The AMSEC BFX Safe’s Active 4x Locking System Explained

It’s easy to focus your research on a safe’s lock to ensure the security is up to par with what you’re looking for. However, it’s what happens behind the scenes that really matters. The locking mechanism behind the lock itself is just as important, and if it’s easily compromised, it could leave your valuables in a vulnerable position.

There are a variety of different manufacturers and brands out there, and some either prioritize quality or cost. Locking mechanisms can either be constructed out of high-quality steel materials or cheaper plastic alternatives that won’t hold up during a burglary or fire.

Here at American Security, we’re committed to offering our customers the best of the best, meaning our locking mechanisms are only crafted with high-quality materials and solid steel components. Specifically, our Active 4x Locking System found in our BFX safe series is one of the most secure locking options we offer. Let’s go over a few of the reasons why this is considered one of our best locking mechanisms and what goes into the engineering of this impressive system.

AMSEC BFX Active 4x Locking System FAQs

How does the “4x” in the Active 4x Locking System contribute to its security?

The “4x” in the Active 4x Locking System refers to its four-way deadlocking design. This means that deadlocks are strategically positioned on all four sides of the safe door. This multi-directional engagement creates a fortress-like barrier, significantly increasing resistance against common burglary methods such as prying and drilling from any angle, making it much harder for an intruder to gain entry.

What is unique about the construction of the AMSEC BFX Safe door?

The construction of the AMSEC BFX Safe door is unique due to its linear design and robust materials. The linear design channels the force of a pry attack into the door itself, rather than the internal bolt work, isolating and protecting the core locking mechanism as a result. The door is constructed from a solid steel plate, and every locking component is welded directly to this plate.

What is the UL RSC Level I security certification, and how is it earned by the BFX safe?

The UL RSC Level I security certification is a burglary rating given by Underwriters Laboratories, an independent testing organization. To earn this rating, the BFX safe must withstand five minutes of active attack from professional testers using a range of heavy-duty tools such as hammers, chisels, pry bars, drills with high-speed bits, and more. The testing timer only runs when a tool is in contact with the safe and stops when tools are switched. This makes the “five minutes” an intense, continuous session of force, proving the safe’s robust resistance to common break-in methods.

Read on to learn more about some of the key features that make this active locking system one of the best in the industry!

Key Features of The AMSEC BFX Active 4x Locking System

The following image perfectly helps shoppers like you see and understand the components involved in the BFX safe locking system. This system is our most intricate mechanism to date, offering significant security features. There are a lot of moving parts, so we’re going to dig into each one and how they all work together.

BFX American Security Safe 4x Locking System Diagram

AMSEC BFX Safe Deadlocks & Bolt Work

As we mentioned, the “4x” in our locking system name comes from the four-way deadlocking design. But there are even more intricate components that help this system resist common burglary methods such as prying and drilling.

Inside the door, the BFX uses extra-long locking bolts that are supported by reinforced guides. This design prevents the bolts from twisting or bending when subjected to force, a common tactic used during pry attacks. To make the system even stronger, we’ve doubled the bolt shears (the internal supports that keep bolts aligned and locked in place), so that even heavy abuse won’t compromise them.

All of this vital bolt work is encased in our proprietary DryLight material, which adds fire resistance without sacrificing strength. Thanks to this combination of security and fire protection, BFX safes carry an impressive 2-hour fire rating at 1200°F.

AMSEC BFX Safe Locking Mechanism

At the heart of every BFX safe is a spring-loaded relocking device designed to stop punch attacks, a burglary technique that attempts to knock the lock out of place. Even if an intruder manages to remove the dial, the relocker automatically engages, adding another barrier they must get through.

Behind the lock, you’ll find a carburized hard plate, one of the toughest materials used in safe construction. This plate acts like armor, shielding the lock and relocker from drills, punches, and other forced entry attempts.

BFX safes also include a detent mechanism, which keeps the door from accidentally locking while it’s open. This simple feature prevents the door from slamming shut and chipping the finish over time, preserving the look of your safe for years. It’s small details like these that set the BFX line apart as a premium choice.

AMSEC BFX Safe Door Construction

The BFX safe door is engineered with a linear design that channels the force of a pry attack into the door itself rather than the bolt work. By isolating and protecting the locking mechanism in this way, the door structure absorbs the impact, keeping the core components secure.

Its spring-loaded lock works in harmony with friction-fitted bolt rings to deliver a smooth, precise motion when opening or closing the safe. The door is constructed with a solid ⅜ – ½-inch thick steel plate, with every locking component welded directly to the plate, a sturdier approach than the laminated assemblies used by many other safe manufacturers.

Completing the design is a full 360-degree rotating handle, offering a premium tactile feel and appearance while maintaining a focus on security.

Burglary Resistance of the BFX Safe and Its Active Locking System

All of the engineering we’ve covered, like the deadlocks on all four sides, reinforced bolt work, relocking devices, and a hardened steel door, come together to help our BFX model get its coveted burglary rating.

Every BFX safe carries a UL RSC Level I security certification. This rating is awarded by Underwriters Laboratories. During testing, professional testers use a range of heavy-duty tools, including:

  • Hammers (under 3 lbs)
  • Chisels
  • Pry bars
  • Punches
  • Screwdrivers
  • Wrenches (up to 18 inches long)
  • Variable-speed electric drills
  • High-speed and carbide-tipped drill bits (up to ¼ inch in diameter)

To earn the RSC Level I rating, the safe must withstand five minutes of active attack. Five minutes might not sound like much, but it’s important to know how UL times the test: the clock only runs while a tool is in contact with the safe. Each time a tester switches tools, the clock stops. This makes those five minutes a very long, intense session of nonstop force, something a typical burglar wouldn’t have the luxury of without attracting attention.

The result? A safe that has been proven to resist some of the most common break-in methods, keeping your firearms, documents, and valuables secure.

Key Takeaways on the BFX Active 4x Locking System

The BFX Active 4x Locking System is the result of precision engineering and thoughtful design. Every element, from the four-way deadlocks to the reinforced bolt work and relocking devices, is built to deliver serious protection without sacrificing ease of use or aesthetics.

It’s this attention to both form and function that makes the BFX safe a standout choice for anyone who wants high-level security paired with a refined, reliable user experience. Check out our range of BFX models that each come equipped with the Active 4x Locking System and many other security features that’ll give you the ultimate peace of mind.

A TL Rated Safe Guide

There are a variety of burglary-rated safes on the market, but UL TL-rated safes are some of the highest security models available. These safes are specifically designed to withstand rigorous testing by the industry-leading testing organization called Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

Knowing that your safe is a model that can handle intense pry and drill attacks gives you the ultimate peace of mind that your valuables are protected behind a formidable barrier from unauthorized individuals. But you might be wondering, what exactly goes into these that make them so significant? Let’s dive in and explore what each TL-rated safe goes through to get their rating and which model would fit your security needs best.

TL-Rated Safes FAQs

What does “TL” stand for?

“TL” stands for “Tool Latency”, indicating that UL has put the safe to the test against heavy-duty tools that burglars often use to pry or drill inside the safe.

What’s the difference between TL-15, TL-30, and TL-30×6?

Here’s a quick breakdown on what each testing process looks like for these UL-rated safes:

  • TL-15: 15 minutes of focused attack on the safe door
  • TL-30: 30 minutes of focused attack on the safe door
  • TL-30×6: 30 minutes of attack on all six sides of the safe

What tools are used to test TL-rated safes?

It depends on which rating, but mechanical and electrical hand tools are commonly used during these tests that involve prying, drilling, etc. Keep reading to see the full comprehensive list of tools that are allowed during UL’s testing processes.

Are TL-rated safes fireproof?

While no safe on the market is 100% fireproof, many American Security TL-rated safes come with fire resistance ratings. Make sure to check each model as their fire ratings can differ.

Do TL-rated safes require professional installation?

Depending on the size and weight of the safe, you might need assistance from a professional to safely install the model where you want it. Make sure to consult our team or the safe dealer you’re purchasing from to see what’s recommended for the model you’re considering. Safes under 750 pounds must be appropriately anchored.

TL-15 Safes Overview

TL-15 safes are perfect for those looking for a strong barrier against sophisticated burglary attempts. The UL rating “TL-15” means that it’s tool-resistant (TL) for at least 15 minutes of attack using a specific set of tools, making it an excellent choice for high-value security applications.

Materials Used for Testing

To earn the TL-15 rating, a safe must resist entry against an array of mechanical and electrical hand tools commonly used by professional criminals. These tools include:

  • Chisels
  • Punches
  • Screw Drivers
  • Hammers (that do not exceed 8 pounds)
  • Pry Bars (that do not exceed 5 feet in length)
  • Picking Tools
  • Portable Mechanical and Electric Tools (including 1/2″ drills)
  • Grinding Points
  • High-Speed and Carbide Drills (that do not exceed 1/2 inch diameter)
  • Pressure-Applying Devices or Mechanisms

The testing materials mimic what real-world burglars might use in an aggressive attempt to penetrate a safe’s door or body. The two testers must either open the safe door or create at least a 6-square-inch opening. This includes making a round hole measuring just larger than 2-¾” in diameter; a hole most would struggle to fit their hand through. If they’re unsuccessful during the 15-minute net working time period, the safe passes the test.

UL’s Testing Process

Underwriters Laboratories conducts rigorous testing under controlled conditions. To achieve the TL-15 rating, the safe’s door must successfully resist entry attempts for a net working time of 15 minutes by two skilled attackers, meaning the clock runs only while tools are actively engaged in the attack. This is not a casual break-in test; UL-certified technicians use their extensive knowledge of the safe, including the manufacturer’s drawings and engineering specifications, and push it to its limits. This includes full access to the safe before testing, as well as all production documentation, which is provided by the manufacturer.

UL focuses primarily on the door of the safe for TL-15 testing. However, American Security TL-15 models go beyond the minimum requirements, often including composite materials, hard plates, and high-strength alloys in both the door and body for comprehensive protection. The body is tested against a standard of 1” thick steel.

Who Should Use a TL-15 Safe?

A TL-15 safe is ideal for a variety of individuals, including businesses handling high-value items, pharmacies and other medical facilities, and even homeowners who have a significant amount of assets like large cash reserves, sensitive documents, or rare collectibles that might need a little more protection than what an average safe can offer. Insurance providers may require the use of a TL-listed safe for certain levels of coverage.

TL-30 Safes Overview

UL’s testing process for TL-30 safes is nearly identical to the TL-15 test except that the two testers have 30 minutes of net working time to access the interior of the safe. All of the tools listed in the TL-15 section above are all fair game in addition to:

  • Abrasive Cutting Wheels
  • Power Saws (including hole saws and circular saws)

Who Should Use a TL-30 Safe?

A TL-30 safe is most commonly used in business use cases, but could also be used in the home. Besides the TL-30×6, which we’ll dig into next, the TL-30 is one of the highest security safes on the market, allowing you to secure your business assets or home valuables with the utmost peace of mind.

TL-30×6 Safes Overview

The TL-30×6 testing process and parameters are exactly the same as the TL-30, except that the two testers can attack all sides of the safe, not just the door. All the tools mentioned for the TL-30 testing process are allowed as well.

Who Should Use a TL-30×6 Safe?

A TL-30×6 safe is among the best UL-rated burglary safes on the market, meaning it’s ideal for business applications or homeowners who are looking to go all out on their security. It’s definitely worth the investment, knowing that the safe is formidable on all sides of the body, not just the door.

How to Choose Between TL-Rated Safes

Selecting the right TL-rated safe comes down to more than just the label on the door. It’s about matching the safe’s protection level to what you’re securing, your risk exposure, and your peace of mind. Here are a few things to consider.

1. What Are You Storing?

Start by identifying the type and value of the items you’ll be placing inside the safe. Are you storing cash, jewelry, precious metals, or sensitive documents? The more valuable or targeted your items are, the higher the protection level you’ll need. Especially if you plan on using your safe for business purposes, a high security safe like a TL-rated model could be a great option.

  • TL-15 safes are a great fit for moderate-to-high value assets.
  • TL-30 and TL-30×6 safes are better suited for extremely high-value items or businesses that face more sophisticated threats.

2. Insurance Requirements & Cost Savings

Many business insurance policies, particularly for industries like jewelry, banking, and pharmaceuticals, require a minimum TL-rated safe to qualify for coverage. In fact, jewelry stores are often required to have a TL-15 or TL-30 safe at minimum. Even if not required, investing in a UL-rated safe can lower your premiums, as insurers recognize the added protection as a positive.

Before purchasing, check with your insurance provider to determine whether a specific rating is required or if upgrading could lead to significant savings.

3. What Level of Protection Gives You Peace of Mind?

Ask yourself: If someone broke in, what level of resistance would make you feel confident that your assets are safe? Also, evaluate your budget and how much you’re willing to invest in your next security solution. Oftentimes, the higher the rating, the higher the price tag, but it might be worth it in the long run if the model offers the security you’re looking for.

4. Fire Protection Considerations

Many TL-rated safes also come with fire-resistance ratings, which estimate how long the interior can withstand extreme heat. It’s important to keep a close eye on the separate fire ratings that come with TL-rated safes, as this signifies how long they can last when exposed to high temperatures.

Make sure to check both the burglary and fire rating, especially if you live in a wildfire-prone area. Fires are unpredictable, but you can at least stay proactive and give your valuables a better chance at surviving when disaster strikes.

American Security TL-Rated Safes

American Security offers a variety of TL-15, TL-30, and TL-30×6 safes, so we thought we would share some to help you explore what options are available.

AMSEC TL-15 Safes

CEV Safe Series

Our CEV safe series is a great option for homeowners who are searching for a high-security solution for their various valuables like jewelry, documents, money, etc. Sizes vary, but you can find some compact options for areas like a closet that doesn’t offer a significant amount of space. Here’s an example of one of the CEV models:

CEV1814

  • Independent fire rating of 120 minutes at 1850°F
  • 25″H x 21″W x 21.5”D
  • 854 lbs.

CEV1814 American Security TL-15 Safe

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AMSEC TL-30 Safes

ACF Safe Series

The ACF safe series is built with the quality and durability needed for business applications. Coming in a variety of sizes, the ACF safes are built with high-quality steel and concrete fire-resistant fill, offering impressive security and fire protection for your business assets. Check out one of the models and explore our full product line to find the right size for you. We can also offer customized sizes and options to fit your specific needs:

ACF3020

  • Independent fire rating of 120 minutes at 1800°F
  • 5.5” thick steel door
  • 36.75″H x 26.5″W x 29″D
  • 1,369 lbs

ACF3020 American Security TL-30 Safe

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AMSEC TL-30×6 Safes

CFX Safe Series

As we’ve covered, TL-30×6 safes are the highest UL-rated security safes you can buy, and the CFX series features some great options. These are great for businesses, especially if you’re looking for high security that could potentially lower your insurance premiums. Always check with your insurance provider to see what type of rating would benefit the cost and protection for your assets.

CFX252016

  • Independent fire rating of 120 minutes at 1850°F
  • High-strength concrete fill
  • 31”H x 26”W x 25.25 D
  • 1,433 lbs

CFX252016 American Security TL-30X6 Safe

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Recap on TL-Rated Safes

TL-rated safes are among the most secure options available, making them a smart investment for protecting your most valuable assets, whether at home or in a commercial setting.

In this guide, we covered the key differences between TL-15, TL-30, and TL-30×6 safes to help you better understand which level of protection aligns with your needs. While we highlighted just a few of our models, we encourage you to explore our full product lineup to find the best fit for your security goals.

If you’d like expert guidance, reach out to the team at American Security or connect with a trusted local safe dealer so that you can make a confident, informed choice.

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