Plus you can call the 800 number provided on the Costco webpage and speak with the company and they will change the elock for a combo if you want.

I really like Liberty because they are very nice, apparently have great customer service and come with the door organizer. For me, my next purchase will likely be a Liberty model or the Bighorn. That extra foot of height with the BigHorn is very attractive, but, if I recall correctly, you get that with the Liberty 50 series safes too....

rssc  [Member]
1/2/2012 8:55:48 PM
Costco was running the a Bighorn 7144 at $400 off their regular price. This past go around the fee to switch from the elock to a manual lock was $50. Also when I spoke to them I was told they only change out the elocks for manuals in certain states. This may only be the case during their $400 off sale.
a1abdj  [Member]
1/2/2012 9:48:22 PM
Have you looked at Rhino's dealer finder to see if there's anybody near you (aside from Costco) that sells them?

I am a dealer for them, and used to sell them for the same price Costco was selling them for locally. Once I sold what I had in stock, I didn't order any more.

aklferris  [Team Member]
1/2/2012 10:24:36 PM
Be sure to compare warranties before making your decision.
motoguy  [Team Member]
1/2/2012 10:56:02 PM

Originally Posted By a1abdj:
Have you looked at Rhino's dealer finder to see if there's anybody near you (aside from Costco) that sells them?

I am a dealer for them, and used to sell them for the same price Costco was selling them for locally. Once I sold what I had in stock, I didn't order any more.


What was the reasoning for this? Did you feel there was a 'better' offering to fill that niche in your product lineup? If so, what is that 'better' offering?
a1abdj  [Member]
1/3/2012 10:14:20 AM
Be sure to compare warranties before making your decision.


I think this is another area that gun safe manufacturers have done a great job tricking consumers. I don't think the warranty issues are nearly as important as most people believe they are.


What was the reasoning for this? Did you feel there was a 'better' offering to fill that niche in your product lineup? If so, what is that 'better' offering?


I'm not in business to compete with general retailers. I believe that security products should be sold through security professionals, just like automobiles (and many other products) are sold through dealerships which are required to fully support the products they sell.



Sanchez  [Member]
1/3/2012 11:53:02 AM
EDIT! I did some more research and my post doesn't offer a valid opinion because of the different specs on different models. SORRY

I was looking to purchase the Bighorn B6030EL but I recently went with the Franklin 25. My decission was based on the fact that it's American made, bolts are 1/4" bigger, bolts extend farther then most (according to website), 5 bolts on each side and 2 on top (Missing bolts on the bottom but it will be bolted down), anti pry tabs, and it comes with the DX-90 Monster Mech. Liberty Safes of San Jose is also only 14 miles from home, so its pretty sweet knowing I'll be covered when crap happens if it ever happens. Rebates and end of year sale helped make the decision a little easier. Good luck on which ever safe you decide to purchase.