Browning Sporter 23 Gun Safe SP23 Review

Browning is one of the oldest and most reputable firearm manufacturers in the industry. Browning doesn’t actually make the safes but partners with a company named ProSteel out of Utah. They feature the industries best interior, fully customizable and very high quality. In this Browning Sporter 23 Gun Safe SP23 Review, I’ll explain why it is both the best quality and price for a 12 gauge UL RSC gun safe.

Lock – Browning Sporter 23 Gun Safe SP23

First and always most important for any gun safe is the lock. The Browning Sporter 23 Gun Safe SP23 uses the SecuRam Basic UL Rated high security electronic lock. SecuRam is a long standing and very reliable brand and one of the three major lock companies I recommend with the other two being NL and S&G. The BackLit keypad is a huge upgrade from the TopLit because it is full stainless steel construction compared to the ABS plastic. This makes the keypad significantly more durable and long lasting.

They also vastly improved the way the 9 volt battery goes in and out by utilizing an interlocking plastic tray. Now you don’t have to slide the entire keypad up to change the battery, it’s a way better design. This lock features a 6 digit electronic code that is easy to program to your own custom combination. The lock opens 10,000+ times on just one battery.

Hard Plate and Re-Locker

This lock is also protected by both a hard plate and internal spring-loaded re-locker. The Hard plate is a piece of hardened steel that absolutely destroys drill bits. The internal re-locker fires if the lock is punched through securing the bolts in place. Both of these are essential security features and included on this safe.

Security – Browning Sporter 23 Gun Safe SP23

In terms of security, the Browning Sporter 23 Gun Safe SP23 is built extremely tough. It passed the UL RSC burglary test which ensures the safe can withstand an attack on the door with multiple different tools for a minimum of 5 minutes each. One attacker is used in the test and this is the same burglary rating as the most expensive Liberty and Fort Knox gun safes.

To achieve this security rating, Browning used 12 gauge steel in both the door and body. The door is a 1″ thick formed door with an inner steel plate. Securing the door are 1″ thick locking bolts covering three sides of the safe with pry-stop technology offering maximum pry resistance. This is the most secure safe at this price point beating out American Security, Kodiak, Liberty and Stealth competitors.

Fire Rating – Browning Sporter 23 Gun Safe SP23

The Browning Sporter 23 Gun Safe SP23 features a 1 hour fire rating at 1400 degrees. This is three times longer than the standard house fire. Browning uses an advanced ThermaBlock fire system that uses thicker sheets of fire insulation arranged in an interlocking design that minimizes gaps that would allow the internal temperature in the safe to rise during a fire. This design is as much as three times better than safes with internal hinges or gaps in fire protection and Browning proved it.

Style and Function

Browning has designed and patented the industries best interior with everything being replaceable, adjustable and customized to your exact needs. The interior is cantilevered modular shelving that can be adjusted up, down, side to side or removed. All parts are covered in rubber so that none of your firearms get scratched or damaged.

The back of the door features a premium modular door storage system with quick access long gun racks, pockets and pistol pouches.

This gun safe is available in either a hammertone gray or clay putty finish. Both finishes feature a 3-spoke handle and black keypad.

Warranty

Not only does Browning make high quality products but they back it with the industries best warranty. First, they offer a lifetime warranty against break-in, attempted break-in and fires. They will replace the safe at absolutely not cost to you. Also, they offer a 5 year warranty on defects in materials and workmanship which cover all parts of the safe. All in all, this matches Liberty’s warranty and beats 1 and 2 year warranties from American Security, Rhino and Stealth. Finally, Browning is a reliable company and very easy to work with.

The Bottom Line

Would I buy the Browning Sporter 23 Gun Safe SP23 to protect my guns and valuables? All things considered, yes, I absolutely would. With the UL RSC Burglary Rating, 12 gauge steel construction, three-way locking system, and 1 Hour ThermaBlock fire protection, this is the best priced and quality 12 gauge RSC gun safe in the industry and backed by a 5 year parts and labor warranty.

Previously, I ranked the Stealth UL Gun Safes as best in category, but this Browning Sporter Gun Safe beats it, hands down.