Storing Cards in a Fireproof Safe

[RobertC]

About 25 years ago, I purchased a large, HEAVY Browning gun safe. The door is actually a little loose when locked to allow air to circulate. It has a seal which melts at a certain temperature and seals the door air-tight (although I really don't know how you would get it open after a fire). In 25 years of collecting high end .44 magnum handguns, I have never had any issues with moisture or rust. Now the top is filled with firearms and the bottom with cards. The only problem I had was moving it to my new house.

[rommesc]

I use silica desiccant packs and humidity indicator cards within my waterproof safe.

[KMayUSA6060]

Originally Posted by rommesc

I use silica desiccant packs and humidity indicator cards within my waterproof safe.

Where is your safe stored? Basement or a more temperature-controlled area of your house?

[mechanicalman]

Originally Posted by rommesc

I use silica desiccant packs and humidity indicator cards within my waterproof safe.

Where can one buy these locally? At a hardware store?

[rommesc]

Originally Posted by mechanicalman

Where can one buy these locally? At a hardware store?

Hi Sam,
Not aware of a local source for humidity indicators. Very small desiccant packs may be available at shoe stores. I prefer the larger size desiccant pouches and bought them on eBay, similar to this offering: https://goo.gl/TPvU23

PM sent on amount of desiccant.

[mechanicalman]

Originally Posted by rommesc

Hi Sam,
Not aware of a local source for humidity indicators. Very small desiccant packs may be available at shoe stores. I prefer the larger size desiccant pouches and bought them on eBay, similar to this offering: https://goo.gl/TPvU23

Thank you for your response.

All of my cards in the safe are slabbed. Has anyone ever had an issue with moisture penetrating a slab?

[Eggoman]

I have a smaller fire-proof(?) safe that I store my graded stuff in. I have had it for 5+ years. I once used a colorometric desiccant in it, but no longer do - doesn't seem to be a need to.

The safe is in a climate controlled area of the house, tho.

[KMayUSA6060]

Originally Posted by Aquarian Sports Cards

I'm not anti-gun, my point wasn't political. My point was don't reference the 2nd amendment unless you know it. I was going to let it drop.

A well regulated militia being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.

Originally Posted by toledo_mudhen

I see the can of worms slowly opening here..............

No need to open cans of worms here. Too cold to fish in OH right now anyways.

Originally Posted by MVSNYC

Chris- thanks for the eBay link, I've been looking for these. How many do you put in the safe? How often do you change them? Thanks.

Chris can probably answer the quantity question, but I do know that they are rechargeable and can last up to 3-4 months before being recharged.

[irv]

Before anyone gets all excited thinking their cards/collections are safe from theft, think again.
I was very close to purchasing a safe myself, and still may for the fire protection side of it, but not for stopping thieves.

I know nothing is a 100% fool proof and if someone wants something bad enough, they'll get it, but this was a real eye opener for me.

Not sure what the alternatives are but something has to be out there.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3p5KUNfDG0