SentrySafe HD4100 Black
Score: 72/100
SentrySafe FHW40100
Score: 65/100Rankings
The SentrySafe HD4100 is a portable file safe designed to protect letter-sized documents and digital media from fire and flood damage. It features verified UL and ETL ratings, offering exceptional water resistance but only standard fire protection. It is best suited for homeowners needing reliable document storage in flood-prone areas who do not require high-security theft protection.
The SentrySafe 1170 is a compact, portable fireproof file cabinet designed to protect paper documents from fire damage for up to 30 minutes. It features a keyed privacy lock and interior space sized for standard hanging file folders, making it ideal for organized storage. However, it lacks water resistance and high-security features, limiting its use to dry environments and non-valuable items.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
30 minutesbest | 30 minutesbest | |
1,550 degrees_fahrenheitbest | 1,550 degrees_fahrenheitbest | |
1,123.2 cubic_inches | 1,137.6 cubic_inchesbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 14.3 inches | 14.1 inchesbest |
| ↓ lower better | 15.5 inchesbest | 16.6 inches |
| ↓ lower better | 13.5 inchesbest | 13.8 inches |
| ↓ lower better | 38.85 poundsbest | 41 pounds |
72 minutesbest | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Compliance & Safety(1) | ||
Certifications | UL, ETL | UL Classified |
Dimensions & Capacity(4) | ||
Interior Capacity (cubic_inches) | 1123.2 cubic_inches | 1137.6 cubic_inches |
Exterior Height (inches) | 14.3 inches | 14.1 inches |
Exterior Width (inches) | 15.5 inches | 16.6 inches |
Exterior Depth (inches) | 13.5 inches | 13.8 inches |
Build & Portability(2) | ||
Weight (pounds) | 38.85 pounds | 41 pounds |
Construction Material | Composite | Steel with Fire Insulation |
Security & Locking(2) | ||
Lock Type | Key | Key Lock |
Backup Access | Keys | Key |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers praise the SentrySafe FHW40100 for its verified UL and ETL fire and water protections, noting it offers true peace-of-mind for document safety. Experts highlight its versatility for bulk items and hanging files, rating it highly for residential use. However, they caution that the basic keyed lock is not burglary-proof and the unit is heavy, making it less suitable for high-security needs or frequent relocation.
Everyday users commonly praise the product for surviving actual house fires and providing reliable protection against floods. Many appreciate the sturdy build and simple organization for important records. Recurring complaints include a stiff lock mechanism that requires lubrication, a tight interior fit for folders, and the difficulty of moving the heavy unit. Some long-term users report minor water leaks after extended periods.
“Survived a house fire-papers intact”
“Peace of mind for floods”
“Barely fits full folders”
Choose the 1170 for fire-only protection in dry areas, or the FHW40100 for comprehensive fire and flood protection.
Professional reviewers highlight the SentrySafe 1170's solid fire endurance and UL certification, but emphasize its basic security and lack of waterproofing, positioning it as an ideal solution for organized file storage rather than a high-security vault.
Everyday consumers praise the ease of carrying and file organization, but complain about the key lock feeling cheap and the lack of water resistance leading to ruined papers in floods.
