Firearms law

Key storage for gun safes: the OVG ruling and your options

Since the ruling by the OVG Muenster, the key must be kept in a second container of the same security rating. Retrofitting a lock, a second safe, or replacement—what makes sense and when.

Last reviewed on 20. August 2026 3 min read by Tim Herberger, Fachredaktion bei Bremer Tresor

On Wednesday, August 30, 2023, a definitive regulation regarding the storage of keys for gun safes was established. Previously, there were uncertainties for gun owners due to a legislative loophole. Although it was stipulated that the key must be kept in a container, specific legal requirements were missing.

The Ruling

This is the new regulation

Gavel and double-bit key as a symbol for the Higher Administrative Court ruling on key storage
Since August 30, 2023, it has been clarified where the key must be kept

The current regulation from the OVG Münster states that the key to a gun safe must be stored in a container that itself meets the legal security standards for storage. In plain language: the gun safe key must be inside a separate container that has at least the same classification as the gun safe itself.

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The gist in one sentence The key belongs in a second container with at least the same rating as the gun safe. This container should have an electronic combination lock, otherwise the problem is simply shifted to the next key.
Three options

You have a gun safe with a key; what can you do?

Many gun owners are concerned about the new regulation. However, there are several ways to meet current security standards.

Replace the lock

For most safes, it is possible to replace the lock. In this elaborate process, the old double-bit lock is removed and an electronic combination lock is installed. The current turnaround time for the replacement is approximately three to four weeks.

A suitable safe for key storage

The quickest option is a second, smaller safe that meets legal standards. The following models are suitable for this:

  • Argos 2. Originally developed for handguns, its classification makes it ideal for key storage.
  • Javes 25. A safe designed for the storage of keys, which makes it perfect for this specific purpose.
  • Aton 40S. Also suitable for key storage with five key hooks on the inside of the door.

All models have a resistance grade of 1, offering the possibility to store valuables or important documents alongside the key. These models are available at attractive prices with an electronic combination lock.

Replace the entire safe

Another alternative is to replace the entire safe. Our service includes the collection and disposal of the old gun safe and the delivery of a new gun safe with a combination lock.

Buying guide

You are buying a gun safe: what you should look out for

Gun safe in a hunting room, opened with long guns
The type of weapon determines the design, followed by the class

Anyone who owns weapons needs a secure container in which to store them. For this purpose, there are special gun safes in classes 0 and 1 that comply with legal regulations.

The right gun safe

The decisive factor is what you want to store. A small handgun safe is sufficient for handguns. For long guns, you have several options:

  • A long gun safe. Here you can accommodate 3 to 26 long guns. Some models have adjustable shelves, such as the Zeus 16-2, which provides space for further accessories.
  • A combination safe. These gun safes are divided in the middle by a partition into a weapon section and a shelf section. This allows long guns, handguns, and accessories to be stored together.
  • A glass gun safe. These safes are no different from long gun or combination safes, but they additionally have a bulletproof glass pane that provides a view of the weapons.

The right certification

Gun safes are certified according to EN 1143-1, with resistance grades 0 and 1 being offered. The difference lies in the permitted number of handguns; weight also has an influence.

Grade 0 is the minimum requirement to store weapons in compliance with the law. At a weight of under 200 kilograms, up to five handguns can be stored alongside an unlimited number of long guns and ammunition; from 200 kilograms, it is ten handguns. With resistance grade 1, any limitation is lifted, and the safe is additionally suitable for valuables. The detailed comparison can be found under gun safe classes.

Choosing the right lock

Even before the OVG ruling, we advised our customers to choose an electronic combination lock because it increases both convenience and security. At Bremer Tresor, you have the following options:

Electronic combination lock with keypad on the safe door
Stellar basic: six-digit code, no key in circulation
Input unit of the Kaba Mauer Combi
Kaba Mauer B90: code, master code, and up to 90 users
Stellar basic
A user-friendly combination lock that is opened with a six-digit code.
Kaba Mauer B90
The Kaba Mauer also opens via a six-digit code. In addition, a hidden double-bit lock is installed for an emergency key. This is complemented by a master code and up to 90 users.

Questions about key storage?

We will tell you whether your safe can accommodate a retrofit lock or if a small second safe is the faster way.

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Tim Herberger
Tim Herberger
Fachredaktion bei Bremer Tresor

Tim Herberger schreibt die Ratgeber von Bremer Tresor. Er bereitet Normen, Vorschriften und Praxiswissen so auf, dass daraus eine klare Kaufentscheidung wird, und gleicht jeden Text mit unseren Fachleuten aus Beratung und Service ab.

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Frequently asked questions

Where must the key to the gun cabinet be stored?
In a separate container that has at least the same rating as the gun cabinet itself. The Higher Administrative Court (OVG) of Münster ruled on this on August 30, 2023.
Is a simple key box sufficient?
No. A key box without a certified rating does not meet the requirement. A container with at least the same class as the gun cabinet is required, ideally with an electronic combination lock.
How much does retrofitting a combination lock cost?
That depends on the model and the desired lock. The conversion currently takes three to four weeks
Does the rule also apply to existing cabinets?
The storage obligation applies to the owner, regardless of the age of the cabinet. It is best to clarify how your responsible firearms authority assesses your individual case directly with them.